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December solstice
December solstice
Here"s to a great night out or a cosy night in on the longest night of the year! On this day, the Northern Hemisphere, where the United Kingdom is located, is tilted the farthest from the sun, resulting in the earliest sunset and the shortest day of the year. Called the December solstice, it marks the official beginning of winter and longer days ahead, giving a nice boost to the festive mood.Desktop Version
Happy New Year!
Happy New Year!
Welcome to 2024! Did you stay up late last night to ring in the new year? If so, we wouldn"t blame you for sleeping in like this red fox in Abruzzo, Italy. Whenever you wake up, New Year"s Day is a great opportunity for reflection, planning and a sense of renewal for the year that stretches out before us. January 1 has been a big day since the Julian calendar was widely adopted in 45 BCE, and as its use spread across the world—eventually modified in 1582 by the Gregorian calendar to better calculate for leap years. Whether you"re taking the day to watch a parade, attend a sports game, take a chilly dip or write resolutions, we hope it"s the beginning of a great year to come.Desktop Version
Llansteffan Castle, Carmarthenshire, Wales
Llansteffan 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
Red grouse
Red grouse
It"s an all-too-common scene—you are strolling through the windswept, heather-clad moors, breathing in the crisp Yorkshire air, and suddenly, you spot a flash of colour. Say hello to the red grouse, also known as the moorfowl, moorcock or moorbird! They are plump, they are round, and they are known for their distinctive rusty-red plumage (as the name suggests). Endemic to the British Isles, these fowls can be found on upland heathlands and moorlands. Their camouflage makes them nearly invisible amidst the brush, and their incredible speed and agility help them dart away from potential predators. Not only are they a sought-after game bird species, but red grouses are prized for their tender, flavourful meat, which is considered a delicacy. Grouse is a seasonal food, typically available from August to December, coinciding with the shooting season.Desktop Version
Val di Funes, Italy
Val di Funes, Italy
You are in luck if you are looking for a peaceful escape from everyday life in an enchanted valley. Today’s image features Val di Funes in the Dolomites, Italy. Running from the Isarco Valley to the heart of Puez-Odle Natural Park, the valley offers a spectacular view of the surrounding mountains. With a large selection of hiking paths, such as the Adolf Munkel Trail, it is also an ideal destination for hikers. In addition, Val di Funes is rich in cultural heritage. Several historic churches have been built here, including the Santa Maddalena Church, a true treasure from the 14th century. Every year, the municipality organises a peculiar festival known as the "cattle parade." On this occasion, cows are taken through the streets of the village, adorned with flowers and ribbons. So, if you manage to come by during this event, don"t forget to take a picture with the happiest bovines in the country!Desktop Version
Modica, Sicily, Italy
Modica, Sicily, Italy
When Italy comes to mind, iconic cities like Milan, Rome and Venice often steal the spotlight. However, on the island of Sicily lies a less famous gem—Modica. It"s a city that has risen from the rubble of an earthquake in 1693 to become an architectural wonderland of Baroque-style buildings. With fewer than 60,000 inhabitants, this UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts cobbled lanes, echoing with powerful footprints—from prehistoric tribes to the ancient Greeks and Romans to the medieval Arabs and Normans. Landmarks like the San Giorgio Cathedral and San Pietro Church awe visitors with their grandeur, and Modica"s recognised chocolate, crafted with Aztec-inspired techniques, tempts the palates of food enthusiasts. So, the next time Italy beckons, how about taking the road less travelled to Modica?Desktop Version
Snæfellsnes, Iceland
Snæfellsnes, Iceland
As spring gives way to summer in Iceland, the rugged landscape puts on a colourful parade. Lupines were introduced to Iceland in the 1940s for soil erosion control due to their roots" soil-binding properties. The plant flourishes in sandy and salty soils and propagates rapidly, painting the countryside with hues of purple, pink and blue. Although some consider lupine to be an invasive species that threatens native plants, its arrival is welcomed by locals and tourists as a cherished characteristic of the summer landscape. You can find lupine fields in various regions, including Reykjavík and near the Skógafoss waterfall. These flowers also line the road leading to the Hellissandur Church in the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, as seen in today"s image.Desktop Version
Halloween
Halloween
Halloween is here! A night when glowing jack-o"-lanterns decorate doorsteps across the country. The custom has its roots in 19th-century Ireland, where turnips and potatoes were sculpted into scary faces. When Irish immigrants arrived in the US, they found pumpkins much easier to carve and a new tradition was born. The digital age has made things easier still, for those whose carving skills are not up to scratch. This image was created with Bing Image Creator (now even better with DALL·E 3) – create your own jack-o"-lantern with the power of AI.Desktop Version
Val Gardena, South Tyrol, Dolomites, Italy
Val Gardena, South Tyrol, Dolomites, Italy
