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Val Gardena, South Tyrol, Dolomites, Italy
Val Gardena, South Tyrol, Dolomites, Italy
The Val Gardena valley in Northern Italy is renowned as a tourist destination for skiing, rock climbing, and woodcarving enthusiasts. Don"t let the model village appearance fool you, Val Gardena is a real, yet magical site in the Dolomites of South Tyrol that transforms into a place known as Christmas Valley during the festive season. Wooden huts open their doors to visitors, and a nostalgic cable car ride, each cabin adorned with twinkling fairy lights, travels above the Christmas Village. During the 18th century, the valley became famous for its production of statuettes and intricately carved wooden figurines, which were initially crafted to decorate Catholic churches. Amongst those creations, the peg wooden doll emerged as one of Val Gardena"s best-known products and is still being produced today.Desktop Version
Walton Lighthouse, Santa Cruz, California, USA
Walton Lighthouse, Santa Cruz, California, USA
Step to the western edge of the United States, where Walton Lighthouse, also known as the Santa Cruz Breakwater Lighthouse, serves as a guiding beacon for passing ships. Built in 2002 in Santa Cruz, California, this 12-metre-tall modern maritime structure replaced a more modest lighthouse. The Walton Lighthouse got its name from Charles Walton, a businessman who generously contributed towards its construction costs in memory of his brother Derek Walton, a merchant seaman who tragically lost his life at sea during World War II.Desktop Version
Kalaloch Tree of Life, Olympic National Park, Washington, US
Kalaloch Tree of Life, Olympic National Park, Washington, US
The amazing tree in today"s image is the Kalaloch Tree of Life, gracing the shores of Kalaloch Beach in Olympic National Park, Washington, US. Seemingly defying gravity, this towering Sitka spruce measures over 53 metres tall, is nearly 1000 years old, and clings to the sides of a small gully. Beneath its sprawling roots lies the Tree Root Cave, a hidden den where a gentle stream flows into the Pacific Ocean. The soil under the tree is slowly being worn away by the stream, yet, somehow, the Tree of Life continues to grow. Given its will to live, it"s easy to understand how this tree earned its nickname.Desktop Version
Prayer flags in Phobjikha Valley, Bhutan
Prayer flags in Phobjikha Valley, Bhutan
This kaleidoscopic column is a series of prayer flags blown by the breeze in the Phobjikha Valley, Bhutan. Prayer flags are most commonly hung along a line with five repeating colours, each representing an element in nature. The fluttering fabrics, inscribed with spiritual scripts, are usually raised during times of prosperity, such as on Bhutan"s Nyinlong, their traditional day of solstice, which takes place today. As the flags fade over time, adherents believe this signifies that the prayers have been heard and are being carried away by the wind, infusing the surrounding area with positivity and spirituality. As we see them wave, we can remember that in these dark winter months, there"s literally a brighter tomorrow.Desktop Version
Bathing boxes at Brighton Beach, Australia
Bathing boxes at Brighton Beach, Australia
The Brighton Bathing Boxes on Melbourne"s Brighton Beach, beaming with a rainbow of colours, are enduring relics. With recent additions bringing their total to 96, these huts have become one of Melbourne"s premier tourist attractions. The history of the bathing boxes is as colourful as their appearance. They first popped up on Brighton"s coastline in 1860, providing a modest cover for bathers swapping for their bathing suits. Worn out and damaged during the post-World War I depression, the beach huts received collective maintenance in 1934. Despite the upkeep, the multicoloured structures were faced with the threat of removal in 1952. But thanks to the Brighton Bathing Box Association for successfully securing their survival, we can still enjoy the vibrant coastguards today!Desktop Version
International Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival, Harbin, China
International Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival, Harbin, China
Harbin, in Heilongjiang, the northernmost province of China, has a fascinating blend of architecture influenced by Russian and European styles. The city welcomes an icy twist to its fashion in January by opening its frosty doors to the Harbin International Ice and Snow Festival. This festival traces its origins to a humble garden party that featured ice lanterns in 1963 and has since evolved into an event where sculptors from around the world came together to create sculptures from the frozen waters of the Songhua River. This wonderland has towering castles, lanterns and intricate sculptures, all made of ice. In 2007, "Romantic Feelings," the world"s largest snow sculpture at 35 metres in height, was created here in the shape of an Olympic-themed artwork. During the evenings, multicoloured lights illuminate the translucent sculptures, adding another layer of charm. While exploring Harbin, you can try alpine skiing and, if you"re feeling brave, winter swimming in the Songhua River.Desktop Version
