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International Museum Day
International Museum Day
In the grand Hintze Hall of the Natural History Museum in London, UK, a skeleton named Hope soars overhead—a blue whale caught mid-dive above the heads of awestruck visitors. As we mark International Museum Day, there"s no better time to celebrate our world"s repositories of history, art and science. This day was established in 1977 by the International Council of Museums. It emphasises the importance of museums as a means of cultural exchange, the development of mutual understanding and cooperation among people. The theme of the International Museum Day in 2024 is "Museums for Education and Research."Desktop Version
Vernazza, Cinque Terre, Liguria, Italy
Vernazza, Cinque Terre, Liguria, Italy
Perched on the rugged cliffs of the Italian Riviera, Vernazza is a village in Cinque Terre, northwestern Italy. Here, ancient buildings stand along the coastline of the Ligurian Sea, and life is filled with the hustle and bustle of fishermen. Vernazza got its name from the indigenous wine, "Vernaccia," meaning "local" or "ours." One of the best-known monuments in the area is Doria Castle, built in the 15th century as a defensive fortress to protect the village from frequent pirate attacks. Thanks to the construction of the Genoa–La Spezia rail line in the 19th century, the village became more accessible by land. The cobblestone streets and absence of cars make it ideal for walking around. While here, you might want to visit the Chapel of Santa Marta and the Sanctuary of Madonna di Reggio. Did you know that this region inspired the 2021 animated movie "Luca"? Vernazza is not just a place to visit; it"s a piece of paradise reserved for those who seek the soul of Italy in its purest form.Desktop Version
Victoria Day
Victoria Day
As May"s gentle breeze sweeps across the country, there"s a sense of excitement in the air: it"s time to celebrate Victoria Day! This cherished holiday, falling on the Monday preceding May 25, honours Queen Victoria"s birthday and unofficially marks the beginning of summer. Queen Victoria reigned from 1837 to 1901, and this holiday was established in 1845. The traditional ceremony begins in New Westminster with a 21-gun salute followed by the playing of the national anthem. Although it is observed differently across the country, Parliament Hill in Ottawa hosts the Trooping the Colour, a ceremony held to mark the official birthday of the former British Sovereign. Throughout the day various events are organised, including concerts and cultural performances. As dusk settles, the sky lights up with fireworks and eyes turn skyward, sharing a moment of national pride and nostalgia—a festive bridge connecting the past to the present.Desktop Version
International Tea Day
International Tea Day
There"s nothing quite like a nice cup of tea. Whether you like Darjeeling, Earl Grey, oolong, matcha or English breakfast, today"s the day to celebrate this beloved brew: May 21 is International Tea Day. People have been drinking tea for at least 5,000 years. The drink originated in China, but in the 16th and 17th centuries, it was introduced to Western merchants, who helped to spread it around the world. It is now the second most consumed drink in the world after water.Desktop Version
International Day for Biological Diversity
International Day for Biological Diversity
Today we"re celebrating the biodiversity of our planet! What exactly is biodiversity? It refers to all living things, from animals and plants to fungi and microorganisms, in one area. This delicate but vigorous balance in nature is what keeps us all alive. That"s definitely worth celebrating! May 22 was officially declared to be the International Day for Biological Diversity by the United Nations in 2000. Unfortunately, the biodiversity of Earth is slowly decreasing due to climate change, the draining of natural resources, urbanisation and pollution, among other factors. It is our responsibility to return nature"s favour to us and protect our environment. After all, we are blessed with intriguing species such as the Tasmanian snow gum—the tree seen in today"s image—which takes root in one of the most biologically diverse places on the planet, the Mount Field National Park in Tasmania, Australia.Desktop Version
Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park
Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park
