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Postcard from Istanbul: Turkey's carpet traders weather the economic storm

Hikmet Sirlak cannot think of doing anything else in life other than selling carpets. “I have been living in this area since 1973 and I had to go through this street in the bazaar to go to school. You can say I was born into it,” said Hikmet, a wiry man of 60. He found himself drawn into the carpet trade and now sells from a shop tucked away under ...

The best beaches to chill out with wildlife

Tired of the same, generic seaside getaways? These locations will bring more than just a little wildness to your typical sunbathing and swimming routine! Home to beach bunnies, pigs, flamingos, marine iguanas, and more, they're guaranteed to spice up any sandy vacation. Curious? Then click on!

National Geographic’s top 30 travel destinations in 2024

Whether you're looking to set your vacation in wildlife havens or urban escapes, National Geographic Traveler is the perfect companion in helping you decide. The magazine publisher curated a list of the most exciting destinations to visit in 2024, all with the purpose of showcasing a wide variety of worldly interests: culinary excellence, national parks, and even cultural landmarks. And the best thing? These are not only summer destinations! If you want to travel anytime this year and are unsure where to go, this list just might inspire you! Ready? Click through the following gallery to find out which places you should be booking a trip to for your next holiday.

Meet the dogs that are banned around the world

When you're thinking about what kind of dog to get, most people go for the more obvious breeds, but some go for the ones with the reputation as "violent," and they often find out that it's actually restricted or banned in their home country. In fact, 52 countries have some form of breed-specific legislation, which is a type of law that prohibits or restricts particular breeds or types of dog. They range from outright banning the possession of these dogs (with threat of putting them down), to restrictions and conditions on ownership, including things like what age a person can be to own one, and the requirement of a short leash, a muzzle, registration, insurance, sterilization, microchip implants, or even tattoo. These laws were born out of a number of fatalities or maulings, and so they presume specific breeds to be dangerous or vicious. Naturally, there has been some backlash, but nonetheless the restrictions remain in place. Click through to see the most commonly banned or restricted dogs around the world.

These animals are associated with the devil

There are some animals that, despite being perfectly harmless and innocent of any wrongdoing, are forever associated with evil. These are creatures that some cultures and religions depict as being symbolic of Satan. They are nature's villains, misrepresented and demonized for their appearance and behavior—victims of our own prejudice and superstition. But what beasts are we so afraid of, and why? Click through and get to know the devil's pets.

Laid to rest in the best: The extravagant eternal homes of historical figures

Respect for the dead and the importance of an honorable eternal resting place has been a common theme across nearly every culture in the world through almost every era in history. The tombs, necropolises, and burial sites of the fallen have always been good indicators of their status in life, and many influential figures throughout history have been laid to rest in better, more extravagant conditions than the majority of people of any era could ever hope to so much as live in. Doubling as status symbols and feats of architecture, these resting places are a feast for the eyes. Read on to experience the glory and glamour of history's most magnificent burial sites.

Woman accuses family of invading cabana at Canadian water park

A TikToker who goes by @Libramuva revealed how her cabana at the Wet'n'Wild water park in Toronto was invaded by another group who refused to leave.

Can you survive in the wilderness? Here's how

Hiking can be a fun and rewarding experience, but it can also be a hazardous one. Losing sight of a trail or veering off a footpath can have dire consequences, even for the most experienced outdoor adventurers. According to the National Park Service, 312 million people ventured into America's national parks in 2022. Most of these visits were uneventful, but every year hundreds of vacationers lose their way or go missing during hikes in forests, mountains, and other remote terrain. And, reports National Geographic, day hikers are the most vulnerable in survival situations. So, what should you do if you get lost in the wilderness, and how can you find your way out? Click through for some tips that could save your life.

Olympics opening ceremony is panned by viewers

6,800 athletes covered in plastic ponchos attempted to keep spirits high as they travelled down the river Seine in a huge flotilla of 85 boats.

Cities being overrun by tourists

The great personal enrichment that comes from absorbing other people’s cultures around the world has no doubt led a huge number of individuals to be more tolerant, open-minded, and adventurous. The fact that such trips are so accessible is also something to be celebrated. But when it goes too far, real problems start to occur. Click through this gallery to find out what happens when cities actually suffer from “overtourism.”

