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American vs. European toilets: why are they different?

If you've traveled internationally or even just watched foreign films, you've probably noticed differences in toilet design. Why do US public restrooms have gaps, while European stalls are fully enclosed? And why do European toilets seem to use less water? The principles behind flush toilets are simple, but the differences between them are profound. Some philosophers even argue that these differences reflect deeper cultural and societal nuances. Can we truly understand a nation by its toilets? Click on to find out!

6 innocent English words you definitely don’t want to say in other countries

Explore the gigantic scrapyards where planes, trains and ships go to die

From cruise ships to aircraft, discover where various modes of transports go when we're finished with them.

27 things you never knew about the world's most famous mountains

From the world's tallest (it's not what you think), to the oldest and deadliest, these mountain facts will 'peak' your interest further.

How Amber Preserves Prehistoric Feathers in Stunning Detail

Imagine holding a piece of golden resin in your hand, only to discover that inside, time itself has been trapped—along with the fragile memory of a creature that lived millions of years ago. The sight of prehistoric feathers, preserved in astonishing clarity within amber, is nothing short of magical. These ancient relics offer a window ... Read more The post How Amber Preserves Prehistoric Feathers in Stunning Detail appeared first on discoverwildscience.

Do we really ingest the amount of one credit card a week in microplastic?

Most of us are aware of the scourge of plastic pollution. Its impact on the environment and wildlife is well documented. But what is not so well known is the potential harm microplastics can have on the human body. Studies have shown that these small plastic pieces are accumulating in critical human organs including the brain, heart, and lungs. But how are these potentially dangerous microplastics being ingested, and does the rate of consumption really amount to the anecdotal claim of one credit card's worth of plastic every week? Click through and lean more about how we are inadvertently eating and imbibing plastic waste.

Brits warned of Easter travel carnage

Droves of passengers have already flocked to Manchester Airport this morning as they prepare make their Good Friday getaway.

Deep snow, thick ice and zero delays: Inside the Arctic Circle airports that never cancel a flight

Where most airports would close for a few centimetres of snow, some battle-hardened Arctic Circle airports refuse to close for anything. View on euronews

KKL-JNF parks draw 1.5 million visitors over Passover despite security concerns

"It’s moving to see how the people of Israel continue to choose nature and connect to their roots," said KKL-JNF chairwoman Ifat Ovadia-Luski.

Inside 11 of the world’s most beautiful beach homes

Are these the most beautiful beach homes in the world? Located on some of the most breathtaking shorelines, these oceanfront retreats offer abundant sand, sea and luxury living...

United in diversity, divided by holidays: How Easter breaks across the EU

If you’re planning your spring getaway - or just nursing holiday envy - remember: when it comes to Easter in Europe, no two calendars are quite the same. View on euronews

30 medieval cities that will make you feel like you're in a fairy-tale

Join us on a tour of charming medieval cities around the globe, from fabulous fortifications in France to the higgledy-piggledy streets of Vietnam’s capital we take a tour of charming medieval metropolises around the globe...

The cheapest (and quickest) ways to get to the UK's major airports

Booking a flight is one thing. Getting to the airport is another.

The world's most stunning archipelagos

Scattered around the globe are some truly amazing archipelagos, island groups, or chains of extraordinary beauty and incredible biodiversity. Many are popular tourist destinations, while others are remote and remain in the realm of wildlife. Browse the gallery for a fantastically colorful journey to some of the world's most stunning archipelagos.

What is painted on the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel?

When visitors first step into the Sistine Chapel and gaze upward, they are struck silent. Above them, Michelangelo's frescoes stretch across the ceiling like a divine thunderclap frozen in time. Often labeled the greatest artwork in history, the ceiling’s sheer scale and beauty are overwhelming. But what exactly are we looking at? What do these figures mean? Michelangelo wasn’t simply illustrating the Bible when he painted the ceiling in the early 16th century: he was composing a visual theology, a humanist epic, and a spiritual riddle. He layered symbolism within the colors of his art, and embedded meaning in every brush stroke. The paintings that adorn the Sistine Chapel ceiling are meant to evoke questions of who we as humans are in the grand scheme of life, and what we might become. Click through this gallery to find out more.

The Daring Life of Albert I: Monaco's Sailor Prince

Albert I was one of Monaco's greatest leaders, but he was an even better scientist and champion of education and learning. Explore his remarkable life and contributions to oceanography, paleontology, and more.

