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Pegadung Rock, Lampung, Sumatra, Indonesia
Pegadung Rock, Lampung, Sumatra, Indonesia
If you"re seeking an unspoiled landscape where nature displays raw beauty and power, Pegadung Rock on the southern coast of Indonesia"s island of Sumatra, could be the place for you. While the beach boasts turquoise waters, sandy shores and crashing waves, it"s the shark-teeth-like rocks, standing as tall as 10 metres against the currents of the Indian Ocean, that truly steal the show. These rock formations have earned the area nicknames such as "rock screen" and "shark"s teeth." While this beach has no tourist accommodation, the nearby Kiluan Bay village presents a haven for visitors. For those ready to trade lounging for exploring, this Sumatran treasure awaits.Desktop Version
South Downs Dark Skies Festival
South Downs Dark Skies Festival
No, it"s not one of Vincent van Gogh"s creations or a galaxy far, far away—it"s our galaxy, the Milky Way, over Dunstanburgh Castle in Northumberland. With skyglow, or light pollution, infiltrating even rural areas, faraway stars, meteor showers and other objects in the night sky are disappearing. Thankfully, the International Dark-Sky Association is promoting dark skies to do something about this loss. There are 119 Dark Sky Parks in the world, including the Northumberland National Park, as well as 21 Dark Sky Reserves, seven of which are in the UK. With its "Bronze Level" darkness, one of the reserves—South Downs National Park—is welcoming people to their Dark Skies Festival starting today. From stargazing sessions to after-dark walks, this star-studded event ending on February 18 has a lot in store.Desktop Version
Folegandros Island, Cyclades, Greece
Folegandros Island, Cyclades, Greece
Ever dreamed of exploring a Greek island with a mysterious past? Welcome to Folegandros! A gem among the Greek islands, Folegandros is in the southern Cyclades Islands, alongside Sikinos, Ios, Anafi and Santorini. Although not much is known about the island"s ancient history, its earliest inhabitants are believed to have been Dorians, one of the four major ethnic groups of Classical Greece. It later came to be ruled by Athens. During this period, there was a polis, or city state, on the island, called Pholegandros. This city state stood where the modern capital, Chora—seen in today"s image—is located. Chora is perched on the edge of a 200-metre cliff and offers a bird"s-eye view of its beautiful surroundings. Built by the Venetians in 1212, the town is now a popular tourist destination, with its charming squares and traditional whitewashed churches.Desktop Version
Darwin Day
Darwin Day
In 1835, British naturalist Charles Darwin explored the volcanic Galápagos Islands in the eastern Pacific Ocean. While studying the islands" creatures, he concluded that a diverse array of animal species hailing from South America, primarily reptiles and birds capable of traversing the vast expanse of water, had migrated to the Galápagos and gradually adapted to their surroundings. These observations eventually formed the foundation for Darwin"s theory of evolution through natural selection. One of the species examined in the study was the Galápagos giant tortoise, a tortoise only found on the Galápagos Islands, that can grow up to 2 metres long. In fact, the islands are named after these magnificent creatures: "galápago" means tortoise in Spanish. Today, on International Darwin Day, let"s celebrate these gentle giants, which contributed to one of the great scientific discoveries of the 19th century.Desktop Version
Pancake Day
Pancake Day
Get ready to revel, because Mardi Gras is here! Also called Pancake Day, Pancake Tuesday, Fat Tuesday or Shrove Tuesday, the holiday was originally celebrated to live life to the fullest before fasting and giving up other indulgences for Lent—though many modern celebrators are just happy to use the occasion as an excuse to party. Fat Tuesday celebrations take place in cities and countries around the world, particularly those with French influence, due to the settlers that brought the custom. Out of these places, New Orleans in the United States has become intrinsically linked with the festival thanks to its massive four-to-eight-week-long celebration.Desktop Version
Valentines Day
Valentines Day
Love is in the air as Valentine"s Day arrives! This holiday is often associated with various romantic symbols, such as Cupid or Romeo and Juliet, the famous star-crossed lovers of William Shakespeare. Symbols of love can also be found in nature, such as red-crowned cranes, seen today in the reed marshes and frozen lakes of Hokkaido Island, Japan. These graceful birds engage in captivating mating dances to strengthen their lifelong bond—and symbolise good fortune, longevity and fidelity in Japanese culture. These gentle creatures even inspired a traditional paper craft, the origami crane; according to legend, folding a thousand cranes can grant wishes.Desktop Version