Radio star Sami Lukis reveals the surprising household item she always takes travelling

The radio star, 54, is known for her jet-setting lifestyle and has shared some of her top travel tips, including the unexpected item she always takes with her.

Japanese 'sea women' dive into tradition as numbers dwindle

Volunteers take part in fishing ceremony amid struggle to attract next generation of ama

The bone-chilling stories behind this abandoned German hospital

No matter where in the world they are, abandoned places tend to be linked to spooky stories. These scary tales are passed down from generation to generation, building these locations a terrifying reputation.This German sanitarium's stories include the fact that Nazi dictator Adolf Hitler was treated there.Click on the gallery and take a look if you're brave enough!

The oldest photos of major cities

When you take a photo, the world stands still. The moment you captured stays the same forever, offering future generations a glimpse at what life was like at the time. Old photos of cities are specifically fascinating, featuring people, buildings, and society that has been lost to the past. From Tokyo's canal-riding past to Rio without Christ the Redeemer, here are the some of the oldest photos of the world's major cities.

Where were the last Olympics Games? And the edition before that one? See how many you can remember

When choosing locations for the Olympic Games, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) specifically gives the honor of holding the Games to a city rather than a country. Indeed, the selection process, international politics, and investment involved with the Olympics has made the host city selection a major deal. Usually held every four years, the international sporting event was only ever cancelled due to World War I (1916) and World War II (1940 and 1944), and postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic (2020). This year, the Games will be held in Paris. To get into the Olympic spirit, click on to recall the past host cities in the event's modern history.

10 of the Most Unique Museums In the United States

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

These are the most terrifying places in the world

Many of us possess a sense of adventure, a yearning perhaps to travel to places remote and untouched or destinations nearer to home that are unusual and set well under the tourist radar. But would you ever consider visiting anywhere that had a disturbing or terrifying reputation, or was imbued with a history so alarming and mystifying that few would ever dare follow in your footsteps? It takes an intrepid explorer to answer in the affirmative, but the rewards can be inspiring and actually quite educative! So, are you ready to be frightened? Click through and start mapping out a route to malevolence.

Alien-looking landscapes you won't believe are found on Earth

Space travel sounds unbelievably cool, but most of us won’t ever have the opportunity to check out alien planets. Lucky for you, the Earth is vast and strange, and that means it has a host of otherworldly landscapes just waiting for your exploration—no spaceship required. Click through the gallery and take a tour through Earth's alien-looking landscapes.

This Tokyo Hotel Has an Intimate Omakase Restaurant, a Massive Spa in the Sky, and Mount Fuji Views

Aman Tokyo is a hotel masterpiece.

Timeless children’s books to read with your kids

As adults, we all fondly look back on the tales of adventure, the wacky characters, and the magical worlds of our favorite childhood books. The only thing better than that feeling is getting to share those wondrous experiences with the next generation. We don’t need to convince you of the benefits of reading with your children, but as reading is an essential part of a developing child’s intellectual growth and quality of life, making it a daily habit can do wonders. Plus, there are so many classic and timeless tales that both children and parents alike will enjoy, laden with lessons about love, courage, friendship, honesty, loyalty, and more. Ready for a walk down memory lane? Click through to get your reading list started.

13 Nostalgic Photos of Vintage Amusement Parks

What a thrill.

Fascinating photos of historical summers

Take a step back in time and be thankful for your shorts with these fascinating images.

Bizarre discoveries in the most unexpected places

Many fascinating discoveries have been made throughout the years, but sometimes they can be truly puzzling, especially when they're made in unlikely locations. Browse through this gallery and get to know some really weird things found in the most unexpected of places.

Faulty Boeing Starliner leaves astronauts trapped in space for 51 days

Sunita Williams and Barry 'Butch' Wilmore have had their stay on the International Space Station extended indefinitely after hoping to visit the orbiting lab for 8 days.