Amazing UNESCO World Heritage Sites in South America

South America dazzles in its cultural and natural diversity. This huge continent includes 12 sovereign states (Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Guyana, Paraguay, Peru, Suriname, Uruguay, and Venezuela), each with its own singular identity. The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has identified numerous South American natural man-made sites, areas, and structures and designated them World Heritage Sites, a landmark or region recognized as being of outstanding international importance. Click through this gallery for a definitive guide to what these are and where they're located.

The best time-travel movies ever made

The concept of time traveling has been a subject of fascination for millennia. Humans have always dreamed of being able to travel both back in time and into the future. But unfortunately, up until this day, this is not possible. But what is possible though is to watch great movies about it! In this gallery, we compiled some of the most amazing time-travel movies ever made. Click through and start your time-travel journey today!

What were funerals like in the American colonies?

Funerary practices have been around since the dawn of civilization. By the time Europeans settled in North America, the most common tradition was to bury the dead. This, of course, included a number of religious elements. But America was not just a place where Christian settlers (with all their different denominations) lived. Native Americans, and later Africans, also inhabited the land, and they too had their own funeral traditions. In this gallery, we explore the funerary traditions of the inhabitants of the Thirteen Colonies. Click on and get to know them.

Historic aviation purchase: 540 planes ordered for $120 billion

New £4million lido to open in the UK next year with pool, kids' splash park and spa

Britain's lido revival continues, with an East London council announcing it will open a year-round lido in Ilford ahead of next summer - four years after the original swim complex closed.

The perilous task that is salvage diving

The Bayesian luxury yacht disaster in Sicily has once again demonstrated the risks taken by salvage divers when recovering victims from a shipwreck. The vessel sank in 164 feet (50 m) of water, meaning they could only work in 12-minute shifts before having to surface. Scattered debris further hampered the operation. The physical and physiological effects on the body when working in such conditions requires the skills of highly-trained individuals and, while technological advances have made the job far easier, the task of underwater recovery can still be a grim and thankless one. Click through and find out more about the unique and often dangerous role of the salvage diver.

Two British tourists ‘killed’ after cable car crashed to ground in Italy

30 stunning natural wonders to visit in India

India is a captivating country with a rich tapestry of culture and traditions and an incomparable range of landscapes. Some say it should be a continent due to how much the terrain differs: icy peaks in the Himalayas, white-sand beaches in Goa, and lush tropical rainforest in Kerala. If you're planning a vacation or putting together a bucket list, how about adding some of India's most beautiful natural wonders to your itinerary? But where to begin? This gallery covers 30 of the country's best natural attractions. Click to discover more.

The ultimate travel guide to beautiful Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico is a stunning Caribbean island known for its mountainous landscapes, idyllic beaches, lush rainforest, and rich culture. The tropical US territory has a complex and fascinating history, many remnants of which can be visited on the island. From the historic castillos of San Juan to the abundant nature of El Yunque National Forest and the surfer's paradise in Rincón, it truly has something for everyone. Click on to discover some of the amazing places Puerto Rico has to offer, so you can plan your next trip.

I moved to Benidorm after only visiting once - it changed my life and I'll never return to the UK

British content creator Harry Poulton - who shares his life on TikTok as @harrytokky - was just 18 when he visited Benidorm on a lads' trip, and instantly knew he wasn't going home.

7 Zoos That Double as Wildlife Rescue and Rehab Centers

Imagine a place where the roar of a lion isn’t just a spectacle, but a battle cry for survival. Where each animal enclosure holds not only a resident, but a survivor with a story of hope, healing, and second chances. Across the globe, some zoos have transformed from simple attractions into lifelines for endangered creatures, ... Read more The post 7 Zoos That Double as Wildlife Rescue and Rehab Centers appeared first on discoverwildscience.

The most turbulent flight routes in the world

Turbulence is an irregular motion of the air resulting from eddies and vertical currents, which causes the aircraft to shake. But while severe turbulence can be dangerous, it’s incredibly rare. Regardless of whether you're a nervous flier or not, even mild turbulence can be an unsettling mid-flight experience. One minute you're cruising along smoothly, and the next things start to get bumpy. Curious? Check out this gallery to discover the most turbulent flight routes in the world.

Spain issues tourist warning for popular island ahead of bank holiday weekend

The FCDO shares information on 266 countries or territories.

Passenger stunned as flight attendant scolds her over harmless act

A passenger shared the scolding she received from a flight attendant on social media. The remarks sent the internet into a frenzy, with one comment reading, 'I would be so annoyed.'

