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Jan. 15, 2024Northern Lights

Embark on a celestial journey as the night skies over Penticton, British Columbia, are transformed into an enchanting canvas of light. The Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis, are a spectacular, luminous display dictated by the whims of a geomagnetic storm. This phenomenon unfolds when charged particles from the sun travel to Earth, colliding with atoms in our atmosphere at high altitudes. The excited atoms emit energy in the form of light, painting the night sky with vibrant hues of green, blue, purple and pink. Penticton"s northern geographical latitude allows for residents to witness its ethereal glory when the aurora dips low enough. Imagine snowshoeing into a snowy clearing and being met with this gorgeous light show!Desktop Version

May 10, 2024Canadian Tulip Festival

During spring, Ottawa becomes a canvas adorned by the Canadian Tulip Festival! Each May, Canada"s capital blooms to life, boasting a mosaic of over a million tulips, with red and white petals encircling the iconic Parliament Buildings. This festival celebrates the friendship between Canada and the Netherlands, which began with the safekeeping of Dutch royalty during WWII and the birth of Princess Margriet in 1943 in Ottawa.Desktop Version

Feb. 10, 2024Happy Lunar New Year!

Let"s mark the first new moon of the lunar calendar with a celebration! People gather to usher in the Lunar New Year, also known as the Spring Festival or Chinese New Year, which ends 15 days from now with the Lantern Festival. In Chinatown, Vancouver, the streets come alive with the rhythm of drums during the parade, showcasing the traditional lion and dragon dance on the second day of the festival. Visitors can also take in martial arts displays and lively floats. The Lunar New Year is a time for families to come together, and it is responsible for one of the world"s largest annual human migrations. Did you know that 2024 heralds the Year of the Dragon, a mighty symbol of nobility, power and success?Desktop Version

Feb. 21, 2024Firefall at Yosemite

Fancy witnessing a fiery waterfall? What might sound like an oxymoron can be found at Yosemite National Park! Horsetail Fall is a seasonal waterfall that flows during the winter and early spring months when there has been ample snowfall and a subsequent temperature warm enough to melt it. For a couple of weeks in February, if the skies are clear, the water is flowing and the sun shines at just the right angle, the long, slender waterfall takes on a glowing, flame-hued appearance. Hundreds gather in Yosemite Valley to observe this mesmerising natural occurrence, to the point where finding a space to watch from can be a challenge. This phenomenon has earned the moniker "firefall," a homage to the historic Yosemite Firefall, a manmade event that was organised in the park from 1872 to 1968. Eventually, park rangers decided that dumping embers over a cliff onto the land below wasn"t the brightest idea.Desktop Version

Dec. 25, 2023Christmas Day

Somebody play "Jingle Bells" because Christmas is here! The season begins with the lighting of Christmas trees in town squares and homes, spreading a festive glow. Get your boots on and enjoy winter activities such as skating, skiing, and sledding to welcome the holiday atmosphere. Families gather for wholesome feasts on Christmas Day, often featuring a succulent turkey at the centre of the table. Festive decorations adorn homes, and cities host vibrant parades, events and set up local markets. Additionally, multicultural influences enrich the celebration, with various communities incorporating their customs. We hope that Santa Claus stopped by and left your presents under the tree. From our family to yours, Merry Christmas!Desktop Version

Jan. 16, 2024Lake Louise, Banff National Park, Alberta, Canada

Glimmering in aquamarine tones, Lake Louise rests amid the Canadian Rockies in Alberta"s Banff National Park. The Indigenous Nakoda people refer to the lake as Ho-run-num-nay, meaning "lake of the little fishes." The lake was later named by settlers for the British royal family"s Princess Louise, along with the adjoining town, which has the highest elevation of any Canadian town at an almost 1,586 metres. This glacial lake is accessible throughout the year via the Trans-Canada Highway, and visitors can participate in activities like hiking during the summer and skiing in the winter.Desktop Version