How to stay in shape while on vacation

It's that time of the year again. You're excited to go on vacation, but in the back of your mind you can't stop thinking about how a few days might throw you off of your fitness journey. You've worked hard to stay in shape year-round, and dread putting on a few extra pounds and losing the level of fitness you've been enjoying. But the good news is, you can get the best of both worlds! Yes, you can have your cake, and eat it too. With just a few tweaks on diet and exercise, you'll be able to enjoy your vacation to the max, and still stay in shape! Sounds too good to be true? Click on the gallery and learn the best strategies to achieve this seemingly impossible goal.

The biggest Christian hoaxes of all time

There are many examples of hoaxes throughout history. These range from basic, almost funny attempts at deception, to others that are indeed quite elaborate. But things can get even more interesting when we bring religion into the mix; more specifically, Christianity. Over centuries, there have been numerous Christian hoaxes, and in this gallery we bring you some of the most impactful. Click through and get to know the biggest Christian hoaxes of all time.

France shocked as rail network suffers 'massive attack' hours before Olympics opening ceremony

Missing hiker, 70, found alive after 5 days in the Sierra Nevada

Warren Elliott was found alive after getting lost in searing 90F heat for five days after another hiker spotted him bear California's [Expletive] Hole Reservoir on Wednesday morning.

Kate Courtney, the American mountain bike sensation aiming for gold in Paris 2024

Do you live in one of the world's 50 coolest neighborhoods?

Everyone wants to travel like a local, and while it’s easy to translate languages with your phone and stay in people's homes instead of hotels through various apps, it’s much more difficult to figure out where the coolest neighborhoods are because they’re off the tourist path. Based on factors of affordability, new venues, arts and culture, foodie destinations, and a general up-and-coming energy, Time Out surveyed more than 27,000 city-dwellers along with city experts to find what they’ve determined to be the top 50 cultural and culinary hot spots in the world. These are the places buzzing with life, free of overrated traps, and rich with the culture and community you couldn't get near many cities' most popular landmarks. Click through to see which neighborhoods made the cut.

Breathtaking UNESCO Heritage Sites in the UK

In 1975, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) began their mission of "the identification, protection and preservation of cultural and natural heritage around the world considered to be of outstanding value to humanity.” Today, there are over 1,000 around the world, with over 25 of them in the UK. In this gallery, click through for a look at the UK's most treasured sites.

Salt Lake City worker's mistake killed 200 trees in neighborhood

A Salt Lake City worker's simple mistake costed a neighborhood 200 trees, outraging the community.

The strangest UFO sightings in the UK

From the 1947 Roswell incident, to Area 51, to films like 'Independence Day', the USA has always been seen as the hub for UFOs. But aliens have apparently crossed over to the UK plenty of times. From glowing dragons to Winston Churchill's panicked reports, take a look these weird historical accounts of UFO sightings in the UK.

Airbnb CEO Brian Chesky on 2024 Olympics: This is the biggest event in Airbnb history

Airbnb co-founder and CEO Brian Chesky joins 'Squawk Box' to discuss the 2024 Paris Olympics, the rollout of Icons experience, Airbnb demand in Paris, summer travel demand outlook, and more.

Airbnb Makes Paris Affordable, CEO Says

Airbnb CEO Brian Chesky says 150,000 homes have been rented out in Paris for the Summer Olympics. He says those visitors will spend over one billion dollars. He's on "Bloomberg Open Interest."

Magical Disney destinations around the world that inspired classic movies

We take a look at the locations that inspired Disney's filmmakers, from fairy-tale castles and far-flung islands to age-old landforms and modern metropolises.

The many health benefits of sea salt

Have you ever noticed that after a dip in the ocean, or even just a trip to the beach, your skin seems more clear and healthy? Well, there's actually a secret to that gorgeous glow: salt water. Surprisingly, salt is one of the most healthy and abundant ingredients on the planet. Loaded with electrolytes and anti-inflammatory compounds, sea salt can be used for many things, such as skin care treatments and pain relief. And these are just a few of the health benefits. Want to know more about sea salt and how it can benefit you? Then check out this gallery.

Atlantique TGV trains from Montparnasse Station cancelled, causing major delays

Starting at 6 a.m. today, most of the Atlantique TGV trains from Montparnasse Station have been cancelled, leaving only four or five trains operational. Instagram user 'biotifunzaza' reported being delayed for seven hours on a journey from Paris to Les Landes Bordeaux. The widespread cancellations have caused significant disruption, affecting many travelers relying on the Atlantique TGV service.

