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World Philosophy Day
World Philosophy Day
On World Philosophy Day, let"s talk about Athens, the capital of Greece. The city symbolises the roots of Western civilization and ancient Greek philosophy, which focused on critical thinking and questioning. The city"s iconic Acropolis and Parthenon remind us of the brilliant minds of Socrates, Plato and Aristotle, who started a revolution of rationale that is still shaping our society today. UNESCO recognises the profound impact philosophy has on human thought, cultures and individuals via World Philosophy Day. Take time today to discover the depths of the "love of wisdom"!Desktop Version
Rapa Valley in Sarek National Park, Sweden
Rapa Valley in Sarek National Park, Sweden
From the beauty of Abisko to the rugged peaks of Sarek, Sweden is home to many national parks, each a wonder. Rapa Valley is nestled within Sarek National Park in Sweden, where rivers cut through lush meadows and towering peaks reach towards the sky. In this national park of northern Sweden, elk roam freely, golden eagles soar overhead and the elusive arctic fox leaves traces of its presence in the snow. The Sámi people have called this alpine region and parts of Norway, Finland and Russia home, since ancient times, and their cultural heritage is intertwined with the wilderness. They fish the coasts, and perhaps most famously, herd reindeer.Desktop Version
Russell lupines, Lake Tekapo, New Zealand
Russell lupines, Lake Tekapo, New Zealand
This scenic view is of Lake Tekapo on the South Island of New Zealand. The lake undergoes a remarkable transformation each year from mid-November to December, when vibrant Russell lupines burst into colour, elevating the natural beauty to new heights. The plants" blooming heads, made up of pea-like flowers, can reach up to 150 centimetres. While photographers and nature lovers come to witness the varied hues of purple, blue and yellow lupins spread wide across Lake Tekapo, the Russell lupines have a somewhat controversial story. These invasive, exotic plants grow in dense stands, boxing out other flora. While these plants might be appealing to tourists, they can create a negative imbalance in the region"s ecosystem.Desktop Version
Serra de Tramuntana, Balearic Islands, Majorca, Spain
Serra de Tramuntana, Balearic Islands, Majorca, Spain
The history of olive cultivation in one of the Balearic Islands, Majorca, Spain, dates back over 2,000 years. The Phoenicians and Greeks, who were early settlers here, introduced the first olive trees to the island. The Serra de Tramuntana mountain range, which adorns the north coast, is home to these olive groves. The olive groves expanded during the Islamic era, and olive oil became a crucial ingredient in Majorca"s gastronomy and culinary traditions.Desktop Version
Diwali
Diwali
Diwali is a religious festival of lights, and holds widespread significance in Hinduism, Jainism and Sikhism. It is celebrated worldwide in countries with an Indian diaspora. The name "Diwali" comes from the Sanskrit term "Dipavali," which means "row of lights." The heart of Diwali lies in the lighting of oil lamps, or "diyas," illuminating homes and public spaces, creating a dazzling spectacle that signifies the triumph of knowledge over ignorance and good over evil. The present-day city of Ayodhya in Uttar Pradesh, India—believed to be the birthplace of the God of Protection, Lord Rama—holds the Guinness World Record for the largest display of oil lamps. As seen in today"s image, the "diyas" are lit on the banks of the Sarayu River during Diwali.Desktop Version
Chinese fishing nets in Kochi, India
Chinese fishing nets in Kochi, India
As a traditional occupation in India, fishing is woven deeply into the country"s cultural and economic fabric. This is vividly exemplified in Kochi, a bustling coastal city in the southern state of Kerala. Known as the "Queen of the Arabian Sea", its maritime heritage continues to be important for the residents.Desktop Version
Badlands National Park, South Dakota, USA
Badlands National Park, South Dakota, USA
This densely layered image is not an error of your screen, but the fascinating tiers of fossil beds in Badlands National Park in South Dakota. Under the multicoloured coating lies the land"s history, conserving the remains of ancient horses, camels, tigers and rhinos. The barren landscape, decorated with pinnacles and prairies, was mainly formed by two contrary forces of nature: deposition (the process of small rocks being moved around and deposited in new places) and erosion (the process of rocks wearing away). The Red Shirt Table, at 1,020 metres, is the highest point on the rugged terrain.Desktop Version
Birch trees, Drammen, Norway
Birch trees, Drammen, Norway
Norway is home to many beautiful natural features, and birch forests are one of them. Surrounded by the "silver forests" and situated within the embrace of the fjords, Drammen, a city in Norway, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Birch trees flourish at high altitudes, making them a natural fit for the mountainous region. When summer passes and autumn takes over, birch leaves transform into a mosaic of gold and crimson in stark contrast to the slender trunks and pale bark. This striking seasonal change may be part of why birch trees are associated with new beginnings and renewal. These trees aren"t just for looks, they provide habitat and sustenance for wildlife, and can be used for firewood and in construction.Desktop Version
Crystal River, Three Sisters Spring, Florida, USA
Crystal River, Three Sisters Spring, Florida, USA
