The world 30 years ago: a journey back to 1994

Top 10 unaffordable cities globally

Anybody attempting to buy a house in this day and age will be aware of the financial hurdles that often block a successful property purchase. Even more so if the place you want to live is in a city. The global housing market is bloated with super expensive real estate, most of it way out of reach for those hoping to get a foot on the urban property ladder. But now, according to a recently published report, some cities have been labeled as “impossibly unaffordable" such is the skyrocketing prices asked for even the smallest of homes. That's bad news for anyone hoping to settle in a country capital or a large metropolis. But what cities are we talking about, and why are costs so high? Click through and survey this list of the unaffordable—and slightly more affordable—cities in the world.

30 countries known for their amazing weather

Welcome, weather enthusiasts! Let's embark on a global weather tour, shall we? From pristine beaches to charming cities, we'll explore the top 30 countries where Mother Nature has mastered the art of perfect weather. Whether you're seeking perpetual sunshine or a balanced climate, this guide is your passport to ideal conditions. So get that sunblock ready and start your adventure engines as we dive in! Swipe through to see this list of 30 countries that have the most welcoming weather.

Last month was the second hottest November on RECORD

Last month was officially the second hottest November on record, according to the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Famous people who reached the age of 100 (and beyond)

Time is almost never on our side, and seems to continuously run out before our eyes. That’s why we as a species chase longevity. We seek it out through technology or medical advancements or spirituality—or simply by lying! Still, prolonged life remains elusive. Except for the lucky few who keep kicking right into (and beyond) the centenarian club. There are numerous famous people who have lived to 100 years and beyond, and that number will probably increase as the years go on and we perfect the art of living even longer. But first, let’s see which stars in recent history have achieved the century-old feat. Click through to find out.

Notre Dame Cathedral Reopens After 5 Years of Restoration

Paris is buzzing with pride as the iconic Notre Dame Cathedral reopens its doors after an extraordinary five-year restoration.Read More: Celebrities at the Prelude to the Paris Olympics 2024 Once a scene of devastating flames, this 850-year-old Gothic masterpiece has been reborn, dazzling with prist

Australia's most popular biscuit revealed - despite popular gripe

Australia's most popular biscuit of 2024 has been revealed - with foodies across the country crowning a well-known buy as their favourite.

Things to do in the UAE this week, from trainer swaps at Sole DXB to fun in the Liwa desert

Whether you are looking for a good deal on books or trainers, or seeking a pet-friendly festival or an evening out in the desert, this week is full of fun events. Here, The National rounds up seven things to do around the Emirates, from December 9 to December 15. Monday, December 9 Head to Sound Stages at Dubai Studio City to catch the last day of ...

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.

Why these beloved cruise ships will never sail again

Some of our most-loved cruise ships have been taken out of service, sold or scrapped entirely. Is your favourite among our list of cruise ships no longer sailing?

Famous apparitions of Jesus and Mary seen around the world

Visions of Jesus and Mary are among the most popular ones when it comes to religious apparitions. Many of these have in fact shaped the history of Catholicism, and indeed Christianity. For instance, one famous church was founded based on a vison, and numerous pilgrimage sites that are visited annually by millions of people are where these apparitions took place. Browse through the following gallery and discover the most famous visions of Jesus and Mary.

The stunning beauty spot that's touted as the new Grand Canyon

Politicians are fighting to protect a stunning beauty spot that is home to acres of rugged cliffs and desert rivers.

Moxy hotel to open in Dubai in 2025

The playful lifestyle hotel will be the first Moxy in the UAE… The Dubai hotel landscape is growing. The stylish and fun Moxy hotel brand is due to open in the city next summer, and it’s heading to the central location of Al Barsha. The hotel will be the first of its kind in the […]

Revealed: the world's largest lakes that can swallow whole countries

These are the largest lakes on Earth that are bigger than whole nations like Germany, Italy, the UK and New Zealand.

Ranked: the most DANGEROUS beaches in Europe

European beaches where there's more to worry about than sunburn.

Fly under Dhs500: The cheapest flights you can take this December

It’s never too early for travel inspiration with the cheapest flights… Holiday season is a state of mind and has nothing to do with whether we actually have holidays or not. Which is why every time is the right time for travel inspiration. If you’re looking to grab a flight and jet away to picturesque […]

Dark legacy of America's 'cutest Christmas' town is dividing locals

In a quaint town where twinkling lights and festive cheer now paint the streets, a dark and unresolved legacy continues to haunt its citizens.

Kuwait: Deportation warning for residents participating in celebratory marches

Authorities expressed confidence in the public's commitment to maintaining order and contributing to the safety and security of the community

I had to stay behind while my family went on the holiday of a lifetime

Claire Page said she broke down in tears and collapsed to the ground in despair after being told by check-in staff at Manchester Airport that she would not be able to board.

