The legend of Atlantis has fascinated people for centuries. The story originates from Plato’s dialogues, Timaeus and Critias, written around 360 BCE. Here are some key details about the myths surrounding Atlantis:

1. Plato’s Account

Plato describes Atlantis as a mighty and advanced civilization, larger than Libya and Asia combined. It was said to have existed 9,000 years before his time and was located beyond the Pillars of Hercules (modern Strait of Gibraltar). The Atlanteans were powerful but became corrupt and greedy, leading the gods (particularly Poseidon) to destroy their land in a cataclysmic flood and earthquake, sinking it into the ocean.

2. Theories & Speculations

Since Plato’s time, various theories have emerged about whether Atlantis was real, symbolic, or a mix of both. Some popular ideas include:

• A real lost civilization: Some believe Atlantis was based on real locations, such as Minoan Crete, Santorini (Thera), or even the Caribbean.
• A metaphor for moral decay: Many scholars argue Atlantis was Plato’s allegory for the downfall of societies due to corruption and hubris.
• A memory of ancient disasters: Some link Atlantis to real disasters, like the volcanic eruption of Thera (Santorini) around 1600 BCE, which devastated the Minoan civilization.
• Alien or supernatural origins: Fringe theories suggest Atlantis was home to advanced alien beings or was destroyed using unknown technology.

3. Influences on Popular Culture

Atlantis has inspired countless stories, from medieval maps marking it as a real place to modern books, movies, and TV series. Writers like Francis Bacon and Ignatius Donnelly popularized Atlantis in modern times, linking it to theories of a lost super-civilization.

4. Possible Locations

Some theorized locations include:

• Santorini (Greece) – Destroyed by a volcanic eruption.
• The Azores (Portugal) – Mid-Atlantic islands possibly linked to a submerged landmass.
• Cuba & the Caribbean – Ruins found off the coast of Cuba sparked speculation.
• Antarctica – Some theories suggest an ice-covered Atlantis.

Conclusion

Whether Atlantis was real or just a philosophical cautionary tale, it continues to capture the imagination of historians, scientists, and conspiracy theorists alike. The search for Atlantis is as much about human curiosity as it is about uncovering lost history.

Would you like details on a specific aspect, such as archaeological evidence or modern theories?

The beautiful Zvíkov Castle in the Czech Republic is thought to be haunted by a demonic imp that resides inside of the old castle towers as well as a residence Lady in White and a hellhound guarding a secret entrance.Nestled on a rocky outcrop above the confluence of the Vltava and Otava rivers in the Czech Republic, Zvíkov Castle is a magnificent fortress steeped in history and often called The King of Czech Castles. Its majestic towers and formidable walls have withstood the test of time, bearing witness to centuries of political intrigue, battles, and conquests that shaped the country. But beneath the Zvíkov Castle’s grandeur lies a darker side, one that is shrouded in mystery and haunted by legends of ghosts, curses, and malevolent spirits.

Zvíkov Castle has a rich and fascinating history, one that is full of political intrigue, battles, and conquests all the way from the Bohemian P?emyslid dynasty. The castle played a key role in many of the major events that shaped the history of medieval Bohemia, including the Hussite Wars, the Thirty Years’ War, and the rise of the Habsburgs. During the Hussite Wars, Zvíkov Castle was besieged by Hussite armies, who attempted to storm the castle’s walls. The castle’s defenders held out for several months, but were eventually forced to surrender. The castle was later destroyed by the Hussites, but was rebuilt by the Rosenbergs in the 16th century.

Zvíkov Castle is renowned for its ghostly sightings and paranormal experiences. Visitors to the castle have reported seeing shadowy figures moving through the halls, hearing strange noises and footsteps, and feeling cold spots and sudden drops in temperature. Some have even claimed to have been touched or pushed by unseen hands. One of the ghosts said to be haunting the castle is called the Zvikov’s Imp. He is said to be haunting the ancient tower Markomanka, a tower with mysterious markings or runes in the stones. He has also been reported to haunt another tower called Hlíza or The Black Tower.

Stories have been circulating about him for hundreds of years and is known for playing tricks on people like punching, poking, moving their objects or tripping them. It is said that people that have visited the castle tell about seeing strange things in their photoes when coming home as well as experiencing technical issues. Animals are also said to be affected and have shown bizarre behavior, almost like possessed. This story most likely comes from the stories about the Rarášek from Slavic folklore. Described as a sort of imp or a trickster spirit. Another story told about the Zvíkov Castle is that anyone that sleeps over in the main tower is said to die within a year.

