Travel

The fascinating stories behind the world's most famous paintings

These masterpieces are more than just strokes of paint on canvas; they are vibrant narratives that have shaped the course of art and culture. From the mysterious allure of the 'Mona Lisa' to the vivid turmoil of Van Gogh's 'Starry Night,' each painting is a portal to a different time and place. Uncover the tales behind these celebrated works: the hidden meanings, the historical contexts, and the personal struggles of the artists who created them. Whether it's the revolutionary spirit captured in Da Vinci's 'Mona Lisa' or the serene beauty of Monet's 'Water Lilies,' these paintings offer a glimpse into the diverse tapestry of the human experience. Click through to unravel the stories behind these timeless creations and feel the enduring power of visual art.

Two women embark on 500-mile drive from Jacksonville to Key West in TOY CARS in an attempt to achieve a Guinness World Record

Best friends Lauren Lee and Cassie Aran, both 29, from Florida, set out on their journey in mid-March and have meticulously documented the trip mile by mile.

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!

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

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

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

Met Gala 2024: Billionaire Gustav Magnar Witzoe flaunts one of the most flamboyant looks

Witzøe, 31, owes his riches to salmon fish farming company SalMar Asa.

The 10 Best Comfy Travel Pants at Amazon for Long Flights, Hiking, and Beyond — All Under $50

Stock up on comfortable travel pants ahead of your next trip.

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.

12 mega-expensive government bunkers left to rot

From nuclear bunkers to top-secret military bases, these megaprojects lie buried deep underground in numerous locations around the world.

See how much the homes of your favorite TV shows would cost in real life

Kerala's First Private Train Connecting Goa, Mumbai, Ayodhya To Be Launched On June 4; Check Fares, Route, Amenities

Kerala Private Train: Kerala is all set to launch its first private train service, commencing from Thiruvananthapuram on June 4. This private train will offer tourists convenient travel options to popular destinations such as Goa, Mumbai, and Ayodhya. This service is set to be managed by SRMPR Global Railways Private Limited in collaboration with Princy World Travels Private Limited Kerala Private Train: Onboarding Stations The inaugural journey...

A plane full of passengers was evacuated moments before takeoff after a bomb threat was emailed to air traffic control

A bomb threat was emailed to Bermuda Airport, forcing air traffic control to cancel takeoff — but the passengers were left on board for 40 minutes.

Tips and tricks to prevent seasickness

As we approach summer, some of us are planning holidays, which may include boat trips, fishing trips, sailing or cruises. Although boating can be fun, many people suffer from seasickness, which can make the experience quite unpleasant. "Seasickness is horrible and can affect even the most experienced sailors, so try not to be hard on yourself if yo...

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.

The world's most spectacular hotel pools ranked

Explore the world's most spectacular hotel swimming pools, from Bali and Norway to Ireland and the USA.

Oil painting of Charles I's children is actually an 18th century print

The portrait titled Three Eldest Children of Charles I was on display beneath the staircase in Oxburgh Estate in Norfolk and viewed by thousands of visitors each year.

Disney On Ice will return to Abu Dhabi in October 2024

Get set to welcome Mickey and friends back to the capital… Fans of Disney, ice skating, shows…and just about anything entertainment will be wowed by Disney On Ice yet again, as the all-star family entertainment extravaganza will return to Abu Dhabi’s Etihad Arena from 16 to 20 October, 2024. View this post on Instagram […]

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 best road trip route through the Southern United States

Friendly faces, comfort food, and views that go for miles are just the start of what makes the South an incredible region to explore. Grab your cowboy hat, put the top down, and follow this guide to the ultimate southern road trip.

This Glamorous Riviera Is Known as the 'St. Tropez of Turkey' — and It Just Got a New All-suite and Villa Resort

Maxx Royal Bodrum, opening on May 17, will also feature the largest kids club in the region.