Burj Al Babas: the abandoned dream of a luxury castle village

When the luxury residential complex known as Burj Al Babas near Mudurnu, Turkey, was unveiled in 2014, it was described as a fantasy land full of Disneyesque castles. And their interpretation wasn't far off the mark. Burj Al Babas was supposed to be a dream retreat for the privileged and wealthy, a chance to buy into an expensive property. Designed as a castle, complete with towers and turrets, not one of the 700-plus homes is occupied nearly 10 years later. In fact, Burj Al Babas is a half-finished ghost town, a crumbling symbol of failure on a grand scale. So what happened? How did one of Turkey's most ambitious real estate projects become such an infamous white elephant? Click through the gallery and find out why Burj Al Babas was abandoned.

The remarkable life of Mary Shelley, the mind behind 'Frankenstein'

Mary Shelley, the mastermind behind the classic horror novel 'Frankenstein,' continues to inspire and fascinate people thanks to her contributions to literature. Born in London in 1797, she led a life full of personal and professional challenges, yet managed to create some of the most enduring works of literature of the Romantic era. But while some may simply know her as the woman who wrote 'Frankenstein', there's much more to her story. Curious? Click on for some fascinating facts about Mary Shelley.

6 things to do in Abu Dhabi this week: December 9 to 12

Delightful December things… Now that we’re on the other side of what was a roaring weekend in the capital, here are 6 things for you to do in Abu Dhabi this week. Monday, December 9 Make the most of the weather at the Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental Beach Club Luxury is your plus one at […]

Photos of historical events captured from outer space

The outstanding photographs taken in space by orbiting Space Shuttle astronauts and those aboard the International Space Station show our planet in a new light. Countries and continents are captured in hi-res clarity, with cities and natural wonders brought into sharp focus. Weather and atmospheric phenomena appear in extraordinary and sometimes alarming detail. And beyond our world, the sun and the moon are revealed in magnificent close-up. Click through the gallery to launch a spectacular collection of photographs taken out of this world.

Aboriginal group blasts public say over closing rock climbing site

An Aboriginal group has written to Victorian premier Jacinta Allan after an 'unnecessary' decision threatened to ruin their plans to ban visitors at Mount Arapiles.

The planes that won the second world war

We take a look at some important war winners

Iris Projects: The arts agency aiming to discover new talent in UAE and Gulf

Iris Projects is one of the country’s newest arts institutions, and its focus is exclusively on artists from the UAE and the wider Gulf region. Its inaugural show takes place at its new gallery space in Abu Dhabi’s MiZa. The exhibition underscores the art institution’s mission by showcasing rising local talents who use unlikely materials to create ...

The Pacific airfield being repurposed to counter China

Recent press reports suggest that a tiny island in the Pacific Ocean is set to become a new forward front in the event of hostilities between the United States and China. This has evoked wartime memories of when the island in question, Tinian, served as a US military base in the fight against the Japanese. During WWII, American-operated runways on Tinian served as launch pads for numerous bombing raids, including the fateful attacks on Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Abandoned for nearly 80 years, these airfields now look set to be recommissioned as Washington voices concern over Beijing's increasing missile threat. But where exactly is Tinian located, and what's the story behind this remote, jungle-clad enclave? Click through and step back in time to find out.

The up and down history of the airship

When the first airships took to the sky in the mid-19th century, the odd-looking vessels created an aviation sensation. Developed as a successor to the hydrogen balloon, the airship enjoyed its golden years in the 1920s and 1930s. But after the disaster that was the Hindenburg explosion in 1937, airship passenger travel effectively ended. Recently, however, the airship has enjoyed somewhat of a comeback, both as a commercial and military mode of transport. Click through for a uplifting flight through the history of the airship.

Stunning Hindu temples you need to see to believe

Hinduism is the world's third largest religion and, according to many scholars, the oldest religion in the world. Widely practiced in the Indian subcontinent and parts of Southeast Asia, Hindu worship takes place in temples of many styles, colors, and locations. Browse this gallery and take a look at some of these stunning religious buildings.

12 abandoned billionaire mansions worth a fortune

From the wastelands of London's Billionaires' Row to Steve Jobs' derelict home in California, tour these abandoned mansions once owned by the world's super-rich...

The most unusual days celebrated in 2025

There are 365 days in a year, and on any day, you will discover one or more things being celebrated. Some commemorate past events and some are just for fun. For instance, there is even a day dedicated to creating a holiday! Sometimes, special days are there to raise awareness or for charitable purposes. From the weird to the truly important days of the year, we have picked out 30 noteworthy occasions. Check out this gallery and see which days are celebrated.

Desperate plea to find missing woman, 33, amid safety 'concerns'

Rachael Bowman, 33, has been missing from the Cowgate area of Newcastle since 3.30pm yesterday - and officers believe she may have travelled to North Tyneside or South Shields.

40 of the most AMAZING extinct creatures that ever lived

From gigantic land mammals to strange sea creatures, discover 40 amazing animals that once roamed Earth and are now extinct.