The Val Gardena valley in Northern Italy is renowned as a tourist destination for skiing, rock climbing and woodcarving enthusiasts. Don"t let the model village appearance fool you, Val Gardena is a real, yet magical site in the Dolomites of South Tyrol that transforms into a place known as Christmas Valley during the festive season. Wooden huts open their doors to visitors, and a nostalgic cable car ride, each cabin adorned with twinkling fairy lights, travels above the Christmas Village. During the 18th century, the valley became famous for its production of statuettes and intricately carved wooden figurines, which were initially crafted to decorate Catholic churches. Amongst those creations, the peg wooden doll emerged as one of Val Gardena"s best-known products and is still being produced today.Desktop Version
Sequoia National Park, California, USA
Sequoia National Park, California, USA
Sequoia National Park was founded in 1890 in the southern Sierra Nevada to protect one of America"s natural splendors. Named after the giant sequoias that dominate the landscape, the park spans more than 629 square miles and is home to wildlife such as black bears, mule deer and over 200 species of birds, including warblers, vireos and flycatchers. The giant sequoia trees here have been rooted for more than 2,200 years and are among Earth"s oldest living organisms. The park"s renowned General Sherman tree rises to about 84 metres. Named after the American Civil War general William Tecumseh Sherman, it"s not only tall but is also nearly 11 metres wide. Visitors flock to capture moments among these ancient giants, whose reddish-brown, fibrous bark and wide-reaching branches evoke a sense of living history.Desktop Version
Meon Hill, Gloucestershire
Meon Hill, Gloucestershire
Meon Hill, in Gloucestershire, is a lovely highlight of the Cotswolds. From boasting market gardens to having a deep-rooted connection to the Iron Age, this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty has more to offer than just breathtaking landscapes. You can see the Cotswold hills, Stratford-upon-Avon (the birthplace and burial place of William Shakespeare) and the Vale of Evesham, all from this one spot. The hill is also said to have served as the inspiration for the location of Weathertop in J.R.R. Tolkien"s "The Lord of the Rings." Head here to experience a taste of Middle-earth in the heart of England.Desktop Version
Newcastle Upon Tyne, England
Newcastle 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
Verdon Gorge, Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, France
Verdon Gorge, Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, France
Stretching nearly 100 kilometres, the Verdon Gorge is Europe"s largest canyon, with majestic cliffs climbing up to 750 metres in height. The emerald hue of the Verdon River"s waters, hidden far below this blanket of clouds, lends its name to this spectacular natural site, shaped by millions of years of erosion. Visitors or residents of Alpes-de-Haute-Provence hiking in the southeast of France can visit the canyon for rock climbing, kayaking, paragliding—the adventure options are endless. If you find yourself in Marseille or Nice, a day trip may be in order.Desktop Version
Boreal owl
Boreal owl
In North America"s coniferous forests lives a tiny bird of prey—the boreal owl. The small, brown, and white flecked raptor is shy and evasive around humans, keeping it well hidden from our view. Despite its compact size, it is a formidable hunter, feeding on small mammals, voles and birds. They have a preference for dense forest environments but are known for their adaptability and have been observed in various habitats, including mountainous regions. With dark plumage and expressive eyes, it strikes a captivating figure in the moonlit canopy, intriguing bird enthusiasts and researchers.Desktop Version
Stormont Estate, Northern Ireland
Stormont Estate, Northern Ireland
History, nature and a dash of intrigue, let"s introduce you to one of Northern Ireland"s major attractions, the Stormont Estate, right on the outskirts of Belfast. Established in the early nineteenth century, the estate is home to the main Parliament Buildings. From vibrant rose gardens to majestic trees, this place has it all. Feeling active? Stormont Estate has an extensive network of walking and cycling trails and there are fantastic play areas for little ones to burn off some energy. Bring your furry friend along; there"s even a designated dog park. Fun fact: CS Lewis, the author of "The Chronicles of Narnia," was inspired by the enchanting landscapes of Northern Ireland. If you"re lucky, you might just stumble upon the entrance to Narnia!Desktop Version
Grand slam tournament
Grand slam tournament
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Alpine Lakes Wilderness, Washington, USA
Alpine Lakes Wilderness, Washington, USA
Sometimes it"s nice to get away. Thanks to environmentalist Howard Zahniser, Americans can do that in one of the country"s many wildernesses—areas sheltered from human activities. Pictured in today"s image, Crystal Lake is one such protected area. Located in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness in Washington, the Enchantments has more than 700 lakes and ponds and some of the best rock climbing in the Western United States. It"s also home to mountain goats, ptarmigan, pikas and numerous types of alpine flowers. If you want to see Alpine Lakes Wilderness yourself, however, be prepared to wait. Few permits are granted for day hikes, and of the 40,000 people who entered last year"s lottery for overnight permits, only 2,558 received one.Desktop Version
Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau castles, Bavaria, Germany
Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau castles, Bavaria, Germany
