The wettest and driest countries in the world

Our planet is a vast tapestry of contradiction, with some places on Earth entirely inhospitable, while other places thrive with life. Well, one thing always remains true: all of existence relies on water to survive. That said, some countries receive more of it than others. Every year, nations measure how much rainfall they receive, and the numbers tell an intriguing story of struggle and sustenance. Curious? Click through this gallery to see which countries rank among the wettest and the driest on the planet.

Stolen artifacts in the British Museum

Walking between the grand columns and over the marble floors of the British Museum can be a breathtaking experience. Indeed, the complex houses some of the world’s most unique treasures and antiquities. But the museum’s tale is not only one of discovery and preservation, but also one of loss and theft. For centuries, artifacts from far-flung corners of the world have been taken from other cultural sites and brought to this institution, celebrated as symbols of global heritage. Well, many now believe that the museum must face its colonialist past and return the artifacts to their rightful places. So, which relics in the British Museum can be considered stolen property? And how did the British Museum obtain these objects in the first place? Click through this gallery to find out.

The safest Caribbean islands for travelers

Embarking on a Caribbean adventure unveils sun-drenched landscapes, rich cultures, and unforgettable moments. However, safety concerns often cast shadows on the allure of these tropical wonders. In this guide, we dismantle common misconceptions, revealing the true safety landscape of the Caribbean. Let's navigate beyond stereotypes to uncover gems that offer not just beauty but security for travelers. Simply click on.

PAGASA Planetarium In Quezon City Reopens This September

The perfect destination for young space enthusiasts!

Countries to visit that love American tourists

It isn’t until you leave the US that you become aware of your Americanness. While some places are actively working to decrease tourism, others still very much appreciate the incoming dollars. Besides, our ways are celebrated in many parts of the world, contrary to what you might hear. Check out some international travel destinations that happily welcome American tourists!

PAL: Demand for Manila-Seattle flights soaring

Philippine Airlines (PAL) is all set to launch next month its inaugural Manila-Seattle flight, further expanding the flag carrier’s long-haul network amid the resurgence of air travel demand. PAL president Stanley Ng, in an interview last week, said the “first few flights” were “doing okay” in terms of booking. In fact, the passenger load capacity was “almost full,” signifying a strong demand for the route. Ng was optimistic about the...

Still short of target

As of Sept. 5 this year, tourist arrivals in the country have reached only 4.08 million, which is still 3.61 million short of the Department of Tourism (DOT)’s full-year target of 7.7 million international visitors. At the opening of the 35th Philippine Travel Mart last Friday at the SMX Convention Center, Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco, who was the keynote speaker, pointed out that from January to August this year, the country registered...

£1 Pizza Gnocchi

The Cooper Manning-Texas Longhorns flag rumor taking over Ann Arbor, explained

Welcome to FTW Explains, a guide to catching up on and better understanding stuff going on in the world. Have you seen some stuff about a Texas Longhorns flag flying at an Ann Arbor hotel? And you’re very confused about that whole thing? Don’t worry. We’re here to help.

TIEZA COO Mark Lapid honored twice at 2024 OFW Party List Impact Awards

PASAY CITY, Philippines – Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA) Chief Operating Officer Mark Lapid was one of the distinguished recipients of the 3rd Impact Awards by the OFW Party List and Buhay-OFW Foundation, Inc. Lapid received both the Exemplary Public Servant Award and the Collaboration Champion Award during the ceremony held on Thursday, September 5 at the Manila Ballroom, Marriott Hotel, Newport, Pasay City. The...

The top 2 U.S. cities to retire are in Florida—No. 3 is nearly 1,800 miles away

Although this Florida city is well known for its iconic theme parks, it has many other features retirees may find attractive, according to WalletHub.