Sydney Trains delays and cancellations: What you need to know

Sydney Train commenters have been warned to expect major delays this morning

Best dessert cities for anyone with a sweet tooth

If you're someone who holds a respect for the richest of chocolates, creamiest of ice creams, and sweetest of sweets, there's a world tour waiting for you. Instead of traveling for popular sights you could Google, you might consider visiting the dessert capitals of the world. They boast melt-in-your-mouth pastries and pillowy cakes and would satisfy any sweet tooth. Click on and check out the best places to skip dinner and head straight for dessert.

Speaking fees and business goals: Caitlin Clark's expanding empire

Owners of £500k beach huts reveal why they are worth every penny

A beach hut owner who bought his shack for £3000 in the 1980s say its now worth over £500,000 due to the exclusive stretch of Dorset coast they occupy.

The average wealth of people living in 25 countries around the world

From Spain to South Korea, we reveal the average wealth per adult in 25 major countries around the world.

Exciting reason hundreds are lining up down Sydney street right now

Hundreds of Sydneysiders are braving the stormy weather to line up for an 'exciting' reason.

Fascinating facts about ancient Egypt

Ancient Egypt may be long gone, but its treasures and mysteries live on to this day. With films like Elizabeth Taylor's 'Cleopatra' (1963) to the thrilling 'The Mummy' franchise, it's safe to say that this incredible civilization still amazes us centuries later. From mummies, to pyramids and hieroglyphics, click through this gallery to discover fascinating facts about ancient Egypt.

Lands the Romans failed to conquer

Throughout its history, the Roman Empire expanded to become one of the largest and most powerful civilizations ever, conquering vast territories across Europe, Africa, and Asia. However, not every region bowed to Roman authority. In some lands, Rome's armies faced fierce resistance, which kept these territories beyond imperial reach. From modern-day Ireland to Sudan, click on to discover the regions Rome didn't manage to conquer.

The best US cities for work-life balance in 2024

Although it can often be difficult to separate your personal life from your professional one, there are some cities out there that make it much easier to balance the two. With this in mind, CoworkingCafe recently released their annual report that ranks US cities based on their work-life balance, by considering factors such as mental health, affordability, and even commute. Curious? Click through this gallery to see which US cities made it to the top of the list!

Underrated southern city named safest spot to retire in

An underrated southern city has been named the safest place for Americans to spend their later years.

Billionaire's astonishing warning about increased Chinese immigration

Billionaire developer Harry Triguboff's comments about migration have caused a stir.

Trump vows to pardon US Capitol rioters and end birthright citizenship

President-elect Donald Trump plans to review pardons for the US Capitol rioters on his first day in office. Trump also pledged to end birthright citizenship, but offered to aid undocumented immigrants brought as children. In a recent interview, Trump vowed numerous executive orders on immigration, energy, and the economy after his January 20 inauguration. He was also asked if he’d pardon hundreds convicted for the Capitol riot after his 2020 defeat. "We're going to look at independent cases," he said. "Yeah, but I'm going to be acting very quickly." The Constitution of the United States gives presidents the power to grant pardons. Thousands of pardons have been granted throughout history, and some caused public outrage. From family members to fellow politicians and serious offenders, American presidents have exercised their power to grant pardons without the possibility of being challenged by Congress or the courts. But what were the most controversial presidential pardons in US history? Click through the following gallery to find out.

Midwest suburb where Hemingway was born ranks as top travel hotspot

This suburb of 54,000 residents is home to a Hemingway museum and is also where architect Frank Lloyd Wright settled and worked for two decades.

Historical misconceptions you thought were true

History has a way of sticking around, teaching us how far we've come and illustrating how human nature has both changed and managed to stay the same all at once. However, sometimes embellishments and downright inaccurate events get passed down along with history, masked as factual episodes. From who built the Egyptian pyramids to what ninjas actually wore, history is filled with misconceptions and inaccurate assumptions. Have you mistaken any myths for historical facts? Browse the gallery and find out.

Couple's 46-year-old Christmas tree now 50ft tall and raising £1,000s

It was 1979 when Avril and Christopher Rowlands (inset) snagged their first Christmas tree for just £6 to plant in the front yard of their new Inkberrow, Worcestershire house.

Royal Christmas cards through the years

King Charles and Queen Camilla have selected a photograph of themselves in the Buckingham Palace garden for their official 2024 Christmas card. The greeting inside says, "Wishing you a very happy Christmas and New Year." This photograph marks their third Christmas card since Charles became King. Taken in April, it shows the smiling couple standing side by side on what looks like a sunny day. The photograph, taken by Millie Pilkington, was captured as the King resumed public duties following his cancer diagnosis and treatment. The palace noted that the card represents the moment when life began to return to normal. Let’s take a look back at some of the best royal Christmas cards from around the world.

Qatar Airways Resumes Flights to Lebanon After Suspension

Qatar Airways has announced the resumption of flights to Lebanon, effective starting today, December 9, 2024. This follows a temporary suspension of services to Beirut's Rafic Hariri International Airport due to the ongoing situation in Lebanon.