Dec. 29, 2023Oud-West neighbourhood, Amsterdam, Netherlands

Welcome to Amsterdam! The capital of the Netherlands intrigues visitors from all over the world with its historic canals, versatile architecture and laidback atmosphere. The city"s history can be traced back to the 12th century when it was a fishing village on the banks of the Amstel River. Today, it boasts institutions like the Van Gogh Museum, the Eye Film Museum and the National Maritime Museum, which offer insights into the country"s history and arts legacy. Amsterdam"s canal ring area, built around the turn of the 17th century, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city is also home to its fair share of restaurants, vintage shops and outdoor markets, especially in neighbourhoods like Oud-West, pictured in today"s image. Get ready to pedal because Amsterdam"s cycling culture is ubiquitous. With approximately 515 kilometres of bike lanes, it"s one of the most bike-friendly cities in the world.Desktop Version

Jan. 6, 2024Vermilion Lakes, Banff

A journey across the Trans-Canada Highway will take you through Banff National Park and right by the Vermilion Lakes. The trio of interconnected lakes sparkles against the backdrop of the Canadian Rockies and the striking Mount Rundle. These lakes, formed in the Bow River valley, are simply named First, Second and Third. History buffs might appreciate the fact that archaeological evidence found nearby, like obsidian tools and campsites, indicate that people have lived in the area for approximately 11,000 years. While here, you can jump into activities like paddleboarding, kayaking, photography, hiking, canoeing and enjoying the natural hot springs near Third Lake.Desktop Version

Nov. 1, 2023Kenny Lake, Lake Superior Provincial Park

Nestled in Ontario, Lake Superior Provincial Park is a vast and enchanting wilderness escape that beckons nature enthusiasts with its stunning landscapes. Being one of the largest parks in Ontario, it spans over 1,500 square kilometres along the rugged northern shores of Lake Superior. This natural gem holds a rich history; Indigenous people have long called this region home, relying on its resources for survival. However, it wasn"t until 1994 that Lake Superior Provincial Park was officially established. There are many options for nature lovers to enjoy the surroundings, from hiking trails to paddling and fishing, not to mention the starry night sky that greets the campers. Today, the park stands as a testament to both its indigenous heritage and its commitment to conservation.Desktop Version

Dec. 1, 2023Lake Minnewanka, Alberta

The sight of stars above Lake Minnewanka has been taken in by humans for centuries. The Nakoda people, who revered the lake for the spirits that they believed reside within it, fished the lake and hunted along its shores with respect. The term Minnewanka comes from their name for it, "Minn-waki" or "Lake of the Spirits." As tourism began to develop in the Canadian Rockies, a settlement was built on the lakeshore. However, the lake was dammed once in 1895 and again in 1912 to reserve water for a hydroelectric plant downstream. The Minnewanka Landing settlement disappeared under the higher waters and now can only be accessed by scuba divers. Today, this glacial lake is the second-largest in Banff National Park, at a length of approximately 21 kilometres.Desktop Version

Jan. 1, 2024Happy New Year!

Welcome to 2024! Did you stay up late last night to ring in the new year? If so, we wouldn"t blame you for sleeping in like this red fox in Abruzzo, Italy. Whenever you wake up, New Year"s Day is a great opportunity for reflection, planning and a sense of renewal for the year that stretches out before us. January 1 has been a big day since the Julian calendar was widely adopted in 45 BCE, and as its use spread across the world—eventually modified in 1582 by the Gregorian calendar to better calculate leap years. Whether you"re taking the day to watch a parade, attend a sports game, take a chilly dip or write resolutions, we hope it"s the beginning of a great year to come.Desktop Version

Mar. 1, 2024Wheaton River, Yukon

In the northern part of Canada lies Yukon, a land steeped in history and rugged landscapes. The territory gets its name from the Gwich"in word Yu-kun-ah, meaning "great river". The Klondike Gold Rush of 1896 brought the region to prominence, attracting countless fortune seekers looking for riches in the wilds of the area. In the second-least-populated territory of the country after Nunavut, visitors to Yukon can explore gold rush towns, delve into museums showcasing indigenous art, and attend annual events.Desktop Version

