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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 514 kilometres of bike lanes, it"s one of the most bike-friendly cities in the world.Desktop Version

World Hippo Day, a giant celebration

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Jan 6, 2024A male chaffinch in a crab apple tree

Crab Apple trees are known for their beauty and occasional harvests of small, vibrant fruits. Beyond their aesthetic appeal, they contribute to biodiversity by attracting pollinators such as bees, fostering a healthy ecosystem. While their fruits are generally smaller and more tart than those of regular apples, some varieties are cultivated for culinary purposes, including jams and jellies. Gardeners and landscapers often appreciate their versatility and use them to enhance the visual appeal of outdoor environments. Whether as stand-alone specimens or part of larger garden designs, these bring a delightful blend of natural beauty and ecological benefits to diverse settings.Desktop Version

Jan 21, 2024Eurasian red squirrel

Have you ever been captivated by a squirrel crossing your path? If so, you"re not alone! Today"s image showcases the charming Eurasian red squirrel, whose striking reddish-brown coat, white underbelly and bushy tail are a familiar sight in several countries. These squirrels are not only exceptional jumpers—capable of leaping up to 1.8 metres in one jump—they can even swim to search for food or migrate. If you spot a fuzzy-tailed squirrel friend frolicking in your backyard, they might appreciate some feeding stations stocked with a variety of treats such as raspberries or crab apples.Desktop Version

An oasis in the desert

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Jan 12, 2024Bukhansan National Park, South Korea

Just a few kilometres north of the bustling capital city of Seoul, South Korea"s Bukhansan National Park is a treasured retreat for city dwellers and international visitors. The park, established in 1983, hosts lush forests, ancient temples and the three granite peaks of Bukhan Mountain. Among the park"s ridges and valleys, water deer, wild boar, chipmunks and squirrels roam freely. A careful ear might pick out the rat-a-tat of woodpeckers or the chirpy melody of the various songbirds that perch in the trees. The park is also home to Bukhansanseong Fortress, whose current structure dates to 1711. The fortification was constructed to protect Seoul from external threats, which it did during the Korean War.Desktop Version

Nov 24, 2023Olympic National Park, Washington, USA

Imagine spending the day hiking in a forest, soaking in the lush greenery instead of frantically checking every item off your holiday shopping list. The Hall of Mosses at Olympic National Park, in Washington"s Hoh Rain Forest, is a far cry from a shopping centre. This rainforest, different from the tropical kind that most think of, contains a brief but enchanting loop trail, home to a variety of mosses that gracefully drape over majestic spruces and hemlocks. Make sure to bring a jacket though, this aptly categorised forest is the wettest in the contiguous United States with an annual rainfall of nearly 330 centimetres. No wonder it"s so green!Desktop Version

Sep 15, 2023Udaipur, India

The serene city of Udaipur, nestled alongside Lake Pichola and surrounded by the ridges of the Aravalli Range, offers a captivating setting that is unparalleled in Rajasthan. The city is filled with palaces, temples, and decorated homes called havelis. The bustling markets, arts scene, heritage hotels and idyllic countryside all add to its appeal.Desktop Version

Dec 24, 2023Christmas 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 has 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

Dec 23, 2024Dhamek Stupa, Sarnath, Uttar Pradesh

Welcome to Sarnath, home of the celebrated marvel of Buddhism—Dhamek Stupa, featured in today"s image. This structure was built on the very spot where Buddha shared his first-ever sermon with his first five disciples. Originally built in 500 CE to replace an earlier monument commissioned by Emperor Ashoka in 249 BCE, it holds a legacy as rich as its carvings. With a solid base of 28 metres in diameter and a towering height of 43.6 metres, it merges stone and brick in a design that"s both massive and intricate. The lower stonework boasts delicate floral carvings from the Gupta era, while its walls feature finely detailed depictions of humans, birds and inscriptions in the ancient Brahmi script. Although the stupa has been expanded six times over the centuries, the upper section remains unfinished. Standing before it, one can"t help but marvel at the stories it holds.Desktop Version