Banff National Park, Alberta
Banff National Park, Alberta
Amidst the Rocky Mountains in Banff National Park, Alberta, a family of Canadian geese glides across the lake in today’s image. Established in 1885 as Canada"s first national park, its history is intertwined with that of the Canadian Pacific Railway. The park"s discovery was fuelled by workers laying tracks through the wilderness when they came across a hot water spring, which is now a part of the park. These lands were once walked by Indigenous peoples including the Stoney Nakoda, Tsuut"ina, Cree and Kainaiwa, and later by European explorers. It now offers refuge to diverse wildlife, like the mountain bluebird, elk, mule deer, white-tailed deer and Canadian goose. The park covers an area of 6,641 square kilometres.Desktop Version
VanDusen Botanical Garden, Vancouver
VanDusen Botanical Garden, Vancouver
In today"s image, nature and human creativity"s dazzling fusion shows the Festival of Lights—an event organized annually between November and January—in the VanDusen Botanical Garden in Vancouver. The garden is home to 55 acres of land filled with plants from all over the world, including a large collection of plants native to British Columbia. The botanical garden opened its doors in 1975 and was named after a local philanthropist and lumberjack, Whitford Julian VanDusen. In the buzzing city, the peaceful oasis charms visitors with its diverse and colorful flora, water features, sculptures and totem poles. For the bundle-of-energy type of guests, the Elizabethan Maze—created with 2,000 cedar trees—provides entertainment with its clever twists and turns.Desktop Version
Kluane National Park and Reserve, Yukon
Kluane National Park and Reserve, Yukon
Kluane National Park and Reserve of the Yukon beckons adventurers with its untamed beauty and plentiful peaks. Its story began millions of years ago when Mighty glaciers sculpted its landscape millions of years ago, and the federal government established Kluane National Park and Reserve in 1976. The park"s most precious jewel is Canada"s highest peak, Mount Logan, a towering sentinel that challenges climbers. The history of this UNESCO World Heritage Site intertwines with the culture of the Champagne and Aishihik First Nations, who have called this area home for centuries. Visitors who venture here can embark on a journey through ancient forests, navigate crystal-clear lakes, and witness the grandeur of glaciers.Desktop Version
Bavarian Forest National Park, Germany
Bavarian Forest National Park, Germany
There aren"t a lot of things that beat a cozy winter nap. This Eurasian wolf agrees, having been lulled to sleep by the serene surroundings of the Bavarian Forest National Park, or perhaps just the comfort in knowing they"re an apex predator. This national park—Germany"s first, established in 1970—comprises the largest area of forest in Central Europe. The softly rolling mountains, such as Great Rachel, Little Rachel and Little Arber, make for modest challenges for hikers who wish to wander through the abundant stands of Norway spruce. They aren"t alone in the park, though—the forest teems with life, including lynxes, bears, pygmy owls and Eurasian wolves. These wolves form a close-knit pack led by an alpha pair and have only recently been spotted regularly in the park after decades of being hunted out of Western Europe.Desktop Version
Festivus
Festivus
Sometimes when stuck with family around the holidays, it might be tempting to give them an earful, like this chinstrap penguin is doing here on the South Sandwich Islands. If that sounds appealing, or if you want a break from mandatory seasonal joy, Festivus might be the holiday for you. The secular holiday was popularised in a "Seinfeld" episode in the show"s final season. The Costanza family has a collection of odd traditions, including putting up an aluminum Festivus pole—for its high weight-to-strength ratio—and airing their year-end personal grievances. Since the episode debuted, the holiday has taken on a life of its own both among fans and people looking for an alternative way to celebrate the season. Those who love Christmas, Hannukah and Kwanzaa are welcome to them, and Festivus is for the rest of us.Desktop Version
Jasper Dark Sky Festival, Alberta
Jasper Dark Sky Festival, Alberta
As dusk settles over Jasper National Park, Alberta, the stars begin to dot the sky, glittering like diamonds. This panorama is no accident—as a designated Dark Sky Preserve since 2011, Jasper has made strides to protect its nocturnal environment, minimising light pollution and allowing stargazers to witness the galaxy"s splendour unhindered. Jasper National Park is the largest national park within Alberta"s Rocky Mountains, spanning 11,000 square kilometres.Desktop Version
Toledo, Spain
Toledo, Spain
