Entertainment

World’s tallest woman Rumeysa Gelgi experiences inaugural flight

The world’s tallest woman Rumeysa Gelgi from Turkey took her first flight ever last year.... The post World’s tallest woman Rumeysa Gelgi experiences inaugural flight appeared first on The Independent Singapore News - Latest Breaking News

Southeast Asia’s first luxury hotel made from retired buses opens in Singapore

SINGAPORE: Southeast Asia’s first luxury hotel made from retired public buses has opened its doors... The post Southeast Asia’s first luxury hotel made from retired buses opens in Singapore appeared first on The Independent Singapore News - Latest Breaking News

The events and icons of Native American heritage

These days, the true history of North America is finally starting to find its way into public discourse. This wasn't always the case though, and there is still a lot of work to be done until the truth of the continent fully replaces the colonial deceit that is so commonplace. Most people outside of academia still don't know what North America was like before its 'discovery' by the Europeans, and many of the most important names in the struggle for self-determination and autonomy are a far cry from the household names they should be. Ready to learn the true history of North America? Then click through and read on.

The mysteries of the Oracle of Delphi

One of the most important religious institutions in ancient Greece, the Oracle of Delphi represents a fascinating and mysterious chapter in history. The story tells of a prophetic priestess sat at the site of Delphi, which the ancient Greeks considered the center of the Earth. Oracles were consulted across ancient Greece, but Delphi was different. This center of prophecy in the ancient world was independent from neighboring city-states, resting atop a stunning backdrop of rolling mountains where ruins remain to this day. Intrigued? Click on to learn why the story of the Oracle of Delphi continues to captivate.

Why was Venice so important in the Middle Ages?

The port of Venice had an advantageous position in the Middle Ages. Situated in heart of a lagoon, at the north-eastern end of the Adriatic, its location facilitated the birth of a bustling marketplace. Trade routes depended on the sea, and Venice had easy access to North Africa, the Middle East, the Black Sea, and the rest of Europe. It's unsurprising, then, that the city became an important commercial center and a maritime empire. By the 13th century, it was one of the most prosperous cities in Europe. Intrigued? Click on to learn more about Venice in the Middle Ages.

Singapore Airlines travel sale: Over 60 destinations from S$168 up for grabs!

SINGAPORE: It’s never too early to book your next travel, and with the latest promo... The post Singapore Airlines travel sale: Over 60 destinations from S$168 up for grabs! appeared first on The Independent Singapore News - Latest Breaking News

The rich, star-studded legacy of French-American heritage

Though France and the US can seem worlds apart, and many Americans still find the majority of Europe's quirks to be bizarre, the two countries are actually quite closely linked. The history of French-American culture can still be felt today, as France was a supporter of the US from the very beginning. The years of influence ring out in art, culture, cuisine, architecture, urban planning, and even in some of the most famous people in the country. Click through to look back on some historic moments that solidified the friendship between the two countries, and see which American celebrities are actually of French descent.

Singapore and Zurich take joint top spot in most expensive cities in the world list

Singapore and Zurich have jointly dethroned New York City as the most expensive cities in the world to live in, according to the Economist Intelligence Unit’s (EIU) Worldwide Cost of Living 2023 report. Hong Kong, at fifth place, is the only other Asian city in the top 10. This ranking is based on a comparison of over 400 individual prices for everyday goods and services across 173 cities worldwide. The survey was carried out between 14 August...

The best hotels to book if you’re attending Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour in these 10 major cities

Is it the end of the era? Not just yet. Taylor Swift’s global reign continues with the extended Eras Tour, culminating in Vancouver in December 2024 — bringing the curtain down on this chapter, for now at least. If you’ve snagged tickets to the international leg of the Taylor Swift Eras Tour and are now planning your travel itinerary and hotels, consider yourself a winner in life. The superstar announced that she’s taking her Eras tour to Latin...

Bathroom breaks that have saved lives and started wars

When nature calls, we have to go. Bathroom breaks are something we all need, and while it may seem natural and trivial, sometimes, they can have dire consequences and lead to quite extraordinary outcomes. Not convinced? What if we told you that bathroom breaks have been linked to scientific breakthroughs, the death of kings, and that a war has been started because of one? Now that we have your attention, click on and get to know the bathroom breaks that changed history.

Would you fly into the world's scariest airports?