Female pyrrhuloxia in Texas, USA
Female pyrrhuloxia in Texas, USA
In today"s image is a pyrrhuloxia—also known as the desert cardinal—a songbird that lives in the deserts of northern Mexico and the American Southwest. The female cardinal, while lacking the flamboyant colouration of her male counterpart, possesses a unique charm in her own right. While she shares the distinctive crest and red bill with the male, her plumage is a more subdued yellowish, cinnamon-brown, adorned only with subtle touches of red. Unlike females in many bird species, the female cardinal is an accomplished vocalist, harmonising with the melodies of the male.Desktop Version
Jorvik Viking Festival
Jorvik Viking Festival
Grab your iron helmet, shield and axe, and travel back in time to the age of Norse sagas at the Jorvik Viking Festival! The nine-day event, which started on February 12, continues today with a Viking procession in Coppergate. Witness the ancient city of York come alive with the thunder of war drums and the clamour of market traders. Meanwhile, a short trip to the haunting beauty of Whitby Abbey, pictured here, offers a peaceful contrast. This Gothic masterpiece has withstood the North Sea"s winds since the 7th century, whispering tales of monastic life and inspiring Bram Stoker"s classic novel "Dracula." In the 9th century, it is said that the Abbey was abandoned because of raids from the Vikings. Whether you"re a history buff or crave unique experiences, the Jorvik Viking Festival is sure to transport you to an era long past but never forgotten.Desktop Version
World Whale Day
World Whale Day
Ahoy there, giants of the sea! World Whale Day is surfacing yet again, along with these sperm whales off the coast of the Caribbean island of Dominica. Established in 1980 in Maui, the day originally aimed to celebrate the humpback whales in Hawaiian waters and has evolved into a global event advocating for the conservation of all whale species.Desktop Version
Puerto de la Cruz, Tenerife, Spain
Puerto de la Cruz, Tenerife, Spain
Sun-kissed beaches, colourful buildings, clear waters and rich history—there"s something special going on in the city of Puerto de la Cruz. Located on Tenerife, the largest of Spain"s Canary Islands, it stared out as a fishing village. The city"s centre is full of charming streets and historical buildings. For those seeking sun, sea and sand, Playa Jardín is the city"s answer. This black volcanic sand beach, designed by the renowned architect César Manrique, offers lush gardens, unique sculptures and views of the world"s third tallest volcano, Mount Teide. Other landmarks here include Lago Martiánez, a complex of seawater pools offering a scenic retreat, and Loro Parque, a world-famous zoo and conservation centre. So, take a moment, savour the image and let your imagination set sail to this lively port town!Desktop Version
Kinder Scout, England
Kinder Scout, England
Within the vast expanse of the Peak District National Park in the United Kingdom lies the Kinder Scout Nature Reserve, the site of a significant people"s movement in British history. At 635 metres, Kinder Scout stands tall as the highest point in the Peak District, its rugged moorlands and windswept plateaus having drawn adventurers and nature enthusiasts for generations. In 1932, this area was the stage for a historic mass trespass, where hundreds of people on foot protested for public access to these lands. This act of civil disobedience contributed to the passing of legislation that established national parks in the United Kingdom. The creation of the Peak District National Park ensured that these hills and valleys would be preserved for future generations to enjoy, marking a significant victory for public access and conservation efforts.Desktop Version
Firefall at Yosemite
Firefall at Yosemite
Fancy witnessing a fiery waterfall? What might sound like an oxymoron can be found at Yosemite National Park in the United States! Horsetail Fall is a seasonal waterfall that flows during the winter and early spring months when there has been ample snowfall and a subsequent temperature warm enough to melt it. For a couple of weeks in February, if skies are clear, water is flowing and the sun shines at just the right angle, the long, slender waterfall takes on a glowing, flame-hued appearance. Hundreds gather in Yosemite Valley to observe this mesmerising natural occurrence, to the point where finding a space to watch from can be a challenge. This phenomenon has earned the moniker "firefall," an homage to the historic Yosemite Firefall, a manmade event that was organised in the park from 1872 to 1968. Eventually, park rangers decided that dumping embers over a cliff onto the land below wasn"t the brightest idea.Desktop Version
