It was about 8 pm, and a cacophany of chirping birds and cicadas filled the inky darkness. If a large animal—a tapir, perhaps, or a jaguar—snapped branches or scampered through the bush, it would have been hard to hear it. My ears strained, my pulse quickened, as I surveyed the dense jungle ahead with a flashlight, waiting to spy a …

The Columbia River Gorge is a marvel of nature known for spectacular waterfalls, scenery and hiking. But it’s also famous in the world of wine. The region’s geology has given rise to a wine industry that’s growing in both number and reputation, with more than 40 wineries within a 40-mile (60-kilometer) stretch. In 2004, the Columbia Gorge was designated an …

ONCE a haven for the chilled-out surfers, today the famous northern NSW beachside town of Byron Bay bears little resemblance to its 60s hippy heyday. Skyrocketing real estate, overcrowded beaches, raucous drunken backpackers, bumper-to-bumper traffic, and expensive, scarce parking make blissing out in this former utopia nigh on impossible. However, for those seeking respite and feel good vibes, you can …

Hundreds of students and locals from across Wales’ capital are to hold a candlelit vigil outside Cardiff University’s main building to show “solidarity against terrorism.” Supported by 13 of the institution’s student societies, the event’s organisers have said the vigil will pay tribute and remembrance to all the victims of recent terrorist attacks which have occurred in countries across the …