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Splügen Pass, Switzerland
Splügen Pass, Switzerland
With their twists and turns, record heights, and breathtaking vistas, mountain roads like Umling La and Pico de Veleta are steeped in history. One such route of the Lepontine Alps—Splügen Pass—is pictured here today. Located on the border of Switzerland and Italy, the 2114-metre-high pass is one of the highest paved roads in Europe. Although its modern form was built between 1818-1823, the Splügen Pass is rich in history, with links to Roman times. The pass has been much quieter since the nearby San Bernardino road tunnel opened in 1967. The now quiet pass, which has 51 marked hairpin bends, remains closed during the winter. So, if spectacular mountainside views and picturesque lakes tickle your fancy, you can enjoy this ascent between June and mid-October. Has your interest in a Swiss-sational time "peaked" yet?Desktop Version
Milky Way over Southwest Alentejo and Vicentine Coast Natural Park
Milky Way over Southwest Alentejo and Vicentine Coast Natural Park
The Milky Way Galaxy has billions of stars; among them, our own Sun finds its place. Its name is derived from the radiant, irregular band of stars and gas clouds known as the Milky Way, which graces Earth"s sky. Methodical observations of the night sky started with early civilizations and astronomy, the oldest natural science that studies celestial objects and their phenomena, is still a modern source of fascination around our own ever-orbiting planet. That love of the night sky is what brings stargazers to Southwest Alentejo and Vicentine Coast Natural Park, a site free from heavy light pollution.Desktop Version
Cuban tody, Alejandro de Humboldt National Park, Cuba
Cuban tody, Alejandro de Humboldt National Park, Cuba
The tiny, colourful Cuban tody can only be found in Cuba and its neighbouring islands. Its vibrant outfit gives it a unique look: sparkling green back, pale grey underparts, a red throat, pink flanks, blue ear patches and a black and red beak. Despite their colourful plumage, their size makes them hard to see; however, they are easy to hear. The soft sound of "pprreeee-pprreeee" or a short "tot-tot-tot-tot" will tell you there"s a tody somewhere nearby.Desktop Version
Oktoberfest begins
Oktoberfest begins
Dating back all the way to 1810, Oktoberfest is the world"s biggest beer festival, held in Munich, Germany. It all began with the wedding of Crown Prince Ludwig and Princess Therese von Sachsen-Hildburghausen. The celebrations took place at Theresienwiese, also known as Theresa"s Meadow. The festivities lasted for five days, filled with exciting activities such as parades and horse races. Oktoberfest has become an annual event that can draw over six million people, with each person drinking just over a litre of beer on average. Beyond Munich, this tipsy festival has become a popular celebration in multiple countries, including Canada, particularly in the region of Kitchner-Waterloo, Ontario. The Canadian Oktoberfest is one of the largest Bavarian-style celebrations outside of Germany. This festival showcases a vibrant blend of cultural traditions and local entertainment.Desktop Version
Glenariff Forest Park, County Antrim, Ireland
Glenariff Forest Park, County Antrim, Ireland
Glenariff Forest Park, nestled in the heart of Northern Ireland, hosts an array of wonders for nature enthusiasts. Famously known as "the Queen of the Glens," the park boasts a wealth of panoramic landscapes, serene riverside strolls, and three magnificent waterfalls. Covering over 10 square kilometres, the park is under the care of the Northern Ireland Forest Service. Apart from being a recreational haven, it supports timber production and is a site of conservation for animals such as the red squirrel and Irish hare. Whether you"re exploring the serene Scenic Trail or delving into the heart of the glen on the Waterfall Walk Trail, these journeys promise that you"ll experience some of Northern Ireland"s finest natural splendour.Desktop Version
Przewalskis horses, Hustai National Park, Mongolia
Przewalskis horses, Hustai National Park, Mongolia
The Hustai National Park in Mongolia is home to a very special and rare breed of horse, the Przewalski"s horse. This equine species, which is regarded as the only truly pure wild horse today, is easily recognised by its pale yellowish-brown coat, a short, stiff mane, and short legs. The Przewalski"s horse, also called "takhi" in Mongolia, was once extinct in the wild but has been successfully reintroduced through conservation efforts in the 1990s. An interesting fact about these horses is that they have 66 chromosomes, compared to 64 in domestic horses. Remarkably, Przewalski"s horses can mate with domestic horses to produce hybrids. These hybrids have 65 chromosomes and can breed and have their own offspring.Desktop Version
Hemakuta Hill, Hampi
Hemakuta Hill, Hampi
