The environment is one of the most crucial issues we face today. Human actions like pollution, deforestation, and overuse of natural resources have seriously harmed the planet. Climate change and the decline of wildlife affect not only nature but also human health, economic stability and people’s quality of life. For this reason, protecting the environment has become a global priority.

One major cause of environmental issues is unsustainable human behavior. Industrial growth and constant consumer demand have led to more pollution and high carbon emissions. Furthermore, relying on fossil fuels for energy has sped up global warming. While these activities have improved living standards in many countries, they have also created long-term environmental problems that should not be ignored by humanity.

There are several ways to tackle these challenges effectively. For instance, governments can create tougher laws to limit pollution and promote the usage of renewable energy sources like wind and solar power. Moreover, education is also of great importance, since schools are the main source of stimuli for young kids. Perhaps schools could organize monthly assemblies where activists visit the school, in order to inform students about ways to tackle the environmental issue. As a result, when said students become adults they are much more prone to make environmentally friendly choices, since people who understand environmental issues from an early age are more likely to make responsible choices in the long run. Additionally, companies can lessen their environmental impact by adopting sustainable production methods, measure that ca .

In conclusion, protecting the environment needs cooperation between governments, businesses, and individuals. Small actions, like reducing waste and saving energy, can have a big impact when done widely. If society takes responsibility now, we can still protect the planet for future generations and create a more sustainable future for everyone.

Basketball is a very popular sport created in 1891 by a PE teacher called Dr James Naismith in the US. His main intention was to create a safe and fun indoor sport to keep his students entertained during the winter time. During the first basketball game the only equipment used was a football and two beach baskets.

The rules of the game were originally 13 in total. The way it was played was completely different compared to its modern version. Players were not allowed to dribble the ball, the only way to move it around the court was to pass it to one of your teammates. As the years were passing by more rules were being added. Today basketball has become an exciting fast paced game with many complicated rules, whose purpose is to make the game fun but fair for everyone at the same time.

The first basketball league was created in the early 20th century, which was a critical event for the sports growth in popularity. The most important event in basketball history is the creation of the National Basketball Association, the NBA, the most popular league in the world where the highest level of basketball is being played.

Today basketball is one of the two most popular sports in the world, the other one being football. It is particularly popular in the US and it is becoming more and more famous in Europe and the rest of the world.

Down:

1: An arrangement of flowers, leaves, and other accessories. It can be hung as a decoration, or worn around the head.

2: Santa may hide small gifts and candy in there. (Or even coal, in case of a naughty child.)

4: A Christmas holiday drink, with a milky texture. Sometimes, it may contain alcohol.

6: Decorations hung up the Christmas tree, typically sphere shaped.

7: A circular arrangement of leaves, flowers, or branches hung on doors as decoration.

9: An older winter festival from which many Christmas traditions come.

10: Santa’s trusted companions that help him deliver the gifts to the kids of the world.

12: Santa’s means of transport. A red nosed animal guides it.

Across:

2: He brings gifts to children and is often portrayed with red clothing.

3: The four week period before Christmas. We count it down using calendars.

5: The songs we sing during the Christmas period. It often is a way for children to get money.

8: A type of spiced cookie often made into festive shapes or houses.

11: A plant hung for decoration. It is a tradition to kiss with whoever you stand under it with.

13: A green plant with pointed leaves and red berries used for holiday decorations.

14: We use that word to describe the Christmas spirit.

15: He who stole Christmas.

KEY

Tales about beauty are as old as time and, as a consequence, so are myths in which heroes are punished for their beauty or lack of thereof. Here, we will be focusing on one such case, the one of Freyja. While Freyja (frequently spelled Freya) has seen a surge in baby name lists in English and Norse speaking countries over the last few years, few still know the myths that surround the goddess.

But first, who is Freyja? No, really. People nowadays, due to the popularity of the name, think she was the most powerful female in the Norse cosmos and I have even heard that some think she was Oðin’s wife‽ No. While Freyja was certainly a major goddess, she was not born an Æsir, like Oðin or Thor, but rather a Vanir and was later incorporated into the former as part of a peace treaty. She was also the twin sister of Freyr, god of stewardship, and daughter of Njörðr, god of seafaring. She was associated with seiðr, the Norse version of magic, and spent her time as a priestess for the Æsir.

