Under the veil of darkness, the aurora borealis, like magic, appears and dances across the sky. Do you dream of seeing the enticing northern lights? Do you long to witness the aurora weave its way across the sky like a lazy river or explode overhead in shards of red and green?

Aurora Season in Fairbanks, Alaska, is from August 21 through April 21 and spans all four seasons and nine months of the year. Plan your trip during late August and the first half of September to revel in summer activities and attractions by day and chase the northern lights at night. Fall viewing unveils breathtaking autumnal colors and moderate weather. Winter expeditions offer long nights, dazzling snowy backdrops and unparalleled pursuits like dog mushing and giant ice-block carving. Lastly, spring is a joyful time offering winter landscapes paired with warmer temperatures.

We invite you to use this list and start planning your extraordinary trip to see the northern lights in Fairbanks now.

1. Location, Location, Location.

Fairbanks is a world-famous aurora viewing destination because of its location directly under the “Auroral Oval,” where northern lights activity is concentrated. Because of the city’s ideal location, the acclaimed Geophysical Institute resides at the University of Alaska Fairbanks and tracks geomagnetic energy which predicts aurora activity daily.

2. Count the Days.

If you stay in Fairbanks for a minimum of three nights and are actively out viewing every night you have a 90% chance of seeing the aurora. We suggest four to five nights as an ideal amount of time to scan the skies for the northern lights.

3. Go Hard.

Most die-hards chase the aurora from 10pm to 3am, and you should too. It’s also possible to see the lights earlier in the evening or during early morning hours. For the very best chances, pull an all-nighter.

4. Weather is King.

Key to aurora viewing are clear skies. Fortunately, Fairbanks has low precipitation, which results in many clear nights during Aurora Season. Keep in mind that weather can change quickly, and the skies can unexpectedly open revealing the capricious aurora crisscrossing the sky.

5. Dark Skies.

You can see the aurora from downtown Fairbanks, Creamer’s Field, or anywhere in the vicinity. However, city lights will mute the vibrancy. In general, Fairbanks’ small population doesn’t create much light pollution, but to get the northern lights to really “POP” it’s best to venture out a few miles.

6. Join the Party or Take off Solo.

We recommend going with a tour to chase the aurora or book an indoor viewing location and wait for the lights to appear. It’s cool if you are comfortable venturing out solo, but it’s also wise to hang with the experts. Use the Explore Fairbanks website to find local entrepreneurs that can help you view the northern lights.

7. Track the Aurora.

The Aurora Tracker on the Explore Fairbanks website combines aurora data from the Geophysical Institute, the weather forecast in six locations, the amount of darkness, and three days of predictions. There are other useful apps that utilize a more in-depth calculation, but the Tracker is an excellent baseline tool for predicting when the northern lights may appear in the sky.

Don’t let your aurora dreams go unfulfilled. Fingers-crossed (but no guarantees) with these seven tips that you’ll get lucky. Using Fairbanks as a basecamp, you can literally head off in any direction and pick your aurora viewing vantage point. Choose a mountaintop, a lake, a wilderness road, a hot spring, or from the basket of a dog sled. Or pick a cozy lodge, rustic yurt, modern igloo, classic log cabin, or well-appointed aurora viewing space.

Come to Fairbanks and linger outside with eyes turned towards the night sky. Let the light of the aurora borealis excite your senses and soothe your soul.

1. Kyrgyzstan, Central Asia

Kyrgyzstan, one of the most underrated countries to visit in the world, is an absolute gem waiting to be discovered. It’s a country of jaw-dropping beauty and incredible experiences. Imagine being surrounded by towering mountains like the Tien Shan range and crystal-clear lakes like Issyk-Kul, where you can swim and relax on the shores.

The best part? The people are incredibly friendly and welcoming, always ready to share their nomadic traditions and stories. You can stay in traditional yurts, ride horses through picturesque valleys, and soak in the vibrant culture of the Kyrgyz people.

2. Georgia, Europe

Georgia, despite its small size, is a true powerhouse when it comes to offering a remarkable travel experience. It boasts a fascinating history, mouthwatering cuisine, stunning beaches along the Black Sea coast, and awe-inspiring peaks of the Caucasus mountains.

A visit to Tbilisi’s charming old town is an absolute must, where you can wander through its narrow cobblestone streets, marvel at the architectural wonders, and indulge in the vibrant local culture.

