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Things that are considered normal in the US but are bizarre in the rest of the world

The US is a diverse country, filled with unique quirks and traditions that vary from region to region. But certain customs are common nationwide. And while they might seem normal stateside, in other parts of the world they're thought of as completely strange. For example, the average American may be used to takeaway coffee, but to many foreigners that's far from the norm! Curious to find out what's considered normal in the US, but not in the rest of the world? Then check out this gallery.

10 of the Most Unique Museums In the United States

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

Richest ZIP Codes in Every State

Whether you’re looking to move, settle down, retire or just want to admire mega-mansions, here's where the richest ZIP codes across the nation are located.

Heading to Milan? These Are the 21 Travel Essentials to Pack

Don’t leave the house without these jet-setter must-haves.

Socotra—an unworldly island in the Arabian Sea

Remote and isolated, the Socotra archipelago is often described as the "most alien-looking place on Earth." The islands, part of Yemen, are scattered in the Arabian Sea, with Socotra, the largest island, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. But while once a discerning destination for hardcore adventure tourists, visitor numbers have dwindled since the outbreak of the Yemeni civil war in 2014. Browse this gallery and get an idea of what this unworldly island looks like.

30 capital cities with the best air in the world (America’s represented)

Everyone knows bad air quality when they breathe it in, but how does it measure and compare across different capital cities? To get this information, the amount of particulate matter is measured to arrive at a number the residents are breathing in over a period of time. In 2023, IQAir released their World Air Quality Report, looking at the concentration of PM2.5 (fine particulate matter) in capital cities around the world. The report applied population-based adjustments to standardize its results and calculated an annual average of the data. If a city exceeded the World Health Organization (WHO) safety guideline of five micrograms per cubic meter (μg/m³) for annual average PM2.5 levels, it meant potential health risks for its residents. So, how did your capital city do? Click on to check out the top 30. (Pictured: CopenHill, Copenhagen, a waste-to-energy plant that doubles as a recreational space, featuring a ski slope on its roof, exemplifying the integration of sustainability and public engagement.)

The air travel secrets every passenger should know

Traveling by air is one of the great luxuries of the modern age. It can also be one of the great trials, what with crowded airports, overbooked flights and questionable food. To make your next flying experience more enjoyable, we’re letting you in on air travel secrets every passenger should know. Whether it’s getting through security faster or knowing which part of plane it’s best to sit in during turbulence, we’ve got you covered.

'Gay summer camp': How cruises create space for LGBTQ+ travelers at sea

For some LGBTQ+ travelers, gay cruises have offered a kind of haven, and the market has grown, with more options aimed at a wider range of travelers.

32 astonishing Ancient Egyptian treasures discovered in the last decade

Incredible ancient Egyptian discoveries uncovered in the last five years, from golden-tongued mummies to a slyly smiling sphinx.

Eerie abandoned islands the world forgot

The planet's most curious abandoned islands and their secrets.

Yes, You Can Book a Stay at These Celeb-Approved Hotels

You might get starstruck at these luxury properties.

15 Safest and Cheapest Cities To Live on the West Coast

When you think about living on the West Coast, "affordable" probably isn't the first thing that comes to mind -- and "safe" might not be either. But there are indeed places on the West Coast where...

Manchester University's museum is 'vandalized' with red paint

The Manchester Museum, which dates back to 1887, was heavily vandalized with dark red spray paint. The Grade II Listed building is opposite a student encampment at Brunswick Park.

Creepy facts about the Middle Ages

Did you know that archery at one time was mandatory? Or that you could actually pay your rent in eels? These represent just some of the shocking happenings during the Middle Ages. While this period of time is often referred to as the Dark Ages, this gallery is here to shed some light on life in the Medieval period. Click through to find out some fascinating, odd, and downright gross facts about the Middle Ages.

Mass migration: the reason birds are flocking to cities

The concept of the migratory bird is nothing new. We learn early on that birds fly south for the winter in search of shelter and food. The more interesting concept is the migration of certain birds to cities. What do they want in urban areas, and how can we help them survive? Check out this gallery to learn all about why birds flock to cities.