The most architecturally interesting buildings in the world

Embark on a captivating journey discovering remarkable buildings that stand the test of time—from ancient wonders, to cutting-edge marvels. These structures not only transcend temporal boundaries, but also reshape our understanding of design, reflecting the ingenuity and creativity woven throughout human history. Ready? Click on to discover the most architecturally interesting buildings in the world.

Why was this eerie town of fairytale castles left to crumble?

Once marketed as a high-end neighbourhood of luxury châteaux, Turkey's Burj Al Babas has stood abandoned for 12 years. Take a tour of this eerie fairytale ghost town...

Indigenous America's most sacred landmarks

The most sacred sites in America number some of the nation's most cherished landmarks and natural wonders. Of considerable cultural and spiritual significance to indigenous peoples long before the arrival of European settlers, these locations served as places of habitation, scenes of ceremony, and burial grounds for prehistoric tribes and Native Americans. They were also seen as the embodiment of ancient gods, and worshipped accordingly. Today, many of these locales have been preserved as national monuments, with some designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. So, where in the US can you find the most revered destinations? Click through and seek out indigenous America's most evocative landmarks.

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.

Thought 'off-grid' meant forgoing luxury? Think again: Amazing cabins located in some of the most picturesque spots in England and Wales that are kitted out like boutique hotels

They form a portfolio of accommodation by new retreat holiday company Shacks. The cabins sleep between two and three guests and Fido can even come, too.

Emirates to retrofit an additional 71 A380s and B777s, extending airline’s nose-to-tail cabin refreshes to 191 aircraft

DUBAI, UAE 7 May 2024: Emirates has today unveiled that it will be completely refurbishing another 43 A380s and 28 Boeing 777 aircraft, expanding its retrofit programme to 191 aircraft.The original plan called for 120 aircraft - 67 A380s and 53 777s to undergo full refurbishment. The Boeing 777 remains the backbone of the Emirates fleet, and the A380 is the airline’s flagship customer favourite, and the expansion of the refurbishment programme...

Where to find your favourite Dubai restaurants in Europe this summer

From Mykonos and Marbella to Cannes and Saint Tropez, here’s where to find your favourite Dubai restaurants in Europe this summer… Bodrum: Bagatelle A lively party restaurant that’s as much about the fine French fare as it is the sparkler shows that keep the party going until the early hours, Bagatelle is now found all […]

This Iconic Las Vegas Resort Just Turned 25 Years Old — and We Got an Exclusive Peek at Its New Suites

The Venetian Resort Las Vegas president and CEO Patrick Nichols tells Travel + Leisure that $550 million will be spent to overhaul the suites in the Venetian towers.

GCC to Roll Out Unified Tourist Visa by Year's End

By the end of 2024, a unified tourist visa will be available for the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). The announcement was made at the Arabian Travel Market (ATM).[1] Read More: Arabian Travel Market 31st Edition Kicks Off Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, the UAE's minister of economy, has advoca

Video: Saudi Arabia unveils Middle East's largest water park

ALBAWABA Saudi Arabia is gearing up to unveil the Middle East's largest water-themed park and an innovative facility, marking a significant addition to Qiddiya City in the Kingdom. The Board of Directors of the Qiddiya Investment Company (QIC) recently announced the ambitious project.استعدوا لخوض تجارب ترفيهية متنوعة في عالم من المغامرات والتشويق في أكواريبيا و Six Flags #مدينة_القدية

Dubai: Don't miss out on these summer activities for kids

Embark on an exciting adventure this summer with your little ones

This Seaside Hotel in India Is One of the Best in the World — With 2 Infinity Pools, an Ayurvedic Spa, and Gorgeous Views

This iconic beachside hotel is under new management, but return guests can still expect excellent service, great food, and a nourishing spa experience.

