10 OF THE WORLD’S STRANGEST ARCHITECTURES That Will Leave You in Awe

When it comes to architecture, some buildings go beyond functionality and venture into the realm of the bizarre, the brilliant, and the downright mind-bending. From futuristic shapes to optical illusions, these structures challenge our perception of design and redefine what buildings can look like. Let’s explore 10 of the world’s strangest architectures—each one a conversation starter in its own right.

 

1. The Interlace – Singapore

A true marvel of modern architecture, The Interlace is a residential complex like no other. Instead of the conventional high-rise towers, it features 31 apartment blocks stacked hexagonally, forming a seemingly chaotic yet harmoniously designed structure. The building looks like a set of Jenga blocks frozen mid-collapse, offering plenty of open spaces and rooftop gardens. Designed by Ole Scheeren, it’s an iconic landmark in Singapore's skyline.

The Interlace – Singapore

2. Guangzhou Circle – Guangzhou, China

At first glance, the Guangzhou Circle resembles a giant doughnut—or a coin, which is fitting considering it's home to financial firms. This circular skyscraper, 138 meters tall, was designed by Italian architect Joseph di Pasquale and symbolizes unity and infinity in Chinese culture. Its reflection on the river beneath creates a perfect “8” shape—an auspicious number in Chinese tradition.

Guangzhou Circle, China

3. The Crooked House – Sopot, Poland

Straight out of a fairytale, Krzywy Domek (Crooked House) looks like it’s melting or warped by a funhouse mirror. Inspired by the illustrations of Jan Marcin Szancer, this surreal structure is part of a shopping center but feels more like a fantasy land. The curves and irregular windows give it a dreamlike quality that’s hard to forget.

The Crooked House, Poland

4. The Basket Building – Ohio, USA

Yes, it’s exactly what it sounds like—a seven-story office building shaped like a giant woven picnic basket. Originally built as the headquarters for the Longaberger Basket Company, the structure is a life-sized replica of the company’s best-selling basket. It’s quirky, kitschy, and undeniably unique.

The Basket Building – Ohio

5. Habitat 67 – Montreal, Canada

An architectural experiment turned icon, Habitat 67 was designed by Moshe Safdie for the 1967 World Expo. This housing complex is made of 354 identical prefabricated concrete units stacked in a way that creates 146 unique residences. With interconnected terraces and gardens, it’s both functional and futuristic—a brutalist Lego city come to life.

Habitat 67 – Montreal

 6. Mannarasala Sree Nagaraja Temple, India

Deep in the lush, tropical greenery of Kerala lies one of India’s most mysterious and spiritually significant temples, Mannarasala Sree Nagaraja Temple.  Dedicated to Nagaraja, the serpent king, this unique shrine is unlike any other. According to legend, the temple’s origins trace back to Lord Parasurama, the mythical creator of Kerala. After reclaiming Kerala from the sea, Parasurama sought to purify the saline land.

Mannarasala Sree Nagaraja Temple

 7. Casa Batlló – Barcelona, Spain

Antoni Gaudí’s Casa Batlló is a riot of color, curves, and creativity. With its bone-like balconies and scaly, dragon-like roof, it’s no wonder locals call it the "House of Bones." Gaudí avoided straight lines entirely, creating an organic, flowing structure that feels alive.

Casa Batlló – Barcelona

 8. The Cube Houses – Rotterdam, Netherlands

Designed by architect Piet Blom, the Cube Houses (Kubuswoningen) look like a forest of tilted cubes balancing on hexagonal pillars. Each cube is angled at 45 degrees and rests atop a hexagon-shaped pylon, creating a surreal and dizzying effect. Believe it or not, people actually live in them!

The Cube Houses – Rotterdam

9. The Lotus Temple – New Delhi, India

Shaped like a blooming lotus flower, this Baháʼí House of Worship is made up of 27 marble-clad petals arranged in clusters. Its serene symmetry and spiritual symbolism make it not just a stunning architectural feat but a place of peace and meditation open to people of all faiths.

