Entertainment

The 1,200-year-old manuscript made by monks escaping the Vikings

One of the most remarkable achievements of the medieval world is an illuminated manuscript known as the Book of Kells. Created by Celtic monks in a remote monastery between the 6th and 8th centuries, the book is an enigma of artistic and spiritual devotion. Each page is adorned with intricate designs and vibrant colors, its symbols whispering secrets from an age of faith and peril. The manuscript has seen an equally enigmatic journey in its life. Carried across stormy seas to escape Viking marauders and even stolen in the dead of night from a church, the book has defied destruction for over a thousand years. But how did monks working in isolated stone huts produce such otherworldly beauty? And why is it such an important piece of literary history? Click through this gallery to find out.

36 cars named after animals

These are the most attractive nations around the world in 2025

Look around you: the world is a beautiful place. These days, cultures and countries are crossing over like never before. The result is a beautiful world population, but which country is the most attractive? The people at U.S. News & World Report surveyed a sample of over 17,000 individuals, asking them a set of 73 country attributes, amongst them which country has the most attractive population. Well, the results are in, and there are plenty of surprises. Click on to see which country has been voted the most beautiful.

The Pacific airfield being repurposed to counter China

Recent press reports suggest that a tiny island in the Pacific Ocean is set to become a new forward front in the event of hostilities between the United States and China. This has evoked wartime memories of when the island in question, Tinian, served as a US military base in the fight against the Japanese. During WWII, American-operated runways on Tinian served as launch pads for numerous bombing raids, including the fateful attacks on Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Abandoned for nearly 80 years, these airfields now look set to be recommissioned as Washington voices concern over Beijing's increasing missile threat. But where exactly is Tinian located, and what's the story behind this remote, jungle-clad enclave? Click through and step back in time to find out.

All about Jeju Island, the UNESCO Heritage Site

Jeju Island is a special tourist destination in South Korea. It boasts mild weather and gorgeous views of nature, including everything from beaches to waterfalls. Some of the popular tourist spots include a national park with breathtaking views and a lava cave that's also a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site. Jeju Island has actually been awarded the "Triple Crown of UNESCO," as it was registered as a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve in 2002, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2007, and a Global Geoparks Network member in 2010. Click through this gallery to go on a virtual tour of Jeju Island yourself.

The environmental impact of eating tuna

With its delicious taste and agreeable texture, tuna is a favorite option for either a snack or meal choice. A nutrient-rich food, this sleek and streamlined species is among the most commercially valuable fish on the planet. And therein lies the problem. Existing levels of tuna fishing are unsustainable, which could drive the fish to extinction. And despite its super healthful benefits, consuming too much tuna can actually be dangerous for you. So, should we still be eating tuna? Click through and reel in what you need to know about this powerful, agile, and endangered fish.

The surprising history behind every state nickname

The official nicknames and titles of states are often thrown around in travel magazines, but the origin and meaning of each is rarely explained. Some seem completely obvious, while others are highly debated by historians. In this gallery, you'll find the true stories behind the nickname of every US state.

You can live in luxury on a budget in these countries

All over the world, there are hidden gems—countries where the low cost of living makes a luxurious lifestyle a real possibility. From the old-world charm of Eastern Europe to the sandy-white beaches of Southeast Asia and the historic lands of Latin America, the countries on this list are sure to impress! The blend of affordability and luxury in these countries makes them perfect for anyone seeking a high standard of living but on a budget. The average cost of living in one of these countries per month is incredibly low compared to the high quality of life. Curious to know where you can live like royalty? Click through to find out!

The real facts about poltergeist encounters

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 world's largest artificial islands

Man-made islands are a testament to our capacity as humans. In modern times, artificial islands are usually formed by land reclamation or the incidental isolation of existing land, and these islands were created to serve varying purposes. Click through the gallery to find out more about the world’s largest artificial islands.