Truly Fascinating Places You Won't Believe Are in the United States

From lunar-like landscapes to European-style castles.

Are These Bucket List Trips Actually Worth The Hype?

You might just have to see it to believe it.

Why Qantas is axing its only flights direct to mainland China

The airline will ditch their Sydney to Shanghai service from July 28 due to 'low demand'. The flights were paused for over three years during the Covid-19 pandemic and were only restarted in late October.

20 of America's Best Historic Homes You Definitely Have to Visit

Yes, it's time to plan a trip!

The best barge canal holiday destinations in Europe

Barges, for those who don't know, are flat-bottomed, slow-travel vessels that come in all shapes and sizes, typically hosting between six to 12 passengers. And barge cruising just got a lot cooler, as the newest barges on Europe's canals mimic cozy boutique hotel suites, featuring contemporary designs, sunlit rooms, hot tubs, and more. In this gallery, we take you on a journey to some of Europe's finest cruise destinations. Click on to discover the best barge canal holiday destinations on the continent!

The high-flying history of bomber aircraft

The history of aviation took a sinister turn on November 1, 1911, when an Italian pilot had the idea of dropping grenades over the battlefield during the Italo-Turkish War. While his improvised attacks on Ottoman positions had little impact, his actions ushered in the era of air-to-ground weaponry and the emergence of the heavy bomber. These military combat aircraft played a vital though highly destructive role in all the major wars of the 20th century. And while the intercontinental ballistic missile eventually superseded the bomber as a long-range weapon platform of choice, there are still a handful of countries operating these aircraft. But how exactly did the bomber evolve, and what are the most iconic examples ever to take off? Click through and read up on the high-flying history of the bomber aircraft.

Santa Muerte and the rise of "narco saints"

Mexico, like most Latin American countries, has deep roots in Catholicism. But the country also has a strong pagan tradition that dates back thousands of years. In a country plagued by considerable social issues, poverty, crime, and religion can be a dangerous mix, especially when drug cartels believe their saints make it okay to commit atrocious acts, and even protect them! But these "narco saints," as they are known, are also worshiped by regular, law-abiding citizens—and the cult is growing. So, what's going on, after all? Click through this gallery and delve into the world of Santa Muerte and other narco saints.

Flight attendant reveals why plane passengers should NEVER fall asleep before take off

Ale Pedroza, who lives in Orlando, Florida, took to TikTok to share her advice with her 47,500 followers. She dished on 'what not to do on an airplane' including urging travelers not to sleep too early.

Lost treasures around the world

Throughout the ages, a huge number of priceless treasures have gone missing without a trace. Sometimes treasures are recovered, but, even after decades or centuries of searching, the whereabouts of many remain a mystery. Buried in hidden locations, stolen, or lost, a few of these artifacts are now likely destroyed, but some may still exist and one day could be recovered. Intrigued? Click on to 'discover' some lost treasures that have never been found.

The world's most powerful passports for 2024

The results of the Henley Passport Index 2024 have been published, listing this year's most powerful passports. The annual index is created by London-based global citizenship and residence advisory firm Henley & Partners, using exclusive data from the International Air Transport Association. There are an incredible 34 country passports occupying the top 10 places listed in this gallery. So, where is your passport placed, and how many visa-free or visa-on-arrival destinations does it afford? Click on and travel through the index to find out!

How to travel a lot more comfortably

No matter what mode of transport you are taking, traveling can be uncomfortable. Sitting in one position in a noisy and stuffy plane, train, or bus can leave you feeling drained. From not being able to sleep because of noisy passengers to feeling bored because your device has run out of battery, it can be tedious even for the most patient people. But it doesn’t have to be that way. With a little bit of preparation, you can avoid most annoyances experienced while traveling. Click through this gallery to learn about what you can do to make your next travel experience a lot more comfortable.

Ohio rollercoaster is forced to shut just days after opening

A rollercoaster that had been billed as the tallest and fastest in the world was abruptly shut down just a week after it opened at an Ohio theme park. The ride must undergo a 'mechanical modification.'

