Art Here 2024 explores time and transformation through sand, sound, water and air

Three words title this year’s Art Here exhibition at Louvre Abu Dhabi, proposing what guest curator Simon Njami calls “a riddle”. Each word is in a different language. They do not directly translate from one another, and yet the exhibition’s theme resonates somewhere in between them. The annual contemporary art exhibition, which features the artwor...

On board the world's most tragic and misfortunate ships

These are some of history's most tragic ship disasters, from the Titanic to the Edmund Fitzgerald tragedy. Many of these ships hide tragic stories, be they victims of war, human error or simple bad luck. Some have even changed the course of history.

The most vandalized Hollywood Walk of Fame stars

The Hollywood Walk of Fame has been paying tribute to notable people in the entertainment industry for many years. To have a star embedded in the sidewalks of the historic landmark is a great achievement and a sign of recognition. Some people, however, don't think some celebs should have stars on the Walk of Fame, so they resort to vandalism to send a message. For one reason or another, over the years many stars have been defaced and even stolen. But which famous people have had their stars targeted by vandals the most? Read through this gallery to find out.

United States-Canada: test your knowledge of the longest international border in the world

Drawn up in 1793, the Canada-United States border is the longest international border in the world. Set between the Atlantic and Pacific oceans, it weaves and meanders through forests, lakes, rivers, mountains, and towns. Much of the border follows the 49th parallel, itself established in the 1760s as the boundary between the province of Quebec and the state of New York. The border separates the second and fourth largest countries in the world by area. By sharing a land boundary line, the US and Canada have a lot in common. But these nations can also boast some unique aspects about this vast and impressive frontier. So, are you interested in learning more about the borderland? Click through and follow your own line of inquiry.

The rarest blooming flowers on Earth

Nature is so full of mystery and allure, but in our day-to-day lives, we get quite used to seeing the same species of flora around us. There are so many kinds of flowers that we'll just never see in our lives! From flowers that only bloom once every few decades, to those that require very specific conditions, to those whose bloom last mere hours, there are some dazzling rare species to behold out there. Click through to take a look for yourself.

How dangerous was it building the pyramids?

The pyramids of Giza represent the astonishingly advanced technological and engineering capabilities of the ancient Egyptians. They also stand as a magnificent cultural legacy for humanity. Building these colossal structures took decades and a workforce of thousands. Inevitably, many died while maneuvering the massive stone blocks used to construct these extraordinary and complex forms. But whereas most deaths can be attributed to blunt force trauma, scientists have discovered that there was another, more insidious, reason for the high death toll: poisoning. Their findings have rewritten the history books and shed more light on just how the pyramids were constructed. But what exactly have they unearthed? Click through and find out just how dangerous it was building the pyramids.

In danger: World Heritage Sites at risk of disappearing

There are over 1,000 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, of which 830 are cultural. These landmarks or areas hold such strong cultural, historical, or scientific significance, international treaties have been signed in order to protect them. However, more than 50 of these sites are currently endangered and could face irreparable damage if no measures are taken, according to UNESCO's website. Click on the gallery to explore 15 of the world's most at-risk cultural sites.

Facts you didn't know about the Bible

The Bible is considered a sacred book by many. The scripture is the founding text for Christianity, and according to some it reveals the origins of humanity. The Bible has been scrutinized for years and here we've gathered some amazing facts about it that you might not know. Find out some of the most amazing facts about the Bible!

Europe's most underrated cities, according to travel experts

Think of European cities and a plethora of well-known destinations spring to mind. There's no shortage of places to discover the history and culture of this continent. But don't overlook its smaller, less explored cities. Many are hidden gems, far from the hectic crowds, that offer visitors a much more intimate, unspoiled experience. Condé Nast Traveller asked their seasoned contributors to put together a list of Europe's most underrated cities. Using their network of travel specialists and European-based writers, they compiled a list of places you might not have considered—or heard of at all—based on their recommendations. Curious? Click on to uncover Europe's most underrated cities.