The world's deadliest rivers

Humans have always been fascinated by rivers, and indeed they've played a huge role in our development as a species. A source of drinking water, food, and irrigation, rivers have always been present in our lives. But not all rivers are calm streams of crystal clear water. In fact, some are heavily polluted, while others are teeming with dangerous wildlife (and dangerous humans). Many have flooded to the point of killing millions of people, and many others continue to do so by other means. Curious to discover the deadliest rivers on the planet? Then click on!

American customs that are considered offensive in other countries

Even with the best of intentions, Americans occasionally reinforce negative views of the US by not paying attention to their actions, words, or gestures that are seen as offensive in other countries. If you're set to travel to another country, you'll definitely want to take a look through this list of customs that are considered rude and offensive in other places around the world.

A look at the world’s most dangerous cities (including two in the US)

Venture into the heart of cities known for the danger lurking within. We've crafted a list that reflects the intensity of the challenges these urban areas face by reviewing their murder rates per 100,000 people and ranking them accordingly. This method not only provides insight into the number of homicides but paints a comprehensive picture of safety, or the lack thereof, across various global locales. Each city's ranking tells a story of complexity, resilience, and the ongoing battle against violence. Click through to discover the cities with the highest murder rates in the world.

The official song of every US state

It's true that American music artists have written some of the greatest songs in the world, but this gallery is not about those tunes. Instead, we'll delve deep into each US state and their official state songs. These are songs that have been designated by each state legislature as symbols of that particular state. They can be seen as regional anthems that have been adopted to represent each state. Do you know the official song of the state you live in? Click on to discover them all!

The most vegetarian-friendly countries in the world

For vegetarians, traveling can be a frustrating experience. There are some nations that simply don't cater well for the non-meat eater. Fortunately, globe-trotting herbivores have an index at hand to the most vegetarian-friendly countries in the world. The Global Vegetarian Index, compiled by Oliver's Travels, lists countries that are best for vegetarians. Click through the following gallery and ruminate over these veggie-friendly culinary destinations.

The missing aircrafts that were never found

Commercial aviation accidents are rare. In fact, according to the International Air Transport Association (IATA), more than 30 million global passenger airline flights take off and land annually without any incident. However, they can happen. And while safety investigators are often able to determine causes of airplane crashes, their task becomes more difficult when flights failed to arrive to their destinations and when they have seem to have vanished into thin air. Click on for examples of aircraft that mysteriously disappeared.

Capturing the elegance and power of nature

It’s strange how beautiful oil-covered bodies and trees covered in webs can seem in a photo, especially since they’re a result of humankind’s terrible impact on the earth. Still, we can revel in the truly awesome beauty of nature, as long as we know we’re going to have to take action to protect it. Check out this gallery to get inspired about our planet and get updated on the state of nature around the world.

How Our Lady of Fatima predicted the World Wars. Will there be a third one?

Every year, millions of pilgrims roam to the Sanctuary of Fatima in Portugal. This is where it's said that in 1917 the Virgin Mary appeared to three shepherd children and revealed three secretes to them. Not only that, but Fátima is also the spot where a crowd witnessed the "Miracle of the Sun," attributed to the Virgin Mary, who then became known as Our Lady of Fatima. But how much do we know about these apparitions and miracles? Click through the gallery to find out.

Countries that changed their names

New Holland? Upper Peru? United Kingdom of the Netherlands? Do you know these countries? In 2019, Macedonia changed its name. The Balkan country became the Republic of North Macedonia, after a long dispute with neighboring country Greece. But it's not the only country that has had a name change. In fact, plenty of nations have had their own identity crises. Click through this gallery to discover which countries have changed their names.

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.

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 life and death of legendary Al Capone

Al Capone attained notoriety during the Prohibition era in the United States as the boss of the feared Chicago Outfit, an organized crime syndicate that involved itself with bootlegging, brothels, and murder. Capone was its charismatic head, a ruthless and ambitious individual whose propensity for violence was matched only by his greed for power and money. He was born over 100 years ago, on January 17, 1899. But his name remains synonymous with the gangster culture of the 1920s and '30s. Click through this gallery and read more about the notorious life and death of Al Capone.