The Lotus Temple

10. Atomium – Brussels, Belgium

Shaped like an iron crystal magnified 165 billion times, the Atomium is part sculpture, part science museum. Built for the 1958 World Expo, it consists of nine interconnected spheres made of stainless steel, each 18 meters in diameter. Visitors can explore the inside through escalators and tubes that link the spheres, offering exhibits, panoramic views, and a surreal sense of walking through a futuristic molecule.

Atomium – Brussels

Final Thoughts

From dancing buildings to donut-shaped towers, these architectural oddities show that the sky isn't the limit—it’s just the beginning. Whether you're an architecture buff or a curious traveler, these strange structures are bound to spark your imagination and inspire your next adventure.

THE RISE OF ‘COOL-CATIONS’: Escaping the Heat by Traveling to Chill Destinations

 Whether you're planning your next escape or just craving a break from the heat, cool-cations are the ultimate travel trend to watch in 2025.

As global temperatures continue to soar, travelers are rethinking their traditional summer getaways. Beach holidays and sun-soaked resorts are being swapped for breezy mountain escapes, arctic adventures, and high-altitude hideouts. Enter the new travel buzzword: "cool-cation." 

 

What Is a Cool-cation?

A cool-cation is a vacation specifically planned to escape extreme heat by visiting cooler destinations. Think Scandinavian fjords, Canadian Rockies, Alaskan cruises, or even Andean villages. 

Rather than chasing the sun, more travelers are chasing the chill—seeking serenity, adventure, and lower temperatures in naturally cooler regions.

This trend isn’t just about comfort; it’s a movement toward mindful travel that prioritizes environmental preservation and off-the-beaten-path adventures.

Why Cool-cations are Heating Up in 2025

Here are a few reasons this trend is making waves:

- Record-breaking temperatures are turning many popular destinations into heat traps. 

- Wellness travel is on the rise, and cooler climates are known for improved sleep and comfort. 

- Climate anxiety is pushing eco-conscious travelers to choose sustainable, nature-based getaways. 

- Unique experiences like glacier hiking, Northern Lights spotting, and snow lodge stays offer brag-worthy memories.

Top Trending Cool-cation Destinations

Looking for ideas? Here are some bucket list-worthy cool-cations that are trending this year:

Banff, Canada 

Explore turquoise lakes, alpine trails, and ice field parkways in one of the most photogenic parts of the world.

One of Banff turquoise lakes, Moraine Lake

Iceland 

Land of fire and ice — Iceland offers volcanic landscapes, glaciers, hot springs, and midnight sun adventures.

Golden Circle, Iceland

Queenstown, New Zealand 

Nestled in the Southern Alps, Queenstown is the perfect base for winter sports, fjord cruises, and cool-climate vineyards.

Milford Sound cruise

Lofoten Islands, Norway 

Charming fishing villages and epic Arctic scenery make this a dream spot for nature lovers and photographers alike.

Lofoten Islands, Norway

Hokkaido, Japan 

Known for its powder snow, Onsen hot springs, and cooler climate even in summer months, it perfect for cultural cool-cations.

There's plenty for skiers of all abilities to explore in Hokkaido

Travel Tips for Planning Your Cool-cation

- Book early: These destinations are gaining popularity fast. 

- Pack layers: Even summer nights can be chilly in high altitudes or polar regions. 

- Check for off-season perks: Cooler destinations often offer lower prices and fewer crowds. 

- Explore alternative activities: From snow trekking to glacier kayaking, cool-cations come with new experiences.

 

  Final Thoughts: Chill Is the New Hot

As 2025 travel trends continue to evolve, the cool-cation movement is gaining serious momentum. From escaping the heat waves to exploring majestic snow-capped destinations, travelers are proving that chill is the new hot.