America's most noteworthy swamps and bayous

Swamps and bayous count as some of the most compelling natural landscapes in America. Confined mostly to the southeastern corner of the United States, swampland is defined as forested wetland. Characterized by a broiling and humid climate, swamp habitats are quite unique for their variety of flora and fauna, examples of which include the iconic cypress and tupelo tree. Of stunning visual appeal, America's swamplands rank among some of the most fascinating ecosystems in the country. So, where are America's hottest swamps? Click through and be swamped by this list.

Make a splash: Top water sports to enjoy this summer

Whether you prefer the beach or the countryside, there is usually a common element in both that we all love: water! There are many ways to make the most out of water during the warmer months. From favorites like surfing, to adrenaline-fueled water sports such as whitewater rafting, in this gallery you'll find a bit of everything. But it's not all about breaking a sweat. Easy, relaxing activities are also included. Click on and start planning your next water sport activity today.

These 25 airports are actually far away from where they claim

Many airports actually drop passengers far from the cities, towns or resorts they’re visiting. In ascending order of distance, here are some of the airports that are farthest away from the destinations they claim to serve.

I walked, swam and kayaked over 200 miles down the River Thames - from its marshy source to the sea

Ed Pratt began his journey in Gloucestershire - where the river originates. Its starting point, known as Thames Head, does not have a fixed location, but arises from a group of shifting springs.

Inside the world's most haunted forest

What if we told you that Dracula's Bran Castle is not the spookiest site in Transylvania? If you get a kick out of paranormal activity, then you're in for a treat. In this gallery, we delve deep into the world's most haunted forest, and bring you facts that will send chills down your spine. Take a look.

40 Things That Didn't Exist 40 Years Ago

The world really was a different place back then.

No man's land: Earth's untouched places

Humans have left their mark on almost every scrap of the Earth's surface, from land to considerable portions of the oceans. But some places have remained relatively untouched by us, be it because of a hostile climate or remote location. Click through the gallery to take a look at some of the most unspoiled destinations on Earth.

Architecture and religion: the most beautiful churches in the world

Churches are places where people usually go to find peace or spiritual guidance, as well as comfort when confronting challenges in life. However, aside from religious reasons, these places of worship are true works of art when analyzed from an architectural perspective. Whether gothic, baroque, or modern in design, these structures are impressively imposing and richly detailed, captivating specialists and drawing in countless tourists every year. To see some of the most beautiful churches in the world, take a look at the gallery and be amazed by these fantastic feats of architecture.

The most romantic destinations in the world

The most beautiful cities in the world for couples lie within the next few slides of this gallery. Steeped in history and culture, these cities bring out the lovebirds in all of us. Get lost in the cobblestone streets and fall in love all over again amongst the character that lies between these city walls. What are you waiting for? Swipe through to discover the most romantic locations for couples.

Everything you need to know about sex trafficking

Each year on July 30, the United Nations observe the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons. How common is human trafficking, how do traffickers find their victims, and what should people do if they witness or suspect human trafficking?

30 fascinating facts you didn't know about the Summer Olympics

The 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris starts today, but the Olympic Games have been making history for centuries. From the Games' Greek origins to their first foray into South America, the Olympics are known for bringing nations all over the world together to celebrate the very best in athletics. And even if you don't care much about sports, there's no denying the magic of the Olympics. In order to get into the Olympic spirit and the emotions that come with it, check out this gallery of fascinating facts you probably didn't about this extraordinary sporting event.

30 things to do in Europe at least once in your life

One thing is certain, there's no shortage of things to do in Europe. It's a continent of diversity and history, filled with unique experiences and breathtaking scenery. From famous cities like Paris and Istanbul, to beautiful eastern European national parks and quirky Dutch architecture, everywhere you turn, there's something great to enjoy. And if you're lucky, you'll make multiple trips in a lifetime just trying to see it all. From island hopping in Greece to taking a train into the Swiss Alps, click on for 30 things you need to do in Europe once in your lifetime.