Bathing boxes at Brighton Beach, Australia
Bathing boxes at Brighton Beach, Australia
The Brighton Bathing Boxes on Melbourne"s Brighton Beach, painted with a rainbow of colours, are enduring relics. With recent additions bringing their total to 96, these huts have become one of Melbourne"s premier tourist attractions. The history of the bathing boxes is as colourful as their appearance. They first popped up on Brighton"s coastline in 1860, providing a modest cover for bathers swapping for their bathing suits. Worn out and damaged during the post-World War I depression, the beach huts received collective maintenance in 1934. Despite the upkeep, the multicoloured structures were faced with the threat of removal in 1952. But thanks to the Brighton Bathing Box Association for successfully securing their survival, we can still enjoy the vibrant coastguards today!Desktop Version
Haghartsin Monastery, Armenia
Haghartsin Monastery, Armenia
Hidden among the forests of northern Armenia, Haghartsin Monastery is a gem of medieval Armenian architecture. Surrounded by the lush landscapes of Dilijan National Park, the monastery complex consists of several ornate structures, including the Church of the Holy Mother of God, St. Gregory"s Church and St. Stepanos" Church. The buildings date back to the 10th century and are adorned with intricately carved stone monuments, crossing arches and other decorative details, showcasing the skilled craftsmanship of the era. Haghartsin, which translates to "dance of the eagles," offers a serene escape for those seeking to connect with the country"s rich history. A sense of timelessness pervades as you wander through its quiet courtyards and explore the forested surroundings.Desktop Version
Almond trees in full bloom, California, USA
Almond trees in full bloom, California, USA
In the sun-kissed orchards of the Golden State, almonds reign supreme, enticing the taste buds and adorning the natural surroundings. California grows 80 percent of the world"s commercial supply, and 100 percent of the United States". Almonds have heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and are nutritional powerhouses, packed with fibre, protein and an array of vitamins and minerals. During February and March, in California"s Central Valley, these seeds—not nuts—emerge from the delicate blossoms of the almond tree and mature within a protective, fuzzy hull. These trees, which belong to the rose family, burst into a spectacle of beauty during full bloom, with fragrant flowers painting the orchards in hues of white and pink.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
Cowichan Valley, Vancouver Island, Canada
Cowichan Valley, Vancouver Island, Canada
Welcome to the Cowichan Valley on Vancouver Island in British Columbia. Located on the southern part of the island, this valley and its green mountains echo with art and history. The region is home to the band government of the Cowichan Tribes, the largest First Nations band in British Columbia. The city of Duncan has an impressive collection of indigenous art, including intricate carvings and paintings. While you’re in town, you must visit the collection of totem poles, which are towering symbols of indigenous history, depicting ancestral legends and clan symbols. The Cowichan Valley is also celebrated for its flourishing wine, cider and brewery scenes. The region"s moderate climate and fertile soil create ideal conditions for vineyards and orchards. Visitors can explore these vineyards and sample locally crafted beverages. Before you leave, you might want to get a Siwash sweater knitted by members of the Cowichan Tribes.Desktop Version
International Polar Bear Day
International Polar Bear Day
Bear with us as we head north for International Polar Bear Day, highlighting the challenges faced by the world"s largest bear species. It was set up by Polar Bears International, an organisation dedicated to protecting these mammals and their habitat. The date was chosen to coincide with the time when cubs are in their dens being protected by their mothers, as this is the most vulnerable time in a polar bear"s life.Desktop Version
Bamburgh Castle, Northumberland, England
Bamburgh Castle, Northumberland, England