Hampi is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Karnataka, India. The group of monuments—ancient temples, majestic palaces and intricate ruins—are left from the once-capital city of the Vijayanagara Empire, which ruled this area from the 14th to the 16th centuries CE. During the reign of King Krishnadevaraya, from 1509 to 1529, the city underwent significant expansion and was filled with art and architecture, attracting visitors and traders from all over the world. However, Hampi lost its Midas touch in 1565, when it faced defeat in the Battle of Talikota.Desktop Version
North Sea at sunset, Norddorf, Germany
North Sea at sunset, Norddorf, Germany
Norddorf is a small village—one of the oldest—located on the island of Amrum, off Germany"s northern coast. Amrum has numerous other fishing villages, like Norddorf, and is home to around 2,300 inhabitants. Nestled amidst the stunning natural beauty of the North Sea coast, Norddorf is known for its strong maritime heritage. Museums and lighthouses offer a glimpse into the island"s past. Tourists can also explore the unique wildlife of the Naturschutzgebiet Amrumer Dünen (Amrum Dunes Nature Reserve), home to various bird species, like the red knot and brent goose, and plants, like common sundew and ragged robin.Desktop Version
French River, Ontario
French River, Ontario
The French River flows in natural beauty through Ontario, along with a rich history. A pivotal route for Indigenous people and explorers, this river played a crucial role in the fur trade era around 1615. In the ancestral lands of the Anishinaabe, the river witnessed voyagers navigate its challenging waters. Designated as a Canadian Heritage River in 1986, this river covers a distance of 110 kilometres. The river became a victim of overfishing, and in 1994 the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources implemented firm measures to protect fish. The surrounding French River Provincial Park offers opportunities for responsible fishing, hiking and camping. The river"s rapids and waterfalls contribute to its appeal, while its surrounding forest provides habitat for various species including moose, beavers, otters, bald eagles and turtles.Desktop Version
Grandparents Day
Grandparents Day
Have you called your oma or pop pop lately? No matter what you call them, there"s no better time to pick up the phone than Grandparents Day. The holiday was proclaimed in August 1978 and designated that, henceforth, the Sunday after Labour Day would celebrate and honour the special place that grandparents hold in our lives. Grandparents help raise new generations, hold and pass along history and memories, and share wisdom that can only be attained through years of experience. Wisdom is not always indicated by a thick Wilford-Brimley-esque moustache, but whiskers do lend a certain esteemed quality. Perhaps that"s why these Atlantic walruses look like they"re about to tell you what life was like back in their day.Desktop Version
Ayutthaya Historical Park, Thailand
Ayutthaya Historical Park, Thailand
When the sunset casts its spell over Thailand, the Wat Chaiwatthanaram Buddhist temple lights up to welcome the night at the Ayutthaya Historical Park. Even though the temple is not part of the nearby Historic City of Ayutthaya (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), the ruin is just as divine, exhibiting meticulous details of rich history and architecture. King Prasat Thong—from the dynasty of the Siamese Ayutthaya Kingdom that ruled Southeast Asia between the 14th and 18th centuries—built the sanctuary to symbolise the centre of the universe and connote his aspiration to become the future Buddha. From the Buddhist temple, the Historic City of Ayutthaya can be reached by boat or road. Three rivers link the once-metropolitan city of the Siamese Kingdom to the sea. Now a historical ruin, Ayutthaya was an important point of commerce and diplomacy, with the advantages of the surrounding rivers serving as natural defence.Desktop Version
International Literacy Day
International Literacy Day
Jane Austen, author of "Pride and Prejudice", is one of the best-known writers to date, so it"s not a surprise that there are multiple festivals named after her that honor her legacy. One such Jane Austen Festival—held in Bath, England, home to the writer between 1801 and 1806—kicks off on September 8 this year, which also happens to be International Literacy Day. The 10-day-long celebration begins with the Regency Costume Promenade, filling the streets with people dressed in costumes appropriate to the British historical period of the early 19th century Regency era.Desktop Version
Toronto International Film Festival
Toronto International Film Festival
