Food and Drink

30 countries with no sign of McDonald's

Wherever you are in the world, there's usually a McDonald's nearby – unless you're in one of these countries.

The northern lights: nature's most beautiful phenomenon

The aurora borealis is a stunning natural phenomenon that blows away anyone lucky enough to catch a glimpse of it. Science says it is the result of sun particles colliding with the Earth's atmosphere, but Icelandic legends say the magical lights are angels dancing in the sky! This spectacular natural light show is usually associated with Europe's most northern countries like Iceland, Sweden, and Denmark, where it's most visible. However, this aurora season, the world is getting an extra-special visit. The northern lights have been visible in locations across northern US and Europe where residents rarely see the northern lights, and certainly not with this level of visibility. Now a powerful solar storm could potentially allow residents in the upper Midwest US to see the lights, spanning an impressive 17 states including parts of Illinois and Indiana. According to the Geophysical Institute at the University of Alaska-Fairbanks, the areas near Milwaukee and Minneapolis may see the lights overhead, and areas as far south as Chicago and Indianapolis could see them on the far northern horizon, likely in July. Click on for dazzling photos of the phenomena and learn all about the aurora borealis.

Behind the scenes at the Eversource state-of-the-art control center

Behind the scenes at the Eversource state-of-the-art control center

The weirdest reasons for airplane turnarounds

Flying is stressful, no doubt about it. There's the competitive prices, the complications of packing, and that all-important airport sprint. When you're on the plane, you can only pray you're not stuck in front of some bratty kicking kid, or behind a rude reclining pensioner. However, none of that could equal the amount of stress in these ridiculous stories. On a recent flight from Tokyo to Seattle, one passenger must have been having a pretty bad day, because he ended up biting a flight attendant. The plane took off at 9:47 pm local time on January 16 but was forced to return to Tokyo’s Haneda airport approximately one hour later. A representative for the Japanese airline revealed that a male American passenger had bitten a female flight attendant and was arrested as soon as the plane landed in Tokyo. She is reported to have sustained minor injuries. This isn't the first time biting has caused major disruptions during a flight. In 2022, two separate incidents occurred in which a passenger bit cabin crew or other passengers on flights with US carriers American Airlines and Delta Air Lines. Both aggressors were fined around US$80,000 by the Federal Aviation Administration—the highest penalties ever issued by the agency. From bees in the cargo to drunken celebrities and forgotten babies, there are countless stories of planes turning around for the strangest reasons. Click through the gallery to hear all about them.

Full list of Red Lobster locations that are closing revealed

The full list of Red Lobster locations that were closed overnight has been revealed. They are spread out over 21 states.

Places Americans don’t visit—but definitely should

Even though Americans still carry the stereotype of people who don’t travel overseas, this is far from the truth. Yes, US citizens may not travel internationally as frequently as other cultures, particularly Europeans, but Americans are going abroad like never before. Popular destinations among Americans include our neighboring Mexico and Canada, as well as the UK in Europe, according to the Department of Commerce’s National Travel and Tourism Office. But what about the countries not featured in the list? There are some real gems out there that Americans have left untapped. What are some amazing destinations abroad that Americans should start visiting? Click through the gallery to find out.

7 of the Most Ridiculously Long Interstates in the U.S.

Historic, iconic, impossibly long.

The world's most fascinating fortresses

Humans have been building fortresses since the dawn of time. From strategically placed castles to facilities where certain activities can be conducted in a safe environment, the world is full of formidable fortresses. But which exactly are the most fascinating ones and why? In this gallery, we present you with a selection of amazing structures, from hilltop castles to underground military bases. Browse through and discover the world's most fascinating fortresses.

The world's costliest countries to live: does Singapore make the list?

As the cost of living crisis bites around the world, find out where people pay the most to get by.

6 Cities in the US Where You Can Vacation Comfortably on $3K-$4K for 2 Weeks

Summer vacation is here! Where are you planning to go? Are you going to take a trip all by yourself to somewhere in the United States that you've always wanted to visit? Or are you planning to pack up...

Another yacht goes down: 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 in recent years of their species serial killing, vengefully sinking boats, torturing other animals for sport, and more. The most recent incident was more serious than the average boat attack. A 50 ft (15 m) yacht was rammed off course in the Strait of Gibraltar by orcas and eventually sank due to the damage. The two passengers aboard the boat, named the Alboran Cognac, began to feel heavy blows to the hull and rudder around 9 AM local time on Saturday. The yacht began taking on water and they radioed for assistance. Thankfully, an oil tanker in the area took them aboard and brought them to Gibraltar. In the meantime, the yacht slowly sank—another victory for the killer whales. Orca rammings have become common in this area, and are attributed to a subpopulation of around 15 whales collectively named Gladis. Have we got your attention? Then click through to learn more about the evil genius of orcas.

