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The world's strangest natural wonders

Mother Nature has endowed us with some truly majestic natural wonders. Spectacular in their beauty and grandeur, these attractions also number among the strangest and most bizarre on the planet. And the weirder the better, it seems. Click through this gallery and be amazed by these places of peculiar note.

The zodiac signs of some of the most important Americans

US history is filled with great philosophers, activists, empire builders, cultural icons, and, well, outlaws. Smithsonian Magazine has created a list of the zodiac signs that these famous (and infamous) Americans were born under. Who shares your sign? Click through the gallery to find out!

13 Amusement Parks in the U.S. That Are Completely Free to Enter

A few even charge you nothing for parking and entertainment. Amusement parks are synonymous with so many wonderful things: fun in the sun, rollercoasters and carousels, games galore and delicious food. And all in a colorful, jubilant, family-friendly setting. The only issue? Joy like that does not typically come cheap. Or can it? Well, at these 13 amusement parks across the U.S., from the Golden to the Garden States, you can save on one very important front: entry. While the vast majority of amusement parks — including Walt Disney World, Universal Studios and Busch Gardens — require tickets just to walk through the gates, these resorts and parks do not. Of course, if you want to ride the rides or snack on the snacks, you'll still have to open your wallet. (A good thing can only go so far!) But if you're someone who's more about the vibes than the rides, this is the list for you. Make sure you scroll to the bottom: There's one very famous park that's about to go "open gate" with its water parks for guests staying on property. (Hint: It's home to a special mouse!)

Bedding down in the lion's den: Inside a new bubble lodge at an animal reserve that offers a taste of Africa... in the wilds of KENT

Hannah Summers stays in the new Lookout Bubble at Port Lympne wildlife park. 'We're close enough to snack on, were it not for an electric fence,' she writes.

Historic bell replaced ahead of Flora Day

A new bell has been installed at Helston Guildhall after the old one shattered.

Fern Britton stalker drove 200 miles to stay in her holiday cottage

James Haviland, 63, from Basingstoke tracked down the star as part of a terrifying campaign against her which included staying at her home in Padstow, Cornwall.

Accommodation search as more Dublin tents appear

Efforts are under way to find accommodation for asylum seekers who set up camp along a canal bank.

3 surfers shot in the head while visiting Mexico were found dead in a well, in an area where tourists are usually safe

The two Australian brothers and their American friend were near Ensenada, a popular tourist spot, when they were reported missing last week.

Major train disruption for passengers due to landslip

Passengers are warned trains between London Paddington and Reading could be delayed or cancelled.

Father’s plan to swap aisle seats with passenger sparks debate on airplane etiquette: ‘Never switch’

Father’s plan to swap aisle seats with passenger sparks debate on airplane etiquette: ‘Never switch’ - ‘The kids will remember the confrontation,’ one person wrote

Mystery as British father, 65, goes missing in Thailand

David Goldthorpe, 65 from Edinburgh, was expected to return home on Sunday but never boarded his flight from Phuket to Doha, Thai police confirmed.

From holidays to shopping: eight discounts for UK over-60s you might not know about

Travel for free The UK state pension age has risen but many companies and organisations still hold on to “the big 6-0” as the point at which senior citizenship begins, and it continues to represent a money-saving milestone as a result. In Wales and Scotland you qualify for an older person’s free bus pass from the age of 60. You have to apply and provide proof of age and address and a passport-style photo. In Scotland you access free bus travel...

The up and down history of the airship

When the first airships took to the sky in the mid-19th century, the odd-looking vessels created an aviation sensation. Developed as a successor to the hydrogen balloon, the airship enjoyed its golden years in the 1920s and 1930s. But after the disaster that was the Hindenburg explosion in 1937, airship passenger travel effectively ended. Recently, however, the airship has enjoyed somewhat of a comeback, both as a commercial and military mode of transport. Click through for a uplifting flight through the history of the airship.

Zac Purton to ride Voyage Bubble in Yasuda Kinen as Ricky Yiu gives Japan trip green light

Trainer calls upon the services of the six-time champ in a potential clash with Romantic Warrior: 'He looks better day after day' Zac Purton will partner Voyage Bubble in the Group One Yasuda Kinen (1,600m) on June 2, with Ricky Yiu Poon-fai confirming it's all systems go towards the audacious overseas mission at Tokyo racecourse. Making his first ...

These Dog-Friendly Hotels Will Pamper Your Pup in Luxury

Save this for your next road trip.

What Cities Have the Highest and Lowest Average Incomes in 2024?

Living in big cities and making low or average incomes can feel financially impossible when considering overall cost of living, taxes and more. In the U.S., there's no single city that can tick off...

