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Music Brain

The Hidden Power of Music – The Science Behind Every Note

Research shows that listening or playing music activates multiple brain regions linked to movement, memory, emotion and language.

When you listen to music, your brain shows increased activity across the auditory cortex and limbic system, which are linked to sound processing and emotional regulation. Playing music engages more of your brain, creating and strengthening neural pathways.

Regular music practice can increase:

  • Neural connectivity between brain regions;
  • Gray matter density in areas related to memory and coordination;
  • White matter integrity, improving communications between brain hemispheres.

 

Children

Children who learn instrument develop stronger language, focus, improved attention control and memory skills. Music training also strengthens the corpus callosum, improving communication between brain hemispheres.

Adults

Adult who engage with music can preserve cognitive function, slow memory decline, boost mood, and improve attention. Music acts as cognitive training, strengthening key neural pathways for long-term brain health.

Recovery and Therapy

Music therapy helps stroke, Parkinson’s and brain injury patients recover. Rhythm and melody activate alternative neural pathways, supporting speech and harnessing the brain’s neuroplasticity.

Everyday Life

You don’t need to be a processional musician to benefit. Even singing, tapping rhythms, or learning a few chords can encourage new neural growth. The key factor is active engagement – participating in music rather then only hearing it in the background.

 

December 23, 2025

Artist  ·  Stories
The Beginnings of Chillout Music

From Ibiza’s golden sunsets to London’s underground clubs – these places shaped the sound that still helps the world slow down, breathe, and feel.

Here are the most important pioneers:

1. Café del Mar (Ibiza, 1980)

  • The very first and most iconic chillout venue in the world.
  • Opened in 1980 on San Antonio’s sunset strip.
  • DJs like José Padilla began mixing ambient, downtempo, and Balearic sounds during sunsets, defining the chillout genre.

2. Café Mambo (Ibiza, early 1990s)

  • Continued the tradition of sunset chillout sessions.
  • Helped spread the Ibiza “sunset sound” globally.

3. The Sound Factory Bar (New York, early 1990s)

  • While mostly house-oriented, it had ambient and lounge rooms that inspired chillout DJs worldwide.

4. Heaven (late 1970s – 1980s)

  • One of London’s first major clubs to host ambient rooms, often curated by Brian Eno’s followers and experimental DJs.
  • Eno himself, who coined the term “ambient music,” lived in London — his influence spread through art and club scenes.

LONDON, ENGLAND – JULY 10: Musician Brian Eno poses for a portrait in London, on July 7, 1980. (Photo by Anton Corbijn/Contour by Getty Images)

5. The Chill Out Room at Heaven (by The KLF, late 1980s)

  • The KLF (Bill Drummond & Jimmy Cauty) created an actual “Chill Out Room” at Heaven in the late ’80s, where ambient soundscapes and visuals were used to relax dancers after the main floor.
  • This became one of the first official “chillout rooms” in the world.

6. The Ministry of Sound (early 1990s)

  • Famous for house, but had ambient and lounge rooms inspired by Ibiza’s Café del Mar vibe.
  • Resident DJs mixed chillout between peak-time sets.

7. Megadog / Whirl-Y-Gig / The Orb Events

  • The Orb, London-based pioneers of ambient house, often performed in clubs with immersive visuals and downtempo beats.
  • These events helped define the London chillout movement of the early ’90s.

THE CHILLOUT CULTURE STILL LIVES – AND ITS SPIRIT IS EVERYWHERE 🌴

November 21, 2025

Burning Man
Music  ·  Stories
The Birth of Burning Man: From 1986

From a small beach bonfire with 20 friends to a massive desert city of over 70,000, Burning Man has become the ultimate celebration of art, community, and radical self-expression.

1986 — The Beginning (Baker Beach, San Francisco)

Larry Harvey and Jerry James built an 8-foot wooden man and burned it on June 22, 1986, surrounded by about 20 friends.
It was spontaneous — no plan, no permits — just art, fire, and community.
People on the beach joined in, played music, and celebrated freedom of expression.