Immerse yourself in the majesty of Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park, Spain"s oldest protected natural sanctuary. The park houses the Añisclo canyon, a result of the relentless work of the river Bellos carving through the limestone, creating a marvel that dates back millions of years. The park was established in 1918, with the primary aim of preserving the high mountain landscape of the surrounding region. A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1997, the area predominantly has rugged terrain, limestone formations and a plethora of karst features including sinkholes and caves. The park"s name, Monte Perdido, meaning "Lost Mountain", reflects the grandeur of its second-highest peak, often covered in mist. Here, golden eagles soar overhead, and the rare call of the bearded vulture echoes against the stone. Lose yourself in the raw beauty of Ordesa, where each path tells a tale of time"s relentless march.Desktop Version
Aït Benhaddou, Morocco
Aït Benhaddou, Morocco
Are you looking for sandy charms? Come to Aït Benhaddou, Morocco, situated along the old caravan route linking the Sahara to Marrakesh. This UNESCO World Heritage Site showcases Moroccan earthen clay architecture, a building technique that uses sun-dried mud to make structures. Although none of the buildings here are believed to predate the 17th century, they are constructed using techniques and styles that are much older. Located on the gentle slopes overlooking the Asif Ounila (Ounila River) is the ksar, a fortified village of Aït Benhaddou, with mud-brick structures. Clustered within a defensive wall with a gate and corner towers, ksars are a great representation of classic pre-Saharan dwelling. The ksar"s communal landscape includes a public square, a mosque, grain-threshing areas beyond the fortifications and a caravanserai—a type of roadside inn, among other features. So, if you are seeking a journey off the beaten path, Aït Benhaddou awaits you!Desktop Version
Methow Valley, North Cascades, Washington
Methow Valley, North Cascades, Washington
If you"re looking for meadows blanketed with vibrant beds of wildflowers, the Methow Valley in the North Cascade Mountains, Washington, US, is the place for you. Lupines, with their characteristic spiky blooms in purple, blue and white, and balsamroot, with its large, golden-yellow flowers, create a picturesque contrast with the rugged mountain backdrop. These flowers also play crucial roles in the valley"s ecosystem. Lupines are nitrogen-fixing plants; they help improve soil fertility by converting atmospheric nitrogen into a form that can be used by neighbouring plants. Balsamroot, on the other hand, attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies, which helps in plant reproduction and, in turn, contributes to the biodiversity of the region. Whether you"re a seasoned botanist or nature enthusiast, the wildflowers of the Methow Valley will surely leave a lasting impression of the enchanting wilderness.Desktop Version
Mingan Archipelago National Park Reserve
Mingan Archipelago National Park Reserve
Set sail through time and explore the Mingan Archipelago National Park Reserve. Surrounded by the waters of the Gulf of Saint Lawrence, this cluster of over 2,000 islands and islets is spread across the rugged coast of Quebec"s Côte-Nord. In the archipelago, limestone monoliths have been carved by the persistent hands of erosion for aeons. The reserve was established in 1984, offering sanctuary not just to these geological wonders, but also to a rich tapestry of biodiversity. While here, travellers can spot nearly 200 species of birds, like bald eagles, common eider and terns, while feeling the stoic gaze of Atlantic puffins following them, making it a haven for birdwatchers. Come and enjoy the beauty of Mingan Archipelago National Park Reserve, where the whispers of history ride the salty sea breeze.Desktop Version
The Monastery of Roussanou, Greece
The Monastery of Roussanou, Greece
When you think of Greece, you might picture sea, sandy shores, whitewashed buildings and blue domes. However, there is so much more to this country. Pictured here is the Roussanou Monastery, nestled amidst the towering cliffs of a rock formation called Meteora in Thessaly, northern Greece. Legend has it that in the 14th century, a group of monks seeking refuge from political turmoil scaled these cliffs to establish their hermitages. Roussanou is one of the six remaining monasteries in the Meteora UNESCO World Heritage Site. Once you"ve conquered the climb, you"ll be greeted by stunning panoramic views, but the real treasures lie within the monastery itself—a world of Byzantine art and architecture. This style emerged in the Eastern Roman Empire, also known as the Byzantine Empire, which lasted from the 4th century CE until the fall of Constantinople in 1453. So, are you ready to take the climb?Desktop Version
World Otter Day
World Otter Day
