Secret whistleblower complaint against Tulsi Gabbard finally shared after eight-month standoff

A secret whistleblower complaint against Tulsi Gabbard that had been held in a locked safe has finally been shared after an eight-month standoff.

A brief history of banned numbers

When we think of something being banned, we usually imagine books, movies, or songs. But throughout history, even numbers have been outlawed, and sometimes, feared. From ancient Greece to modern-day China, certain numbers have caused confusion, anger, or even panic. For many people in power, numbers were never just math, but ideas, secrets, or even threats. Yet without these dangerous digits, much of our science and technology might not exist today. In this gallery, we explore the strange story of numbers that were forbidden and fought over, and what that says about our history. Curious? Click to know more.

Ego-crazed mayor is blasted for erecting 'hologram' of herself at airport as galling cost revealed

Florida Chief Financial Officer Blaise Ingoglia, who oversees Florida DOGE, described the installation as an example of 'wasteful spending'.

Scientists have discovered that the Atlantic Ocean is shrinking

Our global landscape, separated by oceans as we know it today, wasn't always so. Distinct continents are a more recent phenomenon, because way back when the Earth's landmass belonged to one big supercontinent called Pangaea (or Pangea). You might vaguely remember something about it from geography class, but, as a refresher, Pangaea broke up around 175 million years ago, in the Middle Jurassic period. What happened? Tectonic activity, i.e. the Earth's plates moving and shifting to form the world's oceans. But as our climate changes and plate movement picks up, could we be in danger of the reverse occurring, with the disappearance of the Atlantic Ocean a possibility? Click on to discover the odds of the Atlantic Ocean becoming a distant memory.

The longest-named places on Earth

Do you know where Jászfelsőszentgyörgy is? Better question: can you pronounce it? This is a tiny village in Jász-Nagykun-Szolnok County, Hungary. And, believe it or not, it is probably one of the easier names to pronounce in this entire gallery. Why? Because it's the shortest! Ready for these tongue twisters? Check out the longest named places on earth! Click through.

Weird things we all did as kids but never talk about

The mind of a child works in wonderful and mysterious ways. Their imaginations run freely, untethered by the bounds of logic or fact. A simple cardboard box can become a fantasy world in another dimension, and a bottle of Coke can become a glass of Pinot. While habits vary greatly between different countries and cultures, there are certain experiences that most of us can relate to. Children are children wherever they are, and as such, they seem to be drawn to the same things. That means that you, your cousin, and that kid in class who used to eat erasers, all had many of the same weird, awkward experiences. Click through the gallery for a nostalgic and perhaps cringe-inducing look back at the bizarre things we all did as kids but haven't talked about since!

How a 'magical' sea that doesn't actually exist became the Maldives' top tourist attraction

A 'magical' looking sea that twinkles brightly in the night has become one of the Maldives' top tourist attraction.

Is it really adios to the Brit abroad? Holiday habits like sitting by pool are 'out of date'

If you fill your suitcase with tins of beans before jetting off on holiday, and can't help hunting for an English-style pub when you get there - then you're one of a dying breed.

British expat blasts 'glamourised' FIFO work in Australia - and the job you should consider instead

A British expat who works in the Western Australian mines has warned others that FIFO work is not all it's cracked up to be.

Do you know where these famous monuments are located?

The world is full of magnificent monuments. Do you recognize the ones here, and could you point to where they are on a map? Discover or rediscover these architectural gems with the help of our game “Where am I?”

Jeddah and Taif awarded World Region of Gastronomy 2027 title

RIYADH — The International Institute of Gastronomy, Culture, Arts, and Tourism (IGCAT) announced that the Saudi cities of Jeddah and Taif have been awarded the title of World Region of Gastronomy 2027. This is after their meeting of the institute’s criteria that support sustainable regional development through gastronomy across the economic, cultural, social, and environmental domains.The recognition highlights the role of cuisine in preserving...

What really happened during the Trojan War?

More than 3,000 years after it was supposed to have taken place, there is still doubt as to whether or not the Trojan War actually happened. In Greek mythology, the Bronze Age-era war was a conflict between the kingdoms of Troy and Mycenaean Greece. The myth spawned legendary heroes such as Hector and Achilles, and Helen—the most beautiful woman in the world. And what about the Trojan Horse? But is there any fact in all this fiction? Click through and read more about this epic encounter and the figures it embroiled.