‘It’s like having lunch on an ocean liner’: readers’ favourite UK seaside restaurants and cafes

Winning tip: Pier review, Worthing, West Sussex For years, the elegant art deco southern pavilion at the sea end of Worthing Pier housed a dodgy nightclub. After Covid, it reopened, now owned by south coast restaurant business Perch, having been restored back to its 1930s glory. It’s like having lunch on an ocean liner. There’s a great menu, with plenty of the things you’d expect at a seaside cafe, and good service. I spent years working on...

When Airspace Regulations Collide With Bird Migration Routes

Imagine looking up at the sky on a crisp autumn evening, only to witness a swirling river of birds soaring overhead—thousands upon thousands, winging their way across continents. These awe-inspiring migrations have unfolded for millennia, an ancient dance choreographed by instinct and survival. But in today’s world, these majestic journeys are suddenly intersecting with an ... Read more The post When Airspace Regulations Collide With Bird Migration Routes appeared first on discoverwildscience.

Exploring 30 magnificent natural wonders

Our planet is a treasure trove of awe-inspiring landscapes and remarkable natural wonders that have captivated explorers, adventurers, and travelers for generations. Whether you're a seasoned globe-trotter or simply looking to be inspired, this gallery is a testament to the breathtaking diversity and wonder that Mother Nature has to offer. From towering mountains to enchanting underwater realms, these 30 natural wonders represent the pinnacle of Earth's beauty. Click on to discover them all!

Puerto Rico hit by island-wide blackout ahead of Easter holidays

On Wednesday, April 16, the residents of Puerto Rico experienced an island-wide blackout. Just as locals and visitors were preparing to celebrate the Easter long weekend, the island was left without power, which is unlikely to be fully restored for another 48 to 72 hours, according to the island’s authorities. As of Thursday morning, crews had managed to restore power for 47% of customers. Nonetheless, despite such prompt efforts to fix the issue, many residents were left extremely frustrated with the power outage, heavily criticizing the work of the government. The Puerto Rico Governor’s Office attributed the cause of the blackout to a failure in the electrical system’s transmission. Indeed, power outages can occur for various reasons, from severe weather—such as high winds or lightning strikes—to excessive demand on the electrical grid or accidental damage to underground cables. While large-scale outages can cause widespread disruptions, even losing power at home can be frustrating and potentially dangerous. Click through and find out how to prepare for a power cut.

The land of colloquialisms: slang from every US state

All languages are beautifully alive, and English is no exception. It's no surprise that the influences of immigration and expansion have shaped American English in different ways across the vast country. According to the ‘Dictionary of American Regional English’ (DARE), these are some of the unique words commonly used in each state. Do you agree with them? Click on to find out.

Discover these US territories in the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean

Besides its 50 states, did you know that there are 14 territories in the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean overseen by the US federal government? In fact, widespread communities and areas are a distinguishing feature of the United States. An unincorporated territory is one that the United States Congress has determined only selected parts of the United States Constitution apply to. An incorporated territory, of which only one currently exists, is one in which the United States Congress has applied the full corpus of the Constitution. Furthermore, if a US territory is termed organized it means it's an insular area for which the United States Congress has enacted an organic act. An unorganized territory means Congress has not enacted an organic act. Commonwealth territories are those that enjoy a more highly developed relationship. Intrigued, but confused? Click through and journey to these US territories, some of which are familiar, while others are little-known destinations anchored in a vast ocean.

Delve into the enchanting ruins of the UK's religious heritage

The centuries-old ruins of abbeys, churches, and priories always conjure up romantic images of a monastic and pious way of life. Throughout the United Kingdom, the remains of many of these religious buildings stand as a legacy of the Reformation, when Henry VIII disbanded numerous monasteries, priories, convents, and friaries in the 1530s. Today, these ecclesiastical wonders serve as evocative reminders of a distant past and rank among the most compelling of visitor attractions. Click through this gallery and admire the ruins of some of the UK's greatest places of worship.

Major Eurotunnel rule change set to hit families

Holidaymakers have been warned that they could be hit with surprise extra charges on the Eurotunnel for failing to comply with a change in rules.

Einstein, teleportation and the enigmatic 'Philadelphia Experiment'

Do you believe in alien life? Do you think time travel is possible? If you answered no to either, take a look at this story that supposedly took place in the United States during World War II. Imagine being on board a warship that suddenly disappears into thin air and then suddenly reappears somewhere else seconds later. Imagine you haven't just experienced teleportation, but you've time traveled a few years into the future. It may sound like something out of science fiction, but there is a theory that says this really happened to a U.S. Navy ship. Click on to find out more!