Playful, strong swimmers and expert hunters—meet the otters. These creatures are found on every continent except Antarctica and Australia. Their 13 species come in various shapes and sizes, from the sea otters found in coastal waters to the river otters frolicking in freshwater habitats. Seen in today"s image is the Eurasian otter on the beautiful Isle of Mull off the west coast of Scotland. With webbed feet, streamlined shapes and dense fur coats, otters are built for speed and agility underwater. They can dive deep and hold their breath for several minutes.Desktop Version
Everglades National Park, Florida
Everglades National Park, Florida
On this day, 90 years ago, an act was passed that would lead to the creation of one of America"s natural gems: The Everglades National Park. This park in Florida encapsulates the largest subtropical wilderness of the United States. The Everglades, spanning more than 6,100 square kilometres, is a lifeline to 36 federally protected and endangered wildlife, from the gentle manatee to the stealthy Florida panther. Here, the air thrums with the calls of over 350 bird species like limpkins and snail kites, while the waters teem with life too: fish, like snook and redfish and American crocodiles are all found here. Beyond its biodiversity, the park has earned global recognition, celebrated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, an International Biosphere Reserve and a Wetland of International Importance. So, here"s to Everglades National Park—may it continue to inspire wonder, curiosity and appreciation for the wild world around us.Desktop Version
Gunnerside, Yorkshire Dales National Park, England
Gunnerside, Yorkshire Dales National Park, England
In the Yorkshire Dales National Park, UK, the ancient village of Gunnerside is brimming with English charm and history. Picture yourself strolling through its narrow lanes, surrounded by rolling hills, lush pastures and stone cottages, with the roar of the Swale River as your only soundtrack. Designated in 1954, the national park is spread across 2,178 square kilometres, and there are over 1,000 farms in this area. One of the area"s most distinctive features are its dry stone walls; built without any kind of mortar, these walls can last hundreds of years. There are thought to be over 8046 kilometres of these walls in the Dales. The village"s name comes from "Gunnar"s saetr," Old Norse for Gunnar"s hill or pasture.Desktop Version
Pride Month
Pride Month
June is Pride Month, commemorating the Stonewall uprising, a series of protests by the LGBTQIA+ community that took place on June 28, 1969, in response to a police raid at the Stonewall Inn in Greenwich Village in New York City, USA. Various events around the world are held in June to honour and celebrate the LGBTQIA+ community, their history, achievements and ongoing pursuit for equality.Desktop Version
Annas hummingbird
Annas hummingbird
Meet the tiny, feathered acrobat that flitters in the skies. Anna"s hummingbird was named after a French courtier, Anna de Belle Massena, Duchess of Rivoli. We can enjoy the year-round presence of these birds in Canada since they can withstand cooler climates and are able to slow down their metabolism, a state known as torpor. Anna"s hummingbirds, weighing less than a loonie, have a wingspan of 12 centimetres. They can beat their wings over 40-50 times per second, enabling them to hover and even fly backwards with ease.Desktop Version
World Bicycle Day
World Bicycle Day
Bicycles are the best! An environmentally friendly form of transportation that is fun, good for your health, affordable, simple and durable. Once you learn to ride, you"ll never forget how to wheel around. Thanks to Polish-American scientist Leszek Sibiliski"s initiative, the United Nations declared June 3 World Bicycle Day in 2018.Desktop Version
Chestnut-headed bee-eater, Bardia National Park, Nepal
Chestnut-headed bee-eater, Bardia National Park, Nepal
It"s not just a name. Chestnut-headed bee-eaters do spend their days swooping after stinging insects. As well as bees, they also feast on wasps, hornets and other bugs. The birds in today"s image are in Bardia National Park in Nepal, but they"re found across many other South Asian countries, from India and Bangladesh to Sri Lanka and Thailand. They catch their prey in mid-flight, returning to a perch where they can beat stinging insects to stun them, which makes them safe to eat. These birds are designed to hunt: their dazzling green plumage helps camouflage them in dappled jungle light, their curved beak is perfect for picking off insects with precision and their eyes can move individually, which makes them all the better for spotting bees.Desktop Version
World Environment Day
World Environment Day
