The countries most affected by organized crime groups

For many people around the world, there is no other option. Gang life is the only choice that makes sense to get anywhere in life in certain war-torn, politically unstable, and economically desolate countries. These nations struggle with a dark underbelly of criminality while the surface may seem appealing and beautiful. Think about the lush tropical rainforests of Brazil, the beautiful savannas of South Africa, and the crystal-clear waters of the Bahamas. Many of these countries have battled the existence of gang life and the violence that follows them. Click through the gallery to find out which countries have been most affected by these criminal groups.

Native American ceremony will celebrate birth of white buffalo calf in Yellowstone park

HELENA, Mont. (AP) — Ceremonies and celebrations are planned Wednesday near the west entrance of Yellowstone National Park to mark the recent birth of a white buffalo calf in the park, a spiritually significant event for many Native American tribes. A white buffalo calf with a dark nose and eyes was born on June 4 in the the park's Lamar Valley, according to witnesses, fulfilling a prophecy for the Lakota people that portends better times but...

Incheon airport briefly shuts down runways because of North Korea trash balloons

SEOUL (Reuters) -Takeoffs and landings at South Korea's Incheon international airport were disrupted on Wednesday for about three hours before dawn because of balloons launched by North Korea filled with refuse, an airport spokesperson said. One balloon landed on the tarmac near passenger Terminal 2 and the three runways at Incheon were temporarily shut down, the spokesperson said. North Korea

Boeing isn't bringing any of its signature jets to the year's biggest air show for the first time in over a decade

Boeing said it's prioritizing work on a safety and quality plan, as it deals with a crisis following the Alaska Airlines blowout.

Queues and traffic build for Glastonbury as festival opens its doors

Queues and traffic build near Pilton, Somerset, as Glastonbury Festival opens its gates. Music lovers are eager to see headliners Dua Lipa, Coldplay, and SZA perform on the Pyramid Stage, marking the start of the highly anticipated event.

How I conquered the Isle of Man’s summit trails

There’s a magic pool in Ballaglass Glen. Scored deep into the ancient flagstone, amid the oak, larch and beech, it’s fed by a cascade, spangled with shafts of sunlight and probably hides mooinjer veggey – Manx Gaelic for the mythical “little people”. As I slid my tired legs into the numbingly cold water, I felt a sense of exhilaration. It had been the most glorious of days, tackling my first of the island’s eight new summit walks; between them,...

Why Madagascar is Africa's best-kept secret

An island nation in the Indian Ocean, Madagascar is a biodiversity hot spot renowned for its rare and spectacular wildlife, 90% of which is found nowhere else on Earth. Browse the gallery and be amazed at some of the island's incredible flora and fauna.

Banyan Tree set to open Manila Bay property in 2028

Banyan Tree is set to open in Manila come 2028. The luxury hospitality brand, known for its sustainability practices, will open a mixed-use, multiple-tower development development property set to become a called in Manila. Dubbed Banyan Tree Manila Bay, the new property was launched on Tuesday at Cove Manila in Okada. Phase 1 of the property is composed of a hotel, residences, and a retail area, promising its guests and clients to "enjoy true...

Hong Kong’s Cathay pulls 3 cadet pilots from US training programme after serious blunders

Hong Kong flag carrier Cathay Pacific Airways has removed three cadet pilots from a training programme after three serious blunders at a US-based training centre, citing its “zero-tolerance” over non-compliance with flight incident reporting requirements. The company said on Wednesday it made its decision after the trio failed to comply with the requirements at the AeroGuard Flight Training Centre in Phoenix, Arizona. The move followed the...

The most romantic destinations in the world

The most beautiful cities in the world for couples lie within the next few slides of this gallery. Steeped in history and culture, these cities bring out the lovebirds in all of us. Get lost in the cobblestone streets and fall in love all over again amongst the character that lies between these city walls. What are you waiting for? Swipe through to discover the most romantic locations for couples.

Artist's impression of restored boatyard revealed

New plans show how the fire-hit Underfall Yard could look after its reconstruction.

Moment tourist performs citizen's arrest on 'pickpocket'

Footage showing two apparent 'tourists' catching an alleged pickpocket and holding her outside the royal residence has gone viral on social media.

Why a tiny Pacific island hosted Julian Assange hearing

The remote ocean archipelago was until now known for its secluded beaches and wartime shipwrecks.

Unesco wants to add Stonehenge to list of endangered heritage sites

PARIS — The UN’s cultural organization said Monday it recommended adding Stonehenge, the renowned prehistoric site in England, to its world heritage in danger list, in what would be seen as an embarrassment for London. The site has been in the UN organization’s sights because of British government plans to construct a controversial road tunnel near the world heritage site in southwestern England. In a written decision seen by AFP, the World...