Toledo, a city situated in the Castilla-La Mancha region of Spain, is known for its unique geography. Positioned on a raised mass of land, the city is embraced by the Tagus River on three sides. This splendid city was called "The City of Three Cultures" during the Middle Ages, where Christian, Muslim and Jewish communities coexisted harmoniously. Toledo has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1986, and its historical core is packed with mosques, synagogues and an impressive Gothic cathedral. The city has a strong Moorish cultural influence, left over from their arrival around the eighth century. The city was once home to the painter El Greco in the 16th century. He had an impact on Toledo, creating some of his most significant works, like the Assumption of the Virgin, which is considered one of his greatest masterpieces. Before the 16th century, Toledo"s sword-making industry was known as one of Europe"s finest.Desktop Version
Zion National Park turns 103
Zion National Park turns 103
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Fogo Island, Newfoundland and Labrador
Fogo Island, Newfoundland and Labrador
It is easy to call a place remote. It"s harder to understand what that really means—until you stand on Fogo Island in Newfoundland and Labrador. With just over 2,000 residents spread across 11 tight-knit outports, life here moves to its own rhythm. From Tilting to Joe Batt"s Arm, these settlements were founded by Irish and English fishers centuries ago. The traditions they introduced can still be witnessed in the island festivals like mummering in winter, boat launches in summer and kitchen parties year-round. Fishing was the backbone for generations, and even now, the sea"s pulse is never far off.Desktop Version
Christmas Eve
Christmas Eve
There"s a certain magic in knowing that in towns around the world, shops are closing, streets are emptying and friends and families are gathering together to take comfort in the company of one another on Christmas Eve. Each of us have our own traditions, from filling stockings to hosting parties and playing festive music. Today"s snapshot portrays the annual celebration in the Town Hall Square of Tartu, Estonia, which is illuminated with gleaming lights and adorned with a display of Christmas trees. Tartu"s Christmas fair has a merry atmosphere, featuring sleigh rides, fire kettles and wooden animal carousels. All of this is accompanied by smoked meats, hot drinks and crispy gingerbread. Whether you"re watching a classic holiday movie or cozying up with a cup of hot cocoa as the clock strikes twelve, let the Christmas spirit reign on this peaceful night—and don"t forget the milk and cookies!Desktop Version
World Jellyfish Day
World Jellyfish Day
Drifting along our shores and into our calendar, it"s World Jellyfish Day! Jellyfish may be observed in all the world"s oceans in an array of shapes and sizes. There are about 2,000 different species of jellyfish, and they all lack hearts, bones, and brains. Pacific sea nettle jellyfish, seen here, are known for their vibrant golden-brown bell and long tentacles and inhabit the coastal waters of California and Oregon. Moon jellyfish are pale and have short tentacles, and in an unexpected but somewhat appropriate twist, they ventured into space aboard the space shuttle Columbia in 1991 to help scientists study their unique biology. No matter the species, jellyfish play a vital role in the ocean"s food chain, as they are the primary food source for many seawater animals, including sea turtles. Jellies are threatened by climate changes, marine pollution, and overfishing, and damage to their populations has reverberating effects on the sea life that depends on them.Desktop Version
Canadian National Exhibition 2024
Canadian National Exhibition 2024
Come one, come all, to the Canadian National Exhibition (CNE)—a time-honoured tradition held from August 16 to September 2 in Toronto. As the sun sets, the grounds of the CNE will come alive with live performances from artists and bands like Doriann Forrester, James Naro and Kyle Layton, Sloan, and MacKenzie Porter. A lineup that spans all musical tastes, from toe-tapping country beats to electric pop rhythms—there"s a song for every taste. As well as music, there"s plenty more to do; go for a ride on the Century Wheel or the Berry Go Round, or take part in games like the Peewee Baseball Tournament and Girls Fastball Tournament.Desktop Version
Kodiak National Wildlife Refuge, Alaska
Kodiak National Wildlife Refuge, Alaska
Kodiak National Wildlife Refuge is situated on Kodiak Island in Alaska. This refuge was established as a refuge in 1941 under President Franklin D. Roosevelt"s leadership. Kodiak Island boasts a diverse landscape that includes an extensive shoreline spanning hundreds of kilometres as well as lakes, marshes, bogs, and meadows. The island"s towering mountains are adorned with fjord inlets and lush vegetation, including sedges, alders, spruces, vibrant wildflowers, and delicious berries. A wild inhabitant of the islands, the Kodiak bear, the largest subspecies of brown bear, is named after the archipelago.Desktop Version
Svolvaer, Lofoten Islands, Norway