Bayfront Hotel Cebu-North Reclamation toasts to a decade of warm welcomes

It feels like just yesterday when Bayfront Hotel Cebu-North Reclamation opened its doors and gave travelers the home away from home they deserve. On September 7, 2024, they celebrate a decade of serving guests with inviting accommodations, exceptional service, and warm welcomes. As Bayfront Hotel Cebu-North Reclamation celebrates its 10th anniversary, it renews its commitment to preserving the warmth and hospitality that has made the hotel a...

'National Geographic at my front door': Watch runaway emu stroll through neighborhood

No one was more surprised to see an emu than Pennsylvania resident Airiel Dawson, who caught the flightless bird taking a stroll through her neighborhood on Saturday.

Former RAF airfield is new home for Middle Earth

Bovingdon Airfiled Studios is also where films such as 1917 and Deadpool & Wolverine were filmed.

Historic US forts you need to visit

The United States is peppered with numerous forts, garrisons, and camps—testament to the country's impressive military past. Appearing across the nation as early as the mid-17th century, most of these strongholds were built for defensive purposes. But some served a commercial purpose, as trading posts, for example, or goods depots. Today, many stand as unique National Historic Landmarks, sited within state parks and collected together as fascinating living history museums. Indeed, these installations helped shape American history. Curious? Then click through and learn more.

Closed doors: Trump can't visit these countries

Wannabe flight attendants overloaded Delta's recruitment website by flooding to apply for jobs

A high influx of aspiring Delta flight attendants saw the application website crash as applications opened for the first time in over a year.

Raising kids can be lonely, even for couples. We decided to move abroad and travel more.

My house felt like an island even though I had my husband and three kids. We've done things to feel less alone while raising kids.

DOTr endorses terminal shakeup at NAIA

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Transportation (DOTr) backs the proposal to reshuffle airline assignments at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), even dangling the idea of designating Terminal 3 as the new home for international flights. Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista expressed confidence that the terminal reassignment in NAIA, as proposed by the incoming operator, would improve airport efficiency and bring about...

'Remarkable' Prehistoric Settlement Discovered at Rolls-Royce Site

Archaeologists also unearthed ancient human remains from the Roman era during their investigations at the English site.

Bohol authorities search for dive guide who vandalized corals

The local government of Bohol is offering a P200,000 reward to identify the dive guide who allegedly vandalized corals off Virgin Island in Panglao. According to a 24 Oras Weekend report, the Province of Bohol ordered the temporary closure of a snorkeling site on the island starting September 9, 2024 following the vandalizing of corals. It is said that 13 names were written on the corals. Harming a coral reef ecosystem is prohibited and...

Impressive video footage shows how Ukraine destroyed key bridges in Kursk

How to keep your home fly-free

When the warmer months come around, flies come too. Whether you live in a big city, the suburbs, or in the countryside, flies are everywhere. And although flies may not seem dangerous, they tend to carry diseases and filth with them, which can cause problems for your living environment, and the health of both you and your loved ones (including your pets). Therefore, it's time that you learn how to get rid of the flies in your home. Browse through this gallery to discover how.

US to open new visa application center in Parañaque

MANILA, Philippines — The United States embassy in Manila will open a new Visa Application Center (VAC) in Parañaque City this month. The embassy will also launch an updated visa appointment system and expand call center services to US citizens in the Philippines beginning Sept. 28. The VAC will be located at Parqal Building 8, Level 3, along Diosdado Macapagal Boulevard in Barangay Tambo, Parañaque. Immigrant and non-immigrant visa applicants...

Tawsan Mangroves in N. Cebu: Explore this new travel destination

CEBU CITY, Philippines — Want to reconnect with nature in a thrill and fun adventure in the north? Danao City just launched on August 28 their newest tourist destination, the Tawsan Mangrove Forest Ecopark located in Brgy. Guinsay in northern Cebu. Tawsan is home to at least 21 Mangrove species including the hybrid ones that were man-made and naturally grown. It is also a home to various marine life including shrimps and fishes. Tawsan was...

