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16 Apr 2024Union Square, Manhattan, New York, USA

"These streets will make you feel brand new, big lights will inspire you." Alicia Keys sure knows how to serenade the vibrant, bustling life of the Big Apple in the United States. Today"s homepage image takes us to a spot in the City that Never Sleeps—Union Square in lower Manhattan. At this historic intersection, you can find statues of George Washington—the oldest statue in any park in NYC—and Abraham Lincoln, crafted by the sculptor Henry Kirke Brown. In 1882, workers exercised their rights to free speech and assembly, organising the first Labour Day parade in Union Square. In 1997, United States Department of the Interior recognised this park as a National Historic Landmark due to its importance in US labour history. These days, you"re more likely to see street chess players, musicians, skateboarders, dance crews and vendors of all types in the square.Desktop Version

15 Apr 2024World Art Day

"Art is the queen of all sciences communicating knowledge to all the generations of the world." There might be no better day to ponder these inspirational words by Leonardo da Vinci than World Art Day. Celebrated on April 15, this day marks the birthday of the renowned Renaissance artist. From his iconic painting of the Mona Lisa to his detailed sketches of flying machines, Leonardo"s legacy pushes the boundaries of knowledge and talent in a wide range of fields. Today"s homepage shows the RedBall Project at Centraal Station in Antwerp, Belgium. Created by the American artist Kurt Perschke, this travelling public art installation is considered to be "the world"s longest-running street artwork." It showcases a 4.5-metre inflated red ball that has been wedged into dozens of landmarks in countries from Australia to England since 2001.Desktop Version

14 Apr 2024Bowling Ball Beach, California, USA

Welcome to nature"s bowling alley. Bowling Ball Beach on the Mendocino Coast in California, United States, is named after the striking rock formations strewn across the shore. These sandstone balls—a phenomenon known as concretions—formed over millions of years as sedimentary layers built up around a central core of sand and stone held together by mineral cements. Erosion gradually wore away the outer layers to expose the spherical shapes we see today. This created a fascinating spectacle that only appears at low tide. Concretions are rare and there has been plenty of wild speculation about where they come from, with some believing them to be extraterrestrial debris while others wondering if they are dinosaur fossils. The answer, however, is quite simple: it is the forces of nature at play.Desktop Version

13 Apr 2024Grand National

The Grand National is back in the saddle for another thrilling ride. Scheduled to take place at Aintree Racecourse, the event will see 34 runners tackling 30 fences around 4 1/4 miles for the glory. This annual National Hunt horse race was first run in 1839. From steeplechaser Red Rum"s record-breaking triumphs to heart-stopping photo finishes, the Grand National has provided countless memorable moments for nearly two centuries. Whether you"re a seasoned racing enthusiast or a casual observer, the event has something for everyone. So, saddle up, place your bets and get ready for a day of thrills, spills and plenty of horsepower!Desktop Version

12 Apr 2024Arches National Park, Utah, USA

If you fancy a stroll through time, Arches National Park in the United States is the perfect gateway! With over 2,000 natural stone arches, hundreds of tall pinnacles, large rock fins and giant balanced rocks, this park is among the world"s most scenic destinations. In a space of just over two square miles, there are spectacular sights including North Window, part of the popular windows section, Turret Arch and Double Arch. Named features such as Garden of Eden, Elephant Butte, a 1,723-metre summit, and Parade of Elephants mean that visitors are never short of spectacular landscapes to visit.Desktop Version

11 Apr 2024Dragon waterfall, Venezuela

In the heart of the wilderness, an awe-inspiring sight plummets from a mountain—the Churún Merú waterfall in Venezuela! Also known as Dragon Falls, the cascade featured in today"s image is in a narrow niche at the southern end of the canyon that divides the mountain of Auyan Tepui. Falling from 979 metres, Churún Merú is joined by a neighbouring stream in the wet season. Venezuela is home to some of the world"s most impressive natural wonders, including the highest waterfall on Earth, Angel Falls, found some 4 miles south of Churún Marú. James Angel, who is often wrongly credited with finding Angel Falls, may have discovered the Dragon waterfall. Something that supports this theory is the fact that Angel Falls is often misidentified as the Dragon Falls. So, whether you"re after Angels or Dragons, Venezuela has a waterfall for you!Desktop Version

10 Apr 2024Apple trees in spring, Germany

In this picturesque orchard, spring heralds the blossoming of apple trees. As the chill in the air starts to fade, delicate apple blossoms unfurl, releasing a sweet fragrance that permeates the countryside. This marks the beginning of a process that culminates in the harvest of one of the world"s most beloved fruits. Known for their crisp texture and sweet-tart flavour, apples belong to the Rosaceae family. These fruits come in a variety of colours, from vibrant reds to golden yellows and bright greens. Each type boasts its unique flavour profile, from the tangy Granny Smith to the sweetness of Fuji. These fruits are rich in dietary fibre, antioxidants and essential vitamins like vitamin C and vitamin K, promoting overall health and well-being. Whether you like them fresh, baked in your favourite desserts or pressed into cider, apples are a classic culinary delight.Desktop Version