You can get the Eye of Sauron in Lego form with the new Barad-dûr set

It even comes with a little Lego Sauron

Pictured: The world's longest underground slide, which is hidden inside a MOUNTAIN in Graz in Austria

The attraction, called the Schlossberg Slide, is completely hidden inside the tree-covered Schlossberg mountain, which lords it over Austria's second-largest city, Graz, at a height of 1,551ft.

97 amazing travel experiences to add to your bucket list

From amazing adventures to dream destinations, here are 99 of the world's most unmissable travel experiences for this year.

Harry and Meghan land in LA after 18-hour flight from Nigeria

The couple, who left Abuja yesterday following a three-day visit, were pictured being whisked away by a car at Los Angeles International Airport's 'Private Suites' facility.

How the sinking of the Titanic built this huge mansion

Take a tour of this spectacular New Jersey mansion, built from the fortunes of Macy's founding family after they tragically perished on the RMS Titanic

Here's What You Need to Know About Memorial Day Flag Etiquette

The holiday has its own rules! 🇺🇸

The world's natural and cultural wonders we could lose forever

Whether through war, climate change or other threats, some of the world's most important and most beloved landmarks are at serious risk of destruction. Take a look at all 56 sites included on UNESCO's List of World Heritage in Danger.

Amazing creatures with sixth senses

The animal kingdom holds so many wonders and mysteries, and there are new discoveries all the time that shed more light on how certain animals work the way they do, and the unique and beautiful ways they interact with the world. As humans, it's hard for us to imagine having a sensory relationship with the world different from the one we have. It's hard to conceptualize feeling the magnetic pull of the earth, or tasting our surroundings with every part of our body. We are so accustomed to our five senses and the way they help us perceive the world around us, but so many animals experience that same world in completely unique ways. All different species of mammals, birds, fish, and even microscopic organisms possess wondrous powers of perception that would leave us humans in awe. Curious? Read on to find out more about the fascinating extra senses that animals use to navigate the world.

ONE OK ROCK Announces ‘Premonition' Stadium & Arena World Tour: See the Dates

This global trek will be the largest ever for the "Make It Out Alive" rock band.

The secret codewords that cabin crews don't want you to know

Ever wondered what goes on behind the scenes of your flight? Here we reveal all...

Famous people who almost boarded the Titanic

Since the Titanic sank on its maiden voyage in April 1912, it has been the subject of endless amounts of intrigue. The ship inspired one of the most successful Hollywood movies of all time, as well as countless documentaries and books. Now considered one of the most epic failures in history, it's estimated that over 1,500 passengers died in the wreck. However, before its departure, the Titanic was seen as the greatest ship of its day. And due to its status and prestige, much of the passenger list consisted of the most affluent people of its time. Fortunately, some of those who were supposed to be on the ship backed out at the last minute. Click on to discover who these lucky people were, plus some other known figures who were booked to go on a future journey with the ship.

20 Family-Friendly Activities to Do This June School Holidays

Running out of activites to keep the kids occupied with during the June Holidays? Here are 20 ideas to utilize your child's holiday to its maximum potential of fun.

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

Yes, it's time to plan a trip!

What is Buddha’s Birthday and where can you celebrate the holiday in Hong Kong in 2024?

Buddha's Birthday is celebrated on the eighth day of the fourth lunar month, which this year lands on May 15 - a public holiday in Hong Kong Events to celebrate the festival will take place across the city, including Buddha bathing rituals, lantern lighting, and the Cheung Chau Bun Festival In Hong Kong, Buddha's Birthday is celebrated on the eight...

Socotra—an unworldly island in the Arabian Sea

Remote and isolated, the Socotra archipelago is often described as the "most alien-looking place on Earth." The islands, part of Yemen, are scattered in the Arabian Sea, with Socotra, the largest island, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. But while once a discerning destination for hardcore adventure tourists, visitor numbers have dwindled since the outbreak of the Yemeni civil war in 2014. Browse this gallery and get an idea of what this unworldly island looks like.

Are These Bucket List Trips Actually Worth The Hype?

You might just have to see it to believe it.

White House's Sullivan to travel to Saudi Arabia and Israel

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan plans to travel to Saudi Arabia and Israel this weekend, a U.S. official said on Tuesday as Israeli tanks pushed deeper into eastern Rafah, stoking fears of additional civilian deaths. Additional details on his trip were not available. The visit comes as the United States continues to press Israel to hold off on a major

The 14 Most Elaborate Hotel Bathrooms

The lighting for mirror selfies is impeccable.

4 Places To Retire That Are Better Than Florida — and Way Cheaper

Florida has long been considered one of the most ideal places to retire. Read Next: Retirement 2024: These Are the 10 Worst Places To Retire in North Carolina Find Out: Owe Money to the IRS? Most...

Moment Delta plane catches fire as passengers flee down emergency exit

A dramatic new video shows a Delta-operated Airbus plane bursting into flames after it landed at Seattle-Tacoma airport on Monday, May 6. All 189 passengers were evacuated in minutes.