In pictures: Kyiv before the war

India's impressive World Heritage Sites

Visiting India is to discover a vast land rich in culture and tradition. A sumptuous mix of spiritual beliefs and architecture, plus some of the most important wildlife hotspots on the planet, has led UNESCO to designate no less than 40 World Heritage Sites within India's borders. These must-see destinations include magnificent palaces, decorative monuments, and evocative temples. Also listed is an entire mountain range and a state capital! So, are you ready to start ticking off India's most significant tourist attractions? Click through and delve into the country's cultural, historic, scientific, and natural world.

The Best Solo Travel Destinations in the United States for an Unforgettable Adventure

Whether you're looking for nonstop activity or total relaxation. While traveling with friends and family can be a lot of fun, going somewhere alone has its perks. You get to choose everything — the destination, the hotel, the itinerary, the restaurants, how much money you spend and beyond. Only one opinion matters...yours. It's also a great way to push yourself out of your comfort zone, meet new people (if you so choose), unplug, rejuvenate and bask in moments of reflection — or even just escape reality for a few days. Whether you're planning your first adventure on your own or are a solo travel veteran, choosing a destination can be overwhelming, especially if you still have a lot of places to check off your bucket list. The good news is, you don't have to go far for the adventure or relaxation you crave, because there are plenty of options across the U.S. Weighing variables such as walkability, safety, self care opportunities, number of historic sites and museums and access to nature, we've come up with a list of the best places in the U.S. for solo travelers — ranging from mountain and beach destinations to small towns and large cities. Time to book your ticket for one, plan your itinerary (or don't, remember, it's your trip!) and answer to no one except yourself for a few days.

25 Beautiful Cities Around the World to Add to Your Travel Bucket List

These skylines will give you a surge of inspiration.

I traveled beyond the Arctic Circle to see the Northern Lights. Here are 4 things to know before you go.

I spent $3,000 to travel to a tiny Arctic village in Finland for a chance to see the northern lights. Here's what you should know for your own trip.

Life abroad: These are the best countries for Americans to live in

Considering a life abroad? For many, it's never anything more than a fun idea. But according to the State Department, millions of Americans are actually doing it. And while there are many nations to consider for your new home, in this gallery you'll get a list of the 15 best countries for expats by prioritizing a range of factors including safety, friendliness, quality of life, and access to culture and outdoor activities. Ready? Click on for the best countries for expats, and also discover practical tips to make your dreams come true!

The least-visited country in the world may be the first to disappear

One of the most naturally beautiful countries in the world is also one of the least visited, but most of us may never get to visit before the nation disappears. Tuvalu is an island country in the west-central Pacific Ocean, sitting about halfway between Australia and Hawaii. It’s a coral atoll nation, which means it sits on a ring-shaped coral reef encircling a lagoon, with islands along the rim. The country is a stunning oasis, but faces the threat of disappearing completely from the face of the Earth. Click through to find out about the people, the culture, the devastation it faces, and more about this unique community.

These Dog-Friendly Hotels Will Pamper Your Pup in Luxury

Save this for your next road trip.

What are the world's safest airlines right now?

Airline Ratings, the world’s only airline safety and product rating website, has published its World's Safest Airline list for 2024. In making its evaluation, Airline Ratings takes into account "a comprehensive range of factors that include serious incidents, recent fatal accidents, audits from aviation’s governing and industry bodies, profitability, industry-leading safety initiatives, expert pilot training assessment and fleet age." The results are timely, revealed shortly after the shocking Japan Airlines accident that occurred on January 2. The Airbus A350 burst into flames following a collision with a Coast Guard aircraft while landing at Tokyo's Haneda airport. Five of the six crew members on the smaller aircraft were killed, but miraculously, all 379 people aboard the Japan Airlines plane managed to escape. So, if you're planning to fly anytime soon, you might first want to browse this list of 25 airlines deemed the safest in the air. Click through and find out which airline has claimed the top spot.

Would you go to work on one of these?