9 Apr 2024Skagit Valley Tulip Festival

Walk through a real-life canvas where vibrant blossoms paint the Earth in the shadow of Mount Vernon in the United States. That"s exactly what awaits you at the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival in Washington. Founded in 1984 by the Mount Vernon Chamber of Commerce, it began as a three-day event but has since grown into a month-long fiesta. The festival runs from April to May and draws visitors from all over the world. The floral show spans multiple gardens in the valley, so make sure you explore Tulip Town, Tulip Valley Farms, Garden Rosalyn and the 50-acre (20.23 hectares) display at RoozenGaarde. You can tour the tulip gardens by bicycle and explore the local wineries, breweries and restaurants. Among the petals, life slows down just enough for us to remember the simple joys—breathe deeply, smile widely and revel in the spectacle that is the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival.Desktop Version

8 Apr 2024Llansteffan Castle, Carmarthenshire, Wales

In the heart of Carmarthenshire, Wales, near the River Tywi estuary, stands Llansteffan Castle. This historical gem dates to the 12th century when the Normans decided to mark their territory in this strategic spot. With sweeping views over the estuary and the countryside, it"s not hard to see why they chose this location. The castle served as a focal point in the tug-of-war between the Normans and the native Welsh princes, witnessing numerous battles and sieges. These days, the castle, which is now privately owned, is in ruins, although a few structures are still standing. While the two-tower Gatehouse greets visitors, the castle"s stone walls enclose an Iron Age promontory fort. So, if you ever find yourself in Carmarthenshire, consider a detour to Llansteffan.Desktop Version

7 Apr 2024International Beaver Day

Known as nature"s engineers, beavers have been shaping the world for millions of years. Historically, beavers faced challenges from humans. Both species—North American and Eurasian—were hunted for their fur, and their "nuisance" freshwater abodes were destroyed. However, these buck-toothed, paddle-tailed dam builders have been gaining new respect in recent years. These animals have beneficial effects not only on water quality but also on land. With their iron-coated orange incisors, beavers fell trees, diligently constructing not just homes but habitats. Their dams create life-sustaining wetlands for countless species. Meanwhile, their lodges are masterpieces of security and comfort, the entrance strategically submerged to deter predators and provide privacy. The rodents have no trouble getting in, as they can hold their breath for up to 15 minutes. So, "woodn"t" it be nice to give a shout-out to these creatures on International Beaver Day?Desktop Version

6 Apr 2024Japan Castle Day

From Strawberry Day to Cat Day and even Vegetable Day, Japan has a list of faux holidays, which are the clever results of "dajare" or word plays. Today"s date, April 6, makes up the Japanese word for castle, "shiro" from "shi" (4) and "ro" (6). Hence, the celebration of castles. What better opportunity than Castle Day, to learn about the country"s largest and most visited castle—Himeji Castle? Dating back to 1333, this UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts an advanced defensive design and five National Treasure structures. The castle has also withstood time and nature"s fury, surviving the bombings of World War II and the Great Hanshin earthquake in 1995. In addition, nearly 700 years of glory, local legends and ghost stories reverberate through the 83 rooms of this hilltop fortress. Would you care to explore?Desktop Version

5 Apr 2024The Bahamas

Turquoise waters, vibrant coral reefs, alfresco dining and tales of pirates—welcome to the Bahamas! With over 3,000 cays, islands and islets in the Atlantic Ocean, this West Indies archipelago is home to the world"s third-largest barrier reef—the Andros Barrier Reef. The country"s national cultural festival is Junkanoo, where creative expression takes centre stage at the parades, displaying costumes, musical heritage, storytelling and craftsmanship. It is celebrated every Boxing Day and New Year"s Day. For the adventurous souls drawn to nature, Dean"s Blue Hole, a 202-metre-deep marine sinkhole on Long Island, offers a thrilling experience. From the serene pink sand beaches of Harbour Island to the capital city Nassau"s bustling Straw Market and famous wine cellars, The Bahamas is more than just a destination—it"s a captivating tale waiting to unfold.Desktop Version