Freyja was also associated with beauty and was considered the most beautiful woman across all Norse Realms. It should come to no surprise that, even though she had a family, she was desired by several mortals that wanted to make her theirs. And the day her husband, Óðr, mysteriously disappeared, leaving her to cry golden tears, things only got worse…

In the time of the Scandinavian gods, many could transform themselves. People believed that the animals and monsters they saw in their dreams were their loved ones who had departed from life. But even in everyday life, you could never be sure who the enormous bear staring at you might be, or the seal you were wrestling with, or that unbelievably annoying fly that kept biting you while you were working in the forge.

Transformation is, after all, a kind of deception. So it was no surprise that Loki had perfected this art. And sometimes he used it for the benefit of the Æsir. Perhaps that is why some gods—and especially Thor—enjoyed the company of this trickster.

In the battle between the Æsir and the Vanir, the stone wall that surrounded Asgard collapsed. The gods wanted to rebuild it, but the work was very hard and no one volunteered to do it. No one—until the builder arrived. He appeared alone, riding a beautiful horse, and the god Heimdall, who guarded the entrance to that world, stopped him.

-“What do you want?”

“I have a proposal for the gods,” said the builder.

So the gods and goddesses gathered in the palace of Gladsheim, and Odin said:

-“Well?”

-“I will rebuild your wall,” said the builder. “Stronger and taller. No one will be able to pass it.” And he paused.

Odin understood the meaning of that pause. “On the condition…?”

-“…that Freya will become my wife.”

Freya felt a wave of rage take hold of her. The wife of a human? Never! She was so furious that her palace, Sessrúmnir, shook. Wild cries were heard everywhere.

Odin pointed his finger at the builder. “Leave at once.”

-“I also want the Sun and the Moon,” said the builder. “These three: Freya, the Sun, and the Moon. That is enough.”

Pandemonium followed.

But a strong voice rose above the others. “Wait a moment.” It was Loki. “Let’s at least think about it.”

So the builder left, and the gods remained to discuss the matter. Freya wept golden tears. The other gods cursed Loki.

-“It’s impossible to build such a wall in eighteen months,” said Heimdall.

-“That’s exactly what I’m betting on,” said Loki. “Let’s agree to his terms. When eighteen months pass, he won’t have managed to do what he promised. We won’t owe him anything. And we’ll keep the part of the wall he has completed by then. We’ll definitely come out ahead.”

No one liked the idea, but they could find nothing wrong with Loki’s reasoning.

Odin called the builder again.

“Six months. That is your deadline. Build the wall in six months and you will receive Freya, the Sun, and the Moon.”

-“The time is very short,” said the builder.

-“These are the terms. If it is not finished in six months, you will receive nothing.”

The builder looked at Freya, enchanted by her beauty. After thinking for a moment, he said, “Allow me to have the help of my horse, Svaðilfari, and we have an agreement.”

Odin objected. But once again, Loki’s voice was heard.

- “Shall we cancel the agreement now? The horse may offer a little help, and we need a wall.”

So the gods agreed, and the builder began his work.

He spread out a net and piled enormous boulders on top of it. Then the builder tied this massive load to his horse and shouted loudly. The horse lunged forward, and its hooves echoed on the rocky ground. It proved even stronger than its master. The two of them worked all night. As the days, weeks, and months passed, the gods watched the wall rise. It was bigger, taller, better than ever before. And it was almost finished.

The builder and his horse were terrifying. What would the Æsir do if the builder succeeded? How would they live without the light and warmth of the Sun, without the magic of the Moon? And poor Freya—would she marry a boorish stranger? She stood in the middle of a pool of golden tears that kept growing and pounding. Everything was so dreadful!Odin called a council. Everyone blamed Loki. But Loki had the solution. He would make sure the builder would not finish his work—by any means necessary. It was clear to Loki that the horse was the key to the riddle. Without it, the builder could carry only one stone at a time up the hill.

That night, as the builder was leading Svaðilfari back to the quarry, a mare emerged from a grove of trees. Her neck was long and graceful, her mane seemed to ripple like waves, and her tail fell like a shower of falling stars. She kicked powerfully into the air with her hind legs. Her hooves gleamed.The builder’s horse went mad. It bolted at a gallop, its reins trailing behind, chasing the mare. The builder shouted for his horse, screaming until his throat closed. Svaðilfari did not even glance back.

In the morning, when the reins returned alone, the builder realized that one lost night of work had cost him the completion of the wall. He exploded with rage until he burst and the builder took on his true form. He was a gigantic stone giant. The gods and goddesses were furious. No one could appear before them transformed and hope to escape, especially not a giant.It was outrageous! Thor struck the giant on the head with his hammer, Mjölnir. The giant’s skull shattered and he was sent straight to Niflheim.