Movie buffs eagerly anticipate the most celebrated film event in Canada, the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), which promises to transport audiences on an unparalleled journey through realms of storytelling and visual artistry. This annual event was established in 1976 and has since played a pivotal role in shaping the Canadian film industry. TIFF has long been revered for its display of diverse and captivating films. From gripping dramas and documentaries to heartwarming comedies, this year boasts a lineup that reflects the kaleidoscope of human emotions. Beyond the silver screen, it embraces innovation with virtual showcases and interactive experiences, redefining the boundaries of film festivals. Witness the cinematic magic unfold as the 48th TIFF hits screens from September 7 to 17.Desktop Version
Rethymno, Crete, Greece
Rethymno, Crete, Greece
Located in the Old Town of Rethymno, the Venetian Harbour invites you to time travel through the history of Greece. Built on the edge of the harbour, the Egyptian lighthouse stands as proof—in addition to Turkish elements—of different nations leaving their mark on Crete"s old port. Forged in the 14th century under the masterful guidance of the Venetians, this port has long served as a bustling hub for commerce and enterprise. For today"s visitors, an old wooden sailing ship replica offers a full historic adventure. For a nostalgic inland experience, visit the 16th-century built Fortezza, Rethymno"s Venetian fortress. The citadel is visible from every corner of the town and offers a panoramic view of Rethymno for locals and travellers.Desktop Version
Mount Segla, Senja Island, Norway
Mount Segla, Senja Island, Norway
An assorted land of mountainous terrain on the west with lush greenery on the east, Senja is a beautiful island popularly known as "Norway in miniature". At 1,554 square kilometres, it is Norway"s second-largest island. Gisund Bridge connects the island to the mainland in the town of Finnsnes. The most notable spot on Senja is pictured today, Mount Segla, a magnificent peak that is travelled frequently during summers with a trail starting in Fjordgård, a fishing village in the north of Senja. It takes a tough hike up the steep mountain to get to the over 610-metre-tall crest. Other tourist attractions on the island include Ånderdalen National Park and Tranøya, an island located on the south coast of Senja, celebrated for its tranquillity.Desktop Version
Camels in the desert, United Arab Emirates
Camels in the desert, United Arab Emirates
Desert-dwelling camels have been central to lives in the United Arab Emirates for generations, upholding Emirati heritage and customs. A key mode of transportation for Bedouins to access water and supplies, camels are invaluable in traversing the sweltering sands. These dromedaries have even been used as currency to fulfil various obligations, such as dowries or zakat, an annual charitable fee in Muslim communities. They provide nourishment: camel milk is a valuable and nutritious ingredient in many recipes. Finally, camels have successfully entertained Bedouin tribes and travellers through camel racing, further showcasing the versatility of these hardy creatures.Desktop Version
Skyscrapers in Manhattan
Skyscrapers in Manhattan
Skyscrapers are the towering architectural wonders that punctuate our city skylines and define our urban landscapes. Found in the biggest cities around the world, skyscrapers serve as symbols of progress, ambition and the human pursuit of reaching new heights. Manhattan, the dense, vibrant heart of New York City, boasts a mesmerising skyline adorned with an array of iconic skyscrapers. These structures, like the Empire State Building, One World Trade Center and the Chrysler Building, define the city"s architectural and cultural legacy and captivate millions of visitors every year.Desktop Version
Allens Hummingbird
Allens Hummingbird
With their vibrant plumage, delicate features and ability to hover mid-air, hummingbirds are one of the wonders of the natural world. The rapid flapping of their wings—an average of 53 times a second—creates their trademark humming sound. That gives them quite an appetite: these little birdies can feed every 10–15 minutes! Today"s specimen is an Allen"s hummingbird, which can be found along the western coast of North America, most commonly in California. They arrive in these areas as early as January and gradually become easy to spot.Desktop Version
Turkey Tail Mushroom
Turkey Tail Mushroom
Mushrooms are not plants but fungi, each of whose variety has its own importance. Poisonous jack-o"-lantern mushrooms are sometimes misidentified as edible chanterelles. Other types are primarily used for medicine, such as today"s species, turkey tail, named for its likeness, which has been used for treating lung conditions in traditional Chinese medicine. Recent research showed them exhibiting anti-tumour properties and helping fortify the immune system. Many make great meal additions, and from portobello to shiitake mushrooms, there are thousands of edible species out there. Sautéed, stuffed, sliced, on a pizza, or in soup, it is time to bring some umami fun(gi) to your plate!Desktop Version