4 Apr 2024Red lechwe, Okavango Delta, Botswana

With their elegant leaps and graceful movements, lechwe are the epitome of agility and poise on the African savanna. These antelopes, known for their distinctive reddish-brown coats and lyre-shaped horns, are native to the wetlands and floodplains of south-central Africa, including the Okavango Delta in Botswana, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Lechwe are social animals, often found in herds of thousands. In the heart of the delta, they are an integral part of the region"s rich biodiversity, coexisting with other species like elephants, lions, rhinos and hippos, wading through the water. Their presence adds to the delta"s natural allure, which draws in thousands of safari enthusiasts, and is proof of wildlife"s resilience in the face of environmental challenges.Desktop Version

3 Apr 2024Newcastle Upon Tyne, England

Nestled on the banks of the River Tyne, Newcastle Upon Tyne"s story is one of transformation. Amongst its cobbled streets and historic buildings lies a treasure trove of tales. The city started life as Pons Aelius, a Roman settlement. It was on this site that the Norman fortress that gave the city its name was built. During the Middle Ages, the city was an important trading power, while during Victorian age, its shipbuilding and engineering works made Newcastle a vital part of the Industrial Revolution.Desktop Version

2 Apr 2024Beech trees and anemone wildflowers, Jutland, Denmark

Today"s homepage takes us to Jutland, Denmark, where the arrival of spring showcases the green hues of the European beech, a national symbol of this northern land. The young leaves of these budding trees are significant to the Danish people, as they are harvested from April to May and used in cooking—particularly in salads. In the past, Europeans would often use the smooth bark of beech trees for writings texts. In fact, in the modern Dutch language, the term for "book" directly translates as "beech tree." As the sun shines through the forest canopy, wild anemones brighten up the woodland with their white petals. These blooms, representing delicate beauty and sincerity, have even starred in masterpieces by artists such as Monet and Vincent van Gogh.Desktop Version

31 Mar 2024Happy Easter!

Happy Easter! Do you like your eggs boiled or painted? The practice of painting chicken eggs, which originates from Persian traditions, was adopted by Christians in the early 17th century to commemorate this holiday, also called Pascha. Hungarian artist, Tünde Csuhaj—living and working in the small city of southern Hungary, Szekszárd—has mastered the craft. The internationally recognised egg-painter developed her own etching technique to create lace-like patterns. The meticulous designs appear on all sorts of eggs, including chicken, goose, swan and even emu or ostrich eggs. The intricate motifs of incredible craftsmanship are often shown at national and international fairs and exhibitions. Are you inspired? Grab a paintbrush and test your egg-painting skills.Desktop Version

30 Mar 2024Brown-throated three-toed sloth

Costa Rica"s lush forests are habitats for two sloth species: Hoffmann"s two-toed sloth and the star of today"s homepage, the brown-throated three-toed sloth. Despite being larger than many tree-dwelling mammals, three-toed sloths have adapted by reducing their muscle mass and size to thrive on treetops. Their large stomachs have four chambers, which can make up to 30% of their body weight when full. These shaggy critters are so sedentary that algae grow on their coats. This symbiotic relationship provides them with a greenish hue, offering effective camouflage within the rainforest canopy. In 2021, these slow-moving creatures were declared national symbols in Costa Rica. Then-President Carlos Alvarado signed the initiative into law to emphasise the sloths" importance in the country"s ecosystem.Desktop Version

29 Mar 2024South Stack Lighthouse, Holyhead, Wales

Built on the rugged cliffs of Holy Island, Wales, the South Stack Lighthouse stands watch over the deep waters of the Irish Sea. The 28-metre-tall white tower has guided sailors since its completion in 1809; it provides safe passage for ships on the Dublin-Holyhead-Liverpool route. When it was built, sperm whale oil was used to light the lamps; however, over the years, the mechanism has been upgraded to more advanced technology like LED bulbs and Fresnel lenses. Automated in 1984, the lighthouse continues to serve as a vital navigational aid, with its powerful beam shining up to 28 miles. As the sun sets and the sky fills with colours, the silhouette of the South Stack Lighthouse in the dusk makes for a stunning sight. Visitors brave the 400-step descent down the steep cliff face to explore the lighthouse, including its engine room and exhibition area.Desktop Version

28 Mar 2024Cherry blossoms in Shanghai, China

In spring, nature puts on a vibrant display, marking the start of the season with the bloom of cherry blossoms. Around the globe, from Japan to the United Kingdom, this spectacle captivates millions of hearts. In China, cherry blossoms, known as "Yinghua," bloom from late March to late April, adorning landscapes with delicate hues of pink and white. Revered for centuries by the Chinese, these fragile petals hold profound significance in their traditions, symbolising renewal, hope and the transient nature of life. There are various locations in China to view these blossoms, including Wuhan"s East Lake Cherry Blossom Park, Shanghai"s Gucun Park and Luxun Park, as well as Beijing"s Yuyuantan Park. Cherry blossoms look similar to plum blossoms, but an easy way to distinguish between the two is to look at their petals. Cherry blossom petals have split ends, but plum blossoms don"t.Desktop Version