3. Uganda, Africa

If you’re seeking an adventure-filled underrated destination, look no further than Uganda! This incredible country offers a plethora of thrilling experiences that are sure to satisfy your adventurous spirit.

Whether you’re hiking through lush rainforests, spotting diverse wildlife on safari, or immersing yourself in vibrant local culture, Uganda promises endless opportunities for unforgettable adventures and lasting memories.

4. Nicaragua, Latin America

Nicaragua has got it all! You’ll find charming colonial cities like Granada and Leon, perfect for exploring history and soaking up the local vibes. If you’re into surfing, the Pacific coast is dotted with awesome hotspots that will satisfy your wave-craving heart.

And let’s not forget about the lush rainforests hiding jaw-dropping waterfalls, just waiting to be discovered. The icing on the cake? It’s super budget-friendly, making it an awesome choice for backpackers looking for adventures without breaking the bank.

5. Oman, Middle East

Oman, one of the underrated countries to visit in the Middle East, is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. It boasts a stunning array of landscapes, ranging from majestic desert dunes to the captivating turquoise waters of the Arabian Sea.

Immerse yourself in the enchanting beauty of Muscat, where you can marvel at its impressive architecture and immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage. For an unforgettable experience, venture into the vast expanse of Wahiba Sands and camp under the twinkling starry skies, surrounded by the tranquil desert ambiance.

6. Estonia, Northern Europe

Experience Estonia’s recent cultural renaissance that makes this already-attractive country even more appealing for travelers looking for something different. Explore medieval castles, lush forests, and a thriving tech scene.

In Tallinn, Estonia, you can immerse yourself in history by wandering through the UNESCO-listed Old Town, where ancient cobblestone streets lead you past beautifully preserved buildings from the 13th century. This picturesque area is a treasure trove of historic churches, cozy cafes, and delightful shops.

Beyond the rich heritage, Estonia has embraced its cultural side, hosting vibrant music festivals like the Tallinn Music Week, which showcases local and international talent.

7. Ecuador, South America

Uncover the diverse attractions Ecuador has to offer within its small borders – from lush Amazon rainforests to towering Andean peaks. Experience both natural wonders and historical gems in one trip, making it an underrated travel destination for nature lovers and history buffs alike.

Immerse yourself in the cultures of indigenous communities, explore ancient ruins, and marvel at colonial architecture in cities like Quito and Cuenca. Whether you’re seeking thrilling adventures in the wild or a glimpse into the rich tapestry of Ecuador’s past, this enchanting country offers an unforgettable experience that will leave you awe-inspired.

8. Laos, Southeast Asia

Laos may be often overlooked among its neighboring countries, but this underrated gem has plenty to offer for adventurous travelers. With UNESCO World Heritage Sites like the captivating town of Luang Prabang and the awe-inspiring Vat Phou Temple Complex, history and culture enthusiasts will be in their element.

Nature lovers can bask in the beauty of Laos with attractions such as the stunning Kuang Si Waterfall and the mesmerizing Kong Lor Cave. What sets Laos apart even more is its affordability, making it an ideal choice for budget-conscious explorers looking for underrated countries to visit.

8. Belize, Central America

Belize, renowned for its immaculate Caribbean coastline, offers far more than just pristine beaches. Delve into the rich history and cultural heritage by visiting the Mayan ruins at Xunantunich, where you can marvel at the ancient architectural wonders and immerse yourself in the intriguing stories of the past.

And let’s not forget about the incredible underwater world—Belize is a paradise for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts, with coral reefs and an abundance of marine life to discover.

9. Iran, Middle East

With a history dating back to the mighty Persian Empire, Iran boasts an unparalleled richness in its heritage. Explore the Naqsh-e Jahan Square in Isfahan, where exquisite architecture and intricate tilework showcase the grandeur of the past.

Marvel at the opulence of Golestan Palace in Tehran, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with its stunning palaces and gardens. In addition to its historical allure, Iran offers breathtaking natural landscapes, including the majestic Mount Damavand, a snow-capped peak that beckons adventure seekers.

To truly immerse yourself in Iran, one of the most underrated countries to visit, consider volunteering through Worldpackers.

10. Cape Verde, Africa

Explore the modern culture of Cape Verde and its ten stunning islands. This West African nation has emerged from deep struggles and now captivates visitors with pristine beaches and vibrant music scenes.

Indulge in delicious food and drink offerings at Mindelo’s markets while immersing yourself in Cape Verdean culture. Attend live music performances showcasing traditional genres such as morna and funana.