Dec. 28, 2023Humpback whale, Disko Bay, Greenland

Who"s that in the spotlight? A humpback whale! These gentle giants are a success story of the Endangered Species Conservation Act. They are found in oceans globally and are renowned for their colossal size and distinctive features. Characterised by their long pectoral fins, which can reach up to one-third of their body length, humpbacks are adept swimmers and acrobats. The hump on their back, visible when they arch before a dive, contributes to their names. Known for their songs, these vocalizations are linked to mating and communication. These "gulp feeders" were once on the edge of extinction due to whaling and entanglement in fishing gear, but thanks to conservation efforts, their population is making a comeback, from around 5,000 in 1966 to an estimated 135,000 today.Desktop Version

Dec. 21, 2023December solstice

Here"s to a great night out or a cozy night in on the longest night of the year! On this day, the Northern Hemisphere, where Canada is located, is tilted farthest from the sun, resulting in the earliest sunset and the shortest day of the year. Called the December solstice, it marks the official beginning of winter and longer days ahead, giving a nice boost to the festive mood.Desktop Version

Jan. 25, 2024Snowy owl

Owls, nocturnal birds of prey characterised by their upright stance, forward-facing eyes and silent flight, encompass a diverse family of species. Among them, the snowy owl stands out as an Arctic resident known for its white plumage. The snowy owl"s thick feather coat, complete with a layer of downy under plumage, provides unmatched insulation against the biting cold. With keen yellow eyes and tufted feathers, these large raptors display exceptional predatory skills. The nocturnal predators mainly consume small mammals such as lemmings, a favourite of theirs. The nomadic birds rarely breed at the same location or with the same mate. During the cold season, they leave the Arctic and migrate to southern Canada and the northern United States.Desktop Version

Mar. 15, 2024Abbotsford, British Columbia

The countdown to the official start of spring has begun, accompanied by constantly emerging blooms. The tulips of the Fraser Valley, seen in today"s image, are bursting with vibrant colour in preparation for the Abbotsford Tulip Festival in April. Abbotsford"s fertile soil is fed by the Fraser River, which runs through the northern border of the city.Desktop Version

Feb. 9, 2024Pegadung Rock, Lampung, Sumatra, Indonesia

If you"re seeking an unspoiled landscape where nature displays raw beauty and power, Pegadung Rock on the southern coast of Indonesia"s island of Sumatra, could be the place for you. While the beach boasts turquoise waters, sandy shores and crashing waves, it"s the shark-teeth-like rocks, standing as tall as 10 metres against the currents of the Indian Ocean, that truly steal the show. These rock formations have earned the area nicknames such as "rock screen" and "shark"s teeth." While this beach has no tourist accommodation, the nearby Kiluan Bay village presents a haven for visitors. For those ready to trade lounging for exploring, this Sumatran treasure awaits.Desktop Version

Dec. 26, 2023Happy Boxing Day!

The holiday season isn"t quite over yet! December 26 marks Boxing Day—an opportunity to keep the festive spirit going or to enjoy a wintry walk through the local markets while sipping hot chocolate. The origin of the day is thought to come from the old British tradition of giving "boxes" filled with presents to people in need on the day after Christmas; modern Boxing Day is celebrated here in Canada and several other Commonwealth countries. Although this holiday is still associated with giving gifts, it also has other customs. Various events are held across Canada: ice hockey fans gather to cheer on their favourite teams and people gather to enjoy a festive meal and spend time with their families. Just like winter sunshine, the holiday season ends sooner than you think, so make the most of it!Desktop Version

Sep. 2, 2024Milky Way over the Elbow River in southern Alberta

Amid the landscapes of southern Alberta, the Elbow River originates from Elbow Lake in the Canadian Rockies. The 120-kilometre-long river intricately carves its way through valleys before converging with the Bow River in Calgary, at an elevation of 1,040 metres. Along the river"s course is Elbow Falls—a series of cascading waterfalls—that creates a natural spectacle. In winter, the falls transform into an icy wonderland while summer brings a rush of whitewater, which is ideal for rafting, kayaking, fishing, hiking and other recreational activities.Desktop Version

