The largest empires in world history

In the vast tapestry of human civilization, there have been some impressive conquests and legacies that have shaped the fabric of our world’s landscape. From the ancient world to the dawn of modernity, empires have held control for much of human history. And while empires don’t exist anymore, we can’t help but be curious about how big they really were. Interested? Click through this gallery to see which empires boasted the biggest territories.

19 volcanoes around the world that could erupt at any moment

We take a look at some of the biggest explosions over the last decade.

Passengers stunned at pilot's admission over reason for flight delay

The easyJet plane was fully boarded and ready to go on Sunday when the pilot took to the intercom to deliver the excuse to the passengers, a video clip shows.

Cathay Pacific’s HK Express to charge fliers for carry-on suitcase option under new baggage policy

Cathay Pacific Airways budget airline HK Express will charge passengers more if they wish to travel with a carry-on suitcase, with the option no longer available to those flying on the cheapest fares under the carrier’s new baggage policy. The policy took effect on Wednesday as part of an increase in the number of fare types from two to four. HK Express said the move would give travellers more options, based on whether they wished to “travel...

These famous natural wonders happened by accident

These tourist attractions are extraordinary marvels that came into existence unexpectedly, either through human intervention or strange natural occurrences. They are precious treasures that never fail to astonish visitors from across the globe. Let's explore these remarkable wonders that emerged by total accident. Click through the gallery to get started.

I'm a luxury hotel manager - and these are the do's and don'ts of hotel freebies, from the ones you can take, to the items you MUST leave in the room

The rules are revealed by Simon Steele, General Manager at luxury Lake District hotel Armathwaite Hall. He also divulges the strangest items that guests have tried to take.

Go with the flow: 10 tiny floating homes for a laid-back lifestyle

From untethered homes that can travel wherever the wind takes you, to moored micro retreats that provide tranquil living quarters with dreamy scenery, the world’s best floating tiny homes.

Hidden gems of Eastern Europe

Eastern Europe beckons with hidden gems waiting to be discovered. For those seeking a unique adventure, this list unveils the region's best-kept secrets, promising a tapestry of culture, history, and natural beauty that will redefine your travel experiences. Ready? Swipe through to unlock the glorious beauty that lies within Eastern Europe.

Huge queues at Heathrow Passport Control with every single e-gate not working

Major airports across the UK were in chaos tonight after Border Force IT systems went down in what has been described as a 'major incident'. It has left tens of thousands of passengers at airports including Heathrow, Stansted, Gatwick and Manchester facing huge queues.

Canada's most dangerous creatures

Canada's stunning landscapes may boast breathtaking beauty, but even in the shadow of its majestic evergreen trees and towering mountains, darkness lurks. Take a glimpse at this collection featuring Canada's most dangerous creatures, who reside within its borders. Remember, engaging with them is not advisable!

Pilots climb down from cockpit after Boeing 767 smashes into runway

The flight, operated by American postal service FedEx, took off from Paris' Charles de Gaulle airport early this morning and was headed for Istanbul when the pilot realised the landing gear was malfunctioning.

Boeing cargo plane lands in Istanbul without front wheels, no casualties

ISTANBUL (Reuters) -A FedEx Airlines Boeing 767 cargo plane landed at Istanbul Airport on Wednesday without deploying its front landing gear but managed to stay on the runway and avoided casualties, Turkey's transport ministry said. The aircraft, flying from Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport, informed the control tower at Istanbul Airport that its landing gear had failed to open, and landed with

12 Ways to Save at Spas

Follow these tips to deep relaxation on a budget.

Do you dare drive on the highest roads in the world?

Nature presents us with some formidable obstacles, not least the incredible mountain ranges found scattered across the world. These precipitous and often remote regions are some of the most inaccessible on the planet. But even here you can find roads that climb the steepest of slopes to conquer the tallest of peaks. Indeed, these high altitude mountain passes represent some of the greatest engineering achievements of the modern age—and a motoring challenge that tests even the most daring and experienced of drivers. So, what are the highest points on Earth accessible by car? Click through and take the high road!

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You didn’t know these customs were offensive in some countries

Yes, the Swedish really don't serve food to guests, and you shouldn't be offended about it. Way worse is going to Lebanon and refusing the food they offer you. In a growing global culture of travel and tourism, it's important to remember that our seemingly normal actions, words, and gestures may not be so normal in other countries. In fact, there are a surprising amount of common customs that are offensive in other countries. Whether you're taking a trip soon or you're just interested in how internationally offensive you are, check out this gallery to see what's rude around the world.