So if you're dreaming of a vacation that’s refreshing, scenic, and soul-soothing — a cool-cation might just be your next great escape.

photo credit: TripAdvisors,islandshotel & goat house of creative

EL DIABLO RESTAURANT – Where Your Food is cooked on a Volcano - A Fiery Culinary Adventure

 

If you ever thought, “Hey, I wonder what it’s like to cook my dinner on actual lava,” then have an experience at the world’s only volcano-cooked cuisine at El Diablo Restaurant in Lanzarote.

El Diablo Restaurant in Lanzarote

How Does It Work?

Instead of using a boring old stove, El Diablo grills its food using the natural heat of a volcano. Yes, you read that right—your steak, chicken, or fish is cooked over a giant hole in the ground, where volcanic heat rises from the Earth's core. The grill sits on top of an opening where temperatures can reach over 450°C (840°F). It’s like Mother Nature herself is the head chef, and she doesn’t need gas or electricity.

El Diablo grill

El Diablo grill

The Ultimate Hot Plate

The restaurant is located on Timanfaya National Park, a volcanic area famous for its geothermal activity. While there’s no active lava flow (thankfully), heat from underground still escapes through the cracks, creating a natural grill that’s both genius and mildly terrifying.

Must-Try Dishes:

1.       Volcanic Grilled Chicken: Marinated in Canarian spices, cooked to tender perfection.

2.       Papas Arrugadas: Wrinkled potatoes with mojo picón sauce, a local favorite.

Papas Arrugadas

3.       Fresh Caught Fish: Infused with a hint of sulfurous earthiness.

4.       Vegetable Skewers: Charred caramelization only volcanic heat can achieve.

Pair your meal with a glass of Lanzarote wine, grown in volcanic ash soil for a mineral-rich twist.

Beyond the Plate: A Feast for the Senses

El Diablo isn’t just about food—it’s an immersive experience. Before dining, witness staff demonstrating the volcano’s raw power:

Geothermal Wonders: Watch water turn to steam in seconds when poured into volcanic boreholes.

360° Views: Dine on a terrace overlooking Timanfaya’s Martian-like landscapes of rust-red craters and lava fields.

Sunset Magic: Time your visit for golden hour, when the terrain glows like embers.

Pro Tips:

-          Combine your meal with a Timanfaya bus tour to explore the park’s volcanic wonders.

-          Visit in spring or fall for milder weather and fewer crowds.

-          Wear layers—the volcanic heat is on the grill, but ocean breezes can be chilly!

Final Word: Why El Diablo Restaurant is a Must-Visit

El Diablo Restaurant isn’t just dinner—it’s a story you’ll tell for years. Where else can you toast marshmallows over a volcano, sip wine grown in ash, and dine in a landscape that feels like another planet? It’s a fiery ode to human ingenuity and Earth’s awe-inspiring power.

#ElDiabloVolcanoFeast

 #LanzaroteEats

Would you dare to eat at El Diablo, or would you rather stick to a good old-fashioned BBQ?

Photos credit: trip advisor & Alamy

CHERRY BLOSSOM VIEWING: Top Spots in the UK for Spring 2025

 There’s something magical about springtime in the UK. As the grey chill of winter fades, bursts of pink and white blossoms breathe new life into parks, gardens, and cobbled streets. Cherry blossom season isn’t just a visual treat — it’s a fleeting moment of pure beauty that draws people outdoors, cameras in hand, eager to witness nature's softest spectacle.

If you're planning a spring getaway or simply want to embrace the season’s charm, here are the top places to see cherry blossoms in the UK in 2025. Whether you're a photographer, a romantic, or just someone looking to slow down and take in the beauty, these locations won’t disappoint.

 

1. Doddington Hall, Lincolnshire

Best time to visit: Mid to late April

This historic estate is known for its impressive cherry walk. Picture rows of blush-pink trees lining the gardens, with petals softly falling like confetti. Doddington Hall is perfect for a peaceful day trip — complete with scenic strolls and a charming café on-site for post-blossom tea and cake.

