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21 Dec 2023Ljubljana, Slovenia

What a lovely city! The Slavic word "ljub" means "to love", and it serves as the prefix to Slovenia"s capital city, Ljubljana, and the Ljubljunica River that runs through it. This relatively small capital, with a population just under 300,000, was established on a trade route connecting the northern Adriatic Sea and the Danube region. To the south of the city lies the Ljubljana Marsh, the largest marsh in the country, covering 63 square miles. While modern buildings have cropped up on the city"s periphery, the core of town preserves its historic structures, which have ancient Roman and mediaeval elements. Examples include the Ljubljana Castle, the Triple Bridge, the Dragon Bridge and the historic Old Town. Keep an eye out while you stroll around, you might encounter the city"s symbol, the Ljubljana Dragon.Desktop Version

22 Dec 2023December 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

23 Dec 2023Festivus

Sometimes when stuck with family around the holidays, it might be tempting to give them an earful, like this chinstrap penguin is doing here on the South Sandwich Islands. If that sounds appealing, or if you want a break from mandatory seasonal joy, Festivus might be the holiday for you. The secular holiday was popularised in a "Seinfeld" episode in the show"s final season. The Costanza family has a collection of odd traditions, including putting up an aluminium Festivus pole—for its high weight-to-strength ratio—and airing their year-end personal grievances. Since the episode debuted, the holiday has taken on a life of its own both among fans and people looking for an alternative way to celebrate the season. Those who love Christmas, Hannukah and Kwanzaa are welcome to them, and Festivus is for the rest of us.Desktop Version

24 Dec 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 cosying 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

25 Dec 2023Christmas Day

Don"t be surprised if these caribous take flight! Ever since Clement Clarke Moore assigned reindeer to be Santa"s helpers in his 1823 poem "A Visit from St. Nicholas," caribous—as they are called in North America—have eagerly contributed to the Christmas celebration. It"s no wonder that Father Christmas would pick them. Thanks to their resilient and adaptable features, like their two layers of dense fur or eyes adapted to a wide range of light wavelengths, these mammals are accustomed to diverse environments. You likely won"t see them fly, but you might find a herd migrating from tundra to forest in the North Polar Region, North America, Northern Europe and Siberia. Their hooves can expand or shrink in size depending on the season and the quality of the ground, which keeps their heavy frame, crowned with antlers, standing on stable feet. If you"re celebrating Christmas today, we wish you a merry one.Desktop Version

26 Dec 2023Happy Boxing Day!

The flurry of wrapping paper has settled, and the feast-induced food coma is slowly wearing off, but it turns out the holiday season isn"t quite over! December 26 marks Boxing Day—an opportunity to keep the festive spirit going or to conquer the Boxing Day sales during a walk through Princes Street in Edinburgh, Scotland, seen here. This day is observed by the United Kingdom and several Commonwealth members, including Canada and Australia. The origin of the day is thought to come from the old tradition of giving "boxes" filled with presents to people in need on the day after Christmas. Although this holiday is still associated with giving gifts, it also has various customs. For example, horse racing events are held across the United Kingdom, including the historic King George VI Chase at Kempton Park racecourse. Whether you"re enjoying leftover mince pie or unboxing a shiny new purchase, just make sure to enjoy it!Desktop Version

27 Dec 2023Kirkjufell, Iceland

From glaciers and waterfalls to volcanoes and black sand beaches, Iceland"s Snæfellsnes Peninsula has "GoT" it all. Standing here proudly is the 463-metre-high Kirkjufell. The lofty hill is often referred to as "Church Mountain" due to its distinctive shape resembling a church steeple. You might recognise it from the "Game of Thrones" series where it featured in a scene set north of the colossal ice wall. Because of its pyramid shape, colours that shift with the seasons, and coastal location, this nunatak—a rock formation that protrudes through an ice sheet or glacier—is a frequent subject for photographers. If you"re lucky, and the weather conditions align, Kirkjufell also offers a magnificent view of the northern lights.Desktop Version

28 Dec 202350 years of the Endangered Species Act

Today is a special milestone for our furry, scaly and feathered friends: the Endangered Species Act is turning 50. This landmark US legislation, signed into law in 1973, has been lending a helping hand to species on the brink for half a decade. The act helped inspire Britain"s own Wildlife and Countryside act of 1981. Who"s that in the spotlight? A humpback whale! Known for their haunting songs and acrobatic breaches, these gentle giants are a success story of the ESA. They were once on the edge of extinction due to whaling and entanglement in fishing gear, but thanks to conservation efforts, their population is making a comeback, from around 5,000 in 1966 to an estimate of 135,000 today.Desktop Version