Bamburgh Castle perches over a black crag of volcanic rock in Northumberland, England. The castle area and the nearby beaches are covered by the region"s distinct sand landforms, the Bamburgh Dunes, seen in the foreground of today"s image. The fortress, once a strategic Anglo-Saxon stronghold, evolved over centuries into the imposing structure seen today. The castle played a pivotal role in defending against the Viking invasion in 993. However, the Norsemen destroyed the original fortification, after which significant enhancements were made during the medieval period. The castle also served as the seat of the ancient Northumbrian kingdom—a medieval Anglo-Saxon kingdom, in present-day Northern England and south-east Scotland. After surviving its share of invasions and attacks, Bamburgh Castle has made its way to the limelight due to its impressive silhouette against the North Sea, having been featured in productions like "Macbeth," "Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny," and "Ivanhoe."Desktop Version
Leap Day
Leap Day
Are you a "leapling?" No, not like this Eurasian red squirrel; rather, that"s the term for anyone born on leap day! A leap year is a calendar oddity that exists because Earth"s orbit and our usual year count are slightly out of sync. Earth takes 365 days, 5 hours, 48 minutes and 46 seconds, to revolve around the sun. To compensate for those extra 5 hours, February gets an extra day—leap day—every four years. The concept, dating back to the ancient Romans, was refined in the Gregorian calendar, introduced in 1582 by Pope Gregory XIII. While the purpose of the day is to keep our year aligned with the solar calendar, it can also serve as an extra day to prepare for spring! Cultures worldwide mark leap days and years with unique customs. In Ireland and Britain, women propose to men, in Greece, marrying during a leap year is said to bring misfortune, and in France, a satirical newspaper is published.Desktop Version
Saint Davids Day
Saint Davids Day
Dydd Gŵyl Dewi Hapu, or, if you don"t speak Welsh, Happy Saint David"s Day! It"s 1st March, and across Wales, people are celebrating the country’s patron saint. Born in the 6th century, Saint David was a Welsh bishop who preached as far afield as Brittany in France. The day is celebrated by displaying leeks and daffodils, traditional symbols of Wales; parades are held across the country, and people eat Welsh dishes like cawl and bara brith. But the true essence of this day is best felt at the St David"s Cathedral in the United Kingdom"s smallest city, St Davids, with a population that barely exceeds 1,900 residents. The city is also the resting place of Saint David and is a symbol of serene resilience, just like his famous words: "Do the little things." So, let"s celebrate the small but mightily meaningful things today.Desktop Version
Brit Awards
Brit Awards
If music be the food of love, tonight we"re in for quite a feast. It"s that time of year again: the Brit Awards are here! Starting in 1977 as part of Queen Elizabeth II"s silver jubilee celebrations, the Brit Awards have grown to become the biggest night in the British music industry"s calendar. There are 15 awards up for grabs, and nominees include Blur and Little Simz. Hosted by Maya Jama, Clara Amfo and Roman Kemp, this year"s ceremony takes place live from London"s O2 Arena. A star-studded roster of performers includes Dua Lipa and Raye, who bagged record-breaking seven nods. So, tune in, turn up and get ready for an evening of amazing music.Desktop Version
World Wildlife Day
World Wildlife Day
It"s time to step into the wild! World Wildlife Day is an annual event that emphasises the need for worldwide conservation efforts. This year"s theme focuses on advances in digital technology that can be used to help preserve wildlife: It can improve research, communication and DNA analysis. Digital platforms can also be a way to get younger people involved in the efforts to protect our planet"s animals.Desktop Version
Arenal Volcano, Costa Rica
Arenal 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 over half a mile. 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
Bangkok, Thailand
Bangkok, Thailand
In vibrant Thailand, the city of Bangkok pulses with life! Covering an area of over 600 square miles, it is estimated that over ten million people live there, over 15 percent of the country"s population. The capital city is home to a bustling urban infrastructure, featuring a complex network of traffic circles and highways. In 1864, the completion of Charoen Krung Road marked a turn in the city"s transit by serving as a pioneering construction project utilising western techniques. The introduction of a complex elevated expressway network in 1972 and the Don Mueang Tollway has made it easier to drive in and out of the city. Over the years, the road network has evolved to meet the demands of this sprawling urban expanse.Desktop Version