Then vs. now: how world-famous train stations once looked

As the demands of train travel changed over the decades, so too did many magnificent stations. But one constant remained: their stunning architecture showcasing styles and eras from every corner of the globe.

These are the 30 coolest streets in the world right now

What makes a street "cool?" Is it the number of restaurants, bars, cafés, and independent shops? Or is it just a general vibe, a friendly warmth that's hard to pin down? Apparently, it's a combination. Every year, Time Out ranks the best cities in the world. For 2024, it ranked the world's 30 coolest streets, but you might be surprised: they're unexpected spots! To produce the lineup, the global listings guide's network of editors and writers chipped in to make the case for their favorite streets in their respective cities. Click on to find out if you've ever strolled in one of them.

Don't miss the upcoming Supermoon eclipse (the next one's in 2033)

If you live in North America, South America, Africa, or Europe, get ready to celebrate this tuesday with a dazzling Harvest Moon during a 'Supermoon Eclipse.' You’ll have the chance to see part of the moon’s surface obscured by Earth's shadow. It will also be a supermoon, as the moon reaches its closest point to earth in its 27-day elliptical orbit. This partial lunar eclipse will be visible across the US, with the peak occurring at 10:44 pm ET. After the eclipse reaches its peak, the moon will gradually exit Earth's shadow, concluding early Wednesday at approximately 12:47 am ET. Indeed, this is a spectacular year for stargazing. There will be plenty of opportunities to witness the universe's wonders. Advancements in astronomy mean many of the events are tracked, allowing scientists to determine ahead of time when celestial bodies may be visible from Earth. From meteor showers to supermoons, there are already plenty of special dates to mark on your calendar. While many of these events are visible to the naked eye, investing now in a good beginner telescope can greatly enhance your experience. For the best visibility, set yourself up to view the skies from a dark spot away from light pollution. To help you plan your year of stargazing, click on for the celestial events that you don't want to miss in the following months.

The most expensive cities to live in this year (is yours on the list?)

Have you ever dreamed of packing a bag and starting over in the hustle and bustle of New York City? Or spending your golden years in the Hawaiian paradise of Honolulu? Sadly, these romantic daydreams are even further from reality than they once were (unless you happen to have won the lottery). The rental markets in these coveted cities have skyrocketed in recent years, contributing to cost-of-living crises breaking out across the globe. In 2024, it truly is a landlord's world. To calculate just how expensive it is to rent in each city, Numbeo has come up with the Cost of Rent Index. According to their website, "This index estimates the prices of renting apartments in a city compared to New York City. If the Rent Index is 80, it suggests that the average rental prices in that city are approximately 20% lower than those in New York City." For reference, the Point2 real estate agency estimates that an average NYC apartment goes for US$4,392 per month. In this gallery, you'll find the 30 cities that score highest on the Rent Index. Click through for a tour of the most eye-wateringly expensive rental markets in the world and find out what they have to offer!

All of the best club opening parties to know about in Dubai

We like to party, we like to party… The season is already in full swing in Dubai and there are some pretty spectacular club opening parties happening across the city. From beach clubs to world-renowned venues making their debut and some of our favourite hot spots reopening… These are all of the best club opening […]

Msheireb Downtown Gets a New Art Installation

Barahat Msheireb in Msheireb Downtown Doha has gotten a temporary art installation this week. Read More: Nour Arida Kicks Off Doha Festival City's New Fashion Era View this post on Instagram A post shar

The biggest historical mysteries that will probably never get resolved

No matter how much we know about the past, there are still many historical mysteries that may never get resolved. From the date of Jesus' birth to Jack the Ripper's true identity, certain things have no explanation. This could be because relevant documentation or excavated items have been lost or destroyed. Other times, the evidence has been too vague to lead to any consensus. In the end, we might very well never find the answers, which makes these historical questions even more intriguing. Want to discover the world's biggest historical mysteries? Then check out the following gallery.

Just how dangerous is a spacewalk?

