Lifestyle

Just how old are Disney princesses and princes?

Disney has become a reference when it comes to animated fairy tales ever since 'Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs' debuted in 1937. The plot of these stories often involves a young woman who fights against evil forces, goes through a number of adventures, and, of course, falls in love. This young woman is often born or married into royalty. Then we have the princes, who are usually either established royals or somehow become one. Over the years, Disney have played around with these stories, and indeed introduced new ones more relatable to current audiences. Still, some of these princesses and princes are indeed quite young. Not only that, but some of these relationship have considerable age gaps... Curious? Click on to find out how old your favorite Disney princesses and princes are.

The most dangerous volcanic regions in 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.

30 things to do in the US at least once in your life

The US is a huge and diverse nation that can awe any traveler with its large number of attractions and activities. From star-studded Los Angeles to historical Boston, this is a country where you can explore cities packed with world-famous landmarks and iconic food. This is also where you can explore incredible nature, like the jaw-dropping Grand Canyon and the natural wonders of Alaska. So, whether you enjoy getting lost in a concrete jungle or hiking mountain trails, these are the best things to do in the US. Click on to get started.

Why comfort is important, and how to make your life more cozy

Who doesn't love being comfortable? It might not seem like coziness is a feeling that needs or deserves too much thought or importance, but being comfortable is the cornerstone of a happy and healthy life. Being comfortable in your body, your home, your surroundings, and the people you find yourself with is far more important than many people might think. Self-esteem, healthy habits, a fulfilling work life and a happy home life all rely on comfortability to make a real difference. It can be easy to forgot about betting cozy in the hustle and bustle of daily life, but there are little changes you can make to ensure that being comfortable is always a priority. Read on the learn why being comfortable is important, and how to make it happen.

Calling in on Connecticut

Connecticut, one of the original Thirteen Colonies, is one of America's smaller states. But this New England destination is big on visitor attractions. History and literature go hand in hand in Connecticut, with the former residences of authors Mark Twain and Harriet Beecher Stowe both open to the public. Hartford, the capital city, is also home to the country's oldest public art museum, while the delightfully evocative town of Essex is keeper of one of the oldest continuously run taverns in the United States. Indeed, Connecticut exudes a rich maritime, literary, and national heritage—and it's all waiting to be explored. Curious? Then click through and call in on Connecticut.

America's oldest ranches are worth a fortune

Delve into the history and adventure of America's oldest ranches, dating back to the 1800s. From King Ranch in Texas to Lonely Dell Ranch in Arizona, experience the Wild West through cowboys, cattle, cabins and corrals.

Dubai: After last-minute dash through floods, UAE teens catch flight, win int'l tournament

With their luggage missing, the youngsters entered the competition without their UAE jerseys — but what they didn’t lack was the motivation to perform for the country

Can you guess the most densely populated country in the world? (Hint: it’s not China)

The world is one big place, but humans tend to concentrate in specific areas, some of which are really crowded. On the other hand, there are vast stretches of land on our planet that are largely uninhabited. Population density varies greatly, depending on where you are in the world. Some unassuming small places have a very high number of people per square mile/kilometer, while some populous cities are not as dense as they seem. Curious? Click through and learn some fascinating facts about population density.

The 30 freest countries in the world

One of the benchmarks of human progress is measured in the amount of freedom people experience in a given country. However, it's something that's not easy to determine objectively. The Cato Institute in Washington, D.C. and the Fraser Institute in Vancouver, Canada, co-publish the annual Human Freedom Index Report, which observes the relationship between freedom and other social and economic phenomena. Personal freedom might be described as our ability to voice our opinion, equality experienced before the courts, and the ease of travel to/from a country. Economic freedom is the ability of people in that country to do well, without the need for government assistance or an economic authority. To calculate the final Human Freedom score, personal freedom and economic freedom are measured and combined, then compared to the scores of other countries. Curious to know if your country made the top 30? Click on to find out!

Earth seen from space and other amazing celestial snapshots

The remarkable photographs captured in space by astronauts on board orbiting space shuttles and the International Space Station provide a fresh perspective of our planet. These images depict countries and continents with astonishing clarity, showcasing cities and natural marvels in sharp detail. Moreover, they offer a captivating glimpse into weather patterns and atmospheric phenomena, often revealing astonishing and occasionally unsettling features. And in addition to our own planet, these images unveil stunning close-ups of the sun and the moon. Take a voyage through this gallery to explore a breathtaking assortment of photographs taken beyond the boundaries of our world.