With beautiful beaches, diverse landscapes, and a rich cultural heritage, Cape Verde is an underrated dream destination for nature lovers and those seeking unforgettable experiences off the beaten path.

11. Albania, Southeast Europe

Often overshadowed by its neighboring countries, Albania is an underrated travel destination that deserves a spot on your bucket list. This Southeast European gem boasts beautiful beaches, diverse landscapes, and rich cultural heritage.

Tirana, the eclectic capital city of Albania, offers a mix of Ottoman-era architecture and modern buildings. The vibrant streets are filled with trendy cafes and bars where you can enjoy traditional Albanian cuisine or sip on local raki.

If breathtaking nature is what you’re after in your dream destination, look no further than the stunning Albanian Alps. Hiking enthusiasts will love trekking through pristine lakes and picturesque valleys while experiencing unforgettable moments off the beaten path.

12. Madagascar, Africa

Another hidden gem among the underrated countries to visit is Madagascar, an enchanting island nation located off the coast of Southeast Africa. This captivating destination is renowned for its extraordinary wildlife.

Embark on an journey through the lush landscapes and diverse ecosystems by exploring national parks like Andasibe-Mantadia National Park, where you can witness lemurs in their natural habitat and immerse yourself in the pristine surroundings.

For an aquatic adventure, head to the picturesque island of Nosy Be, where you can dive into the crystal-clear waters and discover the underwater world through thrilling snorkeling experiences.

Visitors line up in front of the statues of hated Chinese historical figures including Qin Hui. Photo: Taihao mausoleum

A visitor became emotional and smashed statues of hated Chinese historical figures including Qin Hui with an iron plate during a visit in Taihao mausoleum in Central China’s Henan Province where Yue Fei temple is located. The tourist attraction released a notice on Monday that the local police have started investigating the case and called on people to behave responsibly.

Yue Fei, a military commander during the Southern Song Dynasty (1127-1279), is a household name in China, who was famous for his loyalty and courage. The legend of Yue’s story was widespread that his mother tattooed four Chinese characters on his back — “jing zhong bao guo,” meaning serving the country with total loyalty.

At around 2:10 pm on Sunday, a visitor suddenly became emotional and shouted “Let’s restore our lost land” standing on a censer in front of Yue Fei temple, and forcibly lifted the iron plate covering the censer and smashed the statues, according to the Taihao mausoleum. The guy left the scene finally under the working staff’s persuasion. The working staff immediately called the police who are now investigating the case, said the tourist attraction.

The statues have not been damaged, fortunately, the kneeling statues are modern imitations and do not belong to historical relics, according to the Taihao mausoleum.

Taihao mausoleum received 300,000 visits in seven-day Chinese Spring Festival, a record high in three years, said the tourist attraction. The movie Man Jiang Hong, directed by Chinese well-known director Zhang Yimou, a revenge story between Yue Fei and Qin Hui, a treacherous official who murdered Yue, was released during the holidays, attracting a large number of people.

Some netizens don’t agree with this kind of “extreme” move and noted that visitors should behave civilizedly and reasonably.

The local tourist authorities immediately installed guardrails and increased security personnel to guide tourists visit in a civilized manner. The tourist attraction called the visitors to be civilized when visiting public places and respect local customs, cultural traditions and religious beliefs.

Italy is a country full of truly unique villages in the world. You can find places that are known for their rich history, while others are known just for their particular beauty. In Sicily there is a place that is peculiar and fascinating that is known for its shape. The name of this town is Centuripe.

It is a village that gets its beauty from being perched on five cliffs that are joined together, which gives life to a picturesque man-shape. Known as the “balcony of Sicily”, this town has stunning views across to Mount Etna. Centuripe has avoided mass tourism, since It has been on my to-do-list, I will be the visiting tourist to explore this place.

About Centuripe

Centuripe is a charming town within the Sicilian back country where you can still get a glimpse of the Sicilian past. Due to its location, this type of isolation has maintained the authenticity of the residents and Sicilian life. Located in the province of Enna at 2,402 feet (732 meters), It almost seems like it was forgotten by the madness of modern society. As you stroll along the streets you will witness the remains of what was once a glorious past first in the Greek and then Roman times.