The first commercial spacewalk by a private individual took place on September 12, when tech billionaire Jared Isaacman eased out of a capsule in lower Earth orbit to peer into the vast vacuum of space. By doing so, he joined a small, elite group of spacewalkers who up until now had included only professional astronauts. He also took an enormous risk: spacewalking is deemed one of the most dangerous parts of spaceflight after launch and reentry, and assigned only to highly trained individuals. The first spacewalk was undertaken in 1965, but the dangers associated with what's technically called extravehicular activity are as real today as they were over half a century ago. So, what exactly are the hazards of spacewalking, and who are some of the pioneers who've stepped out into the void? Click through and take your own walk in space.

We’ve hunted down stunning castles you’ve never heard of

A look at fabulous fortresses from around the world that aren't getting the attention they deserve.

Riding waves at Surf Abu Dhabi: A first-timer's account of what to expect

There is nowhere quite like Surf Abu Dhabi. The UAE’s newest attraction on Hudayriyat Island is a surfer’s paradise, with clear waters, gorgeous skyline views and impressive artificially created waves that can be customised to a participant’s skill level. It also has the world's longest ride, largest barrel and highest man-made wave. The club was c...

Extraordinary desert experiences for adventurous travelers

The vast majesty of the desert has long captivated the most intrepid travelers. There are few natural environments that can inspire as much awe as the unique, unusual, and undeniably mystical desert landscape. From burnt red sands to bleached snow and temperate tableland, the world's deserts are diverse and home to an array of plant, animal, and mineral life. If you crave wide open spaces and destinations with a difference, you won't regret an adventurous desert expedition. Intrigued? Click on to explore these unforgettable desert experiences.

South Lebanon's historic sites caught in the crossfire between Israel and Hezbollah

Live updates: Follow the latest on Israel-Gaza For nearly a thousand years, Beaufort Castle in south Lebanon, perched on top of a steep rock overlooking northern Israel, has stood as wars raged. The sultan Salah Al Din would capture it from Crusaders in 1190 after gathering his troops in nearby Marjayoun, holding it for 50 years before the Barons' ...

Go on a Jungle Quest at Dubai's Green Planet

This is edutainment at its finest

History's most impressive sea forts

Sea forts are fortified stone structures located in the ocean. They can be found in the shallows near the coast, or set further off the mainland in deeper water. Built mainly to defend the approaches to a city or estuary, most sea forts were constructed on natural or artificial islands and would have provided a formidable obstacle to an invading navy. Today, many of these unique sea defenses still stand. But where can you admire some truly impressive and historic examples? Click through and find out where waves meet walls.

FREE Five Rides with New Doha Metro, Lusail Tram Travel Card

On September 15, 2024, Doha Metro and Lusail Tram announced a special promotion: new travel card holders can enjoy five free journeys. To take advantage of this offer, travelers need to register a new top-up Travel Card by December 15, 2024.How to Get Your Free JourneysTo claim the free journeys, re

Be a tourist in your own city and fall in love all over again

Picture the first time you set foot in a new city. Do the lights seem brighter? Does the charm of the buildings call to you? How does the air feel on your skin, and what smells do you embrace? The first time we experience a new place it can feel like constantly being on cloud nine—everything feels intensely beautiful and our souls are alive. However, as we stay in one place for an extended period of time, the luster can fade and it just becomes ‘home.’ Things we used to love may now be taken for granted. Fret not, though! There is hope to rekindle the spark with your once new city. Pretending to be a tourist in your own town can help open your eyes to things you might have been overlooking recently. Truly, it’s easy to fall in love all over again. Click through to see exactly what we mean.

What happens when your partner speaks a different language than yours?

It has been said that love knows no bounds, and while many relationships around the world are a testament to this statement, it is certainly no easy feat to date someone who doesn’t share the same native language as you do. Multilingual partners can find themselves arguing and fighting for seemingly stupid reasons, but the truth is that language differences can make tensions flare up if we don’t know how to address them. Curious? Click through the following gallery to see how relationships can be affected by languages, and what can be done to reduce conflict.

The unsettling truth about poltergeists

You may have heard of these disruptive spirits from the 'Poltergeist' series of horror movies. However, were you aware that the cast encountered a string of creepy misfortunes after shooting? These infamous incidents became known as the "Poltergeist curse." Feeling doubtful about this phenomenon? Then take a look at the gallery and form your own opinions about poltergeists. Click through, if you dare.