True stories about ancient Rome they didn't tell you in school

From as early as the eighth century BCE, ancient Rome experienced remarkable growth, transforming from a small settlement into a vast empire that spanned across continental Europe, Britain, western Asia, and North Africa. The impact it left behind is far-reaching, encompassing the adoption of Romance languages, the development of the alphabet, and the creation of the calendar. Our perception of ancient Rome often revolves around emperors, gladiators, and awe-inspiring architecture. However, there are numerous aspects of this phenomenal empire that remain unfamiliar to us. If you're eager to discover about the wonders of ancient Rome, explore the gallery.

Is your cat bad for the environment?

Don't let the tiny pawprints and charming whiskers fool you: your feline companion may be much more fierce than you think, and if they spend any time outdoors, they're likely disrupting the natural local ecosystem! Indeed, countless studies have shown that cats are an invasive predator, meaning that they disrupt the natural food chains that exist in nature when they go outside and kill animals that are native to the region. However, some argue that outdoor cats can actually benefit the ecosystem. So, which is it? Check out this gallery to discover the arguments on both sides.

Inside the secret doomsday city designed by one man

Nestled in the wilds of South Dakota, we step inside Vivos xPoint, the world's largest bunker community in the world.

How Book Industry Leaders Attract Young Readers?

In 2002, Diwan bookstore opened in Cairo as a neighborhood bookstore on a corner on 26th of July Street on the upscale island of Zamalek in central Cairo. The concept of going into a bookstore to browse books displayed neatly on bright shelves that range from classics and best sellers to ficti

The eerie mystery of Japan's Devil Sea

The Bermuda Triangle is famous for its mysterious disappearances. However, there is a lesser-known region in the Pacific Ocean that is equally infamous for its stories of unexplained disappearances and seemingly supernatural activity. Intrigued? Click through the gallery and discover the fascinating secrets of the Devil's Sea.

The countries that will most likely survive climate change

From rising temperatures and sea levels, to worsened air pollution and droughts, no place or person on the planet is left untouched by the effects of climate change. However, there are some countries that stand to be less affected than others. Be it due to their location, laws, luck, or even all three, some nations are better equipped than others to survive climate change. To paint a more nuanced picture, the Notre Dame Global Adaptation Initiative (ND-GAIN) ranked the world's countries across two metrics: vulnerability (their ability to adapt to climate change’s negative effects) and readiness (their ability to prepare for climate change's ongoing impact). This gallery includes the ND-GAIN score, and the nation's income group provided by the World Bank. So, which countries made the top 30? Click on to find out!

Booted! North American cities that lost sports franchises

Fans of the NHL's Arizona Coyotes are still hurting after the team they've followed with dedication for nearly three decades is being relocated to Salt Lake City ahead of the 2024-2025 season. Of course, it's not the first time sports fans have had to deal with the news that their favorite team is no longer to be based in their home city. In fact, since the 1940s, dozens of sports franchises across North America have made the decision to relocate, usually to be rebranded as a result. But what are some of the more high-profile and controversial moves that have taken place over the last several decades or so? Click through and discover the cities that lost sports franchises.

Super73 Has New Special Editions E-Bikes Built For Every Rider

A perfect beach cruiser or commuter with style.

Watch: Dubai Airports back to full capacity as roads cleared of floods

Thousands of employees across the aviation sector worked together to restore operations and support guests at both DXB and DWC

Insightful inspiration for your day trips

From historical hideaways and culinary adventures to stargazing soirees and homegrown brewery tours, this guide offers a diverse range of activities for you to engage in just for a day. Whether you seek a nature retreat, an artistic escape, or a coastal getaway, each suggestion provides for a memorable day excursion. Uncover the richness of nearby towns, engage in cultural immersions, or simply indulge in a spa day. Let these inspiring ideas be your passport to rejuvenation, exploration, and the joy of creating lasting memories just a drive away. Swipe through for more!

Domestic Air Traffic Touches New Single-Day High By Ferrying 4.71 Lakh Passengers, Surpasses Pre-Covid Record

As per the official data, the domestic air traffic soared to a new single-day peak of 4,71,751 passengers on Sunday. This number surpassed the pre-Covid average count of 3,98,579 by over 14 per cent. On April 21, the civil aviation ministry reported 4,71,751 domestic air passengers availed of the air travel service and 6,128 flights operated. This is higher than the domestic air traffic of 4,28,389 passengers and 5,899 flights recorded on April...

The enigmatic stories of the English Channel

The English Channel is one of the most recognized waterways on the planet. Separating Southern England from northern France, this is the busiest shipping area in the world, with as many as 500 vessels a day plying the narrow seaway. The scene of battles, invasions, and heroic deeds of endeavor, the English Channel's location has given it immense significance over the centuries. Seen as both a route and a barrier, this celebrated body of water has a history as complex and as unpredictable as the currents and tides that rip through its depths. Click through the following gallery for an entertaining and fact-finding voyage around the English Channel.