Happy World Environment Day! First celebrated back in 1973 with the theme "Only One Earth", this event, organised by the United Nations, is all about encouraging people to help protect the environment. It is celebrated in over 143 countries around the world. This year"s theme focuses on land restoration, desertification and drought resilience.Desktop Version
The 80th anniversary of D-Day
The 80th anniversary of D-Day
Eighty years ago, on the beaches of Normandy, northern France, an event unfolded that would alter the course of history. The day was June 6, 1944, a date forever etched in time as D-Day. It marked the launch of Operation Overlord, the ambitious Allied invasion that became a turning point in World War II. The audacious assault by sea, air and land involved nearly 160,000 troops.Desktop Version
World Oceans Day
World Oceans Day
Today, let"s embark on a watery adventure as we celebrate World Oceans Day. This day is about honouring and protecting the world"s oceans and serves as a reminder of the critical role oceans play in supporting life on Earth. These gargantuan water bodies, after all, teem with wonders, from the tiniest plankton to the grandest whales like the humpbacks we see here. The oceans also produce almost half of the oxygen on our planet thanks to the photosynthesis of plankton—tiny plants, algae and bacteria. Moreover, they absorb a significant amount of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, helping mitigate the impacts of climate change caused by human activities.Desktop Version
Canadian Grand Prix 2024
Canadian Grand Prix 2024
Rev up your spirits because the Canadian Grand Prix is shifting into high gear! This Formula One showdown is all set to bring a rush of adrenaline to the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve in Montreal. Named after Canada"s homegrown racing hero Gilles Villeneuve, the track has witnessed legendary moments, like Lewis Hamilton"s maiden win in 2007, and Jacques Villeneuve racing across his father"s namesake circuit. Each lap around the 4.361-kilometre circuit is as unpredictable as it is thrilling, with drivers navigating 70 laps with 14 turns each, including the infamous "Wall of Champions"—a spot where many racing legends, like Michael Schumacher, have faced hardships.Desktop Version
Bardenas Reales Biosphere Reserve and Natural Park, Navarra, Spain
Bardenas Reales Biosphere Reserve and Natural Park, Navarra, Spain
Within the scenic landscape of Navarra, northern Spain, the Bardenas Reales Biosphere Reserve and Natural Park is like a surrealist painting come to life! This park is renowned for its desert-like landscapes sculpted by millennia of erosion. Featuring rocky plateaus, canyons and whimsically shaped clay structures called cabezos, the park is a playground of geological wonders.Desktop Version
The city of Osaka at night, Japan
The city of Osaka at night, Japan
In the heart of Japan, where the past and future intertwine, lies a city pulsating with life and culture—Osaka. Traditionally an economic hub, Osaka has twice served briefly as the imperial capital, once in the 7th and once in the 8th century. It flourished culturally during the Edo period (1603–1867) and became a major industrial centre after the Meiji Restoration in 1868, which restored imperial rule to Japan.Desktop Version
A group of Southern gemsbok in the savannah, Botswana
A group of Southern gemsbok in the savannah, Botswana
Horns up, heads high! Featured here is a group of gemsboks, a large antelope, reigning over the sprawling savannahs in southwestern Africa. Indigenous to the arid territories of Botswana, Namibia, South Africa and parts of Zimbabwe, they thrive mainly within the Kalahari and Namib Deserts. They can survive in extremely dry conditions and can go without water for weeks, getting moisture from the food they eat. Moreover, gemsboks are adept runners, achieving speeds of up to 60 kilometres per hour. Their distinguishing trait is their notably elongated, straight horns. Although both genders possess these formidable defences, the females" horns tend to be slightly longer and sleeker while the males" horns are thicker with broader bases. So, if you ever find yourself in the sandy plains of the Kalahari, keep an eye out for these desert gems.Desktop Version
Big Bend National Park, Texas, USA
Big Bend National Park, Texas, USA
Ready to channel your inner nature enthusiast? Let"s explore Big Bend National Park in West Texas, USA. This park is the largest protected area in the Chihuahuan Desert, covering over 3,237 square kilometres. The Big Bend State Park was established on June 12, 1944, when the state of Texas transferred this land to the federal government.Desktop Version