Once one of the most important Sicilian cities during the in the Siceliota epoch (7th century BC) and moreover in the Roman era (3rd – 1st centuries BC), today very few ruins remain of its glorious past. Additionally, during WWII in 1943, the town suffered some damage during the liberation of Sicily by the 38th Infantry Brigade from the Irish allies. It was the key position in the German defense line across Sicily, which gave the Axis an almost impregnable position. Today Centuripe is mostly of an economy based on agriculture.

Explore Centuripe

I’ll be honest, when I arrived here I did not have a plan to what I was going to see and do. I recommend you park in the outer parts of the town. I parked here. I mostly came here to take some drone photography of the town and to explore more inland besides the coast of the island. As I mentioned before, this town has escaped tourism. Walking around with a backpack and camera and taking photos, really made me stand out. I definitely felt the eyes upon me. I had to be the only tourist that day or tourist are not that common.

After seeing a few things within the town I was ready to leave and head back home. Out of the blue, one of my Instagram followers saw one of my stories, which I posted while visiting, and wanted to meet up. He wanted to show me more things about the area. Thanks to Giacomo, I got to see another side of Centuripe that mostly the locals know about. Let me share with you some points of interests.

Panoramica sull’Etna

Once I parked, I walked towards he panoramic view point that overlooks the valley towards Mount Etna. This volcano overshadows anything within sight and its marvelous to look at. From here you can see the neighboring towns and scenic view the balcony of Sicily has to offer.

Unfortunately it was a little cloudy when I happen to be visiting, but the view was still great. From here when the volcano is erupting you get a front row seat of all the action. You can also witness some of the red hot lava coming out.

Church of the Immaculate Conception

As I continued exploring the town I found my self heading towards the center. Here you you will find the Chiesa Madre, Mother Church, the most important one of the town. This Roman Catholic façade is dedicated to the Marian devotion of the Immaculate Conception (Immacolata Concezione).

First built in the first decades of the 17th-century and consecrated in 1728. The Church has both a bell-tower and a clock. The interior design has the form of a Latin cross, with a central nave separated from the flanking aisles by ten pillars. The altars are dedicated to the patron saints of Centuripe, Santa Rosalia and San Prospero. The nave is carved out out wooden pulpit with gilded details

Monte Calvario

As I kept exploring the limbs of the man-shaped town, I happen to come across a little chapel, known as Monte Calvary. The origins of this dates back to 1927 through the interest of Father Vincenzo Sfilio. It was built by the master builder Giovanni Battista Senfet with the material help of all the centuripino people, which they climbed the building material by hand on the impenetrable path. Inside the church there is a painting of the Addolorata and the SS. Crucifix. From here you can see a panoramic view of the town from a different angle and also enjoy the landscape below.

Speaking with the locals, every year on the third of May the church is open to the faithful on the occasion of the feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross, in the past celebrated it was a more solemn way. To actually get up here is a little tricky. As you are coming up to it you take a set of stairs between two buildings that put you in someone house. It might feel a little weird, but just be mindful and continue the path.

Archeological Museum

This Regional Archaeological Museum of Centuripe exhibits the largest collection of Roman archaeological finds in internal Sicily, and is located in the municipality of Centuripe near the temple of the Augustales and other archaeological areas.

Next to it you will also find the Chiesa Santissimo Crocefisso, Church of the Holy Crucifix. There is also a set of stairs that take you through the stations of the cross.

Agustales

Near the Archeological Museum there is an articulated architectural complex that takes its name “Augustales” from the inscription found there. It braces a dedication by the Augustus Quadrumvir Lucio Calpurnio Aftoneto to the Genius Augustus. It is believed that one of the rooms highlighted could have supported a college of priests who had the task of officiating rites in honor of the late Gaius Julius Caesar Augustus. To support this hypothesis there is a precious marble portrait of Augustus, discovered near a modern pillar that upholds the road above.

Visible is the foundations of the five pillars which form the base of the ancient building. Almost certainly, this complex constitutes to all intents and purposes a part of the city’s forum in Roman times. Excavations in the 1950s made it possible to identify three chronological phases and discover other inscriptions and sculptural groups, partly exhibited in the Archaeological Museum.

Castello di Corradino : Roman Mausoleum

At edge what I would consider the right foot you will find a remnants of a castle which particularly attests to the importance of Centuripe in the Imperial Roman era. Getting there through a long tree-lined avenue and the splendid panorama makes it a wonderful brisk walk. As you look out from this extensive balcony you can admire, in fact, the majestic Etna and the neighboring villages, the green hills with the Mediterranean scrub and the plain of Catania, full of citrus groves. Corradino Castle is a Roman funerary building from the imperial age.