The golden age of transportation seems to be behind us. Apart from the advent of electric cars, and the growing use of high-speed trains, nothing very exciting has happened in the business of getting us from point A to point B. In the 20th century and earlier, everyone seemed to have their own unique ideas about the best ways to move about. Some of the more unlikely ones, like the motorized scooter, have eventually caught on, while others that might have seemed like sure bets, such as the amphibious car, quietly fizzled out. However history has treated them, all of the old ideas were pretty interesting. Read on to see some of the wacky ways people used to get around.

Discover the hottest 15 cities for digital nomads in 2024

The digital nomad bonanza really took off on the heels of the COVID-19 pandemic, with many of the most unlikely places creating their own niche versions of remote working experiences, often dangling enticing lifestyle carrots such as tax breaks or visas to attract a steadily growing army of digital nomads to their cities. But just where are these places? In this gallery, we've curated a top 15 based on Nomad Capitalist's findings. Click on to discover them all!

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.

Europe's most underrated cities, according to travel experts

Think of European cities and a plethora of well-known destinations spring to mind. There's no shortage of places to discover the history and culture of this continent. But don't overlook its smaller, less explored cities. Many are hidden gems, far from the hectic crowds, that offer visitors a much more intimate, unspoiled experience. Condé Nast Traveller asked their seasoned contributors to put together a list of Europe's most underrated cities. Using their network of travel specialists and European-based writers, they compiled a list of places you might not have considered—or heard of at all—based on their recommendations. Curious? Click on to uncover Europe's most underrated cities.

13 Amusement Parks in the U.S. That Are Completely Free to Enter

A few even charge you nothing for parking and entertainment. Amusement parks are synonymous with so many wonderful things: fun in the sun, rollercoasters and carousels, games galore and delicious food. And all in a colorful, jubilant, family-friendly setting. The only issue? Joy like that does not typically come cheap. Or can it? Well, at these 13 amusement parks across the U.S., from the Golden to the Garden States, you can save on one very important front: entry. While the vast majority of amusement parks — including Walt Disney World, Universal Studios and Busch Gardens — require tickets just to walk through the gates, these resorts and parks do not. Of course, if you want to ride the rides or snack on the snacks, you'll still have to open your wallet. (A good thing can only go so far!) But if you're someone who's more about the vibes than the rides, this is the list for you. Make sure you scroll to the bottom: There's one very famous park that's about to go "open gate" with its water parks for guests staying on property. (Hint: It's home to a special mouse!)

Olympic stadiums that cost billions and what happened to them after the games

Cities can easily spend billions on hosting the Summer Olympics, although many jaw-dropping venues are ultimately destined for destruction

Countries that will pay you to move there

Moving to a new country can be an exciting experience. However, it can also be a costly and daunting process. Fortunately, some states, cities, and even entire countries pay you to move there and offer incentives to attract new residents, including financial compensation and tax breaks. Whatever the reason, these incentives can be a great opportunity for those looking to start a new chapter in their lives. If you're looking for a change of scenery, check out this gallery for countries that will pay you to move there.

Everlane’s New Vacation Collection Will Inspire You To Book A Flight ASAP

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The safest communities in America

Living a peaceful life in the US seems to be somewhat of a fading dream for many individuals living in once-peaceful cities. Crime rates are on the rise, complemented by the inability to make ends meet as the cost of living continues to increase. Many American states are seeing higher crime rates, unemployment, and homelessness than ever before. This begs the question: "Where is it safe to live these days?" Well, we've got the answer(s). The cities, towns, and villages on this list are all competing for the coveted honor of being the safest in America. Swipe through to see which has taken the crown.

How an Aussie comedian's parking meter mistake cost her $160

The costly incident happened on Friday when Diana Nguyen parked in front of her Airbnb in Bondi in Sydney's east and as it was raining, accidently left her bank card in the parking meter.

The northern lights in Barcelona and other unusual places

America's love affair with the car captured in amazing historic images

Drive into the past with these photos of America's old highways.

Spectacular gravesites of famous people

While some famous people are buried in understated gravesites, others had beautiful memorials built in their memory. Browse through this gallery and find out where some of the most astonishing famous people's graves are located.

Town once called 'scam capital of America' is now best place to retire

Retirees are flocking to a stunning, but often rainy Pacific Northwest city with an exploding population and up-and-coming economy.