We also explore some of the world’s most spectacular UNESCO World Heritage Sites as the monsoon transforms them into lush, rain-soaked wonders, before travelling to India’s floating villages and islands where life unfolds around lakes, rivers and backwaters.
From unforgettable night safaris and historic UNESCO cities to the world’s most fascinating floating markets and destinations that have appeared on the big screen, this week’s edition takes you across landscapes shaped by nature, culture and centuries of human stories.
We also discover the world’s most beautiful cherry blossom destinations, uncover why hotel lifts often skip the 13th floor, and look at what your food cravings could reveal about your body. Plus, we examine a new study exploring the possible long-term link between frequent television viewing and changes in brain health.
Let’s get into it.
Sarnath inscribed on UNESCO World Heritage List: 10 Indian heritage sites every traveller should know
Sarnath has been inscribed on UNESCO’s World Heritage List, becoming India’s 45th World Heritage property. To mark the milestone, we look at UNESCO-listed destinations that showcase India’s rich cultural and natural heritage.
These UNESCO World Heritage Sites are at their spectacular best during the monsoon
Monsoon breathes new life into some of the world’s most extraordinary UNESCO World Heritage Sites. From the mist-covered Western Ghats and Valley of Flowers to ancient rainforests in Uganda, Australia and Malaysia, these destinations offer lush landscapes, roaring waterfalls and remarkable biodiversity at their seasonal peak.
When the sun goes down: The world’s most unforgettable night safaris
The wilderness transforms after dark, revealing a side of nature that few travellers get to experience. From Singapore’s pioneering Night Safari to Africa’s legendary game reserves, these destinations offer a chance to witness prowling predators, elusive nocturnal creatures and unforgettable wildlife encounters beneath the stars.
From Dal Lake to Loktak: India’s floating villages and islands to visit this monsoon
Monsoon lends an added charm to India’s water-bound communities, where everyday life unfolds on lakes, backwaters and river islands. From Kashmir’s iconic houseboats and Manipur’s floating settlements to Kerala’s tranquil backwaters and Assam’s Majuli, these destinations offer a different way to experience the rainy season.
UNESCO World Heritage cities every traveller should visit
From India’s historic walled cities to ancient capitals and beautifully preserved medieval towns, these UNESCO World Heritage cities showcase centuries of architectural, cultural and urban history. Together, they highlight some of the world’s most remarkable historic cityscapes, recognised for their outstanding universal value and enduring heritage.
Lights, camera, travel: Explore the real-world locations behind blockbuster films
From Christopher Nolan’s The Odyssey to Vijay’s Jana Nayagan, these filming locations prove that some of cinema’s most spectacular backdrops are real places waiting to be explored. Whether it’s ancient fortresses, volcanic coastlines or mist-covered hill stations, these destinations let travellers step into the worlds of their favourite films.
The world’s most spectacular cherry blossom destinations
Cherry blossom season transforms cities and parks across the world into spectacular displays of pink and white, drawing visitors each year. From Japan-inspired festivals and historic tree-lined streets to mountain landscapes and urban parks, these destinations celebrate one of nature’s most anticipated seasonal spectacles.
The world’s most fascinating floating markets
Floating markets offer a glimpse into centuries-old trading traditions where canals and rivers serve as bustling marketplaces. From Thailand’s iconic waterways and Vietnam’s Mekong Delta to Indonesia’s river markets and Kashmir’s floating vegetable bazaar, these destinations continue to preserve a unique way of life shaped by the water.
Why hotel rooms often skip the 13th floor: The centuries-old superstition behind the missing number
Ever noticed a hotel lift jumping from the 12th floor to the 14th? The 13th floor usually hasn’t vanished, it has simply been renamed. From the origins of triskaidekaphobia to the business decision behind skipping the number, here’s why an old superstition still influences modern buildings.
Hunger Games: What your food cravings could be trying to tell you
Craving chocolate, crisps or carbs? While food cravings aren’t a diagnosis, experts say they can sometimes reflect everything from fluctuating blood sugar and dehydration to stress, poor sleep and, in some cases, possible nutrient deficiencies. Here’s what different cravings may reveal, and when they might warrant a closer look.
Could too much TV affect your brain? A new study suggests a possible long-term link
Watching television is one of the world’s favourite pastimes, but new research suggests frequent TV viewing in midlife may be associated with smaller brain volumes and changes linked to dementia decades later. Here’s what the study found, and why researchers say it shows an association, not proof of cause and effect.