The surprisingly disgusting history of royal palaces

When we think of the royal dynasties in European history, we think of kings and queens with absolute power ruling over vast empires, living in unchecked luxury. Many of the palaces they built are still some of the most impressive architectural wonders in existence. From the French Palace of Versailles to London’s Kensington Palace, tourists walk the halls and marvel at the beauty and grandeur of these royal homes. However, these restored palaces leave out a few key details. When they were first built and actually hosted royal courts, they were worse than pigsties! Visitors of the Louvre Palace today are spared the harsh realities of centuries gone by: ungodly smells, rat infestations, and piles of human feces littering the floor. Do we have your attention? Click through the following gallery to find out what it was really like to live in a royal palace of the past.

What are the laws of the sea?

For as long as humans have been around, the ocean has been a vast, uncharted frontier that has offered up an abundance of resources for the benefit of humanity. Between navigation and fishing, the world has exploited the high seas for centuries, but over time an invisible web of rules have been put in place to govern how explorers, traders, and nations are allowed to make use of this colossal area of the planet. The "laws of the sea" may sound like the stuff of pirate legends, but these laws shape everything from international trade routes to environmental preservation. As the modern world more frequently turns its eyes to the ocean's untapped resources, maritime law has become more vital than ever. Curious? Click through this gallery to find out what rules and regulations govern the high seas.

Why coral reefs are disappearing

Coral barrier reefs are notoriously beautiful due to their vibrant colors and majestic structures teeming with life. But while these important underwater havens provide a paradise for snorkelers and fishermen, they are actually disappearing rapidly. Indeed, scientists have estimated that 90% of coral reefs around the world are at risk of being completely wiped out by 2050. Intrigued? Click through the following gallery to see why coral reefs are dying, and what can be done to help.

Historic battlefields you can visit

Battlefields serve as a permanent reminder of some of history's bloodiest military engagements. The bucolic landscapes we see today were once stained with the blood of hundreds, sometimes thousands, felled in the throes of mortal combat. Preserved for posterity, these conflict locations remain hallowed turf, historical landmarks of past campaigns and encounters, many of which influenced the outcome of world wars. Click through and tread the fields of history's bloodiest battles.

Independence days around the world

Most countries on Earth, besides the most resilient of empires, have declared independence from a larger ruling faction at some point in time. In Europe, many countries gained independence through the dissolution of long-standing monarchies and empires. All around the world, nations that were subjected to decades if not centuries of colonial rule and oppression have fought for their liberation, freedom, and sovereignty. The French Revolution in particular, which took place at the end of the 18th century and freed France from monarchal rule, was seen as the blueprint for nearly every revolution that came after it. Let's look at other independence movements around the world and the holidays that celebrate them.

How sea otters can help fight climate change

Over the course of the 18th and 19th centuries, sea otters were hunted to near extinction. Since then, conservation efforts have helped them make a strong comeback, and it's a good thing, too. Aside from being outrageously cute, these seaborne weasels play an important role in supporting the ecosystems that we can use to help fight climate change. Intrigued? Then check out this gallery to find out how sea otters can help our world.

The best (and worst) airports in the world in 2024

While business class offers high-ranking services and amenities in the skies, airports themselves can be daunting environments. Managed by various entities and catering to a diverse clientele, these travel hubs very often prioritize functionality over comfort. To shed light on airport experiences, BusinessFinancing.co.uk conducted a comprehensive study of the best and worst airports around the world based on business travelers' reviews. Spoiler alert: the majority of the most poorly ranked airports are located in the US and the UK! Curious? Click on to discover the best and worst airports in the world.

Australia and Oceania: 15 beautiful, lesser known UNESCO World Heritage sites

Keep America weird: unusual facts about each state

The United States is a big, vast place where sometimes (a lot of times) weird things happen. Jokes about Florida's strangeness abound, as evidenced by the amount of Twitter accounts dedicated to poking fun at the absurd things that take place in the Sunshine State. But Florida is far from being alone. Check out these strange facts about American states that will increase your random knowledge and your chances of winning trivia games.

Common cultural faux pas and how to avoid them when you're abroad

Navigating cultural differences can be a delicate dance, where one misstep can lead to embarrassment or offense. From improper table manners to inappropriate gestures, it's easy to commit many a social crime. But you can avoid this! Check out this informative gallery before you next travel, to find out the most common cultural faux pas and a few tips on how to avoid making them.