World Heritage Day: 5 Sites That Reveal Earth’s Deepest Past

Imagine standing on ground that has witnessed millions of years of Earth’s story unfold—where breathtaking landscapes and ancient mysteries invite us to touch the fabric of time itself. On World Heritage Day, we celebrate places that are more than beautiful; they are windows into the origins of our world. These special sites don’t just tell ... Read more The post World Heritage Day: 5 Sites That Reveal Earth’s Deepest Past appeared first on discoverwildscience.

Scotland's quaintest small towns and villages

Scotland is celebrated around the world for its stark beauty and dramatic scenery. Embellishing the mountains, lochs, and coastline are numerous small towns and villages, charming places unique in character and exuding a personality all their own. Many serve as historic destinations, established centuries ago and standing as testament to the country's long history. Others are found on remote islands, little visited but always worth exploring. If Scotland is on your travel wish list, make sure to include the following small towns and villages in your itinerary. Click through for ideas of where to go and what to see.

Queues form at airports as passengers make an early Easter dash

Droves of passengers have already flocked to Manchester Airport this morning as they prepare make their Good Friday getaway.

The amazing stories behind the American flag

There have been 26 official versions of the American flag spanning the more than 240 years of the nation’s history. But who thought up its iconic design, and what are the laws and regulations governing its proper use? Browse the following gallery and unfurl some amazing stories behind the Stars and Stripes.

When Sea Turtles Block Traffic: Balancing Tourism and Turtle Nesting

It’s a balmy night on a tropical beach, and under a sky shimmering with stars, a silent, ancient ritual unfolds. A female sea turtle hauls her heavy body from the surf, her flippers flinging sand as she searches for the perfect nesting spot. Tourists, drawn by the magic of the moment, gather nearby, their flashlights ... Read more The post When Sea Turtles Block Traffic: Balancing Tourism and Turtle Nesting appeared first on discoverwildscience.

UK Foreign Office ‘do not travel’ list for April after Spain bank holiday warning

Strange forgotten holidays we once celebrated

There are many holidays celebrated around the world, but not all have stood the test of time. Some celebrations lost popularity over the years, while others disappeared altogether centuries ago—but some of these lost traditions are worth remembering. In this gallery, you'll find a list of interesting holidays we no longer celebrate. Click on.

The top 30 most-visited countries in the world

Travel and tourism make the world go around and drive economies everywhere. But where are the top most visited places that you must try? In this list, you'll find the top 30 places and information on the number of arrivals each has in a year alongside facts about the locations. So pack your bags, grab your passport, and get ready to explore the globe! Some may surprise you while others you might've guessed would top the charts. Whether you're seeking historical landmarks, stunning landscapes, or vibrant cultures, these destinations offer something for every traveler. Curious to see which countries took the top spots? Click through now to explore.

Rude things Americans say abroad

Part of international travel is the beauty and uniqueness of cultural exchange. Speaking to people from different backgrounds, cultures, lifestyles, and norms makes the outcome of traveling so much more than just crossing a destination off your bucket list. But the exchange itself can sometimes leave people with a bad taste in their mouths. Although your travel intentions may not include insulting the nation you’re visiting, sometimes, certain comments may be taken badly due to sensitivities you're not aware of. This gallery includes a list of some unfortunate, yet common statements Americans make abroad that are considered rude in other countries. Curious to know what they are? Click through to find out.

Iconic invitations to historical events

There are some important events that many of us would have given just about anything to attend. Sadly, only a select few ever get an invitation. And it's been like that throughout history. Still, if you've ever wondered what an invitation to a royal wedding or coronation looks like, or indeed a request to attend the grand opening of a building or the funeral of someone famous, here's your chance to at least pretend you're on the guest list, or were present as an invitee. In this gallery you'll find the invitations to a number of iconic events over the years. Click on and pop along.

Love reading? These are the best book towns in the world

If you're a book lover, there's no better way to experience a new place than by exploring its literary scene. From quaint villages filled with cozy bookstores to bustling towns hosting world-renowned book festivals, these book towns are perfect destinations for anyone who loves to read. Whether hunting for rare books or enjoying literary events, these towns will satisfy your literary cravings. Click on for the best book towns around the world!