The most memorable designs in Met Gala history

The 15 oldest trees in the world

Are These Bucket List Trips Actually Worth The Hype?

You might just have to see it to believe it.

Boeing's Starliner capsule set for first crewed space flight in rivalry with SpaceX

By Joey Roulette and Steve Gorman CAPE CANAVERAL, Florida (Reuters) -Boeing's new Starliner spacecraft was poised for launch on Monday night on a much-delayed first crewed test flight to orbit, as the company scrambles to compete with Elon Musk's SpaceX for a greater share of lucrative NASA business. The CST-100 Starliner with two astronauts aboard was due for liftoff at 10:34 p.m. (0234 GMT on

American castles and palaces you didn't know existed

When we think of castles and palaces, Europe often comes to mind. But it turns out there are also some magnificent ones stateside. Sure, you won't find real medieval castles, but there are many historically-relevant and beautiful structures that are definitely worth a visit. In fact, the US is home to several palaces and castles that look like they're straight out of a fairy tale! Ready to embark on a historical journey through the grandest castles and palaces in America? Then click on!

30 Southern Hidden Gem Cities That Are Perfect for Retirees

Our study ranked the 30 best cities for retirement that are full of Southern charm — and also affordable.

American cities that look and feel like Europe

America’s European heritage can be found everywhere, but some cities and towns across the US really feel like they belong in the Old Continent. Many of these places were settled by European immigrants in the 18th and 19th centuries and their legacy continues to this day. From architecture to traditions, there are places in the US that truly look and feel like Europe. In this gallery, we take you on a journey across America and bring you a list of places you can visit if you’re looking for a European feel, without having to cross the Atlantic. Click on to get to know them.

In Conversation: Thai Superstar Naphat ‘Nine’ Siangsomboon On Evolving Beyond Typecast

It was a cool Monday evening when we drove half an hour out of Geneva to the historic Chateau d’Allaman. The castle is the site of the First International Summit of Peace and is where Swiss luxury watch Maison Franck Muller were celebrating the launch of their new Long Island Evolution timepieces. We alighted at […]

These Norwegian churches are the last of their kind in the world

Nestled in the hills and valleys of Norway’s hostile climate are a series of medieval buildings that are testaments to the test of time. These are the country’s stave churches, and they are significant not only in their architectural splendor, but also in their rich history. What's more, there are only 28 of them left in the whole world! Intrigued? Click through this gallery as we take a closer look at each of them.

22 Adults-Only Resorts for a Well-Deserved Vacation

These romantic retreats have everything you need—except children.

Body of missing Scots tourist recovered from Prague river

Joop Sparkes from Galashiels was reported missing after boarding a party boat on the Vltava river

Done Disney? These are America's alternative theme parks

From huge sites dotted with hair-raising roller coasters, to smaller family-owned affairs, the USA has no shortage of amusement parks.

The World’s 20 Most Beautiful Cities to Visit in Your Lifetime

Some standards and some surprises–all dazzling destinations to tempt you on your next trip.

Cuban president to visit Russia as nations draw closer

Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel announced Monday he is heading to Russia on a "working visit," as old allies Havana and Moscow strengthen ties under a recently initiated rapprochement. "The president left for Russia this evening," the Cuban presidency posted Monday on X, formerly Twitter.

What happens to the coins tossed into Rome's Trevi Fountain?

The Trevi Fountain in Rome is one of the city's most famous landmarks. It's celebrated for a tradition that goes back hundreds of years, the tossing of a coin into its waters for good luck. The amount of money deposited in the fountain is considerable. But where does all this loose change end up, and how is it used? Click through and find out how a centuries-old ritual is helping the poor and needy.

These are the happiest cities in the US

While money can't always buy happiness, a move to a new city might lead to a higher quality of life. A study from personal finance company WalletHub looked at 29 key happiness indicators in 182 of America's largest cities to find which ones had the happiest inhabitants. Those indicators fell under three categories: emotional and physical well-being, income and employment, and community and environment. Intrigued to find out which cities made the top 30? Then check out the following slides.

10 Best Florida Cities To Retire on $3,000 a Month

Many people prefer to retire to warm locales, where the climate is temperate, the scenery is lovely and the amenities are great. Learn More: 9 American Travel Brands to Stay Away From Read Next: Owe...

20 of America's Best Historic Homes You Definitely Have to Visit

Yes, it's time to plan a trip!

Truly Fascinating Places You Won't Believe Are in the United States

From lunar-like landscapes to European-style castles.

Fears for the future of Highland Games as events cancelled

They have long been a tradition in Scotland during the summer months, drawing in crowds from all over the world.

