Lifestyle

The surprising benefits of daydreaming

Whether you're a serial daydreamer or you just like to dabble here and there, we all engage in the art of daydreaming sometimes. Be it waiting for the bus, or as a means of putting off that dreaded task at work, letting our minds escape is a great way to get some respite during a busy day. Luckily for the daydreaming fans, there is a lot to be said for drifting off. In fact, there are many proven benefits to daydreaming. Curious? Check out this gallery to learn more.

Hidden attractions of South and Central America

South and Central America—often collectively referred to as Latin America— are well-trodden destinations. But hidden away in some of the 20-odd countries found from Mexico to the southern tip of the South American continent are places that still remain relatively unexplored. Click through the gallery and discover Latin America off the beaten track.

Aircrafts that disappeared mysteriously

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.

How volcanic is Europe?

Europe is not necessarily regarded as a world volcano hotspot. Millions of years ago, however, much of the continent was shaped by violent volcanic and seismic events. The reason behind Europe’s volcanic activity is because it is located between the Eurasian Plate and the African Plate, a prime area for volcanism. For its part, Iceland is a huge hotspot, sitting as it does on a rift between the Eurasian Plate and the North American Plate. And Europe's islands, the Canaries for example, and those in the Mediterranean, have long suffered the consequences of frequent, often lethal volcanic eruptions. According to the Smithsonian Institution’s Global Volcanism Program, a volcano is called "active" when it has erupted within the last 10,000 years. So, how many active volcanoes are there in Europe, and are those classified as dormant likely to vent their anger any time soon? Click through and discover Europe's most volcanic areas.

Wednesday’s rapid fire: United Airlines, J.B. Hunt, ASML, Tapestry and Alcoa

CNBC’s Jim Cramer on Wednesday offered his quick thoughts on a number of stocks outside the Investing Club’s portfolio.

Why a 'sweet woman' bought Max Homa's Chick-fil-A on the way to the RBC Heritage

HILTON HEAD ISLAND, S.C. — One day after finishing tied for third at the Masters and cashing a check for more than $1 million, Max Homa had a fan pay for his Chick-fil-A at the drive-thru.

Foreign foods English speakers love to mispronounce

The cuisine in the English-speaking world is as varied and diverse as its population. As a result, there are terms constantly entering our vocabulary that prove to be a bit challenging with the English vernacular. With some pronunciations being a bit off and others being flat-out incorrect, here are 30 names of foods in this gallery that English speakers just can't seem to get right.

Extinct dog breeds you never knew existed

Humans have been breeding dogs for ages. After all, our four-legged best friends are faithful companions, and they've helped us in a number of tasks over the centuries, from hunting to herding. But like many other animals, some dog breeds went extinct. The reasons for this vary, but sadly we will never have the chance to see these dogs again. In this gallery, you will find a number of extinct dog breeds, many of which you probably never knew existed. Click on to learn all about these fascinating dogs from the past.

Travel hotspots! Countries with the highest UV levels

The ultraviolet index (UVI) is a measure of the level of UV radiation. UVI 3 is the level above which sun protection is recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO). But some of the most popular vacation destinations on the planet regularly experience a UVI of anywhere between 8 and 11. This means anybody failing to cover up in such conditions runs the risk of damaging their health, not least by promoting the onset of skin cancer. But how do you interpret UVI, and where in the world are some of the worst travel hotspots? Click through and discover the countries with the greatest UV levels.

A brief history of panda diplomacy

In a recent instance of panda diplomacy, China has finalized agreements to send two sets of giant pandas to spend their extended holidays in the US and Spain. A lesser-known diplomatic tactic, animal diplomacy is a popular method deployed by governments looking to expand their soft power. Curious? Check out this gallery to learn more.

Alaska Airlines is GROUNDED by FAA due to 'technical problem'

The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration has grounded all Alaska Airlines planes.

Countries with the most beauty queens and kings in the world

The behavior of British royals during times of war and peace

If you've ever wondered what the British royal family gets up to from day to day, the answer is quite a lot! From traveling all over the world on diplomatic visits, to getting involved with charity work just around the corner from their home, members of the British royal family have a number of responsibilities to keep them busy. Those responsibilities do differ, however, depending on whether or not the country is at war. Curious? Check out this gallery to learn more.

United Soars as Outlook Eases Worry Over Boeing Deliveries

United Airlines Holdings Inc.’s shares surged the most in more than three years after the carrier forecast better-than-expected profit this quarter, tempering concerns that Boeing Co. aircraft delays and regulatory pressure will put expansion plans at risk.