The most sacred landmarks in Africa

Africa's most sacred sites hold a profound place in the hearts and minds of people across the continent. Long before the arrival of colonial powers, these locations were central to the spiritual and cultural lives of indigenous communities. They served as places of worship, reflection, and connection to the divine. Today, many of these sites stand as testaments to Africa's rich heritage and are recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. So, where in Africa can you discover these sacred destinations? Explore this gallery and unearth the sacred sites that have shaped Africa's long history. Simply click on to reveal them all.

These churches are the last of their kind in the world

Nestled in the hills and valleys of Norway’s hostile climate are a series of medieval buildings that are testaments to the test of time. These are the country’s stave churches, and they are significant not only in their architectural splendor, but also in their rich history. What's more, there are only 28 of them left in the whole world! Intrigued? Click through this gallery as we take a closer look at each of them.

The most dangerous cities in America

Choosing a place to settle involves considering various factors; safety is paramount for families. But perceptions of crime can sometimes be disconnected from reality. Many crimes go unreported, affecting the accuracy of available data. Employment rates also contribute to a location's crime rate. The FBI's crime classification distinguishes between violent and property crimes, with the latter being more common. The introduction of the National Incident-Based Reporting System in 1988 has expanded the scope of crime data, offering details like the time, location, and weapons used. It also includes demographic information about victims and offenders. Mass shootings remain a grave concern, with hundreds of casualties over the years. In this gallery, we explore the most dangerous cities in the US in 2023 (so far), focusing on violent crimes. Click on to discover them.

Europe's prettiest hilltop towns and villages

Europe is blessed with numerous picture-perfect hilltop towns and villages. Most are centuries old, having been established during the Middle Ages as strategic hubs during times of conflict and turmoil. As rural centers for horticulture, these destinations were celebrated for their cultivation of olives, wine, and other produce. Today, many of these places serve as popular tourist destinations, blessed as they are with outstanding architecture and a tangible sense of tradition. In fact, if you're planning to explore the continent, make sure to include some of these scenic highlights in your travel itinerary. Already packed? Click through and find out where to go and what to see.

Everything you need to know about the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles

10 of the Most Unique Museums In the United States

Add these one-of-a-kind destinations to your travel bucket list.

Cracking the mysterious codes of Freemasonry

Freemasonry, the world's oldest fraternal organization, is often shrouded in secrecy with its ancient rituals, peculiar emblems, and clandestine handshakes. But what exactly does all that symbolism mean, and where did it come from? Browse this gallery and peek inside the secretive world of the Freemasons.

Places where you can live to 100 in good health

Where on Earth do people live much longer than average? According to best-selling author Dan Buettner, there are five destinations on Earth where people live longer and healthier lives than the average population. These areas, known as Blue Zones, have populations where it is common for individuals to live up to 90 or even 100 years old. However, the reasons behind this longevity and the locations of these modern-day Shangri-Las are still a mystery. Curious? To learn more about these destinations where living longer is the norm, take a look at the gallery.

Incredible places from Greek mythology you can visit today

There are plenty of places you can go to find beautiful beaches, party islands, mouthwatering cuisine, and sunny skies. But very few of them combine all these things with mesmerizing remnants of the ancient world and mythology. Dipped in ancient history, Greece is one of the very few countries that combine all of these with a dream destination for anyone interested in mythology. Click on for a selection of real locations that were center stage for many famous Greek myths.

History, culture and kayaking combine in unassuming Armenia

Hovering above limestone cliffs, 13th-century monasteries and teeming flora and fauna, are rugged mountain peaks capped with snow. I breathe in the crisp air and brilliant sunshine in a scene that could be straight from the Alps. But I’m not in France, Switzerland, Italy or Austria. I’m seated at a long wooden table in the shadow of Mount Ararat. I...

Countries and territories with the most Michelin-starred restaurants

Michelin-star restaurants are some of the absolute best in the world. According to the Michelin guide, restaurant evaluations are based on "five universal criteria: the quality of the ingredients, the harmony of flavors, the mastery of techniques, the personality of the chef as expressed through their cuisine and, just as importantly, consistency both across the entire menu and over time." Based on a list from Statista, in this gallery you'll discover the top 30 countries and territories with the most Michelin-starred restaurants. Click through to find out if your nation made the cut.