Another thing to beware is down in the catacombs of the castle where it is said that bloody hellhounds roam and have been blamed when some hear strange howling in the night. According to the legends there is a secret passage they are guarding from the gothic chapel of St. Anne from the 1200s. Another one of the enduring legends of Zvíkov Castle is that of the White Lady, a ghostly apparition that is said to haunt the castle’s halls, although she is said to not be as demonic as the other strange occurrences from the castle. Many visitors to Zvíkov Castle have reported seeing the White Lady, dressed in a flowing white gown, gliding through the castle’s rooms and appearing in the stairs. Some have even claimed to have heard her weeping as she wanders the castle.

Zvíkov Castle is a hauntingly beautiful fortress steeped in history and legend. Its dark past is a testament to the trials and tribulations of medieval Bohemia, and it’s haunted legends continue to intrigue and fascinate visitors to this day.

Ghana – National Chocolate Day

Talking about Valentine’s traditions around the world, in Ghana, Feb 14 is celebrated as the “National Chocolate Day.” It is a step that the Ghana government took in 2007 to increase tourism in the country. Ghana is among the largest cocoa-producing countries in the world. On Feb 14, one can attend performances, music events, and restaurants that have themed menus for the special day.

Best Places For A Romantic Dinner: Bread & Wine, Kaya Energy Bar & Design
Places To Visit: Cape Coast, Accra, Kakum National Park
How To Reach: Direct & indirect flights to and from Ghana fly on a regular basis. Thus one can reach here via flight easily.

Bulgaria – Day Of Winemakers

Like any other country, Bulgaria celebrates Valentine’s Day in its own style. On 14 February, San Trifon Zartan is celebrated in Bulgaria, which means “day of winemakers”. Young and old couples celebrate their love with a glass of wonderful local wine.

Best Places For A Romantic Dinner: Restaurant Bolero, Mario Cafe
Places To Visit: Sofia, Varna, Nessebar
How To Reach: Reach here by flights, the airport is connected to all other international airports of the world.

Wales – Day Of San Dwynwen

In Wales, Valentine’s Day is celebrated in the most unique way. The country celebrates its day of love on Jan 25, which is called the “day of San Dwynwen.” On the day, lovers exchange unique and beautifully handcrafted wooden spoons to each other. This tradition has been practised since the 16th century.

Best Places For A Romantic Dinner: Cafe Citta, Slebech Park
Places To Visit: North Wales, Cardiff, Anglesey
How To Reach: One can reach the place via flight, train & by road.

South West China – Sisters’ Meal Festival

In Miao, southwest China, the “Sisters’ Meal” festival is celebrated on 15th March. During the festival, women wear silver accessories and beautiful dresses, which are probably the most gorgeous Valentine’s Day customs around the world. They cook various dishes of coloured rice that’s offered on silk fabric to young men walking on roads. The destiny of the lovelies inside the object found in the chosen rice. Two chopsticks mean love and a clove of garlic means the love is over before it has even begun.

Best Places For A Romantic Dinner: South West China, Indian Pagoda Chinese Restaurant
Places To Visit: Chengdu, Emei Shan, Leijiang
How To Reach: One can reach here easily without any problems, as the airport flies international flights.

Estonia – A Festival For Everyone

On 14 Feb, Estonia celebrates Friendship Day known as Sobrapaev. This amazing festival includes everyone, from couples to singles. So not just couples, but family members and friends also exchange gifts and celebrate love.

Best Places For A Romantic Dinner: Ribe, Leib Restoran
Places To Visit: Tartu, Parnu, Tallinn
How To Reach: It is pretty convenient to reach here via flights as the airport is connected to majorly all other international airports of the world.

Firing with an AK-47 automatic in the air is allowed

Weddings in Bosnia and Herzegovina are a big thing. Although diminishing, the firing of AK-47 automatic rifles and other weapons in the air prior to and after the event, still is common practice especially in rural areas. It seems that the logic of what goes up must come down is lost on everyone. Oh, and don’t even think of how much ammunition might be required to celebrate a newborn baby.

Marriage restrictions

The Constitution does not specify gender eligibility for marriage, but family codes in the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina and the Republika Srpska limit marriage to opposite-sex couples.

Ethnicity-based restrictions

These restrictions prevent ethnic minorities from running for office. For example, Dervo Sejdi? and Jakob Finci, a Roma man and a Jewish man, were ineligible to run for office due to their ethnic origins.

Drinking & Driving

Penalties for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs are severe. The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.03%. Passengers under the influence of alcohol cannot sit in the front seat. Convicted offenders can expect heavy fines. Traffic authorities may also confiscate the driver’s licence.

New Year’s in Canada is celebrated in various ways, reflecting the country’s rich cultural diversity. While there isn’t a single nationwide tradition, several celebrations stand out and are widely recognized.