Burning Man, building of the effigie

1987–1989 — Growing on the Beach

Each summer, the event grew.
By 1989, the wooden Man was 40 feet tall, and hundreds of people gathered.
But after that year, authorities banned burning large structures on the beach — it had simply become too big.

1990 — The Move to Black Rock Desert (Nevada)

A group of artists and adventurers from the Cacophony Society invited Larry to bring the burn to the Black Rock Desert, a vast dry lakebed in Nevada.
That year, about 80 people went — no rules, no roads, just art, dust, and total freedom.
This was the birth of the desert version of Burning Man.

1990s — The Birth of Black Rock City

The desert became a blank canvas for creativity.
Artists started building large installations, theme camps, and mutant vehicles.
The event developed its core principles: radical self-expression, self-reliance, community, and leave no trace.
By 1998, it drew 15,000 people.

2000s — From Gathering to Temporary City

Burning Man became a fully functioning city, designed in a circular layout called Black Rock City.
It had roads, camps, services, and even its own “Department of Public Works.”
Population soared to 35,000+ by mid-2000s.
Art cars, sound camps, and giant interactive sculptures defined the experience.

2010s — Today — Global Movement

Now, over 70,000 people attend annually.
The Man still burns each year, but the spirit spread worldwide — with regional “Burns” on every continent.
Burning Man became less of a festival and more of a cultural experiment in creativity, sustainability, and human connection.

Burning Man Today – Fun Facts

  • Population: Over 70,000 people gather each year – a fully functional temporary city rises in the desert.
  • Art Everywhere: There are hundreds of massive art installations, some you can walk through, climb, or even ride! Many are interactive.
  • Mutant Vehicles: Cars aren’t just cars here — people decorate them as dragons, giant animals, or even mobile art galleries.
  • Theme Camps: Participants create mini-communities, offering workshops, music, performances, and gifts.
  • The Man: Still burned every year in a huge ceremony – symbolizing creativity, letting go, and transformation.
  • 10 Principles: The culture revolves around principles like radical self-expression, gifting, participation, and leave no trace.
  • Global Influence: Burning Man inspired regional Burns worldwide — from Europe to Asia, Africa, and South America.
November 10, 2025

Sky Lantern Festival 2025
News  ·  Stories
Chiang Mai CAD Khomloy Sky Lantern Festival 2025

When dreams rise to meet the stars

Every November, the skies of northern Thailand come alive with light and hope. In 2025, the Chiang Mai CAD Khomloy Sky Lantern Festival once again transforms the night into a breathtaking sea of glowing wishes.

Held on November 5–6, 2025, at the CAD Cultural Center Lanna in Mae On District, about 30 km east of Chiang Mai, the festival is part of Thailand’s ancient Yi Peng and Loy Krathong traditions — celebrations of light, renewal, and gratitude.

Over 15,000 people gather beneath the stars, each releasing a paper lantern (khom loy) into the sky, carrying personal wishes for love, peace, and good fortune. Guests also float krathongs (decorative baskets) on nearby waters, letting go of worries and welcoming new beginnings.

Beyond the lantern release, visitors enjoy Lanna-style music, traditional dance, and hill-tribe performances, along with authentic Thai cuisine and eco-friendly lanterns made from biodegradable materials.

For two magical nights, the sky over Chiang Mai becomes a living artwork — a reflection of unity, peace, and dreams taking flight.

May every wish rise high and illuminate our world with hope.

November 4, 2025

Music  ·  Stories
8 Most Ethical Music Festivals in Europe

Celebrating music while prioritizing ethical values, these eight music festivals in Europe offer a unique party experience with a purpose. Going beyond profit, these festivals embrace sustainability, social responsibility, and conscious practices. From supporting local communities to promoting eco-friendly initiatives, they are committed to making a positive impact to the World.

With diverse musical lineups, immersive experiences, and a shared ethos, these ethical festivals create a vibrant atmosphere where attendees can dance, connect, and contribute to a greater cause. Join these celebrations of music and ethical values, where partying becomes a catalyst for positive change.