A few months later, Loki who had been absent all that time returned to Asgard. With him was a foal with eight legs. Loki had been that mare who enchanted Svaðilfari, and together they had produced the magnificent foal, Sleipnir.Odin was delighted as soon as he saw the foal. After all, what would Loki do with it? He was a terrible father, and certainly had no desire to be a mother. So Loki gave Sleipnir to Odin.

They say the gods were beautiful in the Scandinavian cosmos.

Among the most beautiful was Thor’s wife, Sif, with her golden hair, which Loki had cut off, and which she now wore as an even more beautiful golden wig. But Freyja, the sorceress, was far more beautiful than Sif. She had become part of the Æsir as a gift of peace after their war with the Vanir. At first her position was difficult and lonely. But fate brought it so that Freyja fell in love with Óðr, and together they had two daughters, Hnoss and Gersemi. Freyja’s new life seemed to be going well.

Yet Óðr liked to wander. One day he abandoned Freyja. Her embrace was left empty. She suffered greatly. She could not understand why he left or where he had gone. So she wrapped herself in her cloak of falcon feathers and went out to search for him. But where was he? Where? Her tears fell like rain, transforming the rocks into small pools with a golden-red color wherever they fell.Freyja’s life would have been endless grief if not for her beautiful daughters. Just by looking at them, she calmed down. Soon she realized that she wanted nothing more than to gaze upon beautiful things. She especially loved gold. Freyja had a chariot drawn by two cats, while at other times she rode on the back of her wild boar, Hildisvíni, or flew with her falcon-feathered cloak, always searching for beautiful objects to soothe her pain, which never completely left her.

One night, shortly before dawn, Freyja put on her most beautiful dress. But she did not summon her chariot, nor her boar, nor did she fly with her feathered cloak. She left her palace, Sessrúmnir, and crossed the bridge Bifröst. Loki happened to be wandering nearby. As soon as the goddess passed in front of him, he sprang to his feet. Where could she be going at such an hour? Dressed so beautifully? On foot? He suspected it might be a good opportunity to cause trouble, and he followed her.

Winter covered Midgard with snow and ice. Freyja’s tears had frozen and fell with a metallic sound, coloring the gravel beneath her feet golden-red. Daylight did not last long, but she managed to reach a region of tall cliffs. There, following a narrow path, she arrived at a damp cave. She stood still and listened. Water was dripping from the cave’s ceiling. And yes—there it was. That sound. Clank, clank.

The blows of a hammer upon an anvil, somewhere far away. That sound magnetized her and pulled her into the depths of the earth.The air grew hot and so stifling that the goddess became soaked with sweat. Before her stood four dwarves—Alfrigg, Dvalin, Berlingr, and Grerr—who were forging a golden necklace. When Freyja looked at it, the metal spun and struck like her heart. It was calling to her. And she needed it.The four dwarves stood speechless before the magnificent goddess. She was beautiful like a vision; her beauty surpassed even their wildest dreams.

-“Sell me that necklace,” Freyja said, smiling, her teeth lighting up the dark workshop. “Tell me your price.”

-“It is called Brísingamen,” said one of the dwarves. “And it is not for sale.”

You see, the dwarves, like Loki, recognized an opportunity when it presented itself. They remained cold and indifferent, and bargained: they would give Freyja the necklace if she slept with each of them for one night. Their bargain was vile. But Freyja no longer had a husband, and Brísingamen could comfort her. With half a heart, she agreed.

Loki waited outside the cave all that time. Finally, four days later, Freyja emerged wearing the necklace Brísingamen. Loki immediately understood what had happened during those four nights. Without wasting time, he went to Odin and told him everything.Odin knew that Loki was a miserable liar, but his words tempted him. The thought that those disgusting dwarves might have enjoyed her drove him mad with jealousy. He demanded that Loki bring him that dazzling necklace.

Loki went to where Freyja slept in Sessrumnir and found the door locked. He was not discouraged, however. He transformed himself into a fly and began searching for a hole to enter. But the door was double-locked, and the keyhole was so narrow that only air could pass through. Finally, he found a tiny crack under the roof. Thus he slipped into the room.

Freyja was sleeping on her back, and the clasp of the necklace was beneath her neck, where she could not reach it.

Loki transformed again, this time into a flea. He bit her cheek. The goddess twitched and turned onto her side. Loki resumed his normal form and unclasped the necklace. He left through the door without worrying about being recognized. There was no longer any need to hide.

When Freyja awoke, her hand went to her neck. The magnificent golden necklace, which had cost her so dearly, was nowhere to be found. This was surely Loki’s work. Who else could have done it? And to have such audacity, he must have had Odin’s protection.