Common Traditions:

Countdown and Fireworks:
Like in many other countries, the countdown to midnight is a special moment for Canadians. Many cities host large events featuring concerts, fireworks, and special projections to ring in the New Year.

Family and Friends Gatherings:
New Year’s is a time to celebrate with loved ones. Families often come together for a special dinner, exchange gifts, and toast to new beginnings.

House Parties and Club Events:
House parties and club events are highly popular, offering music, dancing, and plenty of fun.

Regional Celebrations:

Niagara Falls:
One of Canada’s most iconic New Year’s celebrations takes place at Niagara Falls. Thousands gather to witness a breathtaking display of lights and fireworks illuminating the falls.

Toronto:
Canada’s largest city offers numerous ways to celebrate, from grand parties in arenas to cozier events in specific neighborhoods.

Montreal:
With its strong French influence, Montreal celebrates New Year’s with a European flair. Expect street parties, concerts, and cultural events.

Vancouver:
On the West Coast, Vancouver hosts a variety of celebrations, including boat parties, fireworks, and events in local parks.

Fun Facts:

Polar Bear Dip:
In cities like Toronto, the “Polar Bear Dip” is a daring event where brave participants dive into icy waters to welcome the New Year.

Winter Festival of Lights:
In Niagara Falls, the Winter Festival of Lights transforms the falls and surrounding parks into a magical wonderland with millions of twinkling lights, creating a perfect backdrop for New Year’s celebrations.

Indigenous Traditions:
Many Indigenous communities in Canada celebrate the New Year with traditional ceremonies, including dances, songs, and purification rituals.

Scotland: Redding of the house and “Auld Lang Syne”

In Scotland, Hogmanay is an end-of-year New Year’s Eve party that starts on December 30 and ends on New Year’s Day. There are many variations of Hogmanay celebrations throughout the country, but the most common tradition is that of “first footing,” which involves being the first to visit friends and neighbors, often with a symbolic gift in hand.

People gather to sing “Auld Lang Syne” (a song about friends recalling their adventures from long ago) as the clock strikes midnight, but one of the most important New Year’s Eve traditions is the redding of the house. This is essentially a deep clean around your home, from the cabinets to the front door. One spot that’s focused on is the fireplace—all old ashes are cleaned out so everyone in the house can start the year off fresh.

If you happen to be in Edinburgh for the festivities, expect to see pipers and drummers leading torch-wielding locals on a procession throughout the city (scheduled for December 29 in 2024). And on New Year’s Day, the party ends with a bracing swim in the chilly waters of the Firth of Forth. Like any festive occasion, Hogmanay is a time to enjoy food and drink, and has its own gastronomic traditions. Fruitcake, shortbread and black bun are the customary dishes to offer guests, and to present to hosts when first footing. A flute of champagne lends a celebratory sparkle to any occasion, but the only drink with which to toast the bells at Hogmanay is of course Scotch whisky.

The Cherokee are one of the largest and most prominent Native American tribes in the United States, with a rich history and culture. Here are some key facts about the Cherokee people:

Historical Overview

1. Ancestral Homeland: The Cherokee originally inhabited areas in the southeastern United States, including modern-day Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Alabama.
2. Language: The Cherokee language is part of the Iroquoian language family. It is written using a syllabary developed by Sequoyah in the early 19th century.
3. Trail of Tears: In the 1830s, the U.S. government forcibly relocated the Cherokee to Oklahoma through the Indian Removal Act. This journey, marked by suffering and death, is known as the Trail of Tears.
4. Civilization Program: The Cherokee adopted many European-American customs, including a constitution and written laws, earning them the designation of one of the “Five Civilized Tribes.”

Culture

1. Government: Traditional Cherokee governance was organized around a council that included chiefs and community leaders. Today, the Cherokee Nation has a modern government with executive, legislative, and judicial branches.
2. Religion and Spirituality: Traditional Cherokee spirituality centers on harmony with nature, respect for all life, and ceremonies like the Green Corn Ceremony. Many Cherokee today are also Christian.
3. Clans: The Cherokee traditionally divided themselves into seven clans, each with specific roles and responsibilities, such as governance or healing.
4. Arts: The Cherokee are known for their beadwork, basket weaving, pottery, and storytelling traditions.

Modern Cherokee Nations

1. Three Federally Recognized Tribes:
   • Cherokee Nation (based in Tahlequah, Oklahoma)
   • Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians (based in North Carolina)
   • United Keetoowah Band of Cherokee Indians (also based in Oklahoma)
2. Population: Combined, the Cherokee people number over 400,000, making them one of the largest Native American groups in the U.S.
3. Language Revitalization: Efforts are ongoing to preserve and teach the Cherokee language to younger generations.