MEDICINE FESTIVAL, UK

In contrast to the sky-high ticket prices, corporate branding, and focus on big-name acts that have become synonymous with music festivals, a shift is taking place. As a recent UK study highlights the impact of the cost of living crisis on people’s attendance at live music events, it’s clear that commercial festivals may have lost some of their appeal.

However, amidst this backdrop, there is good news. Europe is home to a range of eclectic and affordable festivals that prioritize a different approach. These festivals consciously place profit in the backseat, embracing a more diverse and inclusive experience for attendees.

By fostering a vibrant atmosphere and curating unique lineups, these festivals provide an alternative space for music lovers to gather and celebrate without breaking the bank. It’s a refreshing departure from the commercial norm, offering a glimpse into a more accessible and authentic music festival experience.

Pete the Monkey, Normandy, France

Nestled in the beautiful Seine-Maritime region of northern France, Saint-Aubin-sur-Mer hosts a captivating three-day festival known as Pete the Monkey, situated just a stone’s throw away from the beach.

Referred to as a “secret little paradise” by Le Monde newspaper, this festival is a lively fusion of French and English culture, with sustainability taking center stage. Embracing an eco-conscious approach, Pete the Monkey ensures that food trucks exclusively offer locally sourced produce, effectively supporting the region’s agriculture. With a commitment to minimizing environmental impact, the festival proudly eliminates the use of plastic on-site, offering a more sustainable experience. Notably, even the DJ stage operates on solar panels, showcasing the integration of renewable energy sources.

Pete the Monkey festival stands as a shining example of harmonizing music, culture, and environmental responsibility, providing attendees with a vibrant and socially conscious experience amidst the breathtaking surroundings of Saint-Aubin-sur-Mer.

Pete the Monkey festival has a history of impressive lineups, featuring artists like Loyle Carner and Folamour. In 2023, the stage will showcase the talents of Orchestra Baobab, Flavien Berger, Acid Arab, and more. What sets this festival apart is its mission to support the Jacj Cuisi monkey sanctuary in Bolivia. The funds raised contribute to saving animals affected by deforestation and illegal trafficking. Inspired by a viral video capturing monkeys being used as pets and forced to wash dishes, festival founder Louis Dumas and his brother Rob decided to establish a fundraising event for the sanctuary. From its humble beginnings in 2012 as a 350-person party, Pete the Monkey has grown into one of France’s most esteemed green festivals.

Mark your calendars for July 13-15, and secure your three-day ticket priced at €177.50. Join the celebration of music, conservation, and community at petethemonkeyfestival.

Sun, Hungary

The Sun (Solar United Natives) festival takes place in Csobankapuszta, a “Garden of Eden” in northern Hungary.

At Sun, the core essence revolves around fostering profound human connections. Attendees gather to rebuild, release their burdens, seek forgiveness, and embrace letting go. The festival’s grounds feature cows and sheep, offering a natural and harmonious ambiance. Engaging in tree-planting sessions and participating in healing groups further enhance the transformative atmosphere.

Born a decade ago from the vibrant Hungarian Goa scene, known for its psychedelic trance parties, Sun festival continues to embody that vibrant spirit. This year’s lineup includes Sabretooth, Gagarin Project, Triceradrops, and more, ensuring a mesmerizing auditory journey.

To attend Sun, a unique approach awaits as traditional ticketing is eschewed. Instead, becoming a “member” of the community is required. The entire event is organized by the NGO Deep Smile Foundation, without any corporate backing or investors. The festival’s profits are reinvested into developing a sustainable community within the region, underscoring its commitment to long-term positive impact.

Save the dates for July 10-17, and secure your spot with an annual membership priced at €115 or a lifetime membership at €200. Join the Sun festival, where connection, transformation, and sustainability intertwine in a truly extraordinary experience.

Pol’and’Rock, Poland Festival

Known as the Woodstock of Poland, Pol’and’Rock is among the top free music festivals in the world “driven by ideals rather than money”.