Dubai and Abu Dhabi hotels ranked inside world's top 20 in Tripadvisor Awards 2024

Tripadvisor has named the best hotels to stay in around the world in 2024 and two UAE properties make the cut. The world's largest travel guidance platform unveiled its list of winners on Tuesday, and included the Ritz-Carlton Dubai and Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers in its top 20 ranking based on Tripadvisor reviews. Ritz-Carlton Dubai is one of t...

The origins of your favorite carnival rides

Amusement and theme parks across the world feature some of the most iconic carnival and fairground attractions ever created, things like the Ferris wheel, the rollercoaster, and the carousel. But have you ever wondered when these spectacular rides were invented, and by whom? Click through and enjoy the thrill of finding out!

The princes of the Tower of London: a mystery soon to be solved?

Paris Hilton reveals heartwarming meaning behind daughter's middle name

Paris Hilton reveals the inspiration behind her baby girl's full name.

Mick Fanning: surfing legend marred by family tragedy

How exactly do they refuel a plane midair?

Did you know that the first attempt to refuel an aircraft midair involved a man physically carrying a can of aviation gasoline strapped to his back and climbing from one plane to another? Fortunately, air-to-air refueling has come a long way since that dangerous experiment back in the 1920s. Today, aerial refueling is a highly sophisticated, precision-operated maneuver. But how did the vital process of transferring aviation fuel from one aircraft to another evolve? Click through and fill up with this fascinating history of air-to-air refueling.

The countries with the largest forests on earth

It is no small thing to say that forests have an important role in the health of the planet. Aside from being a source of paper and fuel, trees are the second-largest contributor to all of the earth's oxygen, second only to the ocean. But forests as we know them are always at risk. Half of the forestry that the earth has lost since the last ice age has occurred in the past 100 years, thanks largely to industrialization and agriculture. But where are the world's biggest forests located? And how big are they compared to all land on earth? Click through this gallery to see which countries boast the world's largest forests.

Fascinating facts about beaches and sand

Did you know that some sand is formed from fish poop? Or that there's a beach made entirely from cockle shells? Where is the tallest sand dune on the planet located? Yup, there are some amazing facts about beaches and sand you probably don't know about. Coast through this list and, er, sea for yourself. Click on!

8 over-budget megaprojects that STILL haven't been built

From a billion-dollar airport to railway projects that have gone decidedly off the tracks, we explore some of the world's most notoriously problematic megaprojects...

Chinese Woman Taking Photos Near Crater's Edge Dies After Falling Into Active Indonesia Volcano

A Chinese tourist jumped to her death while attempting to click photos near an Indonesian volcano, where she had gone along with her husband to watch the sunrise. Ijen volcano, which is known for its blue fire emission, is a popular tourist spot in Indonesia. The 31-year-old woman who slipped from the edge of the crater of Ijen was warned by her tour guide multiple times to keep a safe distance from the volcano as she was posing for photos. The...

Float on: the evolution of the seaplane

A little over 100 years ago, landing a plane on water was simply unthinkable. But very soon, designs were being drawn up that enabled a fixed-wing aircraft to do just that. The idea quickly took off, and the invention of the seaplane marked an important step forward in the history of aviation. And while its heyday was in the 1920s and '30s, the seaplane is still seen today in skies across the world. But how exactly did this type of aircraft evolve, and who are its earliest pioneers? Click through and find out more about the seaplane.

The safest countries to avoid natural disasters

From earthquakes to volcanic eruptions, floods to droughts, each year natural disasters affect millions of people around the world. While countries can lower the number of casualties with good security measures and infrastructure, no one can really prevent nature's force. To better evaluate which countries are most and least at risk, however, the WorldRiskReport ranked 193 countries on their risk of experiencing disaster or vulnerability to extreme natural events. According to the findings, the Philippines, India, and Indonesia have the highest overall disaster risk. But which countries is Mother Nature least likely to wreak havoc on? Check out this gallery for the top 30 safest countries when it comes to natural disasters.

The weirdest celebration traditions in the world

On a planet with over eight billion people, spread across some 195 countries, it’s no wonder there are many weird and wonderful ways for people to celebrate. From tomato battles in Spain to wife-carrying races in Finland, these traditions offer a glimpse into the playful, unexpected, and sometimes downright peculiar aspects of humankind. Intrigued? Click through this gallery to discover some of the world’s most intriguing traditions.