Freyja went immediately to Valaskjalf and found Odin sitting on his high throne.

“Where is my necklace?”

“You will never see it again…” said Odin, “…unless you do exactly as I tell you.”

Odin proposed that she provoke a war between two kings of men, in Midgard. And every time a soldier died, Freyja would have to use her magic to bring him back to life so that he could continue fighting. Odin’s command was very harsh. Such is the way it is when someone has been poisoned by jealousy.

Freyja felt shame wash over her—so much shame that she wanted the earth to open and swallow her. All this because of her beauty. Beauty was Freyja’s curse. Her beauty made men desire her. Her love for beautiful objects gave them the power to fulfill their desire.

A tragedy! But even a powerful goddess was helpless before such a strong enemy.

She stretched out her hand to take the necklace.

Freyja took the necklace, and Odin’s punishment began. In Midgard, two kings were driven into endless war. Each time a warrior fell, Freyja was forced to use her magic to bring him back to life so the fighting could continue.

The war dragged on for years, filling the world with suffering. At last, Odin’s jealousy faded, and he ended the conflict. Peace returned to Midgard, and the dead were allowed to rest.

Loki brought back the necklace, and Odin returned it to Freyja. She placed it around her neck, but its beauty no longer brought her joy. It reminded her of the price of jealousy and the sorrow even the gods can cause.

SWITZERLAND

Switzerland is one of the most beautiful and well-organized tourist destinations in Europe. It is famous for its breathtaking landscapes, the Alps, crystal-clear lakes, and clean, modern cities.

Natural attractions
• The Swiss Alps offer amazing opportunities for skiing in winter and hiking in summer. Popular destinations include Zermatt, with the iconic Matterhorn, and St. Moritz.
•Beautiful lakes such as Lake Geneva, Lake Zurich, and Lake Lucerne are ideal for boat trips and relaxing walks.

Cities
Zurich: the largest city, known for its museums, shopping areas, and vibrant cultural life.
Geneva: an international city and home to many global organizations, located by a scenic lake.
Bern: the capital city, famous for its well-preserved old town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Lucerne: a picturesque city with historic bridges and stunning mountain views.

Culture & cuisine
•Switzerland has four official languages: German, French, Italian, and Romansh.
•The country is well known for its chocolate, cheese (such as Gruyère and Emmental), and traditional dishes like fondue and raclette.

Transportation
•Switzerland has one of the best railway systems in the world, offering panoramic train routes with spectacular views.

Best time to visit
•Winter: ideal for skiing and winter sports.
•Spring – Summer: perfect for hiking, lake activities, and exploring cities.

NORWAY

Norway is a stunning tourist destination in Northern Europe, famous for its dramatic natural landscapes, fjords, mountains, and rich Viking history.
Natural attractions
•The Norwegian fjords, such as Geirangerfjord and Nærøyfjord (UNESCO World Heritage Sites), are among the most spectacular in the world.
•Norway offers amazing opportunities for hiking, skiing, and wildlife watching.
•The Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) can be seen in northern Norway during winter, while the Midnight Sun lights up the sky in summer.

Cities
•Oslo: the capital city, known for its modern architecture, museums, and waterfront.
•Bergen: a charming city surrounded by mountains and fjords, famous for its colorful harbor (Bryggen).
•Trondheim: a historic city with Viking roots and an impressive cathedral.
•Tromsø: a popular destination for seeing the Northern Lights.

Culture & cuisine
•Norway has a strong connection to nature and Viking heritage.
•Traditional foods include salmon, cod, meatballs, and brown cheese (brunost).
•Outdoor activities and sustainability are important parts of Norwegian culture.

Transportation
•Norway has scenic train routes, ferries, and well-organized public transport.
•Famous journeys like the Flåm Railway offer breathtaking views of mountains and waterfalls.

Best time to visit
•Winter: ideal for skiing and Northern Lights experiences.
•Summer: perfect for hiking, fjord cruises, and enjoying the Midnight Sun.

CANADA

Canada is a vast and diverse tourist destination, known for its beautiful nature, modern cities, and rich multicultural society.

Natural attractions
•Canada offers stunning landscapes, including the Rocky Mountains, Niagara Falls, vast forests, and thousands of lakes.
•National parks such as Banff and Jasper are famous for their mountains, glaciers, and wildlife.
•Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, canoeing, and wildlife watching.

Cities
Toronto: the largest city, known for its skyline, shopping, and the nearby Niagara Falls.

Vancouver: a coastal city surrounded by mountains, famous for its mild climate and outdoor lifestyle.