What physics says about time travel

The concept of time travel has captivated readers and moviegoers for many decades now. But while people have been fascinated by the idea, no one has managed to make the notion of time travel any more of a reality than before. It seems like a dream that's just a bit too far from reach. But in an age where science continues to push the boundaries of what's possible, do we even know—in theory—what the physics of time travel might involve? Curious? Click on to discover what we know so far about the prospect of journeying through time.

What are eVTOL aircraft, and can they fly against the hype?

In April 2024, a Japanese company took delivery of an electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft, otherwise known as an eVTOL. Called Prosperity 1 and built by Chinese manufacturer AutoFlight, the aircraft is one of the very first examples of a production model eVTOL sold commercially. Fifteen years ago, the notion of an eVTOL was just a concept, with sceptics branding the idea as science fiction. Today, the sale of Prosperity 1 marks a major milestone in the development of what's known as Advanced Air Mobility, and with it the prospect of air taxis becoming a reality by the end of the decade. But who's responsible for introducing eVTOL, and how has this revolutionary method of travel evolved? Click through and launch this gallery that explains more about eVTOL aircraft.

Countries where you have to pay to be a tourist

If you've traveled, you've likely paid a tourist tax before. However, you may have never noticed it, as it's often worked into airline tickets or the taxes you pay at your accommodation. Originally, tourist tax was introduced by certain governments with the aim of tempering over-tourism and generating income from large numbers of travelers entering the destination. Now, the money from the tax also goes to protecting natural resources and maintaining tourism facilities. Intrigued? Click on to discover the countries that charge a tourist tax.

Rains in UAE: Residents use makeshift boats to buy groceries, travel in flooded streets

Some were asking makeshift boat and kayak operators to transport them as it was quite a challenge to walk through fully submerged footpaths and roads

These historic buildings were demolished... But why?

Over time, our architectural aspirations as a society have evolved in impressively futuristic ways. However, it is important to realize that these new buildings were built on the foundations of their predecessors. Unfortunately, this means many of our old architectural marvels have not withstood the test of time. Many beautiful old buildings such as libraries, churches, theaters, and museums have either been destroyed by wars or torn down to make way for parking lots and highways. Click through this gallery and take a closer look at these remnants of architectural history to better understand our past.

Delta Is Giving Away an Epic Trip to the Paris Olympics This Summer — but You Have to Enter Soon

Très chic!

The best (and worst) US cities for immigrants

The quest for a better life, propelled by dreams of opportunity and freedom, has always been a driving force behind the wave of immigration to the United States. Yet, the experience of settling in a new country varies widely from city to city. From the tech hubs of the West Coast to the bustling streets of the East Coast, each city offers its unique blend of challenges and opportunities for immigrants. This gallery explores the best and worst American cities for immigrants, shedding light on the stark contrasts in the reception and support they might encounter. You might be surprised by the cities that top the list as welcoming havens, as well as those that present unexpected hurdles. For a closer look at what makes these cities stand out, for better or worse, click through the gallery.

US tourists trapped in Dubai traumatized by floods

American tourists are stuck in Dubai after the desert nation was hit with 'historic' floods that drenched the city and shut down its airport.

The popular destinations you can't visit in 2024

In 2024, your wanderlust may encounter unexpected roadblocks as some of the world's most iconic destinations temporarily close their doors. From the ancient steps of the Acropolis to the shadowy corridors of Paris' Catacombs, this year marks a pause for some of the globe's most treasured sites. Another addition to the growing list is one of Hawaii's great attractions on the island of Oahu. Mayor of Honolulu Rick Blangiardi revealed that the iconic Haiku Stairs will be removed by the end of April. The twisting staircase passes through a 2,800-foot mountain trail in Kaneohe, Eastern Oahu. It was created by the US Navy during World War II and was officially closed to the public in 1987. However, hikers and tourists continued to ignore signs and barriers, accessing the stairs which have become increasingly dangerous. The problem has only worsened in the age of social media influencers. In 2021, the Honolulu City Counsel voted unanimously to remove the stairs. “This decision that was made was predicated upon our respect for the people who live in and around the entrance to the stairs, our respect for our ʻāina [land and sea], and our respect for both the future and the past history of the culture of the Haʻikū community,” added Mayor Blangiardi. Residents in the area have reportedly been dealing with disturbances from trespassers for decades, who put the treasured natural landmark at risk. Under the banner of preservation and enhancement, these closures offer a moment of reflection on the delicate balance between our desire to explore and the need to protect our cultural and natural heritage. As you delve into this gallery, discover the surprising, and sometimes hidden, reasons behind the inaccessibility of these famed locations. Click through to explore a world of closed doors and the stories they hold within.