Cities with the best weather in the world

These cities boast mild and warm climates throughout the seasons. They are also found in opposite sides and corners of the world, meaning you could visit a new place on different trips with guaranteed warmth and sunshine. Flick through this gallery to find out which cities enjoy a mild climate and are ideal to visit at any season, as well as the hottest cities in the world where you're guaranteed to break a sweat. Take a look!

The most risky airport landings (four are in the US)

Flying a plane is no easy feat. It requires precision, quick decision-making, and the ability to handle unpredictable weather conditions, all while ensuring the safety of everyone on board. Thanks to aircraft technology, more efficient air traffic control, and improved training for pilots and mechanics, air travel is safer and more reliable than ever before. Despite this, one of the riskiest parts of any flight remains the final approach and landing, and at some airports around the world this is a nail-biting experience for even the most seasoned of travelers. From Juancho E. Yrausquin Airport, with the shortest runway in the world, to Barra Airport with its beach runway, this gallery features some of the most hair-raising airport landings on the planet. Click on to discover them all.

How the absence of rain could affect our world

Rainfall is essential for life across Earth's landscapes. It's the main source of fresh water for plants and animals, and us. According to Earth Science, the average amount of precipitation falling on the Earth per year is approximately 39 inches (100 cm). Much of that is rainfall as opposed to sleet or snow. And what would happen to our planet if it was suddenly deprived of rain? How would we cope? Could we survive? Click through and absorb these worrying consequences of a world without rainfall.

Exploring the major migration routes across the world

Global migration routes reveal the scale and complexity of movement across continents, with millions fleeing poverty, violence, and political unrest. From the Central Mediterranean route used by migrants aiming for Europe to dangerous crossings in Central America, these routes expose migrants to extreme risks, including trafficking, exploitation, and life-threatening sea journeys. Often, their journeys end in unintended places, as many transit countries become de facto hosts along these migration pathways. Click on to explore the world's most significant migration routes.

The world's most breathtaking petrified forests

Trees can exist for thousands of years as majestic living things, but when dead, their remains often stick around for hundreds of millions more as fossilized wood. While the United States boasts the biggest number of petrified tree sites in the world, there are some equally impressive places on Earth where you can witness this amazing phenomenon. Browse the gallery and take a virtual tour through some of the most beautiful and beguiling petrified forests on the planet.

Celebrities who live as farmers

Celebrities are constantly under the spotlight, but many choose to stay away from the buzz of city life and all that it entails. So much so, that some famous faces prefer the peace and quiet of the countryside. From actors to music stars, many celebs have bought farms, ranches, and everything in between—and many of these celebs actually live and work on them. Curious to find out which celebrities have secretly been living as farmers when they're not on the red carpet? Click on!

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.

Top 10 fighter Aircraft of 1969

Which planes dominated the skies 50 years ago? Let’s take a look at the best

Delicious sandwiches from around the world you must try

Placing meats or other satisfying ingredients in between two slices of bread is probably among the world's oldest food inventions. Filling, practical, and affordable, humans have relied on sandwiches for centuries—if not millennia. In this gallery, take a bite of favorite sammies from around the world. These mouthwatering concoctions will make you want to start traveling right away.

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.

New study links melting ice in Antarctica to subsurface volcanic activity

Antarctica is the world’s southernmost and least-populated continent… Unless you count its colonies of penguins, which are estimated to number around 44 million according to the latest stats by the World Population Review. Known as the highest, driest, coldest, and windiest place on Earth, Antarctica also harbors the planet’s largest ice sheet. Now, a new study reveals that the melting of this ice sheet—accelerated by the climate crisis—could trigger increased volcanic activity beneath the surface. What could this mean for Antarctica, our planet, and the 44 million penguins that call it home? Click through the gallery to uncover the latest findings.

