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22° Halo (Lunar Halo)

A 22° halo (known also as moon or solar halo) is an optical phenomenon, forming a circle with a radius of approximately 22° around the moon or sun, produced by reflected/refracted light interacting with millions hexagonal ice crystals suspended in the cirrus or cirrostratus clouds (troposphere, 6-13 km high).

No light is reflected towards the inside of the ring, giving it the impression of a big hole in the sky. As the sailors say, when the 22° halo appears in the sky, a storm is approaching.

In clear sky conditions the view of this phenomenon is spectacular: the one in the photo (taken in Thaba-Tseka, Lesotho) is a lunar halo, much rarer than the solar halo.

Stirling, Scotland

Sir William Wallace (1270-1305) was a Scottish knight, member of the lesser nobility and the main leader during the wars for the independence of Scotland. He became the national hero and the symbol of the Scottish people’s freedom.

The execution of Wallace was one of the roughest of the history: after his capture by the English army (5th August 1305), on 23rd August 1305, at the Tower of London, he was stripped naked and dragged through the city at the heels of a horse, then he was hanged but released while he was still alive, eviscerated (his bowels were burned), beheaded and then cut into four parts.

His head was placed on a pike on the top of the London Bridge; his limbs were displayed, separately, in Stirling, Berwick, Newcastle and Perth.

William Wallace was the protagonist of Blind Harry‘s epic poem “The Wallace” (1479) and Mel Gibson‘s movie “Braveheart” (1995), winner of five Academy Awards. The English heavy metal band Iron Maiden dedicated to the story of Wallace the song “The Clansman” (1998) and the German band Grave Digger dedicated him their song “William Wallace (Braveheart)” (1996).

The Big Five, South Africa

elephant — photo © mytouristmaps (Pilanesberg Nat. Park)

Known all over the African continent, the “big five” expression refers to the five most dangerous animals at the time of hunting safari: LION, ELEPHANT, RHINO, LEOPARD and BUFFALO.

They all can be found in many African parks and reserves (particularly in South Africa, Botswana, Tanzania, Kenya, …) or, more simply, on the South African bills (with 380 Rand you will have them all).

Best Places to See the Big Five

1. Kruger National Park, South Africa

Why Visit: One of Africa’s most famous reserves, Kruger offers excellent infrastructure, diverse wildlife, and year-round Big Five sightings.
Highlights: Self-drive safaris, guided tours, and luxury lodges make Kruger accessible to all types of travelers.
Best Time: May to September (dry season). Vegetation is sparse, and animals gather around waterholes, making them easier to spot.

2. Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

Why Visit: Renowned for the Great Migration, the Serengeti is also a prime location for Big Five sightings.
Highlights: Witness lions hunting during the migration and spot leopards in the acacia trees.
Best Time: June to October (dry season) and January to February (calving season).

3. Maasai Mara National Reserve, Kenya

Why Visit: Known for its dense lion population and the dramatic crossings of wildebeest during the Great Migration.
Highlights: Game drives, cultural visits to Maasai villages, and hot air balloon safaris.
Best Time: July to October (Great Migration) and January to February (dry season).

4. Etosha National Park, Namibia

Why Visit: Etosha’s salt pans attract an array of wildlife, including elephants, rhinos, and lions.
Highlights: Excellent for photography, especially around waterholes, where multiple species gather.
Best Time: June to October (dry season).

5. Okavango Delta, Botswana

Why Visit: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the delta is a unique ecosystem with opportunities for both land and water-based safaris.
Highlights: Spot leopards and lions in the lush delta and enjoy mokoro (canoe) rides.
Best Time: June to October (dry season and peak flood season).

6. South Luangwa National Park, Zambia

Why Visit: Famous for its walking safaris, South Luangwa is a more off-the-beaten-path option for Big Five enthusiasts.
Highlights: Spot leopards at night and enjoy intimate wildlife encounters.
Best Time: May to October (dry season).

7. Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania

Why Visit: This ancient volcanic caldera is home to all Big Five species, including a healthy population of black rhinos.
Highlights: The compact area makes it easier to see the Big Five in a single day.
Best Time: June to October (dry season).

8. Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park, South Africa

Why Visit: Known for its successful rhino conservation efforts, this park offers great opportunities to see the Big Five.
Highlights: Guided safaris and the chance to see both white and black rhinos.
Best Time: May to September (dry season).

The Motorcycle Diaries, South America

One of the most fascinating trips through the South American continent is definitely the one undertaken by the medical students Ernesto “Fuser” Guevara de la Serna and Alberto “Mial” Granado, began with a motorcycle (nicknamed “la Poderosa”) in 1951 from Buenos Aires (Argentina), through much of the Latin continent, to Caracas (Venezuela).