Today's best photos: From family meeting at Mexican border to Met Gala red carpet

The National picks the most striking images from around the world

Etihad Airways, DCT Abu Dhabi partner to launch free Abu Dhabi stopover stays

ABU DHABI, 7th May, 2024 (WAM) -- Etihad Airways and the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) have announced the launch of Abu Dhabi Stopover. The announcement was made at the Arabian Travel Market following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between DCT Abu Dhabi’s Director General for Tourism, Saleh Mohamed Al Geziry, and Etihad’s CEO Antonoaldo Neves.The Abu Dhabi Stopover, exclusive to Etihad Airways,...

Share a tip on an unsung UK seaside town – you could win a holiday voucher

In the last two decades many UK seaside towns have undergone a quiet transformation. Art galleries, boutique hotels and Michelin-starred restaurants are breathing new life into once down-at-heel resorts such as Blackpool and Margate, while coastal hotspots like Padstow, Southwold and Whitby continue to draw the crowds on sunny days. While these places are popular for good reason, we’d love to hear about your favourite “unsung” seaside towns –...

What are the most dangerous countries to be a driver in?

UK-based Global Positioning Specialists (GPS) and their "Most Dangerous Countries to be a Driver" world study investigated road quality, the number of road deaths, and motor vehicle crime statistics in 60 of the most car-dependent countries around the world in a quest to find where being a motorist can mean navigating a treacherous route along hazardous roads. So, is the country you drive in among those mentioned? Click through and steer carefully through this list of the top 20 dangerous countries to be a driver.

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.

Dubai: What to do when you forget things in a taxi?

Exploring the city is all fun and games until you realise you left your purse, wallet, or phone in a cab

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.

HATTA RESORTS BY DUBAI HOLDING SHOWCASES ITS EXCITING PROPOSITION AT THE 2024 ARABIAN TRAVEL MARKET

Dubai, United Arab Emirates – 7 May 2024: Hatta Resorts and its Wadi Hub is proudly taking part in this year’s edition of the annual Arabian Travel Market (ATM), which opened yesterday and will run until 9 May at Dubai World Trade Centre. Known for glamping and its impressive line-up of exhilarating adventures amidst the picturesque natural landscape of the Hajar Mountains, the Hatta region is an all-rounded haven for a quick city escape.As...

13 Nostalgic Photos of Vintage Amusement Parks

What a thrill.

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.

Learning to sail on the Arabian Gulf for less than Dhs300

Sailing in Dubai is becoming more affordable and accessible thanks to the Wind Rises community, here’s how our first time went… If you want to learn an exciting new hobby with friends or make the most of the stunning Arabian Gulf from a unique perspective, then Wind Rises’ sailing experience is a great place to […]

Read: How luxury in-home golf simulators are becoming the rage these days

The units are equipped to transform residences into golfing sanctuaries while eradicating the limitations of weather, seasonality and tee times

Baffling images of NEOM project The Line look like optical illusions

Renderings suggest that the metropolis will be encased in two long mirrored skyscrapers which reflect the sky, surrounding desert and water, giving the illusion of invisibility.

Incredible lesser-known facts about World War II

World War II officially ended on 2 September 1945, leaving behind a trail of destruction that forever marked humanity. we look back at some of the most noteworthy facts that marked this historical event. Click on the gallery and learn more.

10 of the Most Unique Museums In the United States

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

Egypt sets aim of 30% increase in tourist arrivals in 2024 despite war headwinds

Egypt is aiming for an increase of up to 30 per cent in international tourist arrivals this year, despite escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, according to a senior government official. The North African country expects a 25 per cent to 30 per cent growth in inbound tourists this year, compared with the 27 per cent increase it recor...

The worst animals to keep as pets

Sometimes keeping an exotic animal as a pet is seen as the cool thing to do, but think twice before jumping on the bandwagon. Many animals should never be kept in captivity, not just for the safety of humans, but also for their own safety and well-being. Scroll through the following list of the worst animals to keep as pets. Have you ever owned any of them?

Dubai to RAK in 15 mins: Flying taxis to take off in 2027, cut inter-emirate travel time

Ras Al Khaimah tourism has signed an agreement with Skyports Infrastructure to introduce air taxis in the emirate