Montreal: a cultural city with a strong European influence, known for its festivals and historic old town.

Ottawa: the capital city, home to important museums and government buildings.

Culture & cuisine
Canada is a multicultural country with English and French as its official languages.

Popular foods include maple syrup, poutine, and salmon.

Indigenous cultures play an important role in Canada’s history and identity.

Transportation

Canada has modern transportation systems, including airports, highways, and public transit in major cities.

Scenic routes, such as the Rocky Mountaineer train, offer unforgettable travel experiences.

Best time to visit

Winter: great for skiing and winter sports.
Spring – Summer: ideal for sightseeing, festivals, and outdoor activities.

AUSTRALIA

Australia is a unique and exciting tourist destination, famous for its natural wonders, beautiful beaches, and diverse wildlife.

Natural attractions
The Great Barrier Reef, the world’s largest coral reef system, is ideal for snorkeling and diving.
Australia has stunning landscapes such as the Outback, Uluru (Ayers Rock), rainforests, and long sandy beaches.
Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities like surfing, hiking, diving, and wildlife watching.

Cities

Sydney: known for the Sydney Opera House, Harbour Bridge, and beautiful beaches.

Melbourne: a cultural city famous for art, cafés, and sports.

Brisbane: a modern city with a warm climate and relaxed lifestyle.

Perth: a coastal city known for its sunshine and beaches.

Culture & cuisine

Australia is a multicultural country with influences from many cultures around the world.

Traditional foods include barbecue (BBQ), meat pies, and seafood.

Indigenous Aboriginal culture is an important part of Australia’s heritage.

Transportation

Australia has modern airports, highways, and public transport systems in major cities.

Due to long distances, air travel is common between cities.

Best time to visit

Spring and autumn: ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Summer: perfect for beach holidays (December–February).

PARIS

Paris is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, famous for its history, culture, art, and iconic landmarks.

Main attractions

The Eiffel Tower is the symbol of Paris and offers amazing views of the city.

The Louvre Museum is one of the largest and most famous museums in the world.

Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Arc de Triomphe, and Champs-Élysées are must-see landmarks.

The Seine River is perfect for boat cruises and evening walks.

City life

Paris is the capital of France and a major cultural and fashion center.

Each neighborhood (arrondissement) has its own character, with cafés, shops, and historic streets.

The city is known for its romantic atmosphere and lively street life.

Culture & cuisine

Paris is famous for its art, fashion, and literature.

Traditional French foods include croissants, baguettes, cheese, and pastries.

Cafés and restaurants are an important part of daily life in Paris.

Transportation

Paris has an excellent public transport system, including the Metro, buses, and trains.

Walking is also a great way to explore the city.

Best time to visit

Spring and autumn: ideal weather and fewer crowds.

Summer: popular for festivals and outdoor activities.

TOKYO

Tokyo is a vibrant and modern city, famous for its mix of traditional culture, technology, and unique neighborhoods.

Main attractions

Tokyo Tower and Tokyo Skytree offer amazing views of the city.

Shibuya Crossing is one of the busiest and most famous intersections in the world.

Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa is a historic Buddhist temple and popular tourist spot.

Akihabara is known for electronics, anime, and gaming culture.

City life

Tokyo is the capital of Japan and a global center for technology, fashion, and culture.

Each district has its own character, from traditional areas to modern shopping and entertainment hubs.

The city combines busy urban life with peaceful gardens, parks, and temples.

Culture & cuisine

Tokyo offers a mix of traditional Japanese culture and modern pop culture.

Famous foods include sushi, ramen, tempura, and street food snacks.

Festivals, tea ceremonies, and art exhibitions showcase Japanese culture.
Transportation

Tokyo has one of the best public transport systems in the world, including trains, subways, and buses.

The Shinkansen (bullet train) connects Tokyo to other major cities in Japan.

Best time to visit

Spring (March–May): for cherry blossoms (sakura).

Autumn (September–November): for colorful fall leaves.

Summer: popular for festivals and fireworks.

BRAZIL

Brazil is a large and diverse country in South America, famous for its natural beauty, vibrant culture, and lively cities.

Natural attractions

Amazon Rainforest is the largest tropical rainforest in the world, rich in wildlife and rivers.

Iguaçu Falls is one of the largest and most impressive waterfalls on Earth.

Beautiful beaches, such as Copacabana and Ipanema in Rio de Janeiro, attract tourists from around the world.

The Pantanal is a famous region for wildlife watching.

Cities

Rio de Janeiro: known for the Christ the Redeemer statue, Sugarloaf Mountain, and Carnival festival.