These days, we take landing at an airport pretty much for granted. But there are some flight destinations that are notorious for the dangers they pose to both the aircraft, its crew, and passengers. These are airports that have a frightening reputation for their difficult and sometimes remote location, challenging weather conditions, and perilous runways. Arriving and departing from such terminals tests the skill and confidence of the most seasoned of pilots, and the nerve and resolve of the traveling public. So, does your next flight take you to one of the world's scariest airports? Check in, buckle up, and click through this list of dangerous destinations.

This Himalayan lake has a dark history

There's a glacial lake in the Himalayas that conceals a sinister secret. In the 1940s, a disturbing discovery was made, yet it wasn't until the 21st century that the mystery was finally unraveled. Or was it? Click through the gallery to learn about the icy Skeleton Lake, and draw your own conclusions.

Do you know where the most remote place on Earth is?

The most mysterious shipwrecks in history

History and archaeology enthusiasts, treasure hunters, and divers alike love a good shipwreck! Indeed, we have been using vessels for millennia; these have been instrumental for our survival and our fun, from battles to travel. It's safe to say that our oceans are full of shipwrecks. Some have been found, and some have been explored, but many remain there, untouched. Click through the following gallery and dive deep into the most mysterious shipwrecks in history.

Random historical facts you didn’t know

The world is full of astonishing stories that often get forgotten or overlooked in history classes. This shows that there are plenty of interesting and random historical facts that you probably never knew of in the first place. From Cleopatra's origins to Abraham Lincoln's wrestling career, click through the following gallery to discover random historical facts you didn’t know.

5 food and drink experiences in Hong Kong to look forward to in December 2023, from Clockenflap festival to a giant gingerbread house

December is one of my favourite times of year to be in Hong Kong, when the air is crisp and dry, and the streets less crowded This year, it feels especially important to stick around and support Hong Kong's bars and restaurants. Here are five opportunities to do just that Christmas and New Year 's Eve have traditionally been some of the most lucrat...

The most impressive examples of wooden architecture in the world

Hilarious travel advice foreigners share about the US

The US government issues regular advisories for its citizens traveling abroad to ensure a smooth trip, but other countries are also concerned about the well-being of their citizens visiting the United States. Although American media is consumed around the globe, the cultural differences from those of other countries may surprise you. Some globetrotters have taken the initiative to offer some advice on what to watch out for, what to avoid, and how to behave in America. While these general tips and tricks may not apply depending on the place you're visiting, there is still some wisdom you can take from all these cultural differences. In this gallery, you'll find some of the most absurd, amusing, and insightful tips that foreigners give their fellow countrymen and women when planning a trip to America. Click and find out what they had to say!

Absolutely incredible places to visit in Central America

Central America is generally regarded as being composed of seven countries—Guatemala, Belize, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Honduras, Panama, and Nicaragua. That's seven wonderfully compelling vacation destination options famed for stunningly varied ecosystems, culturally significant historic ruins, and some of the best beaches around. But where do you start? If this part of the world is on your must-see bucket list, click through this gallery for ideas on where to go and what to see!

Love is in the air! The most romantic hotels in the world

The mystery surrounding the missing Malaysia Airlines plane

The 2014 disappearance of Malaysia Airlines flight MH370 is one of the most shocking air travel disasters in recent history. The plane was traveling from Kuala Lumpur to Beijing when it vanished from the radars over the Indian Ocean. No survivors or wreckage were ever found, and countless family members still have no closure almost a decade later. On November 27, 2023, Chinese courts began hearings to determine what compensation the relatives of the victims are owed. “Almost 10 years on, the family members (who refused to accept settlement offers) did not receive any apology or a penny of compensation,” Jiang Hui, who lost his mother, told CNN. “The complete lack of legal remedies over the past decade has made our painful lives even more unbearable.” Jiang is suing Malaysia Airlines, its insurer, Boeing, and the manufacturer of the plane’s engine. His demands include financial compensation and a formal apology. He is also requesting that the companies resume providing psychological support for the families. If the courts decide in favor of Jiang and the other relatives, it's unclear how China will enforce the ruling. Many of the companies involved are international and do not have headquarters in China. Similar lawsuits brought by family members in the United States were dismissed on the basis that the Malaysian legal system should handle these cases. Of the 200 people that disappeared, 150 of them were Chinese nationals. To learn more about the circumstances surrounding one of the biggest mysteries in aviation history, click through the gallery.

