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Jul 7, 2024Rice terraces of Mù Cang Chải, Yên Bái province, Vietnam

Amidst the rolling hills of Vietnam"s Yên Bái province, the rice terraces of Mù Cang Chải district are a mosaic of agricultural excellence. The Hmong people, an ethnic minority known for their rich culture and vibrant attire, have meticulously carved these cascading hills for generations. The Hmong migrated to northern Vietnam in the 19th century from China. They were skilled in shifting cultivation—an agricultural system in which lands are cultivated temporarily and then returned to their natural vegetation—of crops including millets, rice, corn and barley.Desktop Version

May 13, 2025Torres 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 turns 66 years old today and 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

Aug 7, 2025Malshej Ghat, Maharashtra

If you"re craving the thrill of monsoon magic—then Malshej Ghat is calling. Just off the Nagar-Kalyan road, this spot, nestled in the Western Ghats of Maharashtra, is a mountain pass that looks straight out of a dream. With its misty trails, serene lakes, cascading waterfalls and scenic tunnels, it"s a haven for nature lovers and trekkers. Its diverse ecosystem bursts with life—leopards, Indian giant squirrels and barking deer roam its dense forests. Birdwatchers especially flock here during the monsoon, when flamingos make their seasonal visit.Desktop Version

Oct 5, 2024African elephants in Tsavo East National Park, Kenya

Step into the world of the African elephants, the largest land mammals, celebrated for their extraordinary intelligence. Through gentle nudging, vocalisations and demonstrations, elephant mothers pass down vital knowledge that helps their young survive in the wild. Sadly, these precious animals face significant threats from habitat loss and poaching. As we admire these majestic creatures and strive to protect them, we can learn valuable lessons about empathy, cooperation and the importance of community.Desktop Version

May 29, 2024World 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

Aug 27, 2024Young black caiman, Tambopata National Reserve, Peru

Let"s take a sneak peek at the black caimans of South America that"s lurking in the waters of Peru"s Tambopata National Reserve. These carnivorous creatures thrive in freshwater environments such as slow-moving rivers, lakes and seasonally flooded savannahs. This creature, the largest in the alligator family, can grow to more than 6 metres and tip the scales at upwards of 450 kilograms. Their dark scales are a masterstroke of camouflage, giving them an edge in hunting a variety of aquatic and terrestrial prey. Their role extends beyond predation, however. They indirectly protect our agricultural interests by maintaining balance within their ecosystem, preventing overpopulation of species such as piranhas and capybaras, which can affect local agriculture and livestock.Desktop Version

May 25, 2024Aït 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

Jun 7, 2024World 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

A smooth landing, feet first

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Hovering over harmonious horticulture

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Jun 24, 2024Kelimutu, Flores, Indonesia

You might have seen lakes with some unique colours before, but Indonesian island of Flores, with its volcano Kelimutu, may steal the show. Home to three lakes, each with its own hue and folklore, this natural wonder attracts travellers seeking an otherworldly experience. Volcanic vents deep within the Earth release steam and gas, which alter the lakes" mineral compositions, causing reactions that transform their appearance periodically.Desktop Version

Mar 25, 2025Tolkien Reading Day

Today is Tolkien Reading Day. A time to dust off well-worn copies of "The Lord of the Rings" or "The Hobbit," and journey once more into the lands of elves, dwarves, and one particularly famous ring. But why this date? March 25 is the day the One Ring was destroyed, bringing down Sauron and ending his dark reign. This day was launched in 2003 to encourage people to explore J.R.R. Tolkien"s works. Schools, libraries and fans worldwide take part, reading passages aloud, discussing favourite moments and diving into the rich lore of Middle-earth. Some go all out with themed events, cosplay and even second breakfasts—because what better way to honour Tolkien than by feasting like a hobbit?Desktop Version

Sep 13, 2024Point Reyes National Seashore, California, USA

Welcome to Point Reyes National Seashore, where the sky meets the earth. This stunning 287 square kilometres coastal haven on the Point Reyes Peninsula in Marin County, United States, pictured in today"s images, is a gem of the Californian coastline, boasting breathtaking views and diverse wildlife. Filled with scenic trails that wind through lush forests and along rugged cliffs, Point Reyes has much to offer its visitors.Desktop Version

Jun 20, 2024Summer solstice

It"s that time of year again—the daylight stretches long into the evening hours! This phenomenon, known as the summer solstice, occurs when one of the Earth"s poles is most inclined toward the sun. Today"s image features the Kokino megalithic observatory, which is part of the Kokino archaeological site in North Macedonia. It is believed that Kokino observatory marked the position of the sun during summer and winter solstices, as well as the equinox, and consists of two platforms. A stone block on the upper platform of the observatory indicates the summer solstice sunrise direction when seen from a seat on the lower platform. So, when in North Macedonia, don"t miss out on experiencing this ancient astronomical wonder!Desktop Version

Oct 21, 2024Cypress trees in George L. Smith State Park, Georgia, United States

Ever seen the sturdy, swamp-loving and always stylish cypress? These trees can grow to over 30 metres and usually have a pyramid-like shape when they"re young. In today"s image, we"re transported to the George L. Smith State Park, which spans 6.61 square kilometres in Emanuel County, Georgia. The park"s centrepiece, seen in today"s image, is a 1.6-square-kilometre mill pond, a favourite spot for fishing and canoeing. Out of its waters grow pond cypress and bald cypress trees, two varieties that are native to the US. Winding through the park are over 11 kilometres of nature trails, leading visitors through sandy landscapes past a bird sanctuary and tortoise habitat. The hardwood trees here are a haven for woodpeckers and other birds, while the soft soil provides ideal burrowing ground for tortoises. No matter the season, this park promises a peaceful retreat for all.Desktop Version

Jan 1, 2025Happy New Year!