Jan. 4, 2024Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco, California

An exemplary engineering accomplishment, the Golden Gate Bridge stands like a sentinel over the entrance to San Francisco Bay. Blanketed by the fog above the waters of the Golden Gate Strait, its towers, adorned with Art Deco elements, reach a height of 227 metres. This bridge was the result of combined efforts put in by engineer Joseph Strauss, architect Irving Marrow, and many others towards connecting San Francisco to Marin County. The bridge was painted International Orange—the golden adjective refers to the sun-reflecting waters below—and was opened to the public in 1937. It wasn"t an easy vision to accomplish, especially as it was built during the Great Depression. The infrastructure investment paid off, as its construction employed thousands, contributing to both local employment and technological growth. The Golden Gate Bridge, a testament to human innovation, is a timeless masterpiece blending functionality with beauty.Desktop Version

Dec. 5, 2023Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau Castles, Bavaria, Germany

The Bavarian Alps, a majestic mountain range in southern Germany, are home to two castles: Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau. Neuschwanstein Castle was commissioned by King Ludwig II of Bavaria in the 19th century. This Romanesque Revival palace is renowned for its fairy-tale-like architecture, towers and breathtaking mountain backdrop. Across the valley, gazing out over Lake Alpsee, is the equally spectacular Hohenschwangau Castle, built by Ludwig II"s father, King Maximilian II of Bavaria. These two castles boast rich interiors, displaying intricate artwork and historical artifacts. Both castles attract millions of visitors every year, offering a glimpse into the opulent past of Bavaria.Desktop Version

Apr. 26, 2024Val di Funes, Italy

You are in luck if you are looking for a peaceful escape from everyday life in an enchanted valley. Today’s image features Val di Funes in the Dolomites, Italy. Running from the Isarco Valley to the heart of Puez-Odle Natural Park, the valley offers a spectacular view of the surrounding mountains. With a large selection of hiking paths, such as the Adolf Munkel Trail, it is also an ideal destination for hikers. In addition, Val di Funes is rich in cultural heritage. Several historic churches have been built here, including the Santa Maddalena Church, a true treasure from the 14th century. What truly sets this valley apart, though, is its peaceful rhythm of life, seemingly untouched by time. Here, amongst the storied peaks, you"ll find a world that moves to the silent cadence of nature—a gentle reminder of life"s sublime beauty. Whether you seek solitude or adventure, Val di Funes beckons with open arms and timeless charm.Desktop Version

Apr. 3, 2024Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, Vancouver Island, British Columbia

Deep green temperate rainforests alternate with rocky shores, and sandy beaches on the west coast of Vancouver Island. Let"s visit the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve! The area that spreads across 511 square kilometres was recognised as a national park in 1970. The Nuu-chah-nulth First Nations of the region have walked these lands for centuries. Today, seven of the 15 Nuu-chah-nulth tribes have at least 22 small reserves within the park and nine bordering it. Another notable feature of the reserve is the Coastal Western Hemlock Biogeoclimatic Zone. This temperate forest terrain is home to several animal species such as black bears, Vancouver Island cougars and martens.Desktop Version

Mar. 2, 2024Modica, Sicily, Italy

When Italy comes to mind, iconic cities like Milan, Rome and Venice often steal the spotlight. However, on the island of Sicily lies a less famous gem—Modica. It"s a city that has risen from the rubble of an earthquake in 1693 to become an architectural wonderland of Baroque-style buildings. With fewer than 60,000 inhabitants, this UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts cobbled lanes, echoing with powerful footprints—from prehistoric tribes to the ancient Greeks and Romans to the medieval Arabs and Normans. Landmarks like the San Giorgio Cathedral and San Pietro Church awe visitors with their grandeur, and Modica"s recognised chocolate, crafted with Aztec-inspired techniques, tempts the palates of food enthusiasts. So, the next time Italy beckons, how about taking the road less travelled to Modica?Desktop Version

Dec. 31, 2023Happy New Years Eve!

It"s time for the final countdown! New Year"s Eve is celebrated tonight in many countries to see out the old year and hope for the promises of the new one. The traditions of different nations can be quite creative when it comes to saying farewell to the year. If you"re not in Canada watching the dazzling display of fireworks over Niagara Falls, you might smash crockery in Denmark, stuff your mouth with grapes for the countdown in Spain or hang onions outside your door in Greece. Celebrators in Thailand might visit a temple for good luck or watch the fireworks illuminating Phra Nakhon Khiri, also known as the "holy city hill," based in the historical park of the same name. Wherever you celebrate, have a great one. See you next year!Desktop Version

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