It was the archaeologist Guido Libertini in his monograph on Centuripe of 1926 who was the first to identify the intended use. More like a tower, the building has a square plan preceded by a pronaos. Its denomination of Castello is improper since it is a mausoleum, one of the most important funerary monuments of the Middle Empire in Sicily. In the thirteenth century it was used by Corrado Capece as a fortress in the defense of the Swabians in Sicily.

Carcaci Ghost Town

As you get to know Sicily you will encounter a lot of surprises. After living in Nevada for two years, ghost towns can be found all over. I never thought I would encounter one in Sicily. About 10 kilometers from Centuripe you can come across an ancient village, Carcaci. This was a former duchy that was once ran by one of the noblest Sicilian aristocratic families. When I visited it, there was has a sensation of making a real journey through time. These types of places are unknown to most. That’s why I wanted share this with you.

Borgo Carcaci was once one of the most coveted fiefdoms of Sicilian aristocratic families. What made it so important was its proximity to the “regia trazzera” that led from Adrano to San Filippo di Agira and to Palermo. Also importantly is the fact that there is a great abundance of water, provided by the Simeto and Troina rivers, which promotes the fertility of the soil and generous crops. In 700 it became the duchy of the illustrious Paternò-Castello family, under which it experienced a period of flourishing activity. In 1818 feudalism was abandoned and the Duchy of Carcaci became a municipality and was aggregated to Centuripe. Today, unfortunately, it is practically in a state of neglect, but this has not deprived it of its charm. This could be a fun place for photography with someone.

NOTE: There are a lot of peacocks running around.

Ponte Dei Saraceni

The Ponte dei Saraceni is one of the most beautiful and historically interesting buildings of the Sicilian Middle Ages. The bridge has lasted for about a thousand years on the major river of Sicily, “the Simeto”, characterized by a varied geological structure that provides the alternation of waterfalls, gorges and lava flows. The river falls for a good stretch in the so-called “Gorges” creating a natural water play of great suggestion. The district is called “Salto del Pecoraio” thanks to an ancient legend about a shepherd in love who jumped to the other side to join his beloved.

Built in the Roman masonry, of which there are the bases of the major arch, then with the Islamic occupation, the Arabs probably did it to restore the bridge activity following a collapse due perhaps to a flood of the Simeto. Thus they replaced the canons of their architecture with Roman art, taking care of the chromatic effects, with the alternation of light and dark stones in the arched arches. The structure that emerges from it, with an acute arch, typical of all Islamic architecture, will thus acquire slenderness and lightness. The bridge, in Norman times, was part of an important road that connected the city of Troina, the first capital of the kingdom of Roger I of Altavilla, with Catania.

Riparo Cassataro

I have to say, I was not expecting to arrive to something like this during this trip. This magnificent prehistoric testimony, unknown to most, is hidden inside a small shelter of huge sandstone blocks, among olive trees and prickly pears near the Simeto river. Here in 1976 some cave paintings were discovered, the only ones known in eastern Sicily. Riparo Cassatoro was discovered in 1976 and was used as a place of worship, it can also be seen from the circular cups dug into the floor and which are linked to religious rites, as attested in other locations.

There are figures of people, with arms in various positions that represent a kind of magical dance around a deity. One even seems to have a drum in hand. A series of paintings is black and is from the Neolithic period (hardly visible except with infrared photography). The other, on the other hand, is attributable to the Bronze Age and is reddish in color, obtained from minerals present in the area, ground with rudimentary tools.

Conclusion

Talk about a good day trip. I recommend this to put in your to-do-list of places to see. A place where tourism has not yet taken over. Additionally, Its always good to meet someone locally to help you enjoy the richness of the place they call home. Without Giacomo I would not have known about the other interesting points of interest nearby.

Have you ever been shown around by a local? Leave comments and questions about this post underneath. I’ll reply as soon as possible.

Did you know South Mountain Park and Preserve turns 100 years old in 2024?! That’s right! In 1924, the City of Phoenix purchased 13,000 acres of land for $17,000. ​​Today, ​at more than 16,000 acres, South Mountain Park/Preserve is one of the largest municipally managed parks in the nation!