São Paulo: Brazil’s largest city, famous for culture, museums, and shopping.

Brasília: the capital city, known for its modern architecture and planned design.

Salvador: a historic city with strong African cultural influence, music, and colorful streets.

Culture & cuisine

Brazil is famous for music and dance, especially samba and bossa nova.

Popular foods include feijoada (bean and meat stew), churrasco (barbecue), and tropical fruits.

Festivals, especially Carnival, are major attractions for tourists.

Transportation

Brazil has airports, highways, and buses connecting major cities.

River travel is common in the Amazon region.

Best time to visit

Summer (December–March): ideal for beaches and Carnival.

Winter (June–August): good for exploring cities and inland areas with milder weather.

EGYPT

Egypt is a country in North Africa, famous for its ancient history, monuments, and the Nile River.

Main attractions

Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx are world-famous ancient monuments.

Luxor and Karnak Temples showcase Egypt’s pharaonic history.

Abu Simbel temples are impressive sites built by Pharaoh Ramses II.

The Nile River offers cruises with views of historical sites.

Cities

Cairo: the capital city, with museums, bazaars, and historic mosques.

Alexandria: a coastal city on the Mediterranean with historic sites and libraries.

Aswan: famous for its Nile views, temples, and peaceful atmosphere.

Hurghada & Sharm El-Sheikh: popular Red Sea resorts for diving and beaches.

Culture & cuisine

Egypt has a rich history of pharaohs, hieroglyphics, and ancient civilizations.

Popular foods include koshari, ful medames, falafel, and fresh seafood.

Traditional music, dances, and festivals reflect the country’s heritage.

Transportation

Egypt has airports, trains, buses, and river boats along the Nile.

Domestic flights are common for traveling between major cities.

Best time to visit

Autumn and spring: ideal weather for sightseeing and exploring historical sites.

Winter: cooler temperatures, good for desert tours and outdoor activities.

ITALY

Italy is a famous European country known for its history, art, delicious food, and beautiful landscapes.

Main attractions

Rome: the capital city, home to the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Vatican City.

Venice: known for its canals, gondolas, and historic architecture.

Florence: the heart of the Renaissance, with museums, art, and the Duomo.

Amalfi Coast and Cinque Terre: famous for stunning coastal scenery.

Cities

Milan: Italy’s fashion and design capital, with the famous Duomo di Milano.

Naples: gateway to Pompeii and known for authentic pizza.

Turin: historic city with museums, palaces, and chocolate traditions.

Siena & Bologna: rich in medieval history, art, and local cuisine.

Culture & cuisine

Italy is famous for art, architecture, music, and fashion.

Popular foods include pizza, pasta, gelato, espresso, and regional specialties.

Festivals, opera, and traditional crafts reflect Italy’s cultural richness.

Transportation

Italy has trains, buses, airports, and metro systems connecting major cities.

High-speed trains like Frecciarossa make travel between cities fast and convenient.

Best time to visit

Spring and autumn: best weather for sightseeing and avoiding large crowds.

Summer: perfect for coastal holidays, beaches, and festivals.

CHINA

China is a vast and diverse country in East Asia, famous for its history, culture, and natural landscapes.

Main attractions

Great Wall of China: one of the most famous landmarks in the world.

Forbidden City in Beijing: historic imperial palace with beautiful architecture.

Terracotta Army in Xi’an: thousands of life-sized statues guarding the tomb of Emperor Qin.

Guilin & Zhangjiajie: famous for stunning mountains, rivers, and natural scenery.

Cities

Beijing: the capital, known for history, palaces, and modern attractions.

Shanghai: a modern city with skyscrapers, shopping, and the Bund waterfront.

Xi’an: historic city famous for the Terracotta Army and city walls.

Chengdu: home to giant pandas and Sichuan cuisine.

Culture & cuisine

China has a rich history of dynasties, philosophy, and traditional arts.

Famous foods include dumplings, noodles, Peking duck, and hot pot.

Festivals like Chinese New Year and the Mid-Autumn Festival are widely celebrated.

Transportation

China has modern airports, high-speed trains, and extensive metro systems.

The high-speed railway network makes travel between cities fast and convenient.

Best time to visit

Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November): ideal weather for sightseeing.

Summer can be hot, and winter can be cold, depending on the region.

Across
2.
- This Scandinavian country is known for its fjords, Vikings, and northern lights.
3.
- A large North American country known for its maple syrup, hockey, and beautiful landscapes.