Set in Czaplinek, northwest Poland, the Poland Rock Festival draws an immense crowd, with 750,000 attendees in 2019. While rooted in heavy metal, the festival’s lineup features a diverse range of genres, including indie, hip-hop, rock, and reggae. This year, headliners such as Apollo 440 and Bullet for My Valentine (BFMV) will take the stage, accompanied by a plethora of creative workshops and enlightening lectures.

Organized by the Great Orchestra of Christmas Charity, the festival serves as a gesture of gratitude to its volunteers. Each year, the funds raised are dedicated to a different branch of medicine in Poland. Previously, the festival supported pediatric and elderly care, as well as raised funds for specific conditions like sepsis. Inclusive by design, the festival welcomes patients alongside other attendees, ensuring safe spaces are created to accommodate their needs.

Fot. Piotr Zagiell/East News. 29.07.2021, Ploty – Lotnisko Makowice. Pol’and’Rock Festival.

Mark your calendars for August 3-5, and immerse yourself in this remarkable event. Best of all, entry is free, inviting music enthusiasts from near and far to partake in the celebration. Join the Poland Rock Festival, where music, gratitude, and philanthropy converge in a truly unforgettable experience.

 

Ypsigrock, Sicily, Italy

Situated on the enchanting north coast of Sicily, between the majestic Madonie Mountains and the sparkling sea, lies the medieval town of Castelbuono. Surprisingly, this charming town plays host to Italy’s premier indie-rock festival, defying expectations with its vibrant music scene.

Ypsigrock, a renowned music festival, has witnessed captivating performances by acclaimed acts like alt-J and Primal Scream. This year’s lineup boasts the melodic allure of “emotional rock” artist Ekkstacy, the unique blend of jazz and electronica from the Comet is Coming, and the captivating sounds of Mercury prize-winning group Young Fathers.

Celebrating its 26th year, the festival was established by the nonprofit organization Associazione Culturale Glenn Gould. Dedicated to promoting cultural initiatives that enhance and enrich the region, the association also collaborates with Fondazione Con il Sud to facilitate social inclusion programs. One of their primary goals is to make events in southern Italy more accessible, ensuring active participation for individuals with disabilities.

From August 10-13, immerse yourself in the Ypsigrock experience with a three-day pass priced at €125.89. Join this remarkable festival, where music and social impact converge, in the picturesque setting of ypsigrock.

JazzPiknik, Hungary

The founding idea was a relationship between good wines, charming atmosphere and good music, as the owners of a popular local winery, the masterminds being Szabolcs Homola and Orsolya Valde. They thought up, and still do, a quality event near Lake Balaton offering an alternative to mass festivals. Besides the best Hungarian and international performers, it is an important aspect to provide quality gastronomy, offer local products, and pay attention to sustainability. No more than a stone’s throw from Balaton on the wine hill of Paloznak, guests can expect to find a real picnic festivity.

The small village of 500, becomes the Balaton capital of jazz, funk and soul for those three days: the big concerts are held at the main stage next to the village with guest resting on blankets during the day and dancing on the grass under the stars at night. The smaller stages are among the authentic century old village houses, and they give place to exciting jazz performances.

The festival grows continuously based on the needs of the audience, and although it attracts every year more and more people, we don’t want to lose our familiar atmosphere. Our maximum capacity is not based on square meter/person, we leave space to have that picnic feeling. We offer free entrance under the age of 14, and we know that the families wouldn’t be complete without their dogs, so audience can bring them our festival too.

Our selection of music entertains wide age group of people, from little ones to elderly music lovers. In one of the most beautiful corners of the Balaton Highlands, we strive to make this festival environmentally friendly to the greatest possible extent. We avoid using plastic as much as we can, and only offer compostable cups and plates made of plant fibers. We introduced awareness raising children programs to draw our future adults attention to the environment.

Amsterdam Dance Event (Ade), Holland

Every October, electronic music enthusiasts gather in Holland for the renowned Amsterdam Dance Event (ADE). While the festival comes with a higher price tag of €525, it is a must-attend for hardcore fans who value the immersive experience it offers.