The most daring prison breaks of all time

Correctional facilities are known for their high levels of security, making it hard to believe that some inmates are able to successfully escape from prison. The act of breaking out requires a combination of luck, skill, creativity, and occasionally, sheer brute strength. Throughout history, there have been many occasions where prisoners have triumphantly managed to escape from the most heavily guarded prisons. Intrigued? Click through this gallery to discover some of the most clever methods used by prisoners to escape from jail.

Places with the same name: Be careful not to buy a plane ticket to the wrong destination!

There's nothing more exciting than looking for the next place to visit. All you can think about is relaxing, meeting new people and enjoying different cultures. But beware not to spoil your vacation by buying a plane ticket to the wrong place... In this gallery you'll find a list of places that have the same name, but are actually totally different. Check them out!

Infamously bad celebrity hotel guests

When you've spent time a hotel room, chances are the most havoc you've wreaked was raiding the hotel mini-bar. But that's not the case for many A-listers. Hotels are supposed to be discreet with their celebrity guests, but the rich and famous have been notoriously creative with their destructive behavior. From '70s rock icons to kid actors-turned-troublemakers, stars have ended up owing a lot of money in damages; some have even been slapped with lifelong bans. So, click through the gallery to find out: which stars are considered the worst hotel guests ever?

Mexico deal alert: Fly to Cancun, Cozumel, Merida and Tulum from $223 round-trip

Flights to Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula from various U.S. cities are as low as $223 round-trip on various airlines in the summer and fall.

Top comeback cities that deserve a visit

When a city is affected by war or a natural disaster, it can take a long time for that city to recover. Cities have been known to spend years, sometimes even decades, recovering from tragedy, and during that time tourism often takes a hit. But some cities are quicker than others to put themselves back on the map. Check out this gallery to find out which cities have made a remarkable comeback and are definitely now worth a visit.

The most famous kidnappings in history: where are they now?

These people were abducted and survived long periods of terror and captivity. In this gallery we unveil what happened and where the victims are now. Take a look at these terrifying stories.

The 30 countries with the best weather in the world

Welcome, weather enthusiasts! Let's embark on a global weather tour, shall we? From pristine beaches to charming cities, we'll explore the top 30 countries where Mother Nature has mastered the art of perfect weather. Whether you're seeking perpetual sunshine or a balanced climate, this guide is your passport to ideal conditions. So get that sunblock ready and start your adventure engines as we dive in! Swipe through to see this list of 30 countries that have the most welcoming weather.

The mysterious beauty of ancient Maya monuments

The ancient Maya civilization left behind it a remarkable architectural legacy, a collection of fabulous must-see monuments found in Mexico, Belize, Guatemala, Honduras, and El Salvador. Browse the gallery and visit some of Central America's most outstanding archaeological sites.

Metropolitan Museum of Art Returns Artifact to Iraq After Internal Research

The artifact entered the museum's collection in 1955.

The cheapest summer holiday getaway destinations are revealed... which could save you hundreds of pounds

Families after a cheap summer getaway should head for the Costa Brava, Italy's Amalfi Coast or lesser-known Greek islands.

The most popular holiday spots the year you were born

Where should you travel to this year? Well, if you're looking for inspiration, why not take a look at top destinations throughout the years? You might even end up visiting the most popular tourist destination in the year you were born! Click on to find out which were the most popular vacation spots from 1950 to 2009.

Did RAF deliberately bomb the Baedeker publishing house during war?

Dietrich Baedeker, born in Bremen in 1660, became a printer in Bielefeld but it was his descendent, Karl Baedeker, who established the publishing firm proper in 1827. Pictured: Canterbury

The best cities to visit with kids

City breaks tend to be hugely popular with child-free singles, couples, and groups of friends, but parents with young kids often ditch the big cities in favor of beach resorts or trips to the countryside. But having kids, toddlers, or babies along for the ride really doesn't have to mean taking city breaks off the travel agenda. Many cities around the world have a host of attractions aimed squarely at family visitors, along with stroller-friendly sidewalks and restaurants that make junior diners feel like valued customers. Ready for some inspo for your next family trip? Click through the gallery to discover the best cities to visit with kids.