The gadgets and gear you need for your next outdoor expedition

Exploring the great outdoors is one of the best ways to unplug from day-to-day life and reconnect with nature. That said, venturing out into the wilderness requires careful planning. But with the right gear and gadgets, you can turn any adventure into a seamless and enjoyable experience! From handy camping tools to high-tech gadgets to keep you connected and safe, this gallery has all the necessary kit for your next trip. Click through to find out more.

History's most famous military code names

A military operation is nearly always given a code name: a word or name used, often clandestinely, to refer to an invasion, campaign, mission, or operation. Some of these code names have become synonymous with the event they are associated with. Operation Overlord, for example, forever identifies the Battle for Normandy and the D-Day landings. But there are other, less well-known code names linked to equally significant conflicts that might surprise you. Click through this gallery and match these code names with some of history's most infamous raids and conflicts.

The most expensive neighborhood in every state

We all need a place to live, that's why real estate is such a big business. Those who have a few million to spare have plenty of choice when it comes to finding a special place to live. In this gallery, we considered the average house prices of a number of locations across the US, and bring you a list of the most expensive places to live. Curious to find out what's the most expensive neighborhood in your state? Click on.

The least free countries in the world

The amount of freedom experienced in a given country is not approached the same way across the globe. The Cato Institute in Washington, D.C. and the Fraser Institute in Vancouver, Canada, co-publish the annual Human Freedom Index Report, which observes the relationship between freedom and other social and economic phenomena. Personal freedom might be described as our ability to voice our opinion, equality experienced before the courts, and the ease of travel to/from a country. Economic freedom is the ability of people in that country to do well, without the need for government assistance or an economic authority. To calculate the final Human Freedom score, personal freedom and economic freedom are measured and combined, then compared to the scores of other countries. The nations in this gallery scored the lowest on the Human Freedom score, compared to countries in the rest of the world. Click on to discover which countries made this regrettable 'top' 30.

The countries with the most expensive property prices

In this gallery, we take a look at the absolutely staggering prices of property in different countries around the world. There are many ways one could evaluate this, and we've decided to look at it from a price per square meter (around 10.7 square feet) point of view. Some of the results are absolutely jaw-dropping! Join us as we take a trip around the world, but be warned: some of these prices may make you fall out of your seat! All amounts in USD.

How one dying Japanese village creepily came back to life

The remote mountain village of Nagoro on Shikoku Island in southern Japan, like most remote villages, has faced a rapidly declining population. However, there seems to be the same number of bodies around town, working in the fields, studying in classrooms, and waiting at bus stops. Check out this gallery to find out more about this unique and unexpectedly beautiful story.

From massive craters to secret cities: Would you visit these nuclear testing sites?

On July 16, 1945, the first nuclear explosion occurred a few hundred miles south of Los Alamos, New Mexico. Known as the Trinity test by J. Robert Oppenheimer, the director of the Los Alamos Laboratory, it was the start of the age of nuclear weapons. From that day until 1992, the US alone conducted more than 1,000 nuclear tests. And, perhaps surprisingly, many of the sites where these earth-shattering explosions took place can still be visited today. Intrigued? Click on to discover nuclear testing sites you can visit.

History's most bizarre curses and episodes of misfortune

Stories about malediction have been around since ancient times. Even the Greeks and Romans put bizarre curses on their enemies. The Bible contains a whole series of them, and in the Middle Ages they were widespread. More recently, inexplicable events in archeology, sports, and entertainment have been associated with evil finger-pointing. So, is there any truth to curses? Click through to discover some of the most unusual curses in history.

Murder in paradise: Inside Thailand's "death island"

When we think of islands in Thailand, what comes to mind are images of exotic beaches, lush vegetation, and crystal-clear water. One of the world's tourist hot spots, Thailand has become a popular destination, and almost a rite of passage for backpackers who venture into Southeast Asia. But not all Thai islands are alike. One in particular, Koh Tao, was dubbed Thailand's "death island" for a very dark reason. In recent years, many tourists have paid the ultimate price for visiting the island—they've lost their lives. What could go wrong in paradise? Click through the gallery to find out.