China’s wildest, weirdest architectural masterpieces

Step inside China's strangest buildings. Explore boundary-breaking architecture from the People's Republic of China from coin-shaped skyscrapers to Shanghai's pearl-topped tower.

Historical misconceptions you thought were true

History has a way of sticking around, teaching us how far we've come and illustrating how human nature has both changed and managed to stay the same all at once. However, sometimes embellishments and downright inaccurate events get passed down along with history, masked as factual episodes. From who built the Egyptian pyramids to what ninjas actually wore, history is filled with misconceptions and inaccurate assumptions. Have you mistaken any myths for historical facts? Browse the gallery and find out.

Incredible photos of Mexico's many natural wonders

From pink lagoons to majestic snow-capped volcanoes, Mexico has an infinite amount of natural beauty. It is recognized worldwide for its diverse ecosystems, geography, and climate. Click through the gallery for a look at irresistible landscapes that will take your breath away, and fall in love with the best natural wonders Mexico has to offer.

The best (and worst) value travel destinations in 2024

It's hard to keep track of spending when you're away from home. However, now more than ever, travelers are being conscientious about how they allocate their hard-earned money. One of the ways to help make sure you don't blow the budget is to choose a destination that offers overall good value for what you pay for. In the United Kingdom, the Post Office Travel Money Holiday Spending Report survey has recently been released, providing insight into where holidaymakers feel they get the most bang for their buck while they're away from home. The survey looked at 28 destinations, ranking them in order of best to worst value. Curious? Click on to discover the locations where holidaymakers feel their money goes furthest, and where it doesn't.

Would you dare visit Italy's spooky Garden of Monsters?

Tucked away in a quiet valley near the delightful Italian hill town of Bomarzo is a bizarre and disturbing visitor attraction known as the Garden of Monsters. Conceived in the 16th century, the garden is known for a collection of grotesque and frightening monumental sculptures that look as if they've been plucked straight out of a horror show. Indeed, some of the pieces were inspired by war and sorrow. Oddly, however, others were created through a need to express peace and harmony. So, who's behind this unique and surreal public space, and what can you expect if you dare cross the threshold? Click through and prepare for a shock.

Fascinating pictures of daily life in secretive North Korea

Photographer Damir Sagolj has taken a series of compelling images that perfectly capture the surreal world that is daily life in North Korea. Shot from China across the border, the pictures illustrate the stark contrast between Chinese lifestyle and the drab uniformity of the North Korean villages located near the Yalu river. Click through the gallery for an eye-opening glimpse into this secretive nation.

Things America does better than Europe

America: the land of the free and the home of the brave. While Europe has a lot of great things going for it, there are other areas where America takes the cake. It's not until traveling or living in Europe that Americans begin to realize how many everyday cultural and societal norms that are part of their lives are completely different abroad... Some for the worse, others for the better. Curious? Click on to learn the things America does better than Europe.

The awe-inspiring world of eagles and hawks

Powerful and graceful, America's birds of prey are among the most fearsome of our feathered friends. Browse the gallery for an ornithologist's guide to the incredible variety of raptors you can see across the country.

History's greatest ships to ever set sail - do you agree?

Discover history's greatest ships of all time, from ancient vessels to modern feats of engineering.

Mexico City: neighborhoods and top attractions

If you have ever dreamed of visiting the Mexican capital but haven't the slightest idea of what to do there, then you've just stumbled upon your answer! Click through and discover all the different neighborhoods of this eclectic city.

Travel Unpacked: Etihad Airways adds A380 flights to Paris and Bali battles overtourism

One of the world's most popular island holiday spots could be forced to slow things down as Indonesian authorities consider banning hotels in Bali. Meanwhile, Air Astana is ramping up operations to the UAE with new flights connecting Kazakhstan with Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Ajman is also carving a big name for itself on the tourism front. And Etihad Ai...

Which states have the highest concentration of immigrants?