How dogs became man’s best friend

Many people don't think twice about having a dog in the home, and indeed it has been the norm for longer than any of us can remember. But have you ever wondered how those living animals in our most intimate of spaces evolved from wild predator to cuddly playmate? Dogs are worshipped in society, and the billion-dollar pet industry is proof of that. But dogs as we know them weren’t always dogs, and they weren’t always our best friends. So why the affinity with this species in particular? Various theories exist surrounding how canines became domesticated, and though there is still an air of mystery around it, new research (as recent as 2021) continues to form our understanding of the origin of our beloved companions. Click through to see the fascinating transformation of the human species' one true furry friend.

Photos: hot looks and celebrities at Coachella 2024

Life after 8 years in captivity: The kidnapping and escape of Natascha Kampusch

These US destinations are straight out of a fairy tale

Discover the charm of the USA with its enchanting storybook cottages and magical ice castles. Immerse yourself in a world of picturesque beauty as you explore these fairy-tale spots across the country. This gallery showcases the breathtaking destinations that should be at the top of your travel wishlist. Don't miss out, start planning your magical journey today! Click through to get started.

Etihad launches 'Airbus A380' to New York

ABU DHABI, 23rd April, 2024 (WAM) -- Etihad Airways flight EY1 from Abu Dhabi to New York arrived at John F. Kennedy International Airport on Monday, heralding the start of the airline's A380 double-decker service featuring The Residence, the legendary, sumptuous three-room suite in the sky.Antonoaldo Neves, CEO of Etihad Airways, said, "We're thrilled to introduce our A380 experience to New York, confident that our guests will relish the...

Going green: 10 natural spots you can visit in the UAE before it gets too hot

When the concrete jungle concrete jungle-s too much… Contrary to popular opinion, there is much green to see in the UAE. Beyond the confines and stretches of the bustling cities, no doubt, but it is there and it may even surprise you. Natural beauty in the UAE has always been a question of sorts, with […]

Sinking boats, disemboweling sharks: Why orcas are evil geniuses

Despite being dubbed the "killer whale," the orca has enjoyed a pretty family-friendly image, whether it's putting on shows with humans at Sea World or starring in 'Free Willy.' But just like how its classification as a whale is misleading (it's actually the largest subspecies of the dolphin family), so too is its friendly reputation. Orcas live in all the world's oceans, from the Arctic Ocean and Antarctica to warmer tropical seas, and in every single one they are menaces, apex predators at the top of the food chain, ruling with an iron fin! Massive, agile, and extremely intelligent, they are the most powerful and deadly animals in the water. And as if that weren't enough, there have been increasing reports lately of their species serial killing, vengefully sinking boats, torturing other animals for sport, and more. Have we got your attention? Then click through to learn more about the evil genius of orcas.

Travelling Africa alongside Russ Cook: 'I’d do the whole thing again'

When people dream of holidays in Africa, their thoughts are often of wildlife safaris. Kruger National Park, the Maasai Mara, the Serengeti, the Ngorongoro Crater and others rank high on many travellers’ bucket lists. But when you’ve set yourself the challenge to run the entire length of Africa, there’s no time, energy, or finances for safaris. Tha...

The most powerful cities 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.

Delhi Traffic Today: Hanuman Janmotsav Celebration Likely To Cause Disruptions, Check Alternate Routes And Diversions

Delhi Traffic Advisory for Hanuman Janmotsav: Thousands of devotees are expected to throng the Hanuman Temple located at Delhi’s Baba Kharak Singh Marg to celebrate Hanuman Janmotsav. Owing to the suspected traffic congestion, the Delhi Police on Monday issued an advisory to ensure seamless movement of traffic in the area. According to Delhi Traffic Police, approximately 50,000-60,000 devotees could gather for this event. Additionally, a...

Our beach break in Egypt was cheap compared to the Med with apartments under £100 per night and family meals costing just £30

Richard Eden checks into Soma Bay along the Red Sea Riviera in Egypt. The area's coral reefs are considered one of the seven wonders of the underwater world.

Not-to-do list: what it is, and why you should make one

“Please, not another list!” We hear you, but this one is different, we promise! You often make lists of stuff you want/have to do, right? This time, though, you’ll do the exact opposite—you'll make a list of the stuff you don’t want to do. Enter: the not-to-do list. This is a great way to simplify your life, prioritize what’s important, and improve your productivity and well-being. In this gallery, we explain what a not-to-do list consists of, its pros and cons, and provide examples that you can include in yours. Ready? Click on to learn all about it.

Holiday in Turkey: fabulous places you should visit

EU biometric border rules are delayed again

The new 'entry-exit' system (EES) is due to launch in October this year but industry sources believe it will be postponed until at least 2025.

These countries that are more successful than their neighbors