Private Caribbean island once owned by Shakira hits market for £22m

Shakira's former private island, Bonds Cay, is up for sale for £22m ($30m) -double her 2006 purchase price. The 650-acre Bahamian retreat features 13 miles of turquoise blue waters and white sand.

20 classic Canadian landmarks to visit before you die

Natural wonders and man-made treasures alike delight travellers to Canada. Whether a natural land formation or a quirky building or statue, these 20 classic Canadian landmarks are a must-see for every travel enthusiast. Keep in mind that many of these landmarks may be closed due to the ongoing COVID-19 situation, and that it’s best to avoid non-essential travel to help prevent the spread.

Asia’s best-kept secret travel spots you’ll want to explore

Little known towns and villages from across Asia that offer extraordinary cultural heritage and breathtaking landscape and nature but without the crowds.

Why Dubai’s artificial islands failed

Dubai is a city where ambition knows no bounds. Rising from the vast, arid desert, it has transformed itself into a dazzling metropolis filled with architectural wonders, cutting-edge entertainment, and an extravagant lifestyle. It is a place where the impossible is made possible—whether it be an indoor ski resort in the middle of the scorching heat, or the world’s tallest skyscraper piercing the sky. Among Dubai’s most audacious projects are its artificial islands, including the iconic Palm Jumeirah and the World Archipelago. These artificial landscapes were designed to redefine luxury, attract billionaires, and position Dubai as the ultimate destination for the elite. But the reality of these ventures has been a roller-coaster of triumphs, financial crises, and unfinished dreams. Curious? Click through to find out why this expensive project failed.

Weird pizza toppings from around the world

Pizza is one of the most beloved dishes worldwide, becoming a staple in countless countries with endless variations to suit every palate. Originally, it was made with just tomato sauce and garlic on a bread base. Today, however, the flavor combinations range from classic and delicious to adventurous and downright strange. From mango pizza in the Philippines to reindeer meat in Finland, this gallery takes you on a whistle-stop tour of some of the world's strangest pizza toppings. Click now to discover.

The most beautiful natural wonders in all 50 US states

What makes America truly great are its stunning landscapes and natural beauty. Every state has its own special attractions, from the biodiversity of Florida’s “River of Grass” to Alaska’s massive, shifting Hubbard Glacier, and from the deepest canyons to the highest mountains. Here are 50 of the United States’ most mind-blowing natural wonders.

The world’s best bucket-list wildlife destinations, ranked

Extraordinary wildlife destinations from around the world that you must add to your bucket list, including the Great Migration in the Serengeti, mountain gorillas in Rwanda and the Great Barrier Reef in Australia.

What Hollywood got wrong about gladiators

Russell Crowe’s iconic roar, “Are you not entertained?” echoes through pop culture like a sword clash in the Colosseum. And clearly, we are entertained! From blockbuster films to flashy Vegas shows, gladiators still steal the spotlight. But much of what we think we know is more Hollywood than history. Alexander Mariotti, historical consultant for popular series like 'Rome' and 'Spartacus' as well as the 2024 'Gladiator' sequel, breaks down common myths pop culture keeps getting wrong about ancient Rome. Ready to separate fact from fiction? Click on to see what ancient gladiators really looked like behind the scenes.

Historic European cafés you need to visit

Europe's enviable café culture revolves around some of the most famous and iconic coffeehouses on the continent. In their time, many of these distinguished establishments have served a litany of famous celebrities including artists, writers, scientists, philosophers, and even royalty. But where can you find Europe's most beautiful and best-preserved cafés and teahouses? Click through and walk through these historic coffee-serving landmarks.

Air travel tips 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.

18 famous places you won’t believe have a twin

From Stonehenge to the Colosseum, some of the most famous landmarks have inspired a host of copycat attractions and replicas around the world.

Travel destinations that could be in a Disney movie

Which countries have the most castles?