The top of Tennessee

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Feb 2, 2024Alpine Marmot

Curious about how long this winter will last? The Alpine marmot seen here today, has its own winter tradition of stocking up on food to prepare for a long hibernation. Primarily found in mountainous regions of central and southern Europe, these robust rodents have a stocky build, short legs and a blunt snout. They inhabit alpine meadows and rocky areas, preferring elevations between 1,200 to 3,200 metres. They feed on various vegetation, including grasses, herbs and flowers, along with insects, spiders and worms. Despite their current non-endangered status, the species is vulnerable, particularly in regions like the Jura Mountains and Germany where they are regularly hunted.Desktop Version

Feb 5, 2025Waitangi Day in New Zealand

What do you get when you bring together more than 500 Māori chiefs, representatives of the British Crown, and a treaty signed in 1840? A day that New Zealanders still commemorate: Waitangi Day. On this date, the Treaty of Waitangi was signed, establishing the principles for how the two cultures would coexist. Ceremonies are held at Waitangi Treaty Grounds—where the document was signed—featuring traditional Māori performances, speeches and the ever-dramatic waka (canoe) races. From festivals and concerts in cities like Auckland and Wellington to low-key community gatherings, the spirit of the day is about connection and culture.Desktop Version

Dec 23, 2023Chinstrap penguins

Imagine you are in South Sandwich Islands, and you see this cute creature! Chinstrap penguins are easily identifiable birds that inhabit the icy and rocky shores of Antarctica and its surrounding islands. Named for the distinctive thin black line that runs across their chin and under their heads, these medium-sized penguins stand out with their black and white plumage. These social birds are known for their lively and energetic behaviour, both on land and in the water. Agile swimmers, chinstrap penguins use their powerful flippers to navigate the frigid waters in search of their primary diet—small fish, krill, and other marine creatures. Adult chinstraps typically reach a height of about 68 to 76 centimetres and weigh between 3.2 to 5.3 kilograms.Desktop Version

In the tropics, land greets sea warmly

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Nov 5, 2024Ranakpur Jain temple, Ranakpur, Rajasthan

Step into the world of intricate artistry at the sacred site of Ranakpur Jain temple, Rajasthan. Also known as Chaturmukha Dharana Vihara, because of the four faces temple design, this stunning Śvētāmbara Jain temple is dedicated to Tirthankara Rishabhanatha, also known as Ādinātha. This architectural marvel was commissioned by Darna Shah, a local Jain businessman, in the 15th century after he experienced a divine vision. The temple is crafted in the form of the Nalini-Gulma Vimana—a heavenly vehicle that he envisioned in his dreams. Built in the Māru-Gurjara architectural style, the temple houses a garbhagriha, the innermost sanctuary, where the main Chaumukha Adinatha idol is enshrined.Desktop Version

Sep 19, 2023Ganesh Chaturthi

Ganesh Chaturthi is a Hindu festival observed for 10 days to honour the birth of Lord Ganesha. Ganesha is an elephant-headed deity who symbolises prosperity, removes obstacles and brings wisdom and new beginnings. During the festival, people place Ganesha idols on elevated platforms in their homes and celebrate by reciting Vedic hymns along with the ceremonial anointing of the Lord Ganesha statue. On the last day of this occasion, the idols are brought to a river for their immersion, alongside a grand display of devotees playing rhythmic drums, singing devotional songs and joyfully dancing.Desktop Version

Aug 25, 2024Golconda Fort in Hyderabad, Telangana

Today, let us step into Golconda Fort in the bustling city of Hyderabad. This fort once housed a vault that safeguarded some of the world"s most famous gems, including the legendary Koh-i-Noor and Hope diamonds. The origins of the fort date back to the 11th century when it was first established as a modest mud fort by Pratāparudra of the Kakatiya Empire. It"s also believed that the Kakatiya ruler Ganapatideva, who reigned from 1199 to 1262, constructed a stone outpost on the hilltop to protect the empire"s western frontier.Desktop Version

Feb 8, 2024Mount Hood, Oregon

Mount Hood graces Oregon"s skyline with a pointed, snow-capped peak. Standing at nearly 3,430 metres, this dormant stratovolcano is the tallest mountain in the state, drawing adventurers and nature aficionados alike. With 12 named glaciers and numerous snow fields, Mount Hood offers a wintry playground all year round. Beyond its snow-laden allure, it sustains diverse ecosystems, nurturing ancient forests and serving as a haven for wildlife, including cougars and wolves. Over the past 1,800 years, the volcano has erupted three times. According to geologists, the mountain is primarily dormant, but there is still a chance that it could erupt one day.Desktop Version