Meet these countries that weren't countries for very long

Most countries in the world can boast a long and eventful history. But there are some nations whose sovereignty was so fleeting that independence only lasted a few years or, in some cases, just a matter of days. Despite their short shelf life, these assorted states and republics have a fascinating story to tell. Not all the endings are happy, but some did go on to fly a different flag many years later. So, what are the countries that weren't countries for very long? Click through for quick glance at an even quicker existence.

Countries the US government advises its citizens not to visit

The United States Department of State recently revised advice for popular cruise destinations in Mexico, including a Level 4: Do Not Travel warning for Manzanillo in Colima state due to elevated crime and kidnapping. Travel advisory levels range from Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions, Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution, Level 3: Reconsider Travel, and the highest Level 4. These travel advisory notices are updated regularly and serve to notify US citizens intending to travel abroad of any health and/or security risks pertaining to their destination. So, where in the world are US passport holders warned to stay clear of, and what countries should one reconsider traveling to? Click through this gallery to find out.

What police uniforms look like around the world

Most police officers around the world wear uniforms. In fact, many have more than just one type of uniform. But how do these differ from country to country? Well, there are a few things many police uniforms around the world have in common. One of them is the colors used. The vast majority stick to different shades of blue (mostly navy and light blue), or black. Another point in common is the use of high-visibility jackets. There are, however, a few exceptions to the rule, and this means the use of completely different colors and styles. And then, of course, there is the headgear, which varies depending on the country and police force in question. Curious? Click on and check out what police uniforms look like around the world.

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.

Historical facts about the world's famous symbols

Symbols have always played a significant role in human civilization. Various cultures have employed symbols as a means of self-expression. From the prehistoric era, men would engrave their life experiences on cave walls, never imagining that we would still be discussing them centuries later. Today, we continue to utilize many symbols that have been passed down through generations. Whether in religion, political ideology, or art, we encounter these symbols in our daily lives, often unaware of their true origins and significance. If you wish to delve deeper into the meanings behind the world's most prevalent symbols, take a look through this gallery.

The world’s hottest peppers, and where to eat them

You've probably come across some spicy peppers in your life, thinking that it couldn't get any hotter than that. The truth is, however, that the peppers you've tried are probably far milder than the peppers that reach the top of the Scoville scale. And if you're not familiar with the world of chilies, know that they're all measured for hotness in their own unit of measurement: Scoville Heat Units (SHU). Previously, the pepper with the highest SHU was the Carolina Reaper. It was created by Ed Currie, founder of the aptly named Puckerbutt Pepper Company in South Carolina, and took the record in 2013. However, Currie has now cultivated an even more punishing chili: the ominously named Pepper X. The Carolina Reaper averaged around 1.64 million SHU, but Pepper X reaches an unimaginable 2.69 million. The numbers have been confirmed by Guinness World Records and Pepper X has officially been awarded the title of the world's hottest pepper. For reference, Pepper X is said to be 1,000 times spicier than the average jalapeño! So, want to find out which other peppers would leave you with a fiery burn? Then check out this gallery!

Reel life: The best biopic films ever made

In this gallery, we look back at all the biopics that have won Best Picture over the years at the Academy Awards.

Mountains that cross international borders

In the vast wilderness of our planet, landscapes can rise into the sky to create mountainous formations that astonish the eye. These natural titans were forged by millennia of geological upheaval, but while there are some really old mountains scattered around the world, not all of them stretch over multiple countries. Yet what of the ones that do? Click through this gallery to see which mountains are the pride of more than a single nation.

