Lifestyle

What is Buddha’s Birthday and where can you celebrate the holiday in Hong Kong in 2024?

Buddha's Birthday is celebrated on the eighth day of the fourth lunar month, which this year lands on May 15 - a public holiday in Hong Kong Events to celebrate the festival will take place across the city, including Buddha bathing rituals, lantern lighting, and the Cheung Chau Bun Festival In Hong Kong, Buddha's Birthday is celebrated on the eight...

Anti-tourism graffiti spreads across Athens in demands to end tourism

Greece issued a plea for 'no more tourism' as the stunning city - and home to iconic landmarks such as the Acropolis - is becoming increasingly swamped with British holidaymakers.

Places Americans don’t visit—but definitely should

Even though Americans still carry the stereotype of people who don’t travel overseas, this is far from the truth. Yes, US citizens may not travel internationally as frequently as other cultures, particularly Europeans, but Americans are going abroad like never before. Popular destinations among Americans include our neighboring Mexico and Canada, as well as the UK in Europe, according to the Department of Commerce’s National Travel and Tourism Office. But what about the countries not featured in the list? There are some real gems out there that Americans have left untapped. What are some amazing destinations abroad that Americans should start visiting? Click through the gallery to find out.

Fly-tipping van repurposed to deter offenders

Middlesbrough Council tries a new tactic to combat its fly-tipping problems.

Inside the world's cutest homes, from cottages to cabins

From a tiny treehouse tucked away in an English woodland to a 100-year-old cottage in picturesque Alabama, these are the world's cutest homes

97 amazing travel experiences to add to your bucket list

From amazing adventures to dream destinations, here are 99 of the world's most unmissable travel experiences for this year.

Little-known facts about the Titanic that will surprise you

The RMS Titanic, a large and luxurious ocean liner, collided with an iceberg on April 14, 1912. As a result, the ship sank the next day and tragically, over 1,500 individuals lost their lives. This incident remains one of the most significant maritime disasters in history. While the narrative is widely recognized and has even served as inspiration for an acclaimed Hollywood film, there may still be aspects of this tragedy that are not well-known. Explore this gallery to gain a deeper understanding of the Titanic's tragic story.

30 Rare Photographs Taken at Chateau Marmont

The iconic Hollywood hotel has been a favorite among celebrities for nearly 100 years.

ONE OK ROCK Announces ‘Premonition' Stadium & Arena World Tour: See the Dates

This global trek will be the largest ever for the "Make It Out Alive" rock band.

I'm an American living in Italy - the locals can spot tourists just by the way you walk

In a recent TikTok, Rachael Sullivan, from Tampa, Florida, reveals what to look out for when it comes to spotting an American in Italy. She has been living overseas since January.

22 Adults-Only Resorts for a Well-Deserved Vacation

These romantic retreats have everything you need—except children.

Here's What You Need to Know About Memorial Day Flag Etiquette

The holiday has its own rules! 🇺🇸

The weirdest reasons for airplane turnarounds

Flying is stressful, no doubt about it. There's the competitive prices, the complications of packing, and that all-important airport sprint. When you're on the plane, you can only pray you're not stuck in front of some bratty kicking kid, or behind a rude reclining pensioner. However, none of that could equal the amount of stress in these ridiculous stories. On a recent flight from Tokyo to Seattle, one passenger must have been having a pretty bad day, because he ended up biting a flight attendant. The plane took off at 9:47 pm local time on January 16 but was forced to return to Tokyo’s Haneda airport approximately one hour later. A representative for the Japanese airline revealed that a male American passenger had bitten a female flight attendant and was arrested as soon as the plane landed in Tokyo. She is reported to have sustained minor injuries. This isn't the first time biting has caused major disruptions during a flight. In 2022, two separate incidents occurred in which a passenger bit cabin crew or other passengers on flights with US carriers American Airlines and Delta Air Lines. Both aggressors were fined around US$80,000 by the Federal Aviation Administration—the highest penalties ever issued by the agency. From bees in the cargo to drunken celebrities and forgotten babies, there are countless stories of planes turning around for the strangest reasons. Click through the gallery to hear all about them.

Things you should never do on an airplane

From remembering your passport to packing the right things, traveling can be stressful. That's why it's important to remember some small things that can make a huge difference in your flight and potentially your health, while also maintaining common courtesy towards fellow passengers. Click through this gallery to find out what you should never do while airborne.

The incredible history behind your favourite desserts

We reveal the surprising roots of 15 of the world's classic desserts including the Victoria sponge cake.

Wayfarers Chapel will be dismantled after being damaged by landslide

The shrine has seen a steady flow of tourists, weddings and funerals since it opened in 1951. However, officials say the deteriorating ground leaves them no choice.

Moment plane catches fire on runway after landing

'Drop your belongings, unbuckle, and head to the exits': This is the moment Delta Flight 604 suffered a mechanical malfunction after landing at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport from Cancun, Mexico, which caused a fire near the plane's nose area.

6 Cities in the US Where You Can Vacation Comfortably on $3K-$4K for 2 Weeks

Summer vacation is here! Where are you planning to go? Are you going to take a trip all by yourself to somewhere in the United States that you've always wanted to visit? Or are you planning to pack up...

A tourist bus service has been cancelled due to the curse of potholes

It is arguably the least used road in the country - partly because it goes through a bomb range. But the minibus service which takes tourists to remote Cape Wrath, has had to stop because of potholes.

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

Yes, it's time to plan a trip!

At New York City’s ILIS, an Ultra-Luxe Cocktail Pairing Draws a Crowd

Wine isn't the only beverage up for pairing at Mads Refslund's new Brooklyn restaurant.