ADE Festival, EDMHouseNetwork

Spanning five days, ADE hosts an astonishing array of approximately 1,000 events across 200 locations throughout the city. From intimate basement-club nights and marathon 12-hour parties to grand stadium shows, enlightening lectures, and engaging workshops, this festival serves as a hub where industry enthusiasts and EDM aficionados come together.

ADE Festival, IQ Magazine

In the previous year, the opening night featured a captivating live performance by Kyle Dixon & Michael Stein, the composers of the acclaimed Stranger Things soundtrack. This year’s lineup includes a mesmerizing solo show by DJ Martin Garrix and exhilarating sets by techno-house experts such as Bárbara Lago and Fatima Hajji, among many others.

ADE is organized by the Amsterdam Dance Event Foundation, a not-for-profit organization dedicated to nurturing electronic music, its culture, and the industry on a global scale. Their mission is to establish a solid foundation for future generations by supporting emerging talent and fostering the growth of electronic music.

Untold, Romania

Nestled in the captivating city of Cluj-Napoca, located in north-western Romania, Untold stands proudly as the country’s largest electronic music festival. Boasting a remarkable lineup that spans across six stages, both indoor and outdoor, this event gathers some of the most talented artists in contemporary techno.

Untold is renowned for its diverse musical offerings, catering to a wide range of tastes. From trap, progressive house, and psy, to euphoric hardstyle, afro house, and ambient, there’s something for everyone. In the upcoming 2023 edition, prepare to be enthralled by performances from acclaimed artists like Imagine Dragons, Alesso, and Bedouin, among many others.

A fascinating fun fact from the festival’s history: In 2018, Armin van Buuren delivered an extraordinary seven-hour set on the main stage, leaving a lasting impression on attendees.

The inception of Untold can be attributed to Share Federation Cluj-Napoca, a nonprofit government organization, which took shape after the city of Cluj-Napoca was designated as the European Youth Capital in 2015. The federation’s core mission revolves around supporting youth organizations through inclusive urban development projects, while promoting the sharing of culture and common European values.

Mark your calendars for August 3-6 and grab your day tickets starting from €89. Immerse yourself in the magic of Untold, where electrifying music, vibrant energy, and a celebration of European youth culture come together to create an unforgettable experience.

 

 

October 10, 2025

Music  ·  News
The End of Fake Streams – Spotify Tightens Its Detection Systems

Spotify invests heavily in detecting fake streams. The platform removes artificial plays created by bots or paid-boosting services, since they distort royalties and harm real artists.

In 2025, Spotify strengthened its AI-fraud detection systems and removed over 75 million fake or spammy tracks. When artificial streams are detected, they’re excluded from royalties, charts, and recommendations, and tracks may even be delisted.

A new class-action lawsuit this year again highlights the growing problem of bot-generated streams and Spotify’s continued push for fair, transparent streaming for all artists.

June 26, 2025

News  ·  Stories
Hidden Gems – Typical Spanish Coffee Bars & Tapas in Ibiza 2024

While Ibiza is renowned for its vibrant clubbing and dance music scene, it also boasts a thriving coffeeshop culture. In fact, the island has an abundance of bustling cafés that not only serve delicious food ranging from healthy options to hearty fry-ups but also offer exceptional coffee, often locally roasted.

Whether you’re seeking a café in your holiday resort or yearn for a more authentic and local experience, it’s valuable to know where to go to satisfy your daily caffeine cravings. To save you the trouble, we’ve conducted thorough research and curated a list of the finest cafés in Ibiza, ensuring you can enjoy the perfect cup of joe while exploring this lively island.

WELCOME TO THE GIRI CAFÉ
Born from our passion for food, design and all things beautiful, we invite you to experience The Giri Café. A perfect location, nestled within the walls of a 300 year old townhouse and opening out onto a dreamy, sun-drenched garden; it’s hard to imagine a more idyllic spot to enjoy the finer things in life.