Doddington Hall, Lincolnshire

Travel tip: Arrive early for fewer crowds and golden-hour light. Don’t forget to check their event calendar for spring garden tours!

  2. Kew Gardens, London

Best time to visit: Late March to mid-April

Kew Gardens is iconic for a reason. As spring unfolds, its Cherry Walk becomes a floral wonderland. You'll see an array of Japanese cherry varieties blooming in harmony, with the majestic Temperate House in the background.

Why it’s special: Kew combines scientific excellence with stunning scenery, making it one of the most educational (and Instagram-worthy) spots for blossom viewing.

cherry walk Kew Gardens, London

 3. The Meadows, Edinburgh

Best time to visit: Mid to late April.

A local favorite in the heart of Edinburgh, The Meadows transforms into a pink paradise each spring. Lined with Sakura trees, this expansive green space offers dramatic views of Arthur’s Seat framed by clouds of cherry blossoms.

Pro tip: Grab a coffee from a nearby café and enjoy a relaxed morning walk or picnic under the blooms.

The Meadows, Edinburgh

4. Bute Park, Cardiff

Best time to visit: Early to mid-April

Bute Park’s cherry trees line the River Taff, offering a fairytale-like walk right in the center of the Welsh capital. The contrast of vivid green lawns with pastel petals makes this an unforgettable spot for blossom lovers.

Bonus: Combine blossom viewing with a visit to Cardiff Castle or enjoy a boat ride down the river.

Bute Park, Cardiff

5. RHS Garden Wisley, Surrey

Best time to visit: Early April

For a peaceful countryside blossom experience, Wisley delivers. Their spring show includes not just cherry trees, but magnolias and daffodils too. It’s a multi-sensory celebration of the season.

Top reason to go: RHS Wisley is ideal for families and garden enthusiasts looking to explore curated landscapes.

RHS Garden Wisley, Surrey

Blossom Season Travel Tips

- Timing is key: Blossoms are unpredictable. Follow each garden or park on social media for real-time updates.

- Go midweek: For quieter paths and better photo opportunities, visit on weekdays.

- Pack layers: Spring weather can be moody — dress in layers and bring a raincoat just in case.

- Respect nature: Stick to paths and avoid shaking trees or picking petals. Let everyone enjoy the view.

 

  Final Thoughts

Cherry blossom season in the UK is a short-lived but deeply treasured time of year. In 2025, make it a point to plan a little floral escape, whether it's a solo walk through Kew Gardens or a romantic weekend in Edinburgh. As the blossoms bloom, so too does the joy of slowing down, looking up, and soaking in the beauty of nature.

CELESTIAL MAGIC: Where to Watch the Lyrid and Eta Aquarid Meteor Showers in April 2025

 

Two meteor showers will light up the skies this April — here’s how and where to catch them for an unforgettable stargazing experience.

There’s something incredibly humbling about staring up at the night sky and witnessing nature’s most dazzling light show. This April 2025, sky watchers and adventure-seekers are in for a rare celestial treat: the Lyrid and Eta Aquarid meteor showers will both be visible, overlapping briefly to create a magical experience in the heavens.

If you've ever dreamed of chasing shooting stars, now’s your chance.

What Are the Lyrid and Eta Aquarid Meteor Showers?

The Lyrids are one of the oldest recorded meteor showers, active each year between April 17 and 26. In 2025, they’re expected to peak on the night of April 21 into the early hours of April 22, offering about 10 to 20 meteors per hour. While not the most intense shower, the Lyrids are known for their fast, bright meteors — and occasional fireballs.

A Lyrid meteor streaks across the sky, credit NASA

Then comes the Eta Aquarids, a spectacular meteor shower associated with Halley’s Comet. Active from April 20 through May 21, the peak occurs around May 3–4, with rates that can exceed 50 meteors per hour — especially in the Southern Hemisphere. These meteors are known for their speed, leaving glowing trails that linger in the sky.