About South Mountain Park/Preserve

​At more than 16,000 acres, South Mountain Park/Preserve is one of the largest municipally managed parks in the nation and consists of three mountain ranges – the Ma Ha Tauk, Gila and Guadalupe. The park boasts more than 100 miles of trails for hiking, horseback riding and mountain biking. Additionally, the roadways throughout the park are a favorite for bicyclists.

Dobbins Lookout, at 2,330 feet, is the highest point in the park that is available to the public. Accessed by both hiking trails and Summit Rd., the lookout is popular with tourists and locals, who want to get an unobstructed panoramic view of the Valley.

Note: The park’s scenic roadways are shared by motor vehicles, bikers and hikers. Due to the many blind corners, narrow sections and treacherous drop-offs, extreme caution should be maintained and adherence to the speed limit followed.

*Add an additional level of difficulty when the temperature is in the triple digits.

Comparison photographs of our rescue elephants show how their spines can become visibly deformed when forced to carry heavy loads of tourists as part of the wildlife entertainment industry.

Pai Lin the elephant spent over 25 years in Thailand’s trekking industry, where she was forced to give rides for up to six tourists at a time.

She now lives with us at Wildlife Friends Foundation Thailand (WFFT), Thailand’s first chain-free elephant sanctuary, where she can roam freely and engage in her natural behaviours.

You can see how Pai Lin’s spine, which should naturally be rounded and raised, is caved in and sunken from the heavy weight of her past work. Spinal deformities in elephants can be caused by multiple combined factors, including malnutrition, and as a result of injuries sustained while working in the tourism or logging industries.

These physical deformations are common in elephants used for tourist rides, and can be seen in several of the rescue elephants who now live happily at WFFT. We’ve released these photos of our wonderful Pai Lin and her friends to help raise awareness of how these gentle giants can suffer as part of the riding industry.

Elephants used for trekking often spend full days carrying the weight of their mahout (handler), groups of tourists, and a heavy howdah (seat). This continuous pressure on their bodies can deteriorate the tissue and bones on their back, causing irreversible physical damage to their spines. Pai Lin’s back still bears scars from old pressure points.

“While elephants may be known for their strength and size, their backs are not naturally designed to carry weight, as their spines extend upwards” explains Tom Taylor, our Project Director at WFFT. “Constant pressure on their backbones from tourists can result in permanent physical damage, which can be seen in our gentle Pai Lin”.

Affectionately known as the grandma of our elephant sanctuary, we rescued Pai Lin, now around 71 years old, back in 2007.

Pai Lin, along with our 22 other rescue elephants, live happily in our large elephant enclosures, which are up to 44 acres each and have natural trees, lakes and grazing areas.

Most of the rescued elephants here at WFFT have experienced decades of abuse. While we could never comprehend the trauma these animals have experienced in the past, at least they can now live the rest of their lives in peace at our sanctuary. We hope that these photos encourage tourists to do their research and support only ethical and sustainable elephant sanctuaries, while avoiding establishments that offer riding or other exploitative practices.

Roxana Crihana

“The National Museum in Wrocław is considered one of the largest and most significant museums in Poland. Its exterior is adorned with lush greenery, creating a stunning visual appeal year-round. Inside, the museum boasts elegant white marble accents reminiscent of a grand castle, evoking a sense of luxury and sophistication.”

About National Museum in Wrocław

Get the inside scoop on National Museum in Wrocław from local experts, travel creators, and tastemakers. Browse genuine trip notes, National Museum in Wrocław reviews, photos, travel guides, and itineraries from real travelers and plan your trip with confidence.

Florida is known for its incredible wildlife: alligators, manatees, dolphins, sharks, turtles, and waterbirds… but very few people know that its coastal waters are also home to a “mini manta ray” called the Atlantic pygmy devil ray (Mobula hypostoma). In Mote Marine Laboratory’s Sharks and Rays Conservation Research Program, my mentor Kim Bassos-Hull and her colleagues have been studying spotted eagle rays since 2009 in the waters off the west coast of Florida. Starting in 2013 during eagle ray fieldwork, they occasionally observed and opportunistically caught and collected data on their barbless cousins, the pygmy devil rays. I was lucky to have my first encounter with one when I visited Kim and Mote Marine Lab after my master’s degree, in October 2021.