Where to Go Next? Singaporean Parents’ Top Travel Destination for 2024

Pack your bags! Dive into the top travel destinations for Singaporean parents in 2024. Your perfect getaway is just a click away!

Abandoned places around the world that have been TRANSFORMED

These empty and abandoned places around the world are being reborn...

Why were these famous figures buried in unmarked graves?

For thousands of years, humans have honored the deceased by conducting burial ceremonies. It is intrinsic to our existence, making it difficult to fathom not knowing the final resting place of a loved one. Surprisingly, numerous renowned individuals have been interred in unmarked graves. Even in cases where their names were put on a tombstone for the public to pay their respects, they weren't placed at the actual burial location. Explore this gallery to see which famous figures were buried in graves without markers.

The snowiest places on Earth

You love the winter and can't get enough of the snowy weather? Don't worry: there are plenty of destinations where high levels of seasonal snowfall do occur. Anywhere from Japanese cities to American national parks—plenty of snowy locations that are great fun to explore! Wrap up warm and check them out by clicking through this gallery.

Scientists made a fascinating discovery at the Great Pyramid of Giza

Silly and spooky mythological creatures of North America

The United States has a long, storied history of people supposedly running into critters, aliens, and supernatural creatures of all different shapes and sizes. Most of these accounts tread the line between fact and fiction, with no concrete evidence. Nonetheless, for decades, and in some cases for centuries, people have been claiming to see things that can't quite be explained. Some of these creatures are elusive, some murderous, while others are just harmless and goofy. Intrigued? Read on to find out more about the most interesting creatures of American folklore.

I've lived between Singapore and NYC my entire life. Here are 3 ways the latter is better, and one way it isn't.

I've lived in New York City and Singapore. I think the former has the better culture and career opportunities, though the latter has the better food.

Are these tourist destinations being ruined by commercialisation?

We take a look at the world’s most historic and beautiful attractions being damaged by mass tourism, undermined by commercialisation or tarnished by selfie-crazy masses.

An enormous iceberg is roaming free for the first time in decades

The most dangerous cities in America

Choosing a place to settle involves considering various factors; safety is paramount for families. But perceptions of crime can sometimes be disconnected from reality. Many crimes go unreported, affecting the accuracy of available data. Employment rates also contribute to a location's crime rate. The FBI's crime classification distinguishes between violent and property crimes, with the latter being more common. In 2019, there were 2,109.9 property crimes per 100,000 people, compared to 379.4 violent crimes. The introduction of the National Incident-Based Reporting System in 1988 has expanded the scope of crime data, offering details like the time, location, and weapons used. It also includes demographic information about victims and offenders. Mass shootings remain a grave concern, with hundreds of casualties over the years. In this gallery, we explore the most dangerous cities in the US in 2023 (so far), focusing on violent crimes. Click on to discover them.

Famous bounty hunters throughout history

Rewards for capturing people are nothing new. Most of us are familiar with the "Most Wanted" posters of the Old West, and today it's not that different. Bounty hunters chase fugitives and/or criminals for a bounty. These men and women dedicate their lives to tracking down and capturing people who, for one reason or another, should be brought to justice. Of course, some bounty hunters became more famous than others. Click through this gallery and find out more about history's most noteworthy bounty hunters.

The lost treasures: Art plunder during WW II - a dark chapter in history

The widespread looting of European art by the Third Reich before and during the Second World War was one of the most shameful chapters of art history. The Nazis systematically stole thousands of paintings from individuals, and confiscated many thousands more from museums and other cultural institutions. Beside artworks, gold, silver, currency, jewelry, books, and religious treasures were also plundered. Most of these looted items were recovered and restituted after the war. But many thousands of pieces of art were never retrieved by their rightful owners. Click through and read the shameful story of Nazi plunder.

Go with the flow down the world’s most BEAUTIFUL waterways

Spanning everything from floating lagoon cities to cross-country water channels, here we take a look at the most incredible canals and waterways from across the globe.

Do you dare drive this list of the highest roads in the world?

Nature presents us with some formidable obstacles, not least the incredible mountain ranges found scattered across the world. These precipitous and often remote regions are some of the most inaccessible on the planet. But even here you can find roads that climb the steepest of slopes to conquer the tallest of peaks. Indeed, these high altitude mountain passes represent some of the greatest engineering achievements of the modern age—and a motoring challenge that tests even the most daring and experienced of drivers. So, what are the highest points on Earth accessible by car? Click through and take the high road!