The best road trip movies of all time

The open road, a sense of adventure, and a cinematic backdrop: the best road trip movies capture them all. Of course, real-life road trips rarely go totally smoothly, and classic road trip movies don't shy away from showing all the dramatic bumps along the way. From drug-fueled misadventures to disastrous family trips and bust-ups behind the wheel, these movies range from cringe-making comedies to tense thrillers and joy-filled adventures. Got your interest? Then buckle up to discover the best road trip movies of all time.

World-famous stars from Australia: then and now

Glastonbury Festival's most iconic moments and performances

The first year of the Glastonbury Festival was in the summer of 1970. In the past five decades-plus, it has become one of the most renowned festivals in the world. It is also one of the most expensive globally to attend, yet 200,000 people still show up every year in Pilton, Somerset, England to enjoy the lineup the festival has to offer. Are you feeling nostalgic for the days of years' past? Click through this gallery to look back at the most iconic moments and performances in Glastonbury Festival's history.

The best places to retire in 2024

If you are coming up to retirement age, you may already be thinking about making big changes in your lifestyle! Many people choose to retire to a new location, even a new country, when they're finally free to enjoy their golden years. Whether this is because of weather, safety, or financial reasons, everyone has a different idea about what is most important to them when making these decisions. Take a look through this gallery to discover the best places to retire in 2024.

Glastonbury Festival 2024 gates open to music lovers

Thousands of ticket holders have begun filtering into the site for the world-famous festival.

Spot Stays: Kilyawan Farm Resort in Batangas

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From bedbugs to the opening ceremony: Is Paris ready for the Olympics?

Paris will host the Olympics and Paralympics this summer, with thousands of stellar athletes and millions of tourists expected to visit the French capital. The countdown to the Games is on, so click through this gallery to find out everything you need to know, from the newly debuted sports to where the opening ceremony will be held.

Biggest travel day at airports in American history

Anyone who is looking for travel during the July 4th holiday period may need to find ways to stay busy at an airport.

English words that come from Native American languages

Most people are aware that many common geographical names found throughout the USA and Canada have been borrowed from various Native American languages. But these are not the only examples of linguistic borrowings taken from the indigenous vocabulary. From avocado and skunk to hammock, Native American languages have given English speakers a wonderful dictionary of words frequently used today. Check out this gallery for some commonly used words in English, which were coined by indigenous peoples across the Americas.

Keep Calm and Carry On: Hand Luggage Essentials

EXCLUSIVE: Take a look at our still life shoot with travel essentials for your next trip - See Photos

Here's Your First Look at the Disney Cruise Adventure

Here's something to look forward to in 2025.

Avanti West Coast says fleet overhaul means ‘much-improved travel experience’

Avanti West Coast says fleet overhaul means ‘much-improved travel experience’ - The operator said the 56th and final modernised Pendolino train has returned to service.

What IS going on at Britain's airports? It's not even peak summer yet!

Families have endured an arduous few weeks at UK airports, with chaos caused by power cuts, IT failures, evacuations, e-gates issues and 100ml liquid rule confusion.

US city has worst traffic in the WORLD and it's costing residents $9bn

One American city has been ranked the most congested place to drive in the world, forcing drivers to spend 101 hours stuck in gridlock last year and costing the economy billions.

The most dangerous cities to live in

In a world brimming with diverse landscapes and vibrant cultures, it's disheartening to recognize the presence of cities struggling with soaring crime rates. As we delve into this exploration of the world's most dangerous cities, we're faced with the stark reality that safety remains a distant dream for many. This gallery shines a light on 30 cities, each grappling with its unique set of challenges. Join us on this journey through the most dangerous cities in the world to live in, and the communities living there that are affected every day. Click on for more.

Looted by the Nazis and never returned: the art removed from a Swiss museum

Urgent £900 travel warning issued to all British holidaymakers

Tourists could find themselves with a significant bill which could add hundreds to the cost of their summer break

Route linking villages will shut for roadworks

A stretch of road near Coleford will be closed during week days for resurfacing.

Britons cut back on high street spending to splash out £178bn creating memories

'We're witnessing a long-term behavioural shift that will see experiences like travel and live entertainment take up a greater share of our discretionary spending, certainly this summer but also into the foreseeable future' - Dr Peter Brooks, Barclays' chief behavioural scientist

Yacht crew expected to deny arson charges over fire on Greek island

ATHENS (Reuters) - The crew members of a yacht accused of starting a forest fire last week on the Greek island of Hydra are expected to deny arson charges when they appear before a judge on Wednesday, a legal source said. Wildfires are common in the Mediterranean country but they have become more frequent and devastating due to hotter, drier and windier weather, which scientists link to climate

The most unbelievably expensive weddings in history

A typical wedding is said to cost about US$35,000 in the United States, according to 2023 figures from The Knot, which is already a huge investment for many couples. There are, however, couples who spend that much on the cake alone. When celebrities, royals, and heirs to large fortunes get married, it's a spectacle to remember. The amount that goes into these events is truly shocking, especially considering that many of these expensive marriages don't last! Money can't buy you love, but money certainly can buy you one of the most luxurious ceremonies in the history of love. Check out the gallery to see the crazy numbers on these weddings. All amounts in USD.