5.
- This city is known as the «City of Love» and is famous for its iconic Eiffel Tower.
6.
- The capital city of Japan, known for its blend of traditional and modern architecture.
9.
- This popular European country is famous for its pasta, pizza, and rich history.
10.
- This vast country is home to the longest wall in the world

Down
1.
- This landlocked country in Europe is known for its chocolate, watches, and neutrality.
4.
A country known for its outback deserts, Great Barrier Reef, and unique wildlife like kangaroos.

7.
- Known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant culture, this country is famous for Carnival.
8.
- Known for its ancient pyramids

KEY

Travel is a word that is associated with well-known capitals, famous coastlines, and landmarks sealed up across social media and guidebooks. While these destinations can be notable, they show only one version of the world. Behind them there is another side of popular routes that haven’t been explored, where landscapes are wilder, cultures feel more familiar, and discovery seems more personal again.

         Auvergne, France

This type of travel is not about trying to sidestep celebrated destinations, but about getting off course. For example, instead of staying only in Paris, travelers might be  headed south to the ragged landscapes of France’s Auvergne region, where hiking trails and quiet villages substitute mobs. Beyond Barcelona’s busy streets, the Priorat region  provides primitive towns, terraced vineries and an adequate and slower daily basis. These places share the same national identity as their famous neighbors, yet feel worlds apart.

Apennine Mountains, Italy

There are places that people don’t usually think about. But these show nature at its most powerful. The Dolomites are the most beautiful mountain range in Italy. On the other hand, the Apennine Mountains, extend the country on its length and are home to a lot of wildlife, incredible scenery, and hiking trails that attract lots of visitors. In the United States, crowds of travelers visit Yosemite or Yellowstone, while spots like the badlands of South Dakota or the North Cascades in Washington keep staying spectacular.  Here, landscapes are more independent and less managed, letting travelers to savor nature on its own terms, without limits.

 Japanese Mountain

As you see beyond the ordinary, Travel will enrich your connections to culture. Obviously Tokyo and Kyoto are the most frequently visited cities, but areas of Japan that are primarily agricultural, such as the Noto Peninsula or the mountains in Shikoku would also be excellent places to see many of the traditional ways that were developed through isolation and community dependency. Medieval Festivals, family-run traditional hotels, and foods that cannot be found in all the larger cities (and which do not look like they were made for tourists) will give travelers an opportunity to experience how people live in these places.

 Priorat Vineyards

The trend toward traveling to various destinations comes with certain responsible behaviors. Lesser known destinations are usually less protected and require respectful behavior and interactions. The slower we travel, the more opportunity these areas have to profit from visitors, as opposed to having their cultural identity changed by those who visit them. Thoughtfully exploring provides an opportunity for local communities to tell their story without having it taken from them.

   North Cascades

Looking at the unknown, we often discover unexpected differences between. It is common for Norway to associate the dramatic fjord in Geiranger as one of the main attractions, however, the north coast is home to equally stunning, yet less populated coastlines around Helgeland and places like quiet fishing hamlets, a true sense of local community and less of a tourist overload. Similarly, in Morocco, a visit to Marrakech evokes strong emotions of chaos and disorganization; however, the mountainous and desert oases found throughout the Anti-Atlas Mountains provide visitors with a much more peaceful perspective of Morocco. As such, many experiences whilst travelling here are very much about individual experience, rather than the busy hustle and bustle typically associated with tourism.

Anti Atlas Morocco Mountain

At long last, travelling is not only about visiting far-away places, but also hidden gems that are located next to us. Travellers should consider to go off the beaten track and discover less obvious places. In spite of everything, where people choose to travel to, is surely to help them get to know the world from multiple prespectives, since they are to encounter many unique places .

North Peninsula Japan

Sources:

• https://www.freepik.com/search?format=search&last_filter=query&last_value=Apennine+Mountains%2C+Italy+&query=Apennine+Mountains%2C+Italy+
• https://www.tripspi.com/blog/the-beautiful-landscape-of-japan-60ewipugMR
• https://www.freepik.com/search?format=search&last_filter=query&last_value=Auvergne%2C+France++Volcanoes+%26+Rolling+Landscapes&query=Auvergne%2C+France+—

The word «hunger» is simple, but it means a lot to many people. Everyone knows what hunger feels like. It is that empty, hurting feeling in your stomach when you haven’t eaten in a while. When someone is hungry, they feel tired, weak, and sometimes even sad. Hunger is a sign that our body needs food to give us energy and help us stay strong. It’s a natural feeling that everyone experiences at some point in life, but for many, hunger is a daily reality.