How to live near an active volcano

It is no small thing to constantly live on the edge of danger, with every sunrise bringing the possibility of either destruction or peace. Life in the shadow of an active volcano certainly comes with its own challenges, but while there are some extremely dangerous volcanoes around the world, it isn’t impossible to live near them. Intrigued? Click through and read on as we explore active volcanoes where people live (and how you can be one of them).

13 Nostalgic Photos of Vintage Amusement Parks

What a thrill.

The fascinating history behind the seaplane

A little over 100 years ago, landing a plane on water was simply unthinkable. But very soon, designs were being drawn up that enabled a fixed-wing aircraft to do just that. The idea quickly took off, and the invention of the seaplane marked an important step forward in the history of aviation. And while its heyday was in the 1920s and '30s, the seaplane is still seen today in skies across the world. But how exactly did this type of aircraft evolve, and who are its earliest pioneers? Click through and find out more about the seaplane.

40 Things That Didn't Exist 40 Years Ago

The world really was a different place back then.

Qatar Airways bans passengers from bringing pagers, walkie-talkies onto plane

Qatar Airways has announced a ban on passengers flying from Beirut from bringing pagers or walkie-talkies onto the flight, according to a post on X/Twitter on Thursday. This comes after an attack on Hezbollah communications devices, which led to thousands of pagers and walkie-talkies exploding. The prohibition is effective immediately, and follows ...

Lebanon bans pagers, walkie-talkies on flights after deadly Hezbollah explosions

The new restriction, which takes effect immediately, applies to checked and carry-on luggage, as well as cargo

Dive in: Take a tour through these amazing underwater attractions

More than 70% of the Earth's surface is covered by water. Unsurprisingly, many of the Earth's ecosystems call our oceans home. However, humans have also left their mark in the waters, scattering them with beautiful—and often tragic—reminders of our existence. Click through the gallery for a virtual tour of some of the world's most wonderful underwater attractions.

Protect yourself: Essential crime prevention tips and techniques

Safety is of the utmost importance. In crowded places, online, or just alone at night at a bus stop, the threat of crime is ever-present. So, the next logical question to ask is this: what can we do to protect ourselves from these threats? Whether it's avoiding pickpockets or making sure you're always prepared for emergencies, these tips and techniques for crime prevention are a must-knows for anyone looking to smarten up! Curious? Then click through this gallery to learn how to keep yourself and your family safe.

The tribes of Southern Africa: A captivating fusion of tradition and modernity

If you venture to the Southern end of the African continent, you will find a land that is influenced by many diverse cultures. Modernism has mixed with tradition in this part of the world, and while there are some interesting facts about indigenous people as a whole, the tribes from Southern Africa are truly unique due to the African continent’s geography and history of colonialism. Intrigued? Click through this gallery to read up on some of the tribes from this area of the world.

Life in the White House

The lives of American presidents are often elusive to the public, but don’t you want to know what goes on in the house where the country’s biggest historic decisions are made? Check out this gallery to find out the lesser-known quirks and perks of living in America's most prestigious home.

The most beautiful college quads in the US

The most beautiful college quads in the US offer stunning landscapes that blend historical charm with natural beauty. Short for quadrangle, the term "quad" historically refers to a central green space bordered by academic buildings, though it has come to encompass any large green area on university and college campuses. From iconic, tree-lined lawns to picturesque, garden-filled courtyards, these quads provide breathtaking settings for academic and social life, showcasing the unique character and elegance of each campus. Ready? Click on to view the most beautiful college quads in the US.

'I'll fly from Bahrain': Coldplay's UAE concert is 'dream come true' for Middle East fans

The iconic band will perform in Abu Dhabi for a GCC-exclusive concert

Amazing images of lightning striking big cities around the world

Humans generally feel (or like to think) that they're in control. But nature has a way of showing us just how small we really are. From volcano eruptions to thunderstorms, nature seems to come back to claim its throne every so often. And it just so happens that these phenomenons produce one of nature's most beautiful sights: lightning. Click through the gallery for some majestic sightings of lightning.