27 Mar 2024World Theatre Day

Today, all the world"s a stage. Every year on March 27, the curtains rise to thunderous applause in celebration of World Theatre Day—an ode to an art form that has influenced the masses for centuries. The day aims to promote theatre and raise awareness of how it has preserved ancient cultures, provided social commentary throughout history and even helped form our language. Seen in the image today is the Teatro Colón, Buenos Aires, a symbol of Argentina"s rich theatrical heritage. Built in 1908, the theatre is renowned for its grand architecture and exceptional acoustics, making it one of the world"s premier opera houses. Over the years, it has hosted performances by legendary figures such as Enrico Caruso, Richard Strauss, Lily Pons, Marina de Gabaráin, Joss Stone, Branford Marsalis and many more. On this day, dedicated to drama, let"s appreciate this art form that continues to narrate stories in the most spectacular way!Desktop Version

26 Mar 2024Vinh Hy Bay, Vietnam

Welcome to Hang Rai, a blend of ancient rock formations and vibrant coral reefs! Also called Rai Cave, this cavern is part of the Vinh Hy Bay—enclosed by Nui Chua National Park—in the South Central Coast region of Vietnam. The area"s natural coral reefs are surrounded by rock formations, that are carefully stacked upon each other to form a group of caves. One origin of the name "Hang Rai" or "Rai Cave" comes from otters (rai) that were occasionally seen seeking shelter in the cave. Another explanation is attributed to the abundance of rai trees in the area, whose oil was used to waterproof boats. The landscape has an awe-inspiring sight both under and above water: colourful corals for deep divers and a scenic sunset for those who like camping in the sea breeze.Desktop Version

25 Mar 2024Happy Holi!

It"s Holi; get ready to become a walking rainbow and sprinkle joy wherever you go! This festival of colours, spring and love is a cornerstone of Indian and Nepali culture. It is also celebrated in other countries with large Hindu populations, such as Bangladesh, Pakistan, the United Kingdom, the United States, Suriname, Indonesia and Malaysia. The festivity lasts for a night and a day. It starts on the evening of the last full moon of the Hindu lunisolar calendar, which usually falls in March in the Gregorian calendar. As the sun sets, people gather to light bonfires, a ritual known as Holika Dahan, symbolising the triumph of good over evil. The following day, the streets come alive with people splashing each other in colours, giving everyone a vibrant makeover. Are you ready for a dash of colour?Desktop Version

24 Mar 2024Silvereyes

Yellow, round, tiny and gregarious—say hello to these silvereyes enjoying cherry blossoms in South Korea! While this family of passerine birds is native to Africa, Australasia and Asia, several of its species can be found in places like French Polynesia and Hawaii, where they appeared by introduction. Also known as white-eyes or wax-eyes, these avians come in a range of colours and patterns, but they all share that trademark eye-ring. They have a sweet tooth for nectar, but they"re not picky eaters, happily feeding on fruits, insects and berries. On our March adventures, let"s celebrate these beauties for adding a touch of wonder to spring!Desktop Version

23 Mar 2024World Meteorological Day

"When clouds appear like rocks and towers, the Earth"s refreshed with frequent showers"—there"s a whisper of truth to this old proverb for the storm clouds, also known as cumulonimbus or anvil clouds, which are pictured here. Today, on World Meteorological Day, we honour the marvel that is our atmosphere. This observance, which was first held in 1961, commemorates the establishment of the World Meteorological Organisation in 1950. But this day is more than just a nod to history; it is all about recognising the vital role meteorology plays in our lives. Weather forecasts may not always appear fully reliable, but thanks to advances in technology like satellites and supercomputers, they have come a long way. Because of these advancements, global weather models provide forecasts for up to 16 days and, the average lead time for tornado warnings has gone from -15 minutes in 1974 to around 15 minutes today. Cheers for the progress made and much more to come!Desktop Version

22 Mar 2024World Water Day

It"s World Water Day, a 31-year-old annual tradition that ripples across the globe, reminding us of the importance of this essential resource. Water is a force that quenches thirst and irrigates harvests, and in its absence, it can derail prosperity and stability. The World Economic Forum lists the water crisis among the top global risks, and with 2.2 billion people still lacking access to clean water, this United Nations observance is a call to action to address the crisis. From educational forums to local cleanups, each action, big or small, contributes to the wave of change. This year"s theme, "Water for Peace," invites us to reflect on the universal solvent"s power to foster unity. So, are you ready to dive into a current that flows deeper than New Zealand"s Blue Spring at Te Waihou Walkway? With about 70% of the country"s bottled water coming from here, this spring mirrors the clarity and serenity we yearn for in the world.Desktop Version

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