Woman, 36, mysteriously vanishes at Atlanta International Airport

Hollie Noelle Seay, 36, mysteriously disappeared after visiting a Starbucks at Atlanta's Hartsfield International Airport - sparking a multi-state manhunt.

Bizarre trees with a fascinating history

Trees have been around for a long time. Some date back thousands of years, and we really are lucky to be able to admire them today. There are some trees around the world that are indeed special. Not just because they're beautiful and unique, but also because they have amazing stories behind them. In this gallery we tell these fascinating stories, so click through and be amazed.

Aer Lingus pilots begin industrial action

Aer Lingus pilots begin industrial action - The work-to-rule began at midnight with pilots refusing to work overtime, accept changes to set rosters, or take on out-of-hours management requests.

Universal UK resort to open 365 days a year

An economic impact report reveals the planned resort could create 20,000 jobs during construction.

In Colombia, a long, perilous romance to save the harpy eagle

Wounded and wary, the young couple appear to be into each other: their arranged romance, years in the making, is aimed at preserving the rapidly disappearing harpy eagle, one of the world's largest raptors. One of the world's most powerful and largest eagles, able to hunt monkeys and sloths, the harpy eagle has been hunted to near-extinction in some parts of its territory in Central America.

10 tips and tricks to save money on your summer holiday

If you’re looking to enjoy a summer holiday in a foreign country this year, these 10 tips will keep the costs down and make it budget-friendly

Palawan, Boracay among Travel + Leisure Luxury Awards Asia Pacific 2024’s best islands

Palawan and Boracay have made it once again to the Best Islands list of Travel + Leisure Luxury Awards Asia Pacific 2024. As seen on the T+L website, Palawan ranked third, while Boracay occupied the fourth spot. Thailand's Koh Samui clinched the top spot, followed by Bali, Indonesia. Completing the top 5 is Phuket, Thailand. Sri Lanka, Sumba, Indonesia, Penang, Malaysia, Koh Phi Phi, Thailand and Phu Quoc, Vietnam round up the Top 10. The...

All the places in our world where you can find hell

In most belief systems, the afterlife can only be accessed once one has passed. But then there are some who believed, and still believe, that the living could access the underworld directly here on Earth. From Mayan caves to Japanese swamps, there are various entrances, scattered across the globe. And while some of these spots involve the Christian concept of hell, some lead to other, sometimes not so unpleasant, afterlives. If you should decide to visit any of these sites, any consequences on opening an infernal portal are on you! Now that you've been warned, click through the following gallery to check them out.

NYC shuttered 80% of its Airbnbs in an attempt to make housing more affordable. All that's done so far is make hotels more expensive.

There were more than 22,000 short-term rentals listed in NYC last August. The number of legal listings has dropped precipitously.

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.

Iloilo City aims to break world record for largest human image of bicycle

ILOILO CITY, Philippines — Ilonggos are targeting to break the Guinness world record for the largest human image of a bike now held by Moscow, Russia. More than 5,000 cyclists were expected to join the event on July 27 at the Iloilo Business Park, said Architect Wilfredo Sy Jr., Iloilo Bike Festival director. Sy said he was confident they could reach the target number of participants to cement the city’s title as the biking capital of the...

Inside Glastonbury Festival's poshest tents worth £28k: luxury bedrooms, dining room and a pool

The Tipi Tenthouse Suite at Glastonbury Festival offers up to five double bedrooms with a dining area and en-suite shower room which will set glampers back £27,999

Glasgow to host Nordic music festival as it comes to Scotland for first time

Glasgow to host Nordic music festival as it comes to Scotland for first time - Nordic Music Days was established by the Council of Nordic Composers in 1888, and is one of the world’s oldest contemporary classical music festivals.

Caysasay Shrine reopens to public after restoration works

After being closed for over two years, the 17th century Archdiocesan Shrine of Our Lady of Caysasay in Taal, Batangas has reopened to the public for church services. The National Museum of the Philippines (NMP) formally handed over the shrine to the Archdiocese of Lipa on June 20, following restoration and rehabilitation work. During the […]

From bombs to ghost towns: Unexpected discoveries when water levels drop

Every continent is feeling the effects of climate change, more than any other time in history. Last summer Nevada's Lake Mead was in the headlines on an almost monthly basis due to the bizarre and grim discoveries exposed by dropping water levels, but it's not the only spot to offer up fascinating and terrifying treasures. Rivers, lakes, and reservoirs all over the world are pulling back to reveal ancient sites and forgotten pieces of history, some that were likely never meant to be found. Intrigued? Click through this gallery to see some of the most interesting and disturbing discoveries made due to dropping water levels and severe droughts.