Best Places to Watch the Meteor Showers in April 2025

To get the best view, you’ll need dark skies, minimal light pollution, and clear weather. Here are a few top stargazing spots around the world that are perfect for watching the Lyrid and Eta Aquarid meteor showers:

 1. Atacama Desert, Chile

With some of the darkest skies on Earth, the Atacama is an astronomer’s paradise. Plus, the Eta Aquarids are more visible in the Southern Hemisphere — a win-win!

Stargazing at Atacama Desert, Chile

 2. Mauna Kea, Hawaii

Towering above the clouds, Mauna Kea offers pristine conditions and incredible elevation. Be sure to dress warm — temperatures drop fast at night!

Mauna Kea, Hawaii

3. Jasper National Park, Canada

A designated Dark Sky Preserve, Jasper is breathtaking by day and truly magical by night. Bundle up and bring a blanket!

Jasper National Park, Canada

4. Outback, Australia

Wide open skies, zero light pollution, and clear autumn weather in April make the Australian Outback one of the best places to view the Eta Aquarids.

 5. Joshua Tree National Park, USA

A favorite among California stargazers, Joshua Tree’s dry desert climate and wide horizons provide the perfect backdrop for watching meteors streak across the sky.

Joshua Tree National Park, USA

Stargazing Tips for the Best Experience

- Arrive early: Let your eyes adjust to the dark (this takes about 20-30 minutes).

- Bring a reclining chair or blanket: You’ll want to lie back and take in as much of the sky as possible.

- Avoid using your phone: Even a quick glance can ruin your night vision.

- Check the moon phase: A brighter moon can outshine fainter meteors. (Good news: April 2025 offers favorable moonlight conditions during the Lyrid peak!)

- Bring snacks and hot drinks: It’s a cosmic picnic — make it cozy.

 

Why You Should Travel for a Meteor Shower

Traveling to witness a meteor shower isn’t just about the stars — it’s about connecting with nature, disconnecting from digital noise, and creating core memories under the open sky. Whether you're a solo traveler, a couple seeking a romantic adventure, or a family looking for a unique experience, meteor showers offer something rare: wonder.

 

Final Thoughts

April 2025 is a golden opportunity to experience not one but two meteor showers — and if you're lucky, you might catch both on the same trip. Whether you’re gazing from a mountain peak or the middle of the desert, the night sky will be putting on a show you won’t want to miss.

So pack your gear, grab your camera, and chase the stars. Because the best kind of souvenirs are the ones that light up your memories.

12 BUCKET LIST PLACES TO VISIT IN AFRICA

Africa is a land of contrasts — from golden deserts to lush jungles, ancient cities to pristine beaches. It’s a continent brimming with natural beauty, cultural richness, and once-in-a-lifetime adventures. If you're planning your dream trip or simply looking to fuel your wanderlust, here are 12 bucket list destinations in Africa that deserve a spot on every traveler’s itinerary.

 

 1. Victoria Falls, Zambia/Zimbabwe

Why Go: One of the largest and most dramatic waterfalls in the world, Victoria Falls is a breathtaking spectacle of nature. Known locally as "The Smoke That Thunders," this UNESCO World Heritage Site is perfect for thrill seekers — think bungee jumping, whitewater rafting, and the famous Devil’s Pool swim.

For a unique perspective, take a helicopter ride or white-water raft on the Zambezi River. 

Victoria Falls

 2. Masai Mara, Kenya

Why Go: Home to the iconic Great Migration, where over a million wildebeest and zebras cross the plains, the Masai Mara offers some of the best wildlife viewing on Earth. Stay in a luxury safari lodge or a tented camp for an unforgettable experience.

Visit between July and October to see herds crossing the Mara River.