Castles are far more than stone walls and towering peaks. For centuries, these structures served as the ultimate symbols of power, protecting vast kingdoms and shaping the world for centuries to come. These strongholds act as a time capsule, revealing the secrets of how ancient empires expanded their reach and defended their borders. While we often think of medieval Europe as the main home for these fortresses, you can find them all over the world, including Asia and the Middle East. Some countries have thousands of them scattered across their landscapes, while others have just a few hundred well-preserved gems. In this gallery, we are counting down the top countries with the highest number of castles. Click to discover the castle capitals of the world.

How did love build the Taj Mahal?

The Taj Mahal is one of the most famous historic monuments in the world. The magnificent mausoleum was completed in 1648 and is today a UNESCO World Heritage Site visited by millions. But did you know that it only took shape because a bereaved husband wanted to honor his late wife with a place that would embody endless love and devotion? Intrigued? Click on and read about the love story that built the Taj Mahal.

15 under-the-radar World Heritage Sites you should visit

From far-flung islands to scarcely-visited desert kingdoms, these are some of the world's most unloved UNESCO World Heritage Sites around the world.

20 of the most picturesque small towns in America

Here's a list of 20 of the most charming small towns and villages in the United States.

Louvre Abu Dhabi director named incoming head of Kiran Nadar Museum in India

Manuel Rabate to open multidisciplinary art space designed by Sir David Adjaye

Countries to visit that love American tourists

It isn’t until you leave the US that you become aware of your Americanness. While some places are actively working to decrease tourism, others still very much appreciate the incoming dollars. Besides, our ways are celebrated in many parts of the world, contrary to what you might hear. Check out some international travel destinations that happily welcome American tourists!

The US presidents with the most vetoes

In the US political system, a presidential veto is a powerful tool used to block legislation. Presidents can issue a regular veto, returning a bill to Congress with objections, or a pocket veto, which quietly kills a bill by taking no action when Congress is adjourned. While some presidents wield this authority sparingly, others have used it hundreds of times to shape national policy. Click on for a look at the US presidents who issued the most vetoes.

A fifth of Britons admit to being hungover at work at least once a week... are you one of them?

A national study of 2,000 working British adults revealed that 17 per cent experience regular hangovers on the job.

Rolls-Royce expands Dubai retail footprint with City Walk opening

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars has strengthened its presence in the Middle East with the opening of a second showroom in Dubai, underlining the marque’s confidence in sustained demand for ultra-luxury vehicles in the emirate and the wider Gulf. The new Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Dubai City Walk showroom adds to the brand’s long-established location on Sheikh Zayed Road and reflects a strategy focused on proximity to clients and highly tailored retail...

Dubai to unveil a street made of gold

Dubai will have a street “constructed using gold,” this according to a press release by the Dubai Media Office released on January 27. The street will be the most distinctive feature of the New Dubai Gold District, which is a rebranding of the so-called “Gold Souk,” a section of Dubai where people buy gold and jewelry. The project will reaffirm Dubai as a world hot spot for gold trading, having exported US$53.41 billion worth of gold in 2024–2025.Dubai is one of the most exciting destinations in the world—and one of the most expensive! The largest and most populous city in the United Arab Emirates, Dubai deserves to be explored at leisure. But what if you have a limited amount of time to discover this opulent desert gem of a destination? If you're heading to Dubai via a layover, what can you do in 24 hours, and where should you go?Browse the following gallery for some ideas of how to spend, spend, spend some time in this compelling and record-breaking city.

Unsuccessful aircraft designs in history

Throughout modern history, many aircraft have, for one reason or another, failed to succeed in the world of aviation. Browse through this gallery and get to know these aircraft failures. Click on.

The best American movies based on European originals

Europe enjoys an enviable reputation for producing many of cinema's greatest and most influential movies. So much so, in fact, that Hollywood often feels compelled to remake them as their own. Not all are successful, but this list highlights 15 notable remakes that stand up to the original foreign releases, and perhaps even betters them. So, what are some of the best movies made in America based on originals filmed in Europe? Click on and compare the first with the second.

11 beautiful homes sitting on the world’s best lakes

The world is awash with beautiful lakes, from North America to Europe and Oceania, so there are plenty of envy-inducing residences that are perched moments from their waters...