Another yacht goes down: Why orcas are evil geniuses

Despite being dubbed the "killer whale," the orca has enjoyed a pretty family-friendly image, whether it's putting on shows with humans at Sea World or starring in 'Free Willy.' But just like how its classification as a whale is misleading (it's actually the largest subspecies of the dolphin family), so too is its friendly reputation. Orcas live in all the world's oceans, from the Arctic Ocean and Antarctica to warmer tropical seas, and in every single one they are menaces, apex predators at the top of the food chain, ruling with an iron fin! Massive, agile, and extremely intelligent, they are the most powerful and deadly animals in the water. And as if that weren't enough, there have been increasing reports in recent years of their species serial killing, vengefully sinking boats, torturing other animals for sport, and more. The most recent incident was more serious than the average boat attack. A 50 ft (15 m) yacht was rammed off course in the Strait of Gibraltar by orcas and eventually sank due to the damage. The two passengers aboard the boat, named the Alboran Cognac, began to feel heavy blows to the hull and rudder around 9 AM local time on Saturday. The yacht began taking on water and they radioed for assistance. Thankfully, an oil tanker in the area took them aboard and brought them to Gibraltar. In the meantime, the yacht slowly sank—another victory for the killer whales. Orca rammings have become common in this area, and are attributed to a subpopulation of around 15 whales collectively named Gladis. Have we got your attention? Then click through to learn more about the evil genius of orcas.

A woman whose husband died snorkeling in Hawaii is suing its tourism board, saying it failed to warn them of the risk

A Michigan woman is suing Hawaii's tourism board over the snorkeling death of her husband in Maui, saying it failed to warn them of the risks.

The world's costliest countries to live: does Singapore make the list?

As the cost of living crisis bites around the world, find out where people pay the most to get by.

13 Beautiful City Skyline Photos Snapped Around the World

Dazzling views from the top await.

The best cities in America for dog owners

If you have a dog, then you need to live somewhere that’s great for both you and your pooch. It needs to have open space for your pup to exercise, other dogs for your pup to socialize with, and it would be nice if you could keep your furry friend by your side when you go out to eat. So where should you and your good boy or girl settle? Try one of these great cities!

US airlines challenge Biden admin over fee transparency rule

US airlines are challenging the Biden administration’s new regulation on airline fee transparency. The rule... The post US airlines challenge Biden admin over fee transparency rule appeared first on The Independent Singapore News - Latest Breaking News

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.'

Strange foods you won't believe people used to eat

Our ancestors had some unusual tastes. There was very little regard for wildlife preservation, so the entire animal kingdom was theirs to sample. From the most decadent delicacies of medieval royals, to the money-saving innovations of WWII Britain, there's a true assault on the senses ahead. Click on and feast your eyes upon these culinary wonders...

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.

Did you know these American cities changed their names?

Many iconic cities in the US used to have different names. America is a vast land, and one where explorers and settlers have fought over territory. From Native American names to those adopted after the United States became a country, there are plenty of examples that are worth a mention. For instance, did you know that New York City used to be called New Amsterdam? Click through the following gallery to find out all about the original names of big American 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!)

10 of the Best Places to Retire in Arizona

Retirement living choices abound in the Grand Canyon State's big cities, small towns, forested mountains, sun-drenched desert and even a beach resort.

Trump's $100m Boeing clipped another corporate jet at Florida airport

Donald Trump 's private Boeing 757 clipped another corporate jet while taxiing at West Palm Beach International Airport in Florida on Sunday, a source familiar with the incident said.

Mysterious structures discovered near Egypt's Great Pyramid of Giza

Archaeologists uncovered two structures hiding below the sands in Egypt that were constructed 4,500 years ago - at the same time as the iconic Great Pyramid.

Are These Bucket List Trips Actually Worth The Hype?

You might just have to see it to believe it.

Update after man and his dog went missing during Grand Canyon visit

The body of a man, believed to be Thomas L. Robison, 58, of Santa Fe, was found in the Colorado River in Grand Canyon National Park on Friday.

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.

21 Creative Ways to Use Rocks in Your Landscaping

Carve out naturally beautiful borders, stairs, and sitting areas.

34 Rare Vintage Photos of The Plaza Hotel

It’s always been the place to be.

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

You might get starstruck at these luxury properties.

Private school to welcome girls for the first time

Abingdon School is currently an independent day and boarding school for boys.

Harry and Meghan land in LA after 18-hour flight from Nigeria

The couple, who left Abuja yesterday following a three-day visit, were pictured being whisked away by a car at Los Angeles International Airport's 'Private Suites' facility.

What happened to Red Lobster? Why the iconic restaurants are closing

Ranked: Europe’s most extraordinary archaeological discoveries

From the storied shores of Scandinavia to the ancient cities of the Mediterranean, we've picked out Europe's 30 most compelling archaeological finds.

How the sinking of the Titanic built this huge mansion

Take a tour of this spectacular New Jersey mansion, built from the fortunes of Macy's founding family after they tragically perished on the RMS Titanic

We've found the 30 most beautiful small towns in Australia

Head away from the big cities and you'll find a different side to Australia: here are some of the most beautiful towns and villages around the country.

30 countries with no sign of McDonald's

Wherever you are in the world, there's usually a McDonald's nearby – unless you're in one of these countries.

The world's most fascinating fortresses

Humans have been building fortresses since the dawn of time. From strategically placed castles to facilities where certain activities can be conducted in a safe environment, the world is full of formidable fortresses. But which exactly are the most fascinating ones and why? In this gallery, we present you with a selection of amazing structures, from hilltop castles to underground military bases. Browse through and discover the world's most fascinating fortresses.

The northern lights in Barcelona and other unusual places