Masai Mara, Kenya

3. Cape Town, South Africa

Why Go: A vibrant city with a stunning coastline, Cape Town is famous for Table Mountain, colorful BoKaap, nearby Cape Wine lands and penguin-populated Boulders Beach add to the city’s allure. Whether you love history, hiking, or sipping wine by the sea, this city delivers on all fronts.

Insider tip: Pair your visit with a safari in Kruger National Park, home to the Big Five. 

Cape Town, South Africa

4. Sahara Desert, Morocco

Why Go: The Sahara, the world’s largest hot desert, offers a surreal escape into endless golden dunes and star-studded skies. Ride a camel through endless dunes, sleep under a star filled sky in a Berber camp, and watch the sunrise over the sand. The Sahara Desert in Morocco offers a magical experience that feels like stepping into another world.

Best time to visit: October–April (avoid summer’s scorching heat).

Sahara Desert, Morocco

5. Okavango Delta, Botswana

Why Go: A UNESCO-listed inland delta, the Okavango transforms arid landscapes into a lush oasis during flood season (June-August). This lush inland delta is a haven for wildlife and one of Africa’s top safari destinations. Glide through the waterways in a mokoro (dugout canoe), spot elephants and hippos, and stay in ecofriendly lodges nestled in nature.

Okavango Delta, Botswana

6. Zanzibar, Tanzania

Why Go: White sand beaches, turquoise waters, and a mix of African, Arab, and European influences make Zanzibar an exotic island paradise. Explore Stone Town’s winding alleys, snorkel vibrant coral reefs, or just unwind by the ocean.

Zanzibar, Tanzania

7. Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania

Why Go: Africa’s highest peak stands tall at 5,895 meters and is a dream climb for adventure lovers. No technical climbing skills are needed, just determination and good hiking boots. Reaching the summit is a rewarding and unforgettable experience.

Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania

8. Pyramids of Giza & Cairo, Egypt

Why Go: Step back in time at the only surviving Wonder of the Ancient World. The Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx are awe-inspiring, while Cairo’s Khan El-Khalili bazaar immerses you in vibrant local culture. For deeper history, explore Luxor’s Valley of the Kings.

Pyramids of Giza, Egypt

9. Lalibela, Ethiopia

Why Go: Step back in time in Lalibela, known for its 12^th century rock hewn churches carved straight into the ground. A pilgrimage site and architectural wonder, this is one of the most spiritual and surreal places in Africa.

Lalibela, Ethiopia

10. Rwenzori Mountains, Uganda

Why Go: Also known as the “Mountains of the Moon,” the Rwenzori range offers glaciers, waterfalls, and rare flora. It’s a lesser known trekking destination, ideal for seasoned hikers looking to explore remote beauty.

Rwenzori Mountains, Uganda

11. Sossusvlei Dunes, Namibia

Why Go: The Namib Desert’s rust-red dunes, some towering 300 meters, create a surreal landscape. Hike Dune 45 at dawn or explore Dead lei’s fossilized camel thorn trees. Nearby, the Skeleton Coast’s shipwrecks and desert-adapted lions add to Namibia’s otherworldly charm. 

Sossusvlei Dunes, Namibia

12. Seychelles

Why Go: Tucked away in the Indian Ocean, Seychelles is an island dream come true. With powdery white-sand beaches, granite boulders, and clear turquoise waters, it’s the ultimate escape for honeymooners, solo travelers, and luxury seekers. Go island-hopping between Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue, snorkel in crystal lagoons, or simply unwind in a beachfront villa surrounded by palm trees.

Whether you're watching giant tortoises on Curieuse Island or diving among colorful coral reefs, Seychelles offers a slice of paradise like no other.

Seychelles

 Final Thoughts

Africa is a continent that stirs the soul — whether you're chasing wildlife across the savannah, exploring ancient ruins, or relaxing on idyllic islands. These twelve bucket list destinations offer a taste of the diversity and magic Africa holds.

 

So, what are you waiting for? ✈ Start planning your African adventure today!