The Bavarian Alps, a majestic mountain range in southern Germany, are home to two castles: Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau. Neuschwanstein Castle was commissioned by King Ludwig II of Bavaria in the 19th century. This Romanesque Revival palace is renowned for its fairy-tale-like architecture, towers and breathtaking mountain backdrop. Across the valley, gazing out over Lake Alpsee, is the equally spectacular Hohenschwangau Castle, built by Ludwig II"s father, King Maximilian II of Bavaria. These two castles boast rich interiors, displaying intricate artwork and historical artefacts. Both castles attract millions of visitors every year, offering a glimpse into the opulent past of Bavaria.Desktop Version
Teide National Park, Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain
Teide National Park, Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain
Unique rock formations, lunar-like terrains and spectacular skies – welcome to Teide National Park! Nestled in Tenerife, Spain, this World Heritage Site is home to Mount Teide—the third-largest volcano in the world. At 3,715 metres above sea level and 7,500 metres from the ocean floor, it is the highest peak in Spain. This diverse location has served as the backdrop for several notable films like "Fast & Furious 6" and "Clash of the Titans." Moreover, it houses the Teide Observatory, one of the world"s best sites for astronomical observations, owing to its high altitude and low light pollution. Whether you"re into hiking, stargazing or simply photography, this park deserves a spot on your travel bucket list.Desktop Version
Golden Bridge, Bà Nà Hills, Da Nang, Vietnam
Golden Bridge, Bà Nà Hills, Da Nang, Vietnam
Two colossal stone hands cradle a shimmering, golden walkway, as though the mountains themselves are offering it to the sky. This is Cầu Vàng, or the Golden Bridge, a pedestrian bridge in the misty mountains near Da Nang in central Vietnam. Opened in 2018, the bridge quickly became a global sensation, captivating travellers with its unique design and awe-inspiring setting.Desktop Version
Burns Night
Burns Night
Get ready to raise a glass to Robert Burns, as we dive into the spirit of Burns Night! Each year on January 25, Scotland lights up in celebration of its national poet, and what better place to take part in the festivities than where it all began? The Burns National Heritage Park is located in Alloway, Ayrshire–the birthplace of Rabbie himself. From his charming cottage to the museum that holds his precious works to the Brig o" Doon, a bridge made famous from his poem "Tam o" Shanter", the park has a lot to offer. But, come Burns Night, the place transforms. We"re talking about hearty plates of haggis, neeps and tatties, the unmistakable skirl of bagpipes and people coming together with a dram or two, raising a toast to the man of the hour. So, dust off your poetry books, polish your best shoes and join the belter from near or afar. Lang may yer lum reek!Desktop Version
Guy Fawkes Night
Guy Fawkes Night
It turns out that history is not always written by the victors. Nearly four centuries ago, on November 4, 1605, a plot to kill King James I was discovered in the cellars of the Houses of Parliament. One participant, Guy Fawkes, had assembled barrels of gunpowder, and was planning to attack the state opening of Parliament the next day. Almost immediately, November 5 was set up as a day to remember the thwarting of the infamous Gunpowder Plot. Over the years, it has evolved into a celebration—though usually stripped of its political and religious connotations—with sparklers, whirling Catherine wheels, bonfires (topped by an effigy known as a Guy) and a bit of folk verse: "Remember, remember the fifth of November, gunpowder, treason and plot. I see no reason why gunpowder treason should ever be forgot!"Desktop Version
Maldives
Maldives
With serene sandy beaches and crystal-clear water, the island country of the Maldives is located to the southwest of Sri Lanka and India. The archipelago is renowned for its seafood, lagoons and countless coconut palms. These 1,200 islands are made up of a chain of 26 atolls. Atolls are islands in the shape of rings with coral rims and lagoons in their centre. The Maldives is also home to the Baa Atoll Biosphere Reserve, which was granted UNESCO World Heritage Site status in June 2011. Visitors go there to spot manta rays and whale sharks and can enjoy sustainable water activities like scuba diving and surfing.Desktop Version
Advent Sunday
Advent Sunday
Lit-up houses, the melody of festive hymns in the air and families coming together to illuminate the initial candle on the Advent wreath—Advent Sunday is here to launch the countdown to Christmas! The holiday, which gets its name from the Latin word for arrival, is usually marked with treat-filled calendars. The custom of the Advent wreath originated in 19th-century Germany and gradually spread across Europe, eventually reaching the United Kingdom. Each candle on the wreath signifies a different week of Advent, symbolising hope, peace, joy and love. So, whether your family unites for a special meal today or dedicates the day to transforming your home into a festive wonderland, remember to relish those simple moments.Desktop Version
Blue-throated toucanet, Los Quetzales National Park, Costa Rica
Blue-throated toucanet, Los Quetzales National Park, Costa Rica
Tucked away in the highlands of Costa Rica, Los Quetzales National Park offers a kaleidoscope of lush habitats, including one that"s home to the blue-throated toucanet. Measuring 29 to 37 centimetres in length, these non-migratory birds use their dexterous toes to navigate branches, while their distinctive bills deftly forage for fruits, insects and small lizards.Desktop Version