Svolvaer, Lofoten Islands, Norway
Housed in the Arctic Circle, Norway"s Lofoten Islands are a crossroads of traditional life and modern industry. One of two towns in Lofoten, Svolvaer boasts a long history as a fishing village. Before it became a town of its own, it was part of the town of Vågan, where people have lived for over 1,000 years. Beyond fishing, it also serves as a sanctuary for travellers looking for a peaceful getaway, with as many as 200,000 visitors in a single year. The traditional rorbu houses, built on poles over water, add a distinctive layer of charm to the town. These cabins were once made for travelling fishermen and have now been refurbished to meet contemporary tastes.Desktop Version
Pont Alexandre III, Paris, France
Pont Alexandre III, Paris, France
Bonjour! Waking up in Paris sounds royal, doesn"t it? Peek through your screen today at the Pont Alexandre III in the magic hour of twilight. Arching over the Seine, the bridge was opened in 1900 and named after the Russian tsar, Alexander III, to commemorate the Franco-Russian Alliance signed in 1891. Befitting the nobility of the event, two 17-metre pylons sit upon each bank of the river, crowned with gilt-bronze sculptures of the winged horse Pegasus. And that"s only at the start of the bridge! From the centre of the bridge, standing above reliefs decorated with nymphs, you can admire the romantic garden and monument of the Esplanade des Invalides on one side of the river and the Grand Palais and Petit Palais museums on the other.Desktop Version
Vieste, Apulia, Italy
Vieste, Apulia, Italy
Vieste is a picturesque town on the eastern coast of Italy. With origins dating back thousands of years, its history is a tapestry woven by various civilizations, including the Normans, Byzantines, and Romans. The town"s historic centre is filled with charming narrow streets, ancient architecture, and a mediaeval Swabian castle overlooking the Adriatic Sea. What truly captivates visitors, however, is Vieste"s stunning natural landscape, renowned for dramatic limestone cliffs, pristine beaches, and crystal-clear waters. In fact, Vieste"s waters are so clear that it has been awarded Blue Flag certification for its water quality. The famous Pizzomunno rock formation has legends associated with it, which are often variations of the same story about a young man named Pizzomunno and his lover Cristalda. With its blend of history, natural wonders, and leisure pursuits, Vieste remains a captivating destination for those seeking an authentic Italian experience.Desktop Version
Baia del Silenzio in Sestri Levante, Italy
Baia del Silenzio in Sestri Levante, Italy
Today"s photo shows an evocative sunset that illuminates the town of Sestri Levante with stunning colours. This pearl hidden among the coasts of the Riviera Ligure di Levante enchants its visitors with its natural beauty and a historical heritage that dates all the way back to Roman times. Situated between Portofino and the Cinque Terre, it offers breathtaking landscapes and beaches such as the Baia del Silenzio and the Baia delle Favole, the latter linked to the legend of Hans Christian Andersen and his "Little Mermaid." The Punta Manara Natural Park and the ancient medieval streets enrich the experience, making Sestri Levante a destination of rare beauty and historical charm.Desktop Version
J.R.R. Tolkien Day
J.R.R. Tolkien Day
It"s time to bust out the furry feet and pointed ears because today is J.R.R. Tolkien Day, which celebrates the literary legend who spun the fantastical tales of "The Lord of the Rings" and "The Hobbit." On this day, the Tolkien Society continues the tradition of toasting "the professor," like Frodo toasted his uncle Bilbo on his birthday. Tolkien"s roots run through Oxford, where he studied English literature, joined the Officer Training Corps during World War I and later became a professor of Old English language and literature at both Leeds and Oxford universities. Since 1979, Oxford"s Bodleian Library has been home to the Tolkien Archive, a precious collection of manuscripts, artwork and even a Middle-earth map with Tolkien"s handwritten notes. His legacy shows us the power of boundless storytelling, which encourages us to seize each day and make the most of the time that is given to us!Desktop Version
Torres del Paine National Park in Patagonia, Chile
Torres del Paine National Park in Patagonia, Chile
Wildlife roams freely in one of Chile"s most stunning protected areas, where towering peaks and ancient glaciers shape the land. Established in 1959, Torres del Paine National Park in Patagonia covers over 1,800 square kilometres. Originally called Grey Lake National Tourism Park, it was renamed in 1970 and later designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 1978. Its most recognisable feature—the three massive granite peaks known as the Torres—stands over 2,400 metres tall. These formations took shape through magma intrusion and uplift, followed by millions of years of glacial erosion, leaving behind the jagged spires seen today.Desktop Version