How wild was the Wild West, really?

We've all seen Western movies and numerous depictions of what the Old West was like, but it still begs the question: how wild was the Wild West, really? Well, it turns out it was pretty wild! So wild, in fact, that you’d probably struggle to survive... Curious to find out more about this slice of American history? Then put on your cowboy hat and click through.

Lost underwater cities that have now been found

Discover the incredible underwater cities we thought were gone forever...

Worried woman in China, 41, snared at airport with fake passport hiding real age from 24-year-old boyfriend

Woman pays US$900 for bogus passport bearing changed date of birth Authorities impose US$420 fine, confiscate travel document A woman in China with a boyfriend 17 years her junior has been caught at Beijing airport using a fake passport to hide her real age. The woman, who was born in 1982, aroused the suspicions of an immigration officer who notic...

Beloved landmarks around the world that could soon be lost FOREVER

Take a look at some of the world's natural wonders and marvelous man-made constructions whose existence is threatened by the climate emergency.

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.

Celebrities killed in air crashes

Sadly, plane crashes are more frequent than we would like to think, especially when it comes to the small private planes and helicopters often used by the stars. Many fatal flights have claimed the lives of renowned celebrities and public figures. Explore the gallery below to learn about the stars who tragically died in air crashes.

The oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world

There are many ancient cities, but not all of them have been continuously inhabited ever since the first settlements. Several cities, however, have been populated for millennia, and it seems like they're not going anywhere anytime soon. Most of them are UNESCO World Heritage Sites, but some are sadly at risk of disappearing. In this gallery, we bring you some of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. Click on to learn all about them.

Top tips to improve the air quality in your city

It is no great secret that air pollution contributes to climate change and does nothing but damage our planet. From causing asthma in kids, to ruining buildings via acid rain, pollution in the air has many negative side effects. You may think that the vast majority of air pollution is caused by big business and that there is nothing you can do as an individual to help improve the air quality in your city. The reality is, however, that there are plenty of changes we can make as individuals that will contribute to the cause. Check out this gallery to find out how you can do your bit.

Harry Winston Holiday Collection 2023: Dazzling sparkles and treasures aboard the Winston Express

Your one-way ticket on the Winston Express is a holiday journey filled with the most amazing sparklers and treasures this Christmas. Harry Winston invites you onboard the Winston Express this holiday season with a one-way ticket across sugar loaf mountains and glistening fairytale landscapes. Destination? Happiness. On every stop, dazzling sparklers and treasures abound, beginning with the iconic Winston Cluster Collection. This classic design...

Top 43 Free Things To Do in Singapore (Dec 2023): Christmas Markets, Snowfall Displays, Pet Carnivals, Free Jagua Tattoos, And More

Bored as well as broke? We’ve got good news for you. This December, there’s no way you’ll miss out on the festivities with the slew of Christmas markets, fairs, and events to keep you entertained at zero cost. Look forward to so many Christmas markets that I almost lost count of them, festive performances, a 15m tall Christmas tree, free Christmas-themed Jagua tattoos, snowfall displays, and more. Our furry friends aren’t forgotten—the season...

Open up the secrets behind famous gates around the world

These 38 incredible gateways are works of art in their own right. But some have dark histories.

The most haunted places in every state

The United States is teeming with paranormal activity. Many historical places are said be haunted, but other, more unassuming locations, are also home to otherworldly phenomena. If you are into ghost hunting and want to visit a haunted location, where should you head to first? Hopefully you'll find the answer in this gallery. Here we list the most haunted places in every state. Click on and happy ghost hunting!

What country is this? Test your geography knowledge

What country is this? Test your geography knowledge.

These are the 5 deadliest plane crashes in history

Whatever happened to Britain's great train robbers?

The Great Train Robbery remains one of the most infamous heists in British criminal history. In the early 1960s, a masked gang held up a Glasgow to London mail train and stole money worth millions. Some of the robbers evaded capture for years, with one or two later becoming celebrities by cashing in on their notoriety. The majority were eventually jailed. But one escaped justice, a mysterious figure whose identity is still subject to speculation 60 years later. Click through, get on track, and find out what happened to Britain's great train robbers.