A juvenile pygmy devil ray caught in Sarasota, FL, in October 2021. Mote Marine Laboratory was hosting a workshop with the MesoAmerican Reef Chondrichthyan (MARCHON) group, so this little guy was the perfect model to demonstrate hands-on research techniques on rays! Credit: Mote Marine Laboratory

Coincidentally, around the same time, Kim was contacted by Okaloosa County Coastal Resources marine biologists, in the Florida Panhandle (500 km NW of Sarasota, in the northeastern Gulf of Mexico) to start a collaborative study on pygmy devil rays in their area. Indeed, an increasing number of locals and tourists were reporting the presence of “baby manta rays” along the coast every fall/winter, and everyone was eager to learn more about them. After years of collecting opportunistic data in Sarasota, there was finally a lead on where to find this poorly-known species in Florida reliably and thus, the possibility to launch a dedicated research project! And this is exactly what Kim and I did, and how this became my dream PhD project.

A school of juvenile devil rays filter feeding in the shallow coastal waters of Sarasota. Photo by Ken Lancaster | © Mote Marine Laboratory

As a scientist, the first step when diving into a research topic is to search and read the available scientific literature. Well, let me tell you there is incredibly little information published on the Atlantic pygmy devil ray! In comparison to the large and placid manta rays which are easier to spot, dive with and identify, devil rays are generally more skittish and thus have stayed under the radar until very recently. Additionally, the different devil ray species can be tricky to tell apart when the observer is not familiar with them, so misidentification has hindered previous research efforts.

Based on our new collaborators’ input, I decided to carry out an extensive search for pygmy devil ray sightings in Florida on social media. I was not disappointed! Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and even TikTok secretly hold hundreds of photos and videos of pygmy devil rays feeding in groups in the waves, jumping, or swimming along the shore. Most of them appear to have been taken in the Florida Panhandle between October and April each year. Today, with the precious help of Morgan Ferguson (Kim’s high school intern for several years), we are working hard at recording this valuable data in a table that now contains over a thousand observations, and from which we hope to learn more about the species’ distribution and seasonality in Florida. Kim and I also created an online reporting form where citizens can directly submit their observations.

One of the most popular holiday destinations in Greece, Corfu is an island in the Ionian Sea that is loved for its cosmopolitan Old Town, spectacular sandy beaches and beautiful scenery.

Its rich history weaves a fascinating blend of influences that have each left its mark on the island and given it a unique character. It is perfect for families, couples and friends and offers visitors both relaxation and adventure. Discover why this iconic island is one of Greece’s most beloved holiday destinations.

What Corfu is best known for

Corfu is known for its captivating blend of Venetian, French and British influences, reflected in its elegant Old Town (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), which has an aristocratic air and landmark monuments such as Venetian fortresses. It boasts beautiful beaches and lively beach resorts, traditional villages, and a lush, hilly interior filled with olive groves, making it a favourite for holidays throughout the year and for nature lovers.

Visitors also cherish Corfu (or Kerkyra, as it’s known in Greek) for its warm hospitality and rich traditions, and for its cuisine, which displays many cultural influences in dishes that show off Italian touches and the island’s delicious Mediterranean produce. Corfu also played a key role in the cultural, intellectual and political emergence of the modern Greek state, and its Easter celebrations are among the most memorable in Greece.

What to do in Corfu

Corfu Old Town (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) is like an open-air museum and its crowning glory is the Venetians’ Old Fortress, built in the 13th century and invaluable in holding off Ottoman sieges. The New Fortress, built between 1572 and 1645, is also a masterpiece of military architecture. You’ll love exploring the alleyways of Campiello (the medieval district) and other highlights, such as the Palace of St Michael and St George (a legacy of the 19^th-century British protectorate) and the Parisian flair of the Liston Arcade by Spianada Square. Other highlights include Pontikonisi (Mouse Island) and neighbouring Vlacherna islet, with its 17th-century monastery dedicated to the Virgin Mary.

Close to the Old Town, the Achilleion Palace was built by the Empress Elizabeth of Austria-Hungary (the legendary Sissi) and later became the summer retreat of Kaiser Wilhelm II of Germany. Meanwhile, Mon Repos was built in 1828 by British High Commissioner Frederick Adam and houses the Palaiopolis Museum and botanical gardens.

Corfu is also famous for its beaches, from little coves to large stretches of sand with beach bars, tavernas, shops and water sports. And the countryside is perfect for exploring on foot or by bike. Among the hidden gems are traditional villages and Lake Korission in the south. Finally, the Easter celebrations in Corfu are unique in Greece and a perfect time to enjoy the island’s Philharmonic bands and spring atmosphere.