Manatees have a fascinating history that spans millions of years. They are closely related to elephants and can be traced back to the Eocene era (about 56 to 33.9 million years ago), making them one of the oldest mammals on Earth. These slow-moving herbivores have, over time, adapted to life in warm, coastal waters. Known for their friendly demeanour and unique whiskered faces, these sleepy creatures have always been welcoming towards humans. Sadly, they have been exposed to various threats, such as habitat loss and boat collisions, due to which raising awareness has become essential. So, if you visit Crystal River and come across a West Indian manatee, we encourage you to take a moment to appreciate them, but from a distance.Desktop Version
Kirkilai lakes, Biržai Regional Park, Lithuania
Kirkilai lakes, Biržai Regional Park, Lithuania
Nestled within the pristine expanse of Biržai Regional Park in Lithuania, the Kirkilai Observation Tower stands as an example of allure and creativity in modern architecture. Rising nearly 32 metres above the lush landscapes, it offers an unrivalled vantage point to behold the beauty of the Kirkilai karst lakes. The natural wonder is formed by the dissolution of water-soluble rocks such as gypsum and limestone. Over time, the gradual erosion and collapse of caves in these rocks created depressions filled with crystal-clear water, resulting in these mesmerising and unique bodies of water. The interconnected lakes mirror the surrounding greenery, creating a scenic haven for nature enthusiasts.Desktop Version
Lago Pehoé, Torres del Paine National Park, Chile
Lago Pehoé, Torres del Paine National Park, Chile
Vivid turquoise waters mirroring the cerulean sky, surrounded by jagged peaks and lush forests—that"s Lake Pehoé for you. Nestled in Torres del Paine National Park, Chile, this glacial lake is a masterpiece of nature. The towering peaks like the Cuernos del Paine and the Paine Massif are special too. But where does the lake get its hues from? It is primarily the result of the presence of finely ground rock particles and minerals, known as glacial flour or rock flour, suspended in the water. The term "Paine" is believed to originate from a Tehuelche word meaning "blue." At 1,813 square kilometres, Torres del Paine has been recognised as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve since 1978. From hiking to kayaking to stargazing, this place has a lot to offer. So, pack your sense of adventure and head south to beat the blues.Desktop Version
Playa del Silencio, Spain
Playa del Silencio, Spain
Spain"s Asturias region, known for its green setting, rich artistic legacy and excellent food, has a lot of hidden gems—like the one in today"s image. The Playa del Silencio—Beach of Silence in English—is a shell-shaped cove with a serene ambience and a natural rock amphitheatre. The beach"s isolation from urban areas and the absence of commercial establishments and noisy crowds contribute to the sense of solitude. The rugged cliffs and golden sands provide an ideal place to soak in its peaceful vibes, while nearby caves and water activities provide exciting adventures for those who crave them.Desktop Version
American bison
American bison
While temperatures continue to drop as we approach winter, the American bison couldn"t care less. These burly mammals get ready for snow with their shaggy coats and massive bodies that can weigh up to 900 kilograms. Despite their size, they are agile and can run up to 64 kilometres per hour. The bison population plummeted due to overhunting and westward expansion. At its lowest point, there were only a few hundred bison left in the wild. Bison herds have resided in Yellowstone National Park since prehistoric times, a site that is no stranger to frigid temperatures.Desktop Version
Pacific sea nettles off the coast of Carmel, California, USA
Pacific sea nettles off the coast of Carmel, California, USA
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
Death Valley National Park, California
Death Valley National Park, California
Stretching for miles below the desert sun, the salt flats of Badwater Basin shine in Death Valley National Park, California. This sweltering spot is the lowest point of elevation of North America, 86 metres below sea level. In this otherworldly landscape, the hardened, mineral surface glistens like a mirror as the scorching heat dances upon it, creating rippling waves in the air. Composed of sodium chloride, borax and other minerals, the flats" brittle crust conceals a treacherous mud layer beneath. For those who venture beyond the flats and up a mountainside, Dante"s View reveals a panoramic view of Badwater Basin from a height of nearly 1676 metres. With its surreal landscapes, Death Valley National Park offers a truly unique experience where an odd beauty thrives despite the harshest of conditions.Desktop Version
Haut-Barr Castle, Vosges
Haut-Barr Castle, Vosges
Haut-Barr Castle is a medieval fortress that looms at an altitude of 450 metres, in northern Alsace. Built in 1170, it underwent significant transformations and restorations over the centuries. Its construction was initiated by the bishops of Strasbourg with the purpose of overseeing the Zorn Valley and the Alsace plain, earning it the evocative nickname "the eye of Alsace." On a clear day, it is possible to catch a glimpse of the spire of Strasbourg Cathedral. The castle, constructed on three rocks, is connected by a bridge, known as the "Devil"s Bridge". Legend has it that its construction is attributed to the devil as it would have been impossible for anyone else to build such a sturdy bridge.Desktop Version
Füzér Castle in the Zemplén Mountains, Hungary
Füzér Castle in the Zemplén Mountains, Hungary