Dec 12, 2023Red poinsettia

During the holiday season, poinsettias are often seen adorning homes and festive displays, serving as symbols of goodwill and community spirit. Named after the American ambassador Joel Poinsett, who introduced it to North America in the 19th century, the poinsettia"s association with Christmas has made it a cherished symbol of warmth and celebration. Poinsettias can be found in nature from Mexico to Guatemala, and the ancestors of the modern, commercially available version have been traced to the Mexican state of Guerrero. The crimson-leaved plant was used by the Aztecs as a red dye and as a fever-reducing medicine.Desktop Version

Oct 22, 2023Astoria-Megler Bridge, Oregon

Imagine travelling for nearly two years across plains, mountains, and forest and finally arriving at this setting, the mighty waters of the Columbia River emptying into the Pacific Ocean, with the sea stretching out to the horizon. That is what greeted Meriwether Lewis and William Clark in 1805 on their legendary North American expedition that originated near St. Louis. Fort Astoria, founded nearby in 1811 by the American Fur Company, was the first US-owned settlement on the West Coast. The Astoria-Megler Bridge was added to this picture 155 years later, the final piece connecting Los Angeles to Olympia, Washington via US Route 101. Water from seven states and two Canadian provinces flows through the Columbia, passing under the six-kilometre structure, the longest continuous truss bridge in North America.Desktop Version

Mar 4, 2024Arenal Volcano, Costa Rica

Greetings from tropical Costa Rica! The conical Arenal Volcano rises to an impressive height of 1,657 metres, standing tall above the surrounding rainforest and Lake Arenal, the largest lake in the country. The sleepy mountain roared to life in a massive 1968 eruption that threw rocks for close to a kilometre. The last significant volcanic activity there took place in 2010, and the once lava-lit peak is currently dormant. With over 500 species of birds, Arenal Volcano National Park is a must-visit location for birdwatchers. The park is also home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including red brocket deer, pumas, white-faced monkeys, orchids, heliconias and ferns. Arenal makes for an imposing and beautiful sight, towering over the tropical trees.Desktop Version

Jan 13, 2024Road to Hana, Maui, Hawaii, USA

Tourists often equate Hawaii with relaxation, but one of its most well-known attractions—the Road to Hana—might have you gripping a steering wheel tightly. Stretching for 102 kilometres along the northern coast of Maui from Kahului to the quiet town of Hana, the highway has over 600 curves and numerous one-lane bridges. The drive takes focus, so don"t forget to stop and relax at the lush rainforests and cascading waterfalls. Some highlights along the route include the Waikamoi Ridge Trail, the easily accessible Twin Falls and the black sands of Waianapanapa State Park.Desktop Version

Dec 18, 2023Capitol Reef National Park, Utah

Carved by time, wind and water, Capitol Reef National Park showcases rust-hued cliffs and the natural beauty of the American West. President Franklin D. Roosevelt recognised the park"s splendour by designating it as a national monument in 1937, and later it was elevated to a national park in 1971. The park was named after a series of Navajo sandstone domes that were said to resemble the US Capitol Building, while the Waterpocket Fold was referred to as a reef since it obstructed smooth transportation. Known as "a wrinkle in the Earth"s crust," the Waterpocket Fold was carved by eons of erosion. The 161-kilometres-long monocline—a step-like fold—was presumably formed around 50 to 70 million years ago, and is home to towering cliffs, narrow canyons and colourful rock formations.Desktop Version

Jan 27, 2024Northern hawk owl

Do you find yourself thriving in the daytime while your friends love to stay out late? If so, you"ve got a friend in the northern hawk-owl, one of the world"s few owls that is only active during the day. This vocal bird inhabits the boreal forests of North America and Eurasia and has different calls for mating, communicating with young and announcing that danger is nearby. Northern hawk-owls aren"t picky eaters, they"ll consume mice, rats, voles, lemmings, rabbits, shrews, moles, occasionally other small birds and have even been seen eating frogs and fish. No worries, we"re not on the menu, but if you wander too close to their nest, protective parents have been known to swoop at humans to keep them away.Desktop Version

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