Foreign tourists enjoy kite flying, Punjab's music

Following the revival of the Basant festival in Lahore, foreign tourists have shown keen interest in the celebrations, participating in kite flying and cultural activities across the city.Foreign tourists and residents celebrated Basant on rooftops, at hotels and designated cultural venues.A large number of foreign visitors witnessed the vibrant colours of Basant in the Walled City, around the Lahore Fort, near the Badshahi Mosque, as well as in...

The origins of each full moon's name

For centuries, the full moon has fascinated cultures around the world, especially Native American tribes, who named each moon based on natural events and seasonal shifts. These names reflect a profound connection with nature and the lunar cycle. Passed down through generations, they offer insights into the perception of time, the environment, and the rhythms of life. Curious? Click on to learn the name and significance of each full moon.

3-2-1 Qatar Olympic and Sports Festival returns this month

The 3-2-1 Qatar Olympic and Sports Festival is set to return from 8 to 12 February 2026 at the 3-2-1 Qatar Olympic and Sports Museum, offering five days of sport, culture and family-friendly fun.Read More: A Full Guide to Art Basel Qatar 2026 for Art Lovers Organised by the museum located in Doha&rs

Trips you should book a year in advance

Whether your dream getaway is an outdoor adventure, a walk through history, a cultural deep dive, or a seasonal celebration, the key to making it unforgettable is planning ahead. In a world full of surprises, mapping out a trip a whole year in advance may feel daunting, but it’s often the best safeguard against last‑minute stress. A thoughtful itinerary that balances planning with flexibility helps you stay ready for the unexpected while opening the door to extraordinary experiences. Turn anticipation into adventure as you explore this gallery and discover the trips worth planning a year in advance. Click on!

Potholes on Girja Road spark outcry

The five-kilometre-long Girja Road, one of the most important roads under the Rawalpindi District Council, has deteriorated into a severely damaged stretch filled with potholes.In several places, potholes are up to one foot deep, while all main manholes remain uncovered. The road is constantly submerged in sewage water and sludge.Public transport vehicles operating on this road reportedly deteriorate within two to three months due to its...

Revealed: the world's most beautiful clifftop towns

Venture to dizzy heights with a look at some of the world’s most incredible clifftop towns. From seaside citadels to remote medieval mountain villages, living life on the edge has never looked so good.

GAM Announces Conditions for Setting Up Ramadan Tents

Amman, Feb 8 (Petra) - The Greater Amman Municipality (GAM) has announced the instructions and conditions for establishing Ramadan tents for 2026. According to the instructions, no Ramadan tent may be set up without obtaining the necessary permit from the municipality, as well as approval from the Amman Governor and the Ministry of Tourism for tourist establishments. The municipality set operating hours from the Maghrib prayer until the Suhoor...

Bucket-list travel experiences that may soon be impossible

Must-see travel experiences you should do before they are lost forever.

Hira Cultural District Museum displays world's largest manuscript copy of Qur’an

MAKKAH — The Holy Qur’an Museum at the Hira Cultural District in Makkah is showcasing a monumental handwritten copy of the Holy Qur’an, recognized as the largest Qur’an of its kind in the world. The manuscript measures 312 by 220 centimeters and comprises 700 pages, earning the museum recognition from Guinness World Records for displaying the world's largest Qur’an. The manuscript is a magnified reproduction of a historic Qur’an dating back to...

Florida man caught flesh-eating bacteria from scraping his ankle during trip where he swum with pigs

Robert Roush, 62, was enjoying vacation with his girlfriend when he got what he thought was a harmless cut. The reality sent him to the hospital for more than a month.

French duo finish walking from France to Shanghai after 1.5 years

Asharq Al Awsat Two French adventurers reached the end of an epic walk from France to Shanghai on Saturday, after nearly a year and a half crossing 16 countries almost entirely on foot. Loic Voisot and Benjamin Humblot embraced as they stood by the river on the Bund promenade, the financial hub's distinctive skyline glittering in the background. Voisot and Humblot set off from Annecy in September 2024. "We were thinking about this moment almost...

The best dinosaur attractions around the globe, revealed

Check out the world's most fascinating dinosaur destinations, from beach fossil hunting to the world’s greatest natural history museums, these fascinating places are sure to bring out your inner palaeontologist...

8 fairytale castles people actually live in today

From a rustic New York castle to an enchanting chateau in Switzerland, let's explore the majestic castles we'd love to call home from around the world...