SXSW Festival to Expand with Launch of London Edition in June 2025

The South by Southwest festival, held annually in Austin, Texas, will launch a European edition in London in June 2025. SXSW London will feature the mix of keynotes conversations, film and TV events, music showcases and showcases for innovations in digital and gaming that have defined SXSW since the festival began in 1987. The London […]

South by Southwest Heading to London in 2025

South by Southwest is heading to London. The event, which bills itself as “the world's leading festival celebrating the convergence of creativity, culture and technology,” is expanding with SXSW London in June 2025. The move gives SXSW, which was founded in 1987 in Austin, a presence in Europe. SXSW previously expanded into the Asia Pacific […]

Travellers cheer at Heathrow airport as e-gates reopens

Footage from a queue at Heathrow Airport, as Border Force reopens after a widespread outage left travellers waiting hours to process through passport control.

12 unique buildings in Germany that are simply WEIRD

Germany is home to its fair share of amazing architecture, but what about the properties that have become famous for very different reasons? From a cartoon-esque apartment building in Brunswick, to an upside-down home in Trassenheide, these might just be the most bonkers buildings in Germany.

The brutal murder of three surfers that shocked Mexico

Beautiful Cities in Greece That Deserve More Love

Don't overlook these hidden gems!

China mother-to-be pushed off cliff in Thailand by husband, killing baby, explains her return to scene of tragedy

Husband tries to kill pregnant wife for money on 2019 trip to Thailand She survives 34-metre drop, breaks 17 bones, is finally able to walk again A woman from China who returned to Thailand to thank tourism workers who came to her aid after she was pushed off a cliff by her husband - while pregnant - said the death of a good friend's mother prompte...

How many of these long lost airports do you remember?

From the airports that made aviation history to white elephants that had to be abandoned, here are some of the most intriguing former airports around the world.

Amazing images of beautiful and enigmatic owls

Who doesn't like owls, those big-faced, wide-eyed birds with their familiar hooting, tooting, whistling calls, and eerily silent flight? Cute and lovable, but mysterious and spooky too, owls number over 200 incredibly varied species and are found on every continent except Antarctica. Click through this gallery and take a look at these enigmatic birds, which are among some of the most beautiful creatures on the planet.

VE Day: A look back at the historic celebrations

On May 8,1945, President Harry S. Truman announced on radio that Nazi Germany's forces had surrendered, and that "the flags of freedom fly all over Europe."

Audio of moment BA pilot is warned of bomb threat just before takeoff

The flight was supposed to leave from the island in the Atlantic to return to London on Sunday night, but air traffic controllers frantically radioed the pilots moments before takeoff

Britain flight delays after passport IT system collapsed nationwide

Thousands of fed-up passengers were left stranded in Britain's airports yesterday trapped in long queues for hours after e-gates in arrivals halls failed to open.

Inside derelict Glastonbury 'shanty town' factory overrun by 'hippies'

EXCLUSIVE: The Zigzag building, a former sheep skin factory in Glastonbury, has become home to a group of people living 'alternative lifestyles' after seeking 'sanctuary' inside its walls.

20 celebrities who own private jets

With an increased focus on environmentalism in Hollywood, owning a private jet has gone from being a status symbol to being something celebrities get shamed for. While no one expects to be sitting next to A-listers in economy on a flight, there’s still the hope that those with millions to spend aren’t indulging on short flights across town. That said, at least a few celebrities own private jets that they use to varying degrees.

I've saved thousands and traveled to dozens of countries using a home-swapping website

Julie Williams, 60, has done 140 home swaps since joining HomeExchange more than 10 years ago. The site allows her to travel for longer holidays.

Swan & Maclaren Group bags US28m tender for Six Flags Qiddiya lighting

Six Flags Qiddiya is projected to become the world's biggest theme park. Singapore-based architectural Swan & Maclaren Group (SMG) bagged the illumination engineering tender for Six Flags Qiddiya theme park in the Middle East. SMG won the US$28m tender from a joint venture between Bouygues Bâtiment International (BBI) and Saudi Almabani General Contractors (AGC). RELATED: Singapore’s most outstanding architecture professionals under 40 Under the...

Is purgatory mentioned in the Bible?

Many of us are familiar with the concepts of heaven and hell, but how about purgatory? What is it, really? Is this some space in-between, like a waiting room for sinful souls who haven’t earned a direct ticket to heaven? And if so, how does one end up there? Plus, is it even mentioned in the Bible? In this gallery, we delve into the history of purgatory. Click on to learn all about it.

When World War II visited North America

When talking about enemy attacks on US soil during the Second World War, most people refer to the bombing of Pearl Harbor. The infamous military strike by the Imperial Japanese Navy ultimately led to America declaring war on Japan. But even before those dark events of December 7, 1941, the country was being infiltrated by German spies. Bombardments and incursions by Axis forces on and into North American territory followed. But few people are able to recall these small-scale campaigns that saw the enemy directly target the nation and in some cases actually operate within American and Canadian borders. So, what are these little-known encounters, and when did they take place? Click through and discover all about when World War II visited North America.