At New York City’s ILIS, an Ultra-Luxe Cocktail Pairing Draws a Crowd

Wine isn't the only beverage up for pairing at Mads Refslund's new Brooklyn restaurant.

US airlines challenge Biden admin over fee transparency rule

US airlines are challenging the Biden administration’s new regulation on airline fee transparency. The rule... The post US airlines challenge Biden admin over fee transparency rule appeared first on The Independent Singapore News - Latest Breaking News

These 10 Mountain Towns Are as Affordable as They Are Beautiful

Buy a house with the view you've always dreamed of.

21 Creative Ways to Use Rocks in Your Landscaping

Carve out naturally beautiful borders, stairs, and sitting areas.

How to travel a lot more comfortably

No matter what mode of transport you are taking, traveling can be uncomfortable. Sitting in one position in a noisy and stuffy plane, train, or bus can leave you feeling drained. From not being able to sleep because of noisy passengers to feeling bored because your device has run out of battery, it can be tedious even for the most patient people. But it doesn’t have to be that way. With a little bit of preparation, you can avoid most annoyances experienced while traveling. Click through this gallery to learn about what you can do to make your next travel experience a lot more comfortable.

The northern lights in Barcelona and other unusual places

The best cities in America for dog owners

If you have a dog, then you need to live somewhere that’s great for both you and your pooch. It needs to have open space for your pup to exercise, other dogs for your pup to socialize with, and it would be nice if you could keep your furry friend by your side when you go out to eat. So where should you and your good boy or girl settle? Try one of these great cities!

Inside the world's cutest homes, from cottages to cabins

From a tiny treehouse tucked away in an English woodland to a 100-year-old cottage in picturesque Alabama, these are the world's cutest homes

The most haunted castles in Europe

Europe is peppered with ancient castles, many of them wonderfully fairy-tale in appearance. Others, however, are possessed of a more mystical appeal, with some hiding dark secrets and a violent past. These are the spooky strongholds that will make you shiver, mysterious medieval seats of power where dastardly deeds took place in an atmosphere of fear and repression. Hundreds of years later, these creepy castles are scenes of ghostly goings-on where specters and phantoms tease and torment with malevolent glee. But where can you find the most frightening fortifications? Click through if you dare and get ready to be haunted!

I'm an American living in Italy - the locals can spot tourists just by the way you walk

In a recent TikTok, Rachael Sullivan, from Tampa, Florida, reveals what to look out for when it comes to spotting an American in Italy. She has been living overseas since January.

Anti-tourism graffiti spreads across Athens in demands to end tourism

Greece issued a plea for 'no more tourism' as the stunning city - and home to iconic landmarks such as the Acropolis - is becoming increasingly swamped with British holidaymakers.

Tom Hiddleston Everest Thriller ‘Tenzing' Lands at Apple

"Tenzing," a film about the true story of Sherpa Tenzing Norgay's 1953 trek to the summit of Mount Everest alongside Edmund Hillary, has been snapped up by Apple Original Films. Casting is underway for Tenzing while "Loki" star Tom Hiddleston is set to play New Zealand mountaineer Hillary. Willem Dafoe ("Eternity's Gate") is expected to […]

Napa Valley wine family is torn apart by Succession-style feud

Monticello Vineyards was built from scratch on a former prune ranch in 1970 by Jay Corley, who left the winery to his seven children when he died in 2016. Now they are at war over what the do with it.

Travel expert breaks down the 10 things you should NEVER do as tourist visiting Cancun

Dan dove into the essential need-to-knows of visiting the famed coastal destination on Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula over a rapid-fire video. The destination hosts tens of millions of visitors a year.

Strange foods you won't believe people used to eat

Our ancestors had some unusual tastes. There was very little regard for wildlife preservation, so the entire animal kingdom was theirs to sample. From the most decadent delicacies of medieval royals, to the money-saving innovations of WWII Britain, there's a true assault on the senses ahead. Click on and feast your eyes upon these culinary wonders...

Little-known facts about the Titanic that will surprise you

The RMS Titanic, a large and luxurious ocean liner, collided with an iceberg on April 14, 1912. As a result, the ship sank the next day and tragically, over 1,500 individuals lost their lives. This incident remains one of the most significant maritime disasters in history. While the narrative is widely recognized and has even served as inspiration for an acclaimed Hollywood film, there may still be aspects of this tragedy that are not well-known. Explore this gallery to gain a deeper understanding of the Titanic's tragic story.

Trump's $100m Boeing clipped another corporate jet at Florida airport

Donald Trump 's private Boeing 757 clipped another corporate jet while taxiing at West Palm Beach International Airport in Florida on Sunday, a source familiar with the incident said.

A tourist bus service has been cancelled due to the curse of potholes

It is arguably the least used road in the country - partly because it goes through a bomb range. But the minibus service which takes tourists to remote Cape Wrath, has had to stop because of potholes.

These Garden Arches Can Transform Your Backyard Into a Beautiful Oasis

Adding visual interest to your outdoor space has never been easier.