English

More about this topic

Culture news

Where are the most iconic Christmas trees around the world?

Here's a list of some of the most tree-mendous (sorry) festive firs across the world.

Spain

Spain's Christmas can be boisterous, banging and, at times, bizarre

Spain’s boisterous take on the holiday could almost be mistaken for irreverence. It's summed up by the caganer or defecating shepherd, which can be found in nativity scenes across the country.

Culture news

Have yourself a monstrous Christmas: Europe's scariest anti-santas

When Santa comes to town in these countries he brings a frightening accomplice.

Destinations

Is this the most beautiful world record you’ve ever seen?

The city of Ayodhya broke a world record with its beautiful Diwali celebrations.

ADVERTISEMENT

Culture news

In pictures: Dogs are worshipped at the Hindu festival 'Kukur Tihar'

Wearing marigold garlands and spoilt with treats, once a year the dogs of Nepal are worshipped on the second day of Tihar.

Travel News

Mexico City comes back to life with Day of the Dead parade

In Mexico City, thousands of locals and tourists attend the Día de los Muertos parade which was cancelled last year.

No Comment

First 'human towers' in Barcelona since the pandemic

The Plaza de Valls in Barcelona hosted the first 'colles castelleres' - or human towers - since the beginning of the pandemic on Sunday.

No Comment

Venezuelans fight Covid with a ritual

Every October 12, known in Venezuela as the Day of Indigenous Resistance, thousands of believers gather on Mount Sorte in northwestern Venezuela. This year, the Covid-19 pandemic, which prevented the meeting from taking place in 2020, is at the heart of the ceremonies.

Moments

Georgia’s bizarre festival of boulder tossing is called Kvirikoba

A look at religious rituals and some bizarre sporting traditions in Georgia's Svaneti region.

My Europe Series

Rebels gather at Stonehenge as Europe marks a muted summer solstice

A few hundred people held in-person ceremonies at the ancient stone circle in England while bonfires were lit and folk festivals held in other parts of Europe for the longest day of the year.

Travel News

A guide to the strangest Easter traditions from around the world

In mainstream culture, Easter is most closely associated with spring flowers and chocolate eggs. But some towns and cities around the world have their own take on celebrating the Holy Week.

Travel News

How a trip to China helped me grieve the loss of a loved one

For Hope Talbot, China was the backdrop to learning and understanding how people grieve and commemorate life.

No Comment

Sambistas perform to open Rio's would-be carnival season

The symbolic performance marked what would have opened Rio's carnival season - a series of events that has been scrapped due to the pandemic.

Travel News

How to celebrate Chinese New Year at home

With Chinese New Year plans on pause this year, we explore how you can recreate the festivities at home.

No Comment

Japan celebrates coming-of-age day despite recent COVID-19 surge

At Yokohama Arena, women in ornate kimonos, fluffy white stoles and masks sat in socially distanced seating for the ceremony, with the men dressed mainly in suits.

No Comment

COVID-19 rains on Spain's Epiphany parades

COVID-19 restrictions mean the traditional parades in Spain for Three Kings' Day have been scrapped.

Travel News

Here’s how Colombians celebrate New Year’s Eve

Lots of traditional Columbian customs revolve around expelling negative energy and bringing luck for the year ahead..

No Comment

Diving Santa Claus brings festive spirit to Rio de Janiero aquarium

Santa Claus swam with the sharks at the Aqua Rio Marine Aquarium during their daily feeding session.

No Comment

El Salvador goes ahead with clown day despîte coronavirus pandemic

The country is nearing a total of 40,000 coronavirus cases, with more than 1,000 deaths.

Travel News

Skull sculptures in Mexico City mark the Day of the Dead

The Day of the Dead celebration takes place once a year across Mexico as a way of welcoming those who are no longer with us.