The first AI travel and hospitality influencer is here

Cenizaro Hotels and Resorts and AI company BRACAI have introduced SENA Z, an AI travel and hospitality influencer. It seems that artificial intelligence is now making its way into the hospitality industry. Cenizaro Hotels and Resorts, whose portfolio includes a range of properties in locations like the Maldives and Singapore, has partnered with BRACAI, which calls itself a “boutique AI consultancy”. Together, they’ve uncovered something that...

Horrifying behind-the-scenes stories from Disney parks

Over the years, some incredibly strange and disturbing tales have appeared on the internet about this supposed children's paradise. Explore this gallery to uncover some of the most outrageous revelations shared by Disney employees on Reddit, shedding light on the unusual challenges they face during a typical day in the endlessly intriguing world of Disney theme parks.

Ranked: America's tastiest old-school pies that should REALLY be on your bucket list

From a sensational Key lime pie in Florida to a chocolate meringue creation in Mississippi, here we reveal where you can try the most historic – and delicious – pies in America.

Why a Japanese town built an enormous wall to block Mount Fuji

20 Of America’s Best Pet-Friendly Destinations

Explore America's best pet-friendly destinations! From coastal towns to national parks, discover 20 destinations where you and your furry friend can enjoy unforgettable adventures. Find pet-friendly accommodations, parks, and attractions for your next trip.

World's first hydrogen superyacht linked to Bill Gates for $600M

The new eco-friendly 'mothership' yacht must chill its hydrogen fuel at an extraordinary -423.4 degrees Fahrenheit in order to store the gas as a liquid, the boatmakers said

Asylum seekers paying thousands to enter Ireland via cruise ships

There were a total of 85 tents lined up between Mount Street Bridge and Huband Bridge yesterday afternoon - a figure that has doubled in less than a week.

How this mysterious 'Swiss Village' ended up in the Canadian Rockies

Explore this beautiful abandoned village in the heart of the Rocky Mountains. Once home to Swiss mountain guides, the historic community offers space, style and spectacular scenery. Take a tour here...

Global gateways: exploring countries with the easiest citizenship options

Does the allure of living abroad call to you? Have you thought more about leaving your home country and pursuing life elsewhere but find yourself stumped at how to accomplish this? While citizenship in other countries can be challenging in many ways, this guide will sort through the countries where it’s comparatively easier to get citizenship. From the different types of citizenship options to exactly where you can move and the respective general requirements for each, you’ll have the knowledge and power to choose which option works best with your goals and life circumstances. Start planning your new life today! Click through this gallery to explore where you might call home next.

No wonder Shenzhen is drawing diners and shoppers from Hong Kong – it is close by, clean and food is much cheaper

Shenzhen, once known for fake designer bags and mystery meat, has come far in recent years and now has good food hygiene. It's much cheaper than Hong Kong, too It's no surprise Hong Kong residents flock there, causing restaurants at home to miss out. The price imbalance doesn't look like ending any time soon A few weeks ago, I went up to Shenzhen f...

Mongolia's wildlife at risk from overgrazing

The icy peaks of Jargalant Mountain are supposed to belong to snow leopards, whose numbers have dwindled to fewer than 1,000 in Mongolia, but hard-pressed herders are increasingly pushing into the vulnerable animals' traditional habitat. "Herders always complain about snow leopards and their lost animals," he told AFP. "But we tell them that they must leave Jargalant Mountain -- it is a national park reserved area for snow leopards and they are...

Settings from beloved books you can actually visit

From the romantic streets of Paris that inspired Hemingway's 'A Moveable Feast' to the windswept Yorkshire Moors that set the stage for Emily Brontë's 'Wuthering Heights,' you can uncover a captivating blend of visual beauty and literary depth at these real-life locations that inspired literary legends. These bustling cafes, picturesque towns, and natural wonders have influenced timeless tales, creating profound connections between place and narrative. Whether you're a book lover or a wanderlust-driven traveler, join us as we celebrate the mesmerizing interplay between literature and geography, igniting your passion to explore these literary landmarks firsthand. Click on to get started.

Revealed: The secrets of the world's most mysterious buildings

These mysterious houses would even baffle Sherlock Holmes! From labyrinth houses that make no sense to stately homes shrouded in secrets, step inside with an open mind...

Heartbroken mother of Australian surfers killed in Mexico gives moving tribute to sons

The mother of two Australian tourists, who were allegedly killed during a surfing trip in Mexico, paid tribute to her sons Callum and Jake Robinson.

A Boeing 787 full of passengers was stranded in Canada's deep north after a burning smell forced an emergency landing

Air France rerouted a Boeing 777 from Montreal in order to rescue the passengers left in Nunavut after a burning smell was detected in the cabin.

Sustainable travel destinations around the world

For many, sustainability has become a critical aspect when it comes to planning their holidays. But what does it really mean for a destination to be sustainable? From hiking in Costa Rica to bicycle rides around Germany, have a look at the following gallery for locations, both urban and rural, committed to protecting nature and showcasing a simpler way of being. Click on!