Notable Contributions

1. Sequoyah: Creator of the Cherokee syllabary, which significantly increased literacy and communication among the Cherokee.
2. Military Service: Cherokee individuals have a long history of serving in the U.S. military, including during World Wars I and II.
3. Advocacy: The Cherokee have been at the forefront of Native American legal and cultural rights in the U.S.

The Cherokee people continue to thrive, preserving their culture while also engaging with modern society.

The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is an iconic annual event held in New York City on Thanksgiving Day, organized by the Macy’s department store. It is one of the largest and most famous parades in the world and has been a cherished holiday tradition since its debut in 1924.

Key Features of the Parade:

1. Massive Balloons: The parade is renowned for its giant helium balloons shaped like popular characters from cartoons, movies, and TV shows. These balloons are carried through the streets of Manhattan by teams of handlers.
2. Floats: Elaborately designed floats featuring holiday themes, pop culture icons, and corporate sponsors are a staple of the event. Many floats also feature live musical performances.
3. Performers: The parade showcases a variety of performers, including marching bands, cheerleaders, dance troupes, and Broadway cast members, adding to the spectacle.
4. Celebrities: Celebrities and entertainers often make appearances, either performing or waving to the crowds from floats.
5. Santa Claus: The parade traditionally ends with the arrival of Santa Claus, symbolizing the official start of the holiday season.

Route and Broadcast:

The parade travels through Manhattan, starting near Central Park and ending in front of Macy’s flagship store in Herald Square. It is broadcast live on national television, allowing millions of viewers across the U.S. to enjoy the festivities.

The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is not only a celebration of Thanksgiving but also a significant cultural event that brings families together to share in the joy of the holiday season.

Armistice Day commemorates the end of World War I on November 11, 1918, when the Allied forces and Germany signed an armistice agreement. The armistice took effect at the 11th hour on the 11th day of the 11th month, formally ending hostilities on the Western Front after four years of devastating warfare. Armistice Day is now observed in many countries as a day to remember and honor all who served and sacrificed in military conflicts. In the UK, Canada, and other Commonwealth countries, it has become known as Remembrance Day, focusing on honoring those who have served in all wars. In the United States, it is known as Veterans Day, dedicated to honoring military veterans.

The poppy is closely associated with Remembrance Day due to its symbolism and its origins in World War I. The connection began with the poem In Flanders Fields, written in 1915 by Canadian Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae. He wrote the poem after witnessing red poppies growing in the war-torn fields of Flanders, Belgium, where many soldiers had lost their lives. The poppies, growing amidst the devastation, became a symbol of hope, resilience, and remembrance for those who had fallen in battle.

Inspired by the poem, an American academic named Moina Michael promoted the poppy as a symbol of remembrance after the war. The idea spread internationally, and soon the poppy became a widely recognized symbol of remembrance in the British Commonwealth and other countries. Today, wearing a red poppy on Remembrance Day honors the memory of those who served and sacrificed in wars and conflicts worldwide.

Suriname’s legal system is influenced by its Dutch colonial history, and while it doesn’t have widely recognized “weird” laws, there are some unique regulations and cultural practices that might seem unusual to outsiders:

Driving on the Left Side: Unlike most South American countries, Suriname mandates driving on the left side of the road. This practice stems from its colonial ties to the Netherlands, where left-side driving was customary.

School Uniform Color Codes: In Suriname, school uniforms are color-coded based on educational levels. Elementary students typically wear green shirts, while middle-school students don blue shirts. This system helps easily identify students’ educational stages.

Single Cinema Hall: The entire country has only one cinema, T.B.L. Cinemas, located in the capital, Paramaribo. It operates part-time, with specific showtimes on weekdays and weekends.

Diverse Religious Holidays: Reflecting its multicultural society, Suriname officially recognizes and celebrates a wide array of religious holidays, including Holi, Diwali, Eid al-Fitr, and Christmas. This inclusivity is enshrined in national policies, ensuring that various cultural and religious practices are honored.

While these aspects may not be “weird” in a negative sense, they highlight Suriname’s unique blend of cultural influences and historical legacies.

Pumpkins After Dark is an award-winning outdoor Halloween event held annually in Ottawa. The 2024 event runs from October 10 to October 31 at Wesley Clover Parks, located at 401 Corkstown Rd, Nepean, ON K2H 8T1.

The event features over 10,000 hand-carved pumpkins arranged into illuminated sculptures and displays, accompanied by music, sounds, and special effects. Attendees can enjoy live pumpkin carving demonstrations, indulge in fall-themed treats from local food trucks, and capture memorable photos at various themed photo-ops.

Tickets are available for online purchase only, with prices starting at $21.62 for adults and $17.49 for youth on Thriller Thursdays. Weekend admission starts at $27.81 for adults and $23.68 for youth. Family packages and flexible entry passes are also offered.