It was after having embarked on this trip that Ernesto Guevara de la Serna knew what would have been his future… becoming the revolutionary worldwide known as Ernesto “El Che” Guevara.

Ernesto Guevara told this experience in the diary Latinoamericana (Notas de viaje) from which, in 2004, was made the cult movie “The Motorcycle Diaries”.

Today the remains of Guevara are kept at the mausoleum of Santa Clara (Cuba), where the following quote can be read:

“One thing I’ve learned in Guatemala of Arbenz was that if I had never been a revolutionary doctor, or just a revolutionary, first there should be a revolution”
Ernesto “El Che” Guevara.

Adam’s Peak, Sri Lanka

The Adam’s Peak (Sri Pada), located in the central-south area of Sri Lanka, is one of the most important places in the world for religious pilgrimage.

At the top of this mountain, in the monastery, there is a large footprint foot venerated as the footprint of Buddha by the Buddhists, Shiva Adipadham by the Hindus and Adam by Muslims and Christians: a good example of how different religions can peacefully live in the same place.

The climb is about 5.200 steps (!).

If lucky with the weather, climbing Adam’s Peak rewards visitors with a spectacular sunrise at the summit. The breathtaking view of golden hues spreading across misty valleys is a spiritual experience for many.
During sunrise, the peak casts a perfectly triangular shadow that appears to float in the air. This optical illusion slowly descends as the sun rises higher, mesmerizing all who witness it.

The best time to visit Adam’s Peak is during the pilgrimage season, from December to May, when the weather is favorable, and the trails are well-lit. The busiest period typically falls between January and February.

If you prefer fewer crowds, visiting during the off-season is an option, but be prepared for unpredictable weather and less infrastructure along the trail.

The pilgrimage to Adam’s Peak is not just a hike; it’s a deeply spiritual and communal experience that blends devotion with nature. Here’s what to expect during the journey:

A Midnight Start: Most pilgrims begin their ascent around midnight or early hours to reach the summit before sunrise. The climb can take 3–6 hours, depending on fitness levels.

A Lit Pathway: The trail is illuminated with strings of lights during the pilgrimage season, creating a magical atmosphere. Stalls line the route, offering tea, snacks, and small trinkets.

Chants and Bells: As you climb, you’ll hear chants and prayers echoing through the air. Pilgrims often ring bells at designated spots to mark their journey and express gratitude.

The Sacred Footprint: At the summit, a shrine houses the sacred footprint, where pilgrims pause to pray, light candles, and make offerings. This moment is deeply spiritual for many.

The Sunrise Spectacle: Witnessing the sunrise from the summit is a life-changing experience. The golden light illuminates the landscape, and the triangular shadow of the peak appears, creating a surreal and unforgettable scene.

Dubrovnik, Croatia

During the Yugoslavian Civil War (1991-1992) Dubrovnik was hit by about two thousand bombs.
After the war the city was rebuilt with traditional techniques and original materials; now the splendour of Dubrovnik is reflected in the white marble of its old town, one of the medieval villages best preserved in Croatia and in the world.

In recent years, Dubrovnik’s popularity has skyrocketed, thanks in part to its starring role in the hit television series Game of Thrones. The city served as the primary filming location for King’s Landing, the capital of the Seven Kingdoms. Its iconic walls, fortresses, and picturesque streets became instantly recognizable to fans of the show, drawing a wave of international visitors eager to experience the magic of the real-life King’s Landing. From the imposing Lovrijenac Fortress to the charming Pile Gate, Dubrovnik offers fans and travelers alike a chance to walk through scenes straight out of the series while soaking in the city’s rich cultural heritage.

Dubrovnik’s blend of history, resilience, and modern pop culture appeal has made it a must-visit destination, captivating travelers with its breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea, its vibrant old town, and its status as a living piece of history and fantasy.

Dovrefjell Nat. Park, Norway

The Dovrefjell National Park is the only area of Norway where you can see the majestic musk ox: a large mammal of the caprinae family, known for its thick coat that reaches almost the ground and the characteristic odour of musk.

During the period of love, rival male musk oxen fight to conquer females: they collide head to head at the speed of 60 km/h making a noise that you can hear in kilometres.

The guided tour starting from Oppdal, Kongsvoll, Furuhaugli and Hjerkinn, have a duration of 4-7 hours on a distance of about 10-13 km of enjoyable and easy hiking.

Bear in mind that if the musk ox feels threatened, he might attack, therefore it is suggested to keep at least 200 meters distance from them. If you are too close and you see them looking towards you and scrolling their head, you could be in real danger.

The park ecosystem includes other animals like wild mountain reindeer, arctic foxes, golden eagles and gyrfalcon.

Best Places to See the Big Five1. Kruger National Park, South Africa