Happy New Year"s Day! Humans have celebrated the new year since at least 2000 BCE, but various cultures have chosen different days coinciding with equinoxes or lunar cycles. The Romans established January 1 as the beginning of the year in 153 BCE, but this fell out of favour throughout Europe during the medieval era. Since 1582 and the widespread adoption of the Gregorian calendar, however, much of the world now celebrates the new year today. In addition to watching fireworks, drinking champagne and making resolutions in the wee hours of the morning, other global traditions include making noise, eating lucky foods and giving gifts.Desktop Version

Jul 18, 2024Coral Reef Awareness Week

Blooming pillar corals, green sea turtles and colourful reef fishes—welcome to the thriving underwater universe of coral reefs. Running from July 15 to 21, Coral Reef Awareness Week is the perfect time to honour them. Coral reefs are formed by tiny marine organisms called coral polyps, which create vast colonies that serve as homes to a diverse array of marine species. As we turn our attention to their beauty and benefits, it"s vital to recognise the lurking threats–climate change, pollution and harmful human activities.Desktop Version

Oct 20, 2024International Sloth Day

The world"s slowest mammal takes the spotlight today on International Sloth Day. Celebrated on October 20, this day invites us to learn more about their lives, including the threats they face, like shrinking habitat, and conservation efforts. There are six living sloth species, divided into two types: three-toed sloths and two-toed sloths.Desktop Version

Jul 23, 2024Methoni Castle, Messinia, Greece

Perched on a rocky headland is Methoni Castle, a symbol of medieval might situated on the shores of the Ionian Sea in southern Greece. The fortress is in Methoni, a village in the Messinia region. Built by the Venetians in the early 13th century, this castle was a key trading post and a defensive bastion, protecting the southwestern coastline from invaders. Its Bourtzi tower, an extension of the fortress standing on a small islet, was once connected to the main castle by a stone bridge.Desktop Version

Feb 9, 2025Alstrom Point, Lake Powell, United States

If you"re chasing sunsets and jaw-dropping views, come to Alstrom Point. Located in southern Utah"s Kane County, this spot in the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area stands at an impressive height of over 1,400 metres. Made mostly of Entrada Sandstone, it has the same geological roots as nearby sites like Romana Mesa, its parent peak, and Gunsight Butte, another sandstone summit to the east. Part of the Lake Powell region, Alstrom Point extends southward into the vast waters of the lake, in between Padre Bay and Warm Creek Bay. When the lake is full, Alstrom Point towers nearly 300 metres above the water, offering views of the surrounding canyons. Lake Powell, spanning across Utah and Arizona, attracts around 3 million visitors every year.Desktop Version

Aug 10, 2024Joshua Tree National Park, California, USA

California"s Joshua Tree National Park, located where the Mojave and Colorado deserts meet, has been home to various cultures for thousands of years. Its earliest known residents were people from the Pinto culture, who lived here from 8000 to 4000 BCE. Centuries later, this land was inhabited by the native Cahuilla, Serrano and Chemehuevi peoples. The park"s namesake, the Joshua tree, grows in a landscape covering 3,216 square kilometres. Despite their name, they are not really trees but rather a kind of succulent. Native to the southwest US and northern Mexico, they can grow up to 12 metres tall. Whether it"s hiking through Hidden Valley, visiting the Cholla Cactus Garden or marvelling at Skull Rock, this national park has a lot to offer. By night, it becomes a stargazer"s paradise, as seen in today"s image. Whether you seek adventure or a moment of tranquillity, Joshua Tree awaits with open skies.Desktop Version

Stretching to the sky

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Dec 6, 2024Finnish Independence Day

Happy Independence Day, Finland! On this day in 1917, the Nordic nation declared its independence from Russia. Finland had been a grand duchy of the Russian Empire since 1809, and it was part of the Swedish Empire for the previous 600 years. However, during the Russian revolutions of 1917, Finnish nationalists saw their chance to establish an independent nation. After several months of negotiations, Finland declared independence on December 6.Desktop Version

Jul 29, 2024International Tiger Day

We"re off to a roaring start today: it"s International Tiger Day. Celebrated on July 29, this day was established in 2010 to protect tigers from threats such as poaching and habitat loss due to deforestation. At the end of the 19th century, there were thought to be around 100,000 tigers in the wild; these days, there are fewer than 6,000.Desktop Version

Dec 18, 2024English National Ballet performing The Nutcracker

Every holiday season, as snow begins to fall and Christmas lights twinkle in the night, the story of "The Nutcracker" comes to life on stages around the world. Written by Russian composer Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky in 1892, this beloved ballet is based on E.T.A. Hoffmann"s fairy tale "The Nutcracker and the Mouse King." Set on Christmas Eve, it follows a young girl named Clara, who goes on an adventure with the Nutcracker Prince as they battle the evil Mouse King. Many renowned ballet companies present their rendition of this classic every year, including the New York City Ballet, the Boston Ballet and the English National Ballet, pictured here. Tchaikovsky"s score is noted for its use of the celesta, an instrument with a bell-like tone, which perfectly captures the fairy-tale atmosphere.Desktop Version

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