The Amplemann on a traffic light in Berlin, Germany.

How Berlin’s beloved traffic light men became a symbol of the city

Crossing the road in Berlin brings an involuntary grin to the face. The charming Ampelmännchen traffic lights have transformed from East German pedestrian signals into one of the city's most recognisable symbols, representing resilience, identity and the unique character of Germany's capital. The cheerful alternative…
Seaton Beach in East Cornwall.

Does Seaton Beach in Cornwall have white sand?

Seaton Beach in East Cornwall is a family favourite, but visitors expecting dazzling silica sand will be disappointed. Seaton Beach is an unusual beach in East Cornwall in that it is fairly wide, rather than a cliff-backed cove. This has some advantages, the main one…
The view from Ubirr in Australia's Northern Territory.

9 great things to climb in Australia instead of Uluru

When the ban on climbing Uluru finally came into force in October 2019, visitors had no choice but to discover it's best to walk round the Northern Territory's great monolith anyway. But for those who have an unquenchable urge to climb things in Australia, the…
The famously disappointing Mannekin Pis in Brussels, Belgium.

Manneken Pis, Brussels: A guide for first-time visitors

What is Manneken Pis? Manneken Pis (pronounced "man-uh-ken piss" — Dutch for "Little Pissing Man") is a 55.5cm (21.9 inches) bronze fountain sculpture in central Brussels depicting a naked little boy urinating into a fountain basin. Yes, that's genuinely Brussels' most famous symbol after the…
Edinburgh Castle.

The 8 best attractions and experiences in Edinburgh

From Edinburgh Castle to world-class Michelin-starred restaurants, this comprehensive guide reveals the must-see attractions and hidden gems in Scotland's historic capital. Edinburgh Castle: Scotland's crown jewel At the top of the processionary route through the Old Town known as the Royal Mile, Edinburgh Castle sits…