Nestled in the charming village of San Juan, The Giri Café is a culinary gem dedicated to serving fresh, wholesome, and delectable dishes crafted from seasonal produce, often sourced from their own garden. Although affiliated with the popular hotel, The Giri Residence, this café operates as a separate establishment just a short stroll away from the hotel grounds. While a few cozy tables grace the street-facing front, the heart of the café lies in its tranquil back garden adorned with sunflowers and vegetable patches, providing a laid-back ambiance.

Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, The Giri Café offers not only exceptional locally roasted coffee but also an extensive range of fresh juices, smoothies, and an impressive selection of alcoholic beverages. The inviting daybeds in the garden are also perfect for indulging in a refreshing pre-dinner sunset drink

WELCOME TO Can Tixedò – Art Café

Nestled amidst the picturesque Ibizan countryside, away from the bustling tourist hotspots yet just a short ten-minute drive from San Antonio, lies Can Tixedò Art Café—a beloved destination for locals and those seeking an authentic experience. This unique establishment not only serves exceptional tapas, coffee, and cocktails but also doubles as an art gallery, showcasing ever-changing exhibitions that ignite the senses.

Cantixedo, Ibiza

With frequent live music performances, the café pulsates with creative energy. The tapas menu surprises and delights, featuring a diverse range of innovative and intriguing dishes that go beyond the usual fare. What’s more, Can Tixedò Art Café remains open throughout the year (closing only on Mondays during quieter months), providing a welcoming haven for visitors seeking a dose of art, delectable cuisine, and a vibrant atmosphere in the heart of Ibiza’s countryside.

WELCOME TO PASSION MARINA

Passion, a culinary haven, welcomes patrons from 9 am to midnight, offering a delectable menu throughout the day, with a special emphasis on serving an outstanding breakfast. While the focus leans towards raw, vegetarian, and vegan fare, fear not if you can’t resist the allure of bacon during brunch—meat and fish dishes are also available.

The extensive and health-conscious menu boasts an impressive array of smoothies, juices, and, of course, locally roasted coffee that will tantalize your taste buds. This relaxed café is part of a small chain, with this particular branch situated right on Ibiza Marina. Its popularity is undeniable, as you will often encounter familiar faces who frequent this beloved spot day after day.

WELCOME TO The Royalty Bar & Cafeteria

Since its establishment in the 1930s as a hotel, The Royalty Bar & Cafeteria has stood proudly in the main square of Santa Eulalia, embodying a rich history.

During the Spanish Civil War, the bar attracted Royalists, while its counterpart across the street was frequented by Republicans. Today, this iconic establishment continues to charm both tourists and locals in the know. It offers a delightful setting to sit outdoors, savor a cup of coffee, and observe the world pass by.

If you’re in the mood for something stronger than coffee or have moved past breakfast, The Royalty Bar & Cafeteria offers an excellent selection of tapas, a respectable wine list, and an extensive dessert menu highlighted by their exquisite cheesecake. Particularly noteworthy is its availability throughout the year, making it a valuable spot to keep in mind for winter visits to the area.

WELCOME TO Cappucino Grand Café

Nestled in a prime waterfront location, boasting breathtaking views, Cappuccino is a stylish café belonging to the esteemed Balearic chain. Whether you seek a morning coffee and breakfast or a satisfying meal later in the day, this establishment offers the perfect setting. If you’re an early riser, certain times of the year present the opportunity to bask in the terrace’s embrace while witnessing the magical sunrise alongside your caffeine fix.

As expected, their coffee is crafted to perfection, but it doesn’t end there—Cappuccino’s breakfast, lunch, and dinner dishes are all of exceptional quality. While not the most budget-friendly option, the venue compensates with fantastic service, an unbeatable ambiance, and, most importantly, delectable coffee and food that never fail to impress.

 

March 25, 2024

Stories
10 Most Inspiring Places to Visit In Europe

These are the most inspiring places to visit according to our selection. Places with breathtaking views, a special energy, and surroundings.

What is your favorite one? Have you visited some of these amazing places? What is your experience?