Experts predict a tsunami in Europe with 100% probability

According to the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC) of UNESCO, a tsunami measuring over 1 meter (3.2 feet) will hit the Mediterranean in the next 30 years. The danger zone is reported to be the Averroes fault beneath the Alboran Sea, which is halfway between Spain's Málaga coast and North Africa. This, naturally, raises concerns about the potential impact on coastal regions: just how deadly would a Mediterranean tsunami be? For the answers to these questions and more, don't delay in reading through this gallery. Click through now!

Wonders of the Yucatán Peninsula

Ancient Maya ruins, powdery white beaches, azure Caribbean and Gulf of Mexico waters, and dazzling colonial architecture... the Yucatán Peninsula is all this and more. One of the most popular tourist destinations in Central America, the peninsula is also home to several protected nature reserves and marine parks—sanctuaries for a wealth of stunning wildlife, much of it rare. In fact, discovering the Yucatán Peninsula is to embrace some of the finest coastal vacation resorts in Mexico and a collection of truly fabulous natural wonders and historic monuments. So, isn't it about time you arranged a visit? Click through and start planning your travel itinerary today!

The most popular destinations for fall travel

Fall arrives in late September in the northern hemisphere, so it's nearly time to break out those light jackets and go for a walk among the changing leaves. However, if you're a southern hemisphere resident that likes the colors of fall, now is the time to start packing your bags to take a trip north. Whichever half of the globe you're living in, the seasonal transition from summer to winter is a magical time of the year. Browse the gallery and find out where to enjoy some golden travel experiences.

The world's most dangerous prisons

Prison is not a place anyone hopes to end up. The fear of confinement to a jail cell for the rest of your life makes most people try their best to avoid breaking the law. Unfortunately for some, life takes them a different way. Now, the matter of where you go to prison is an entirely new concern. While being in prison is bad anywhere, some prisons are notoriously dangerous. From the deep jungle of Venezuela to island fortresses in the USA, some prisons have earned terrifying reputations. Gang control, drugs, and violence from both inmates and guards are just a few of the risks. Click through to learn more about the world's most dangerous prisons.

How has history defined utopia?

A utopia is an imagined place or state of things in which everything is perfect. The idea of a utopia has intrigued us since antiquity. Ancient Greek philosophers mulled over what exactly a perfect society would look like. Many great authors have placed their novels in a utopian setting, including Thomas More—who actually coined the term in the early 1500s. Cinema as well has produced several excellent movies that deal admirably with the subject. But how has history really defined utopia, and who can we thank for popularizing the description? Click through and find out what others believe is the true ideal.

Utensils and eating etiquette around the world

Just like the food itself, the means by which people deliver food to their mouths comes from a great well of culture and history. Some of us have grown accustomed to using one form of utensils, but traveling is a quick way to find out that you've got a lot to learn. Knowing the correct etiquette for dining in different countries gives you a leg up with locals, prevents you from doing anything offensive, and, who knows, you might just prefer the slowed pace of metal chopsticks for barbecue, or the no-dishes-necessary breads used in place of forks. Click through to get a peek at what eating utensils look like around the world.

Should you celebrate the fall equinox?

The fall equinox happens each year in September in the Northern Hemisphere. Naturally, it is the counterpoint to the spring equinox in March. The equinoxes are turning points in the wheel of the year In fall, it's time to celebrate and reap the harvest sowed during the springtime, in preparation for the winter season. The south is edging towards longer days, while the north is ushering in shorter ones. But why should you celebrate the fall equinox and its traditions? Check out this gallery to find out!

The world's safest airlines

Airline Ratings, the world’s only airline safety and product rating website, has published its World's Safest Airline list for 2024. In making its evaluation, Airline Ratings takes into account "a comprehensive range of factors that include serious incidents, recent fatal accidents, audits from aviation’s governing and industry bodies, profitability, industry-leading safety initiatives, expert pilot training assessment and fleet age." The results are timely, revealed shortly after the shocking Japan Airlines accident that occurred on January 2. The Airbus A350 burst into flames following a collision with a Coast Guard aircraft while landing at Tokyo's Haneda airport. Five of the six crew members on the smaller aircraft were killed, but miraculously, all 379 people aboard the Japan Airlines plane managed to escape. So, if you're planning to fly anytime soon, you might first want to browse this list of 25 airlines deemed the safest in the air. Click through and find out which airline has claimed the top spot.