Moment sharks are spotted at beach in Menorca sparking closure

Moment sharks are spotted swimming at popular beach in Menorca sparking its closure. Coastguards hoisted the red flag and called emergency services after the fin of a seven-foot blue shark was seen above the water line, perilously close to the coast.

10 of the Most Unique Museums In the United States

Add these one-of-a-kind destinations to your travel bucket list.

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.

5 U.S. Airlines That Are Least Likely to Screw up Your Vacation

These airlines are your best bet for a smooth trip.

US officials probe claims Boeing workers falsified inspection records

Federal Aviation Administration says Boeing voluntarily informed officials that inspections may not have been completed.

The most terrifying places in the world

Travelling and visiting new places all over the world is always interesting, and there are many who can't live without it. But, when it comes to choosing the best location, there as some places in the world with some amazing history. Sometimes its the destinations that look just like paradise which are the most sought after, but why not travel to one of the most scariest places in the world? There are some places that are as beautiful as they are terrifying. From mysterious islands to deserted locations to the depths of the ocean, there are many to choose from. Take a look at the gallery to see some of the scariest places on the planet.

The most beautiful islands in Europe you've probably never heard of

Discover Europe's lesser-known but beautiful island destinations.

The world’s cleanest airports are in Asia, and Singapore Changi Airport ranks second

Airports are often rated and ranked for punctuality or entertainment and dining options available to passengers waiting before a flight, travelers can’t deny that cleanliness — in washrooms and other public areas — is a key element of comfort in any long journey. In this regard, Asian airports are setting an example for the world by being the cleanest. Empty soap dispensers, an absence of toilet paper, toilet seats that look dirty… the time...

Inside the luxury doomsday bunkers inspired by a Martian city

See inside the survival shelter inspired by a Martian city and Ancient Rome and built for the super-rich. Plus, explore the affordable but impenetrable Nomad Bunker for weathering the worst

Hate crowds? Try these 30 small and secluded countries

From far-flung coral atolls and splendidly sleepy archipelagos to isolated mountainous republics, these tiny crowd-free countries are perfect for a relaxing holiday.

At The Heart of Melbourne’s Culture Scene: Hotel Indigo Melbourne

To consider Melbourne’s Hotel Indigo, you cannot merely look at it as a hotel. It is defined by several factors: Melbourne’s richly metropolitan status, its location by the heart of Melbourne, the artistic history of the avenue it is in, and its association with InterContinental Hotel Group (IHG). Its location is perhaps the most obvious reason for its popularity. The hotel is situated just down the street from Southern Cross Station, which has...

Which type of meditation is right for you?

Meditation is an ancient tradition that has roots in many different cultures and spiritual practices. Despite the religious origins, meditation is commonly used by people all over the world to achieve a sense of calm and awareness. Whether you’re a Buddhist monk or a stressed-out millennial with an office job, meditation can be a grounding habit that brings some degree of inner peace. There are nine key types of meditation, all of which have a slightly different focus and method. Click through this gallery to explore the different kinds of meditation, and find out which one suits you best.

Discover 60 extreme points of Earth

What is the most distant point from an ocean? Where is the highest permanent human settlement located, or the lowest commercial airport? And what is the greatest vertical drop found anywhere? Our world is a place of extremes, a planet of mind-boggling contrast that puzzles and amazes us in equal measure. And it's always full of surprises! So, do you know the answers to the questions above? Click through the following gallery for a list of 60 extreme points on Earth that will have you shaking your head in disbelief.

The Best Solo Travel Destinations in the United States for an Unforgettable Adventure

Whether you're looking for nonstop activity or total relaxation. While traveling with friends and family can be a lot of fun, going somewhere alone has its perks. You get to choose everything — the destination, the hotel, the itinerary, the restaurants, how much money you spend and beyond. Only one opinion matters...yours. It's also a great way to push yourself out of your comfort zone, meet new people (if you so choose), unplug, rejuvenate and bask in moments of reflection — or even just escape reality for a few days. Whether you're planning your first adventure on your own or are a solo travel veteran, choosing a destination can be overwhelming, especially if you still have a lot of places to check off your bucket list. The good news is, you don't have to go far for the adventure or relaxation you crave, because there are plenty of options across the U.S. Weighing variables such as walkability, safety, self care opportunities, number of historic sites and museums and access to nature, we've come up with a list of the best places in the U.S. for solo travelers — ranging from mountain and beach destinations to small towns and large cities. Time to book your ticket for one, plan your itinerary (or don't, remember, it's your trip!) and answer to no one except yourself for a few days.