Saguaro cacti, Ironwood Forest National Monument, Arizona
Saguaro cacti, Ironwood Forest National Monument, Arizona
Massive succulents against a mountainous backdrop, underneath the sun-kissed sky—it"s prickly perfection. Pictured here are saguaro (pronounced "sah-wah-roh") cacti at Arizona"s Ironwood Forest National Monument in the Sonoran Desert of North America. Even if you haven"t seen one in person, when you hear the word cactus, you"re probably thinking of saguaro—tall, green, cylindrical, with arms pointing upward. Though they are slow growers, these plants have been known to live over 200 years and reach enormous heights, with one setting the record at 23.8 metres. Another saguaro cactus, known as "Grandaddy," survived in the sweltering desert for about 300 years, eventually succumbing to old age in the early 1990s. Cacti may not be for everyone, but they tend to grow on you (figuratively, of course)!Desktop Version
International Whale Shark Day
International Whale Shark Day
Say hello to the largest fish in the world, the whale shark. On August 30, we celebrate International Whale Shark Day to honour these magnificent marine creatures. These gentle giants are not related to whales, despite their impressive size of an average of 12 metres in length. Whale sharks are calm creatures which are usually safe for divers to swim alongside. These sharks are filter feeders and consume plankton and small fish by sieving them through their gill plates. There has been a significant decline in their populations, with an estimated 63% decrease in their numbers in the last 75 years. Threats include being hit by boats or tangled in fishing gear, and their habitats are being damaged by pollution, coastal development, and over-fishing. Advocates work through education and community engagement to help safeguard whale sharks and preserve our oceans.Desktop Version
Zelenci Nature Reserve, Slovenia
Zelenci Nature Reserve, Slovenia
Experience nature"s palette at its colourful best, where visitors can witness a breathtaking natural water reserve at the meeting point of three countries, At Zelenci Springs—where Italy, Austria, and Slovenia meet near the Kranjska Gora region in Triglav National Park—multiple springs combine to form a crystal-clear, aquamarine lake, a source for the Sava Dolinka River, which feeds into the Danube River.Desktop Version
Dubrovnik, Croatia
Dubrovnik, Croatia
Though you might instinctively watch out for invading fleets or dragons overhead, you"re more likely to encounter a tourist than a Lannister in the Croatian city of Dubrovnik. As you may know, "Game of Thrones" was filmed here frequently throughout the run of the show, and you can scarcely blame them; Dubrovnik"s Old Town is one of the best-preserved mediaeval cities in the world. For centuries, it flourished as the Republic of Ragusa, maintaining independence through diplomacy and robust trade networks. This "Pearl of the Adriatic" has withstood military bombardments and devastating earthquakes, yet the city has always rebuilt and persevered. While pop culture, history, and UNESCO World Heritage Site status are all big draws, they might be too effective: A recent report estimated that in 2019, there were 36 tourists for every resident.Desktop Version
Jeju Island, South Korea
Jeju Island, South Korea
The South Korean island of Jeju is full of wonders. If you don"t have a chance to visit its volcanic landscape, ancient stone statues, waterfalls, and rocky coastline, you can dive into the island"s fascinating chronicles from the comfort of your computer. The star of today"s image, Seongsan Ilchulbong (Sunrise Peak), is the island"s rare tuff cone formation, created by an underwater volcanic eruption about 5,000 years ago. Tuff cones are also called ash cones, referring to the accumulated ash settling in a cone formation after the lava"s forceful explosion. Seongsan Ilchulbong was added to the UNESCO World Natural Heritage List in 2007.Desktop Version
Berlin Cathedral and Museum Island, Berlin
Berlin Cathedral and Museum Island, Berlin
As the summer is fading away, we find ourselves reminiscing about vacations and long hours of lively evenings. But let"s not bury the picnic days just yet! There is plenty to look forward to, especially if you are in Berlin. The Long Night of Museums only happens once a year—on the last Saturday of August since 1997—but it shakes up Museum Island and the rest of the German capital. The event series is more than a peaceful appreciation of artefacts—quite the opposite—you can expect music, talks, workshops, cocktails, dance and more from 6 PM into the small hours of the morning. Featured in today"s image, Museum Island—embraced by the Spree River—is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it is home to a museum quintet: Altes, Bode, Pergamon, Neues Museums and Alte Nationalgalerie.Desktop Version