Man charged with moving MILLIONS of dollars worth of Masters merch

Richard Globensky has been accused of transporting the items across state lines from Augusta, Georgia, to Tampa, Florida .

This is what a world without cars would be like

Indispensable on short, medium, and long trips, cars are such a part of our daily lives that we often cannot do without them. Unfortunately, they come with many disadvantages, the topmost being air pollution. What if we could implement measures that would make deciding to forgo our cars less complicated? Surely there would be numerous benefits!

Is your city the most powerful in the world?

There are many influential cities around the world. Each metropolis stands as a beacon of cultural, industrial, and financial importance. These urban giants boast a mix of strengths and challenges: some excel economically but are less livable, while others lead in eco-friendliness but lack cultural diversity. Measuring a city's global impact is complex given these different factors. Fortunately, the Mori Memorial Foundation has taken on the task of translating a myriad of details into understandable numbers. Since 2008, the Global Power City Index (GPCI) has meticulously assessed the influence and importance of cities around the world. In this gallery, we look at the top 27 based on their 2023 analysis. Curious? Click through the gallery and find out if your city is one of the most powerful cities in the world.

Three-Stock Lunch: Travelers, J.B. Hunt & United Airlines

Scott Nations, Nations Indexes president, joins 'Power Lunch' to discuss stock plays for three stocks, including Travelers, J.B. Hunt, and United Airlines.

Queen Letizia and Queen Maxima of The Netherlands at state banquet

Queen Letizia, 51, and her husband King Felipe of Spain are enjoying a two-day visit to the Dutch capital and The Hague.

Students set record for Most Ballerinas En Pointe Simultaneously

A whopping 353 ballerinas gathered inside the Manhattan hotel and completed an en pointe all at the same time - and stunning photos show the exact moment the dancers broke the record.

Life at Ellis Island immigration station

At the end of the 19th century, Ellis Island immigration station in New York became known as the gateway to America. Between 1892 and 1954, over 12 million immigrants entered the United States through Ellis Island alone. A key piece in the US immigration puzzle, Ellis Island was the point of entry for millions of people from all around the world, but mostly Europe. In this gallery, we look at what life was like at Ellis Island immigration station. Click on for a discovery!

Husqvarna Trek Heads To Spain For The First Time Ever

The event is scheduled for November 18 to 22, 2024.

Why preserving US national heritage is so important

The United States is blessed with some truly exceptional national heritage sites and cultural landmarks. Numbering numerous historic properties, these unique places connect Americans to their past. But little of this architecture would have survived the centuries were it not for the dedicated work of organizations like the National Trust for Historic Preservation, a leading member-driven movement whose aim is to support the preservation of America's diverse historic buildings, neighborhoods, and heritage through its programs, resources, and advocacy. Indeed, the idea is to protect the identity of a nation, where lives, stories, and memories began. Click through and visit some of America's most important cultural attractions.

On the road for 12 hours: UAE residents struggle to get home during heavy rains

Many walked for hours on end to get to safety, however, some were not able to return home until the next day

Welcome to the Iron Age holiday home modelled on ancient roundhouse

It is inspired by roundhouses which prominent Scots called home during the Iron Age. But visitors to The Broch on the Isle of Harris will find every 21st century comfort.

The secret life of bats

Bats can be found all over the globe, and are one of our greatest allies in the animal world. For instance, without bats, the world would have far fewer bananas and far more mosquito bites! As expert pollinators and insect enthusiasts, it is truly a shame that bats are still met with such scorn. Their association with the horrors of the night that began centuries ago with stories of vampires and witchcraft has ruined the reputation of these beautiful, hard-working, and generally harmless creatures. As with everything, the more you understand something, the less you fear it, so here are some bat facts to help set the record straight. Read on to learn everything you need to know about our flying nocturnal friends.

American landmarks: how many do you know?

The United States celebrates and commemorates its colorful and sometimes turbulent history with a collection of truly remarkable monuments and memorials. How many have you visited? Scroll through the gallery – and several hundred years of history – for a journey to some of America’s most dramatic and evocative cultural landmarks.

Explore the Pinnacles, one of the world's weirdest landscapes

Nambung National Park in Western Australia is famed for the Pinnacles Desert it encloses. The desert is so named for the astonishing collection of ancient limestone rock formations that protrude from the sand like the broken fingers of a long-dead giant. These structures draw visitors far and wide to the park, which is also celebrated for its fascinating variety of flora and fauna. Browse the gallery and be amazed by one of the planet's weirdest-looking desert regions.