Hunger is a big problem for millions of people around the world. Many people do not have enough food to eat every day. Some live in poor countries, where food is hard to find or too expensive. Others live in big cities and still cannot afford enough healthy food. These people often go many hours or even days without eating. Hunger can make people sick because their bodies do not get the vitamins and nutrients they need to stay healthy. For children, hunger can be especially hard. It can cause them to grow slowly, get sick easily, and miss out on learning and playing. Hunger is not just an empty stomach; It affects lives and futures.

 Fortunately, many caring organizations are working hard to help those who are hungry. They give food to families who need it most. Some groups teach farmers how to grow more food and share their knowledge with others. Others send food from different countries to help during emergencies like war or natural disasters. Governments also try to create programs that make sure everyone has enough to eat. These efforts are very important because no one should have to suffer from hunger alone. When we see others in need, we can choose to help or support these good causes.

But hunger is more than just missing a meal. It takes away hope for a better life. When people are hungry, they may not be able to go to school or work well. Children might stay home because they are too weak or tired. Families may stop dreaming of a brighter future because hunger makes everything harder. When we help fight hunger, we are not just giving food — we are giving people a chance to grow, learn, and hope again. We all have a part to play, whether by sharing what we have or supporting those who are working to end hunger.

In the end, hunger is a word that hides a big problem. It shows us how many people live in poverty and face hardship every day. But it also reminds us that we can make a difference. If we care about others and work together, we can help end hunger. Everyone deserves enough to eat, a safe place to live, and the hope for a better future. Hunger may be a common word, but its solution is in our hands. Together, we can create a world where no one has to suffer from hunger.

Sports play a very important role in our lives, especially for young people. They are not only a way to stay physically active, but also a powerful tool for personal growth and social development. Through sports, people learn valuable lessons that help them both inside and outside the playing field.

First of all, sports help us maintain good physical health. Regular exercise strengthens our muscles, improves our stamina, and keeps our body fit. In a world where many teenagers spend hours in front of screens, sports encourage a healthier lifestyle and reduce stress. Physical activity also helps improve mental health by making people feel happier and more confident.

In addition, sports teach important life skills. Team sports, such as football or basketball, help players learn cooperation, communication, and respect for others. Athletes also learn discipline, patience, and how to deal with success and failure. Losing a game teaches us how to accept mistakes and try harder next time, which is an important lesson for life.

Furthermore, sports bring people together. They create friendships and a sense of belonging, whether at school, in a local club, or even between countries during international competitions. Sports can unite people from different backgrounds and cultures, promoting understanding and fair play.

In conclusion, sports are much more than just a hobby. They improve our physical and mental health, teach us valuable life lessons, and help build strong relationships. For these reasons, sports should be an important part of everyone’s life.

The axolotl (“water monster”), also known as the Mexican walking fish, is a salamander with special properties. Despite its name, the axolotl is not a fish but an amphibian that comes from lakes near Mexico City. Unlike most amphibians, the axolotl does not undergo metamorphosis when it reaches adulthood, retaining its larval form throughout its life, allowing it to stay young forever, a phenomenon known as neoteny.

However, it is not this salamander’s “eternal youth” that has attracted the interest of scientists. The axolotl is the only vertebrate that has the ability to regenerate its limbs, parts of its heart, its spine, and even its brain – all withoutpermanent scarring. It has also shown an “immunity” to cancer. These properties are being researched continuously, in the hope that we will one day be able to acquire them too, revolutionizing the medical field as we know it today…

Axolotl
Scientific name:	Ambystoma mexicanum
Lifespan:	10-15 years
Colour:	In nature, olive brown with dark spots, but black, pink, white, yellow and red varieties have been bred.
Size:	Approximately 23 centimeters
Diet:	Earthworms, water worms, snails, small shrimp and crayfish, insects such as crickets, cockroaches, etc.

https://sitn.hms.harvard.edu/flash/2018/regeneration-axolotl-can-teach-us-regrowing-human-limbs/

https://el.wikipedia.org/wiki/%CE%91%CE%BE%CE%BF%CE%BB%CF%8C%CF%84%CE%BB

https://www.nationalgeographic.com/animals/amphibians/facts/axolotl

https://anatomypubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/dvdy.340

https://www.huffingtonpost.gr/entry/axolotl-to-thalassio-teras-poe-perpataei-kai-anayennate-apo-tis-stachtes-toe_gr_5dc93599e4b0fcfb7f697753

https://www.ertnews.gr/eidiseis/epistimi/ta-axolotl-mporoyn-na-anagennisoyn-ton-egkefalo-toys/