29 Dec 2023Happy Hogmanay!

As the clock ticks down to 2023, Scotland is all set for a belter of a Hogmanay! That"s right, the Scottish way to say cheerio to the old year and a big hello to the new one, and this time it"s kicking off a wee bit early. Starting today, Edinburgh will come alive with a torchlight procession, creating a sea of sparkling lights through the streets. Let"s not forget, Hogmanay isn"t just a one-night affair—it starts early and runs long past New Year"s Eve midnight, with some even carrying on until January 2. From taking a dip in the local loch for the "Loony Dook" event to some first-footing luck at your pal"s place to belting out "Auld Lang Syne,"—penned by the country"s own Robert Burns—when the clock strikes twelve, there are many fun traditions to take you through to New Year"s Day. Whether you"re a seasoned Hogmanay enthusiast or a newcomer eager to experience the revelry, get ready to ring in the new year with proper Scottish flair.Desktop Version

30 Dec 2023Daiichi Tadami River Bridge, Fukushima, Japan

The Tadami Line is one of the most scenic railway lines in Japan. It winds through beautiful landscapes from Aizu-Wakamatsu, Fukushima Prefecture to Uonuma, Niigata Prefecture. The Daiichi Tadami River Bridge, pictured in today"s image, is a well-known landmark along this stretch. As the train glides across the bridge, travellers are treated to gorgeous vistas of the river below and the lush forests that blanket the area. After a snowfall, the icy blue water of the Tadami River cuts a bold streak through the forest, providing a welcome splash of colour in a blanket of white.Desktop Version

31 Dec 2023Happy New Years Eve!

It"s time for the final countdown! New Year"s Eve is celebrated tonight in many countries to see out the old year and hope for the promises of the new one. The traditions of different nations can be quite creative when it comes to saying farewell to the year. If you"re not in the United Kingdom greeting the arrival of midnight with the chimes of London"s Big Ben, you might watch the Times Square Ball Drop in the United States, smash crockery in Denmark, stuff your mouth with grapes for the countdown in Spain or hang onions outside your door in Greece. Celebrators in Thailand might visit a temple for good luck or watch the fireworks illuminating Phra Nakhon Khiri, also known as "holy city hill," based in the historical park of the same name. Wherever you celebrate, have a great one. See you next year!Desktop Version

1 Jan 2024Happy 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

2 Jan 2024Prayer flags in Phobjikha Valley, Bhutan

This kaleidoscopic column is a series of prayer flags, blown by the breeze in the Phobjikha Valley, Bhutan. Prayer flags are most commonly hung along a line with five repeating colours, each representing an element in nature. The fluttering fabrics, inscribed with spiritual scripts, are usually raised during times of prosperity, such as on Bhutan"s Nyinlong, their traditional day of solstice, which takes place today. As the flags fade over time, adherents believe this signifies that the prayers have been heard and are being carried away by the wind, infusing the surrounding area with positivity and spirituality. As we see them wave, we can remember that in these dark winter months, there"s literally a brighter tomorrow.Desktop Version

3 Jan 2024J.R.R. Tolkien Day

It"s time to bust out the furry feet and pointed ears because today is J.R.R. Tolkien Day, which celebrates the literary legend who spun the fantastical tales of "The Lord of the Rings" and "The Hobbit." On this day, the Tolkien Society continues the tradition of toasting "the professor," like Frodo toasted his uncle Bilbo on his birthday. Tolkien"s roots run through Oxford, where he studied English Literature, joined the Officer Training Corps during World War I, and later became a professor of Old English language and literature at both Leeds and Oxford universities. Since 1979, Oxford"s Bodleian Library has been home to the Tolkien Archive, a precious collection of manuscripts, artwork and even a Middle-earth map with Tolkien"s handwritten notes. His legacy shows us the power of boundless storytelling, which encourages us to seize each day and make the most of the time that is given to us!Desktop Version

4 Jan 2024Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco, California, USA

An exemplary engineering accomplishment, the Golden Gate Bridge stands like a sentinel over the entrance to San Francisco Bay. Blanketed by the fog above the waters of the Golden Gate Strait, its towers, adorned with Art Deco elements, reach a height of 745 feet. This bridge was the result of combined efforts put in by engineer Joseph Strauss, architect Irving Marrow and many others towards connecting San Francisco to Marin County. The bridge was painted International Orange—the golden adjective refers to the sun-reflecting waters below—and was opened to the public in 1937. It wasn"t an easy vision to accomplish, especially as it was built during the Great Depression. The infrastructure investment paid off, as its construction employed thousands, contributing to both local employment and technological growth. The Golden Gate Bridge, a testament to human innovation, is a timeless masterpiece blending functionality with beauty.Desktop Version

5 Jan 2024International Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival, Harbin, China

Harbin, in Heilongjiang, the northernmost province of China, welcomes an icy twist in January by opening its doors to the Harbin International Ice and Snow Festival. This festival traces its origins to a humble garden party that featured ice lanterns in 1963 and has since evolved into an event where sculptors from around the world came together to create sculptures from the frozen waters of the Songhua River. This wonderland has towering castles, lanterns and intricate sculptures, all made of ice. In 2007, "Romantic Feelings," the world"s largest snow sculpture at 35 metres in height, was created here in the shape of an Olympic-themed artwork. During the evenings, multicoloured lights illuminate the translucent sculptures, adding another layer of charm. While exploring Harbin, you can try alpine skiing, and if you"re feeling brave, winter swimming in the Songhua River.Desktop Version