Unpacking Marjorie Taylor Greene's nation-stirring remarks

World's largest indoor ski resort opens in Shanghai as China logs hottest month

Shanghai opened the world's largest indoor ski resort on Friday, welcoming visitors in snowsuits to its pistes as China reported its hottest August in 60 years. This year's northern summer saw the highest global temperatures ever recorded, and in the faux Alpine square where the resort's opening ceremony took place, the mercury had already hit 30 d...

Boeing's Starliner capsule just landed with no crew aboard. What's next for this astronaut taxi?

Starliner's recently completed Crew Flight Test mission faced several technical problems in space. Will NASA certify the spacecraft for long-duration astronaut flights?

Boracay, Cebu, and Intramuros Hailed Asia’s Top Tourist Spots at 31st World Travel Awards

The Philippines and its premier tourism destinations Boracay, Cebu, and Intramuros received astounding recognition at the recently concluded 31st annual World Travel Awards (WTA). The Southeast Asian nation proved to be a top choice for tourists in the Asian region, bringing home eight awards from the Asia & Oceania Gala Ceremony held on September 3, […] The post Boracay, Cebu, and Intramuros Hailed Asia’s Top Tourist Spots at 31st World Travel...

30 places where you can find peace and meditate

Do you need some time and space to just get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life? A place where the stress and anxiety of the mundane seem to melt away? Well, you’re in luck! This beautiful world is full of simple yet wonderful places where you can go and relax or meditate. If you’ve been running to the point of exhaustion lately, take a moment for yourself. Finding places for peace and quiet is easier than you might think! Which location sounds the best to you? Click through to explore more.

County town in running for great place award

The awards are for the 'best, most enduring or most improved urban environments' in the country.

Discover the 30 most exhilarating Munros

Munros are the tallest mountains in Scotland, all must fit the criteria of a height of over 914 m (3,000 ft). The original list of Munros was first compiled by Sir Hugh Munro in 1891, and has been sporadically updated at various times ever since. There are now officially recognised 282 Munros in total, and in this gallery we show you 30 of the best when it comes to pure challenge and adventure! Click on to discover them.

The 'joy and despair' of owning a threatened tower

Its owner feels the sea views are "slightly tainted" by the ever-present threat of coastal erosion.

American Airlines withdrew a lawsuit seeking compensation from a $36 billion shipping giant over a damaged plane engine

American Airlines said it has been trying to get compensation for 2 years, saying the engine was damaged in transit back to the US from Hong Kong.

Wynn Resorts paying $130M for letting illegal money reach gamblers at its Las Vegas Strip casino

LAS VEGAS (AP) — Casino company Wynn Resorts Ltd. has agreed to pay $130 million to federal authorities and admit that it let unlicensed money transfer businesses around the world funnel funds to gamblers at its flagship Las Vegas Strip property. The publicly traded company said a non-prosecution settlement reached Friday represented a monetary figure identified by the U.S. Justice Department as “funds involved in the transactions at issue” at...

Risk posed by Travelodge killer unknown to hotel

Marta Elena Vento, 27, was beaten to death by a guest while working on reception at a hotel in Bournemouth.

Buckingham Palace opens room with famous balcony to visitors

LONDON — Visitors to Buckingham Palace in London this summer will get to stand behind the famous balcony that the British royal family often poses on. For the first time, the palace is opening the building’s East Wing, which includes the Centre Room where the iconic balcony is located. “This room was part of the edition of […]

Overlooked travel destinations to discover this year

Are you tired of the crowds in your favorite cities? It might be time to take a trip somewhere a bit more low-key. There are plenty of places around the world to be explored that haven't been overrun with tourists... yet. Every year, Time Out magazine consults its trusted team of journalists to compile an updated list of the world's most underrated travel destinations. The results are usually surprising and sometimes unheard-of corners of the globe, waiting to welcome you—without the typical overcrowding! Intrigued? Click on the gallery to uncover the world's most overlooked travel destinations.