As the Mother of Exiles, America is known for being the land of opportunities that attracts so many people from the four corners of the world. Out of America’s over 331 million residents, over 45.2 million are foreign-born, more than the entire population of California. The concentration of foreign-born residents has increased in all states since 1990, according to the Migration Policy Institute, but some states attract more immigrants than others. Click through the gallery to see which states, including the District of Columbia, have the highest percentage of foreign-born residents, ranked from least to most.

The most dangerous cities in Europe

Ah, Europe! History and culture that is steeped in fairy tales. The magnificent cities of Europe attract millions of eager tourists every year with the promise of a beautiful and safe trip into the magic it offers. However, be warned! Some of Europe's cities are not as safe as one might expect. In this gallery, we've ranked Europe's most dangerous cities according to their crime rates. These crime rates are calculated by dividing the number of reported crimes by the total population. The result is then multiplied by 100,000. It might surprise you to find some of your favorite cities on this list, but if they're there, there's good reason for it... Curious? Then click on!

UAE: New man-made wave pool for surfers set to open in Abu Dhabi next month

UAE: New man-made wave pool for surfers set to open in Abu Dhabi next month

The holy most: America's coolest cathedrals

Looking for some divine inspiration? Browse the gallery for pious perspectives and places of worship.

Mid-Autumn Festival is here, but what is it?

Celebrated primarily in East and Southeast Asia, the Mid-Autumn Festival is a tradition that dates back more than 3,000 years. Also known as the Moon Festival, it takes place when the moon is at its fullest, according to the lunar calendar, and is celebrated over three days. The festival is a time for families to reunite, give thanks for the harvest, pray for good fortune, and, of course, indulge in mooncakes! But what is the Mid-Autumn Festival really about? How did it all begin, and who celebrates it? Click through to find out the answers to these questions and more.

Space tourism: would you try it?

What once seemed like a science fiction fantasy is fast becoming a reality thanks to the Space Race of the 21st century—a battle among billionaires to be the first to offer commercial spaceflights to the average Joe (as long as he can pay for it!). But that's not all. Orbital hotels, luxury space cruises, and day trips to the moon are all under development in this new tourism sector. Discover a world where space travel is no longer a dream, but an emerging reality, opening a universe of extraordinary possibilities. Click through the gallery to see what the future of travel holds.

Romantic island destination ideas for couples in love

If you could wave a magic wand and end up on a romantic island right here, right now, where would you choose? Tough choice, eh? But to help make up your mind, here's a virtual vacation tour of some of the most idyllic and welcoming island destinations on the planet. Click through this gallery and forget the pandemic. Welcome to paradise!

Must-see hidden gems across the US

Are you in search of a peaceful getaway away from the crowds, or perhaps something a little different? The most obvious tourist destinations in the United States include Los Angeles, New York City, and the Grand Canyon, but if you look a little harder, there's so much more to be discovered. Although not as widely recognized, the destinations featured in this gallery are equally awe-inspiring. Click through and uncover these natural and man-made treasures just waiting to be explored.

What's behind most coffee shops looking the same?

The more things change, the more they stay the same it would seem. In an increasingly globalized world, a common style or aesthetic emerged in the 2010s that took the coffee shop world by storm. Perhaps it was an inevitable outcome of a combination of factors: the emerging world of social media presence and marketing, the millennial penchant for coffee, and a pared-back look that appeared somber in the face of the Great Recession. Whatever the reason, we are left with a legacy of coffee shops worldwide that look more or less the same. How did it happen? Click on the following gallery to find out.

Poor vs. rich? The differences between expats and immigrants

Imagine leaving the country where you were born and lived for years of your life, possibly even decades, to start a new life elsewhere. You’ve likely heard the terms before and perhaps even thought they were the same thing, however, "expats" and "immigrants" are actually two distinct groups. While the two do have commonalities, many things differentiate them. Whether you fall into one of these groups yourself, know someone who does, or are simply curious about the words you hear in the news, this guide will break down the characteristics of each group for you. Simply click through to learn more.

The US states with the most million-dollar cities

Wealthy cities can be found all across the United States, particularly those where the average home is valued at US$1 million or more. According to Visual Capitalist, many states have a high number of these "million-dollar cities." This gallery will break down the number of such cities in each state and provide a deeper look into the state as a whole to see what makes it such a desirable place to live. Get ready to explore the 30 states that are home to the most expensive real estate markets in the country. Click through now to discover more.