Hungary, a country rich with history and stunning landscapes, hosts a treasure trove of castles. From the Buda Castle in Budapest, with its opulent architecture and commanding views of the Danube, to the Eger Castle, renowned for its heroic defence against the Turks, each castle tells a unique story of battles, royalty and cultural evolution.Desktop Version
Common raven
Common raven
The common raven is an intelligent and adaptable bird known for its striking appearance and remarkable behaviours. This elegant bird is easily identified by its characteristic wedge-shaped tail and glossy black feathers. Their keen eyesight and agile flight make them proficient hunters, often scavenging for prey or stealing from other predators. Ravens are known for their playful behaviour and their omnivorous diet, feeding on a wide variety of foods, including carrion, insects and small mammals.Desktop Version
Bonaventure Cemetery, Savannah, Georgia, USA
Bonaventure Cemetery, Savannah, Georgia, USA
Cemeteries are not typically the first place people consider exploring, but Bonaventure Cemetery in Savannah, Georgia, defies expectations. The city is often referred to as the most haunted in America, so devotees to all things spooky gather, along with those paying respects to loved ones who have passed. A cemetery since 1846, the site is perched on a bluff overlooking the Wilmington River. Its oak trees, dripping with Spanish moss, loom over walkways, monuments, and elaborate burial vaults. If it sounds like stepping into a southern Gothic novel, you"re on the right track: the 160-acre property was featured in John Berendt"s 1994 bestseller, "Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil". From poet Conrad Aiken to songwriter Johnny Mercer, famous figures rest here. Among its intriguing residents, you"ll find Little Gracie Watson. Her life-sized statue, carved in marble, watches over visitors with an eerie calm. Legend has it, her spirit still lingers. Would you care to meet her?Desktop Version
Castilla-La Mancha, Spain
Castilla-La Mancha, Spain
In the town of Consuegra, the echoes of the adventures of Don Quixote—the hero of the Spanish epic novel by Miguel de Cervantes—still linger. This tourist destination in Castilla-La Mancha is famous for a small mountain range, known as Cerro Calderico. The range is crowned with 12 white windmills, perhaps the very same that inspired Cervantes to picture them as an army of giants. With their stone walls and wooden blades, some of these windmills date back to the 16th century. Now, they are living relics of a bygone era when they were used to grind grain.Desktop Version
Sligachan Old Bridge, Isle of Skye, Scotland
Sligachan Old Bridge, Isle of Skye, Scotland
The enchanting Isle of Skye in Scotland is home to the Sligachan Old Bridge, engineered and built by Thomas Telford, a prolific Scottish civil engineer, in the early 1800s. The bridge arches over a river of the same name, and is accessible only to cyclists and pedestrians, while a modern bridge downstream serves car traffic. From atop the bridge"s weathered, humble and mossy stones, travellers can take in the majestic Cuillin Mountains in the distance. According to local tradition, the Sligachan River"s water contains a mysterious blessing provided by fairies. Those who dare to immerse their faces in these waters are said to be gifted with timeless beauty.Desktop Version
Schönbrunn Palace Park, Vienna, Austria
Schönbrunn Palace Park, Vienna, Austria
In 1743, Empress Maria Theresa decided to lavishly remodel the Schönbrunn palace, Austria, which served as the cherished residence of the Habsburg emperors until 1918. Complemented by its lush gardens, which house the world"s oldest existing public zoo, Schönbrunn is a true gem of the Baroque era. Both the splendid buildings and the meticulously manicured gardens are now under the ownership of the Austrian government. This pastoral path at the park, graced by a canopy of trees, offers an escape from the bustling city. So, take a leisurely stroll and let the charm of this enchanting estate transport you to centuries past.Desktop Version
Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, Utah
Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, Utah
The Grand Staircase–Escalante National Monument is an untamed wilderness of cliffs and canyons nestled in the heart of southern Utah. The Grand Staircase is a fascinating sequence of five majestic sandstone cliffs, rising approximately 1,675 metres across the expanse of the monument. Each step displays a different era in Earth"s geologic history, a showcase of time that is unrivalled by any other place on the planet. Archaeologists have found prehistoric artefacts, petrified wood and fossils dating back over 75 million years ago, from the Cretaceous Period. In human history, the Ancestral Puebloan and Fremont people mastered the art of farming in this challenging terrain. They ingeniously constructed granaries to store and preserve their bountiful harvests. Today, it is a splendid getaway for nature enthusiasts and travellers seeking adventure.Desktop Version
Vijayadashami
Vijayadashami
Vijayadashami, also known as Dussehra, is one of the most significant festivals in India and is celebrated following the Navratri festival. "Vijayadashami" is a Sanskrit word that translates to "Victory on the Tenth Day" symbolising the victorious return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after defeating Ravana in Lanka.Desktop Version
Corn maze in Saylorsburg, Pennsylvania
Corn maze in Saylorsburg, Pennsylvania
For a taste of rural America, Mazezilla in the Poconos region of Pennsylvania is a must-visit fall experience that offers a perplexing challenge. Covering a vast 11-acre expanse, Mazezilla offers a fresh and distinctive maze design annually, making it a cherished attraction during the months of September and October.Desktop Version