Exploring the mysterious 'Gate of Hell' and its location

Regardless of religious traditions or beliefs about the existence of hell, there is a place here on Earth, in the middle of a desert in Turkmenistan, which has been named the “Gates of Hell.” Believed to be the result of an industrial accident, the Darvaza Crater has been burning gas (mostly methane) since the 1970s, releasing harmful greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, negatively affecting the health of people living nearby, wasting valuable natural gas resources, and causing environmental damage. But despite these concerns, there is a consensus among experts that any attempt to close the Gates of Hell would not only be dangerous and expensive, but also unsuccessful. The Turkmenistan government has repeatedly mentioned the possibility of sealing the crater. Meanwhile, long-time visitors to Darvaza note that the flames are much smaller than they used to be. “I would say it’s only burning at around 40% of the level I first witnessed there in 2009,” says Dylan Lupine, one of the pioneers in bringing tourists to Turkmenistan. “Before there were more flames than now, probably because the gas pocket is wearing out,” he says. Many believe that this fiery crater is associated with evil and it is indeed a popular tourist destination. Want to know more? Click through the following gallery.

The most atheist countries in the world

Atheism, the belief that there is no God, has been on the rise globally. But what does this mean for different cultures and societies? Is it simply a rejection of religion, or something more complex? Recent studies show how, from the staunchly secular nations of Europe to the spiritually rich cultures of Asia, the landscape of atheism varies widely. One particular finding highlights how nonbelief in God does not necessarily rule out belief in other supernatural phenomena, as most atheists and agnostics express some type of supernatural belief. From historical to societal and technological shifts, click through this gallery to uncover what could be driving people across the globe away from traditional ideas of religion.

The most breathtaking hiking trails in the USA

Across the United States, trails wind through landscapes vast and varied, inviting us into the heart of the wild. From the secluded creeks of Alabama to the grand vistas of Wyoming, each path tells a story, each step a new discovery. These aren't just hikes; they are adventures that challenge and inspire, connecting us to the natural world in profound ways. This collection of hikes offers a glimpse into the breathtaking beauty that lies waiting in America's great outdoors. Whether it's the historic paths of the Appalachian Trail or the serene beauty of the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT), there's a journey for every explorer. Click through to uncover the trails that promise not just a walk, but an experience to remember.

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.

These are the most colorful cities in the world

The world is filled with incredible vistas that would leave anyone speechless. However, some man-made environments are also considered colorful wonders to behold. From Poland to Brazil, take a look at the following images of the most colorful cities in the world. So sit back, relax, and be amazed.

The history and mystery of the Devil's Bridge

Located in the northern region of Portugal, on the border separating Montalegre and Vieira do Minho, stands an ancient bridge rumored to have been constructed by the Devil. Spanning the picturesque Rabagão River in the midst of the verdant Gerês mountain range, the Misarela Bridge is a mystical destination that should not be overlooked. Dive into the captivating tale behind the origins of this mysterious structure and discover the supernatural scares experienced by its visitors to this day.

Top tips for a happy retirement

After decades of getting up and going to work most days of the week, the shift to retirement can be tricky. Some people even experience a sense of being lost, and struggle to find purpose. It is worth remembering, however, that retirement can be a great opportunity to finally start doing all those things you wanted to do but never had time for. With this in mind, are you ready to start planning? Check out this gallery for some top tips for a happy retirement!

World War II submarines that disappeared without a trace

Submarines have since their introduction been key during naval warfare, and indeed played an important role during World War II. From Allied subs to German U-boats, naval fleets would not be the same without them. Though just as planes crashed and ships sank, many submarines and their crews also met their fate during the war. Some of them, however, simply disappeared without a trace. In this gallery, we look back at some of the WWII subs that disappeared for unknown reasons, and still have never been found. Click on to discover them.

The untold stories behind iconic works of art

Many works of art hide mysteries and secrets that we are not aware of at first glance. Behind the canvases of great artists, such as Leonardo da Vinci, Van Gogh, or Pablo Picasso are subliminal messages, hidden secrets, and details that you never knew were there. Uncover the greatest secrets hidden in classic works of art in the following gallery!