Rome considering limiting tourist access to Trevi Fountain

ROME — Rome is considering limiting access to the Trevi Fountain, one of its busiest monuments, ahead of an expected bumper year for tourism in the Eternal City, city council officials say. The Italian capital is preparing to host the 2025 Jubilee, a year-long Roman Catholic event expected to attract 32 million tourists and pilgrims. Under the draft […]

A foodie’s lens: Pope Francis’ visit to Indonesia

I finally got a taste of authentic Indonesian cuisine in Indonesia! Pope Francis Tour of Asia I flew to Jakarta for the Apostolic visit of His Holiness Pope Francis from Sept. 3 to Sept. 6. Pope Francis arrived around the same time as I did, before noon in Jakarta. I was frantically trying to look for him at the airport but it was just business as usual—if you were not informed of his arrival, you would not even know that he was there! But even...

Sofia Pablo visits ‘Emily in Paris’ filming locations in Rome

Sofia Pablo is surely enjoying her trip to Italy! On Instagram, the Sparkle star shared some snaps of her visiting the filming locations of the hit Netflix series “Emily in Paris” in Rome, including the Trevi Fountain and Piazza di Spagna, at the foot of the Spanish steps. “Buongiorno, Rome. Feeling like a scene out of [Emily in Paris] today,” Sofia wrote in a post. Aside from the filming locations, Sofia also swung by the Colosseum. According...

Turkey at its sun-kissed, laid-back best: why Göcek makes the perfect Lycian base

When Bodrum and I first met, 30 years ago, my main thought was that it was a long way from anywhere. In summer 1994, when I worked as a holiday rep, there were no international flights to Bodrum’s small airport and only a few holidaymakers made the four-hour trek from Dalaman airport. Famous for its picturebook Crusader castle and waterfront lined with gulets (wooden sailing boats), Bodrum was back then a working town that just happened to have...

13 Dining-Related Taboos from Around the World

We’ve gathered a few tips to ensure you’re following the proper food etiquette when traveling to various countries.

OTS confiscates undeclared P1 million at Clark airport

MANILA, Philippines — The Office for Transportation Security (OTS) at Clark International Airport intercepted a South Korea-bound passenger who failed to declare the P1 million he had in a hand-carry luggage. OTS screening officers Me-an Tongol and Reynald Remotin noticed the bundles of money as the bag passed through X-ray at the final security checkpoint on Friday. Mark Almase, Customs assistant deputy collector for passenger services at the...

NAIA passengers to pay higher fees next year

MANILA, Philippines — The new operator of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) has received the green light to increase usage fees at the gateway, and could earn P11 billion annually from the collection of passenger service charges (PSC) alone. Travelers would have to pay more when flying out of the NAIA starting next year, as outlined under the Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) Revised Administrative Order (AO) 1, Series of...

PAL to relaunch Clark-Siargao flights in December

Flag carrier Philippine Airlines on Monday said it is set to relaunch its flights between Clark and Siargao in December, citing the increasing popularity of what is touted as the country’s surf capital. According to PAL, flights will be reopened on December 3, 2024, with flights scheduled every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday. Flights will depart Clark at 11 a.m. and arrive in Siargao at 1:05 p.m., while flights from Siargao will depart at 1:35...

Here's Everything That Happened Inside the Preview Ball 2024

We welcomed our guests on this year’s nude carpet!

Ferry service extended due to popular demand

The Saltash Ferry service has been extended until 3 November.

Poblacion's Bourbon New Orleans is Angeles City in Makati

The place is defiantly not cool—and that's what's great about it.

Boeing’s Starliner lands on Earth – without its astronauts

Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft landed in a New Mexico desert late on Friday, months after its original departure date and without the two astronauts it carried when it launched in early June. Starliner returned to Earth seemingly without a hitch, a Nasa live stream showed, nailing the critical final phase of its mission. The spacecraft re-entered Earth’s atmosphere around 11pm ET at orbital speeds of roughly 27,400km/h (17,025mph). About 45...