6 Jan 2024Oud-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 320 miles of bike lanes, it"s one of the most bike-friendly cities in the world.Desktop Version

7 Jan 2024Great Staple Tor, Dartmoor National Park

With its rolling hills, craggy tors and misty moors, Dartmoor, England is the stuff of legends—literally! From Bronze Age stone circles to tales of old smugglers" paths, this national park is steeped in history. Pictured here is Great Staple Tor, with its stacks of weathered granite, one of the many tors that dot the Dartmoor landscape. Getting up to the Great Staple Tor is a bit like a choose-your-own-adventure book. There are various routes to the top, each with its own quirks and surprises. You might encounter Dartmoor ponies grazing lazily, marvel at the ancient stone rows or navigate through the infamous Dartmoor fog. Did you know that it has over 450 miles of public rights of way? That"s loads of exploring. Before you head off, remember it"s important to stay on the paths and keep this protected landscape as untouched as possible.Desktop Version

8 Jan 2024Bernina Pass, Graubünden, Switzerland

Awe-struck by this white winter expanse? That"s exactly what visitors feel when they witness the Bernina Pass in the Alps, in the Graubünden region of Switzerland. It attracts winter sports enthusiasts from all over the world and stands tall at an elevation of 2,328 metres. This pass may be home to ski areas now, but it was a vital trade route during the Middle Ages. Fun fact: The first evidence of skiing dates to around 6000 BCE in Russia. Boasting excellent snow conditions from November to March, the Bernina Pass is a must-visit spot on every skier"s bucket list!Desktop Version

9 Jan 2024Balloon Ascension Day

Is your head in the clouds? It"s time to keep it there! Today is Balloon Ascension Day, an event dedicated to honouring the achievements of Jean-Pierre Blanchard, a French aeronaut and innovator who accomplished the first manned balloon voyage in America, from Philadelphia to Deptford, New Jersey, back in 1793. Since 2011, this day has been celebrated annually to pay tribute to this midair milestone. In today"s image, the sun sets over the Rio Grande and casts a light on the colourful hot air balloons above Albuquerque, New Mexico. Every year, people gather from all over the globe for the nine-day-long Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta—the largest hot air balloon festival in the world—to see skilled pilots expertly manoeuvre their baskets.Desktop Version

10 Jan 2024Mylopotamos, Thessaly, Greece

Embrace the call to adventure! Explore the staircases along the Mylopotamos shoreline in the Thessaly region of Greece. Situated on the eastern coast of the mountainous Pelion peninsula in central Greece, Mylopotamos offers an enchanting fusion of verdant scenery and a secluded beach, inviting you to discover its distinctive and picturesque coastal beauty. The sinuous path to the beach winds beneath the cool shade of pine trees. Enough steps for today? Don"t worry, there"s a beach bar along the way.Desktop Version

11 Jan 2024Eurasian lynx

Ready for a next-level staring contest? The Eurasian lynx, sporting a grey or rusty fur with patterned dark spots, is hard to catch sight of, even though it is widely distributed from Europe to Central Asia and Siberia. Known for their elusive nature, these cats often go unnoticed for years in their native habitats. Their low vocalisations are heard by other lynx but can escape the notice of humans. Eurasian lynxes are primarily active at night, dawn and dusk, but can hunt during the day when they need to. These solitary hunters are renowned for their keen senses and remarkable agility. In temperate forests, where they play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance by keeping prey species numbers in check, their primary food includes rabbits, hares, marmots and other small mammals.Desktop Version

12 Jan 2024Bukhansan National Park, South Korea

Just a few miles 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 back to 1711. The fortification was constructed to protect Seoul from external threats, which it did during the Korean War.Desktop Version

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

Tourists often equate the island state of Hawaii in the United States with relaxation, but one of its most well-known attractions—the Road to Hana—might have you gripping a steering wheel tightly. Stretching for 64 miles 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

14 Jan 2024Whooper swans

An elegant creature for a majestic setting. These all-white birds with yellow-and-black bills, gliding on the mirror of Lake Kussharo in Japan, are the Eurasian whooper swans, also known as the common swan. Named for their loud "whooping" call, these beauties, with a wingspan between 2 to 3 metres, are one of the world"s heaviest birds that can fly. While whooper swans are Finland"s national bird, they only spend their breeding season there. Those swans, as well as others in various northern areas migrate to warmer, often coastal areas when cold weather sets in. All that travel doesn"t ruin their relationships—these waterfowl form strong, monogamous pairs that can last for life.Desktop Version

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