10. Sveti Stefan – Montenegro

Sveti Stefan is a small islet and 5-star hotel resort on the Adriatic coast of Montenegro, approximately 6 kilometres (3.7 mi) southeast of Budva.

By Oleg Gratilo / Unsplash

 

Travel Around The World

09. Santorini Island – Greece

Santorini officially Thira and classic Greek Thera is an island in the southern Aegean Sea, about 200 km (120 mi) southeast from the Greek mainland. It is the largest island of a small, circular archipelago, which bears the same name and is the remnant of a caldera. It forms the southernmost member of the Cyclades group of islands, with an area of approximately 73 km2 .

by James Ting / Unsplash

The island was the site of one of the largest volcanic eruptions in recorded history: the Minoan eruption (sometimes called the Thera eruption), which occurred about 3,600 years ago at the height of the Minoan civilization.[4] The eruption left a large caldera surrounded by volcanic ash deposits hundreds of metres deep. It may have led indirectly to the collapse of the Minoan civilization on the island of Crete, 110 km (68 mi) to the south, through a gigantic tsunami. Another popular theory holds that the Thera eruption is the source of the legend of Atlantis.[5]

BY Kartik Singhal / Unsplash

 

By Philip Jahn / Unsplash

By Xuan Nguyen / Unsplash

By Florian Wehde / Unsplash

08. Burano-Veneto 🇮🇹 Italy

Burano is 7 kilometres (4 miles) from Venice, a 45-minute trip from St. Mark’s Square by vaporetto, a Venetian water bus.

The island is linked to Mazzorbo by a bridge.[2] The current population of Burano is about 2,400. Originally, there were five islands and a fourth canal that was filled to become via e piazza Baldassare Galuppi, joining the former islands of San Martino Destra and San Martino Sinistra.

BY Jack Ward / Unsplash

Prima / Burano, Venice: 12 reasons to visit the Italian island

By La So / Unsplash

Kanoa UK

Burano Houses_Italy

@peter.rajkai | IG

07. BLED – Slovenia

Lake Bled (Slovene: Blejsko jezero; German: Bleder See, Veldeser See) is a lake in the Julian Alps of the Upper Carniolan region of northwestern Slovenia, where it adjoins the town of Bled. The area is a tourist destination. The lake is 35 km (22 mi) from Ljubljana International Airport and 55 km (34 mi) from the capital city, Ljubljana.

By Dimitry Anikin / Unsplash

The lake is of mixed glacial and tectonic origin. It is 2,120 m (6,960 ft) long and 1,380 m (4,530 ft) wide, with a maximum depth of 29.5 m (97 ft), and it has a small island. The lake lies in a picturesque environment, surrounded by mountains and forests. Medieval Bled Castle stands above the lake on the north shore and has a museum.[1] The Zaka Valley lies at the west end of the lake.

The World Rowing Championships in 1966, 1979, 1989, and 2011 were held at Lake Bled.

By George Bakos / Unsplash

For centuries, Europeans have flocked to the shores of Lake Bled to enjoy recreation, but also the medicinal benefits. Emperor Henry II, ruler of the Holy Roman Empire enjoyed the lake so much, but he also built Bled Castle in 1004 to confer it as an estate. Today the castle is a popular tourist attraction.

By Neven Krcmarek / Unsplash

@krenn_imre | IG

06. Dolomites – Italy

The Dolomites (Italian: Dolomiti) also known as the Dolomite Mountains, Dolomite Alps or Dolomitic Alps, are a mountain range located in northeastern Italy. They form part of the Southern Limestone Alps and extend from the River Adige in the west to the Piave Valley (Pieve di Cadore) in the east. The northern and southern borders are defined by the Puster Valley and the Sugana Valley (Italian: Valsugana). The Dolomites are located in the regions of Veneto, Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol and Friuli Venezia Giulia,[2] covering an area shared between the provinces of Belluno, Vicenza, Verona, Trentino, South Tyrol, Udine and Pordenone.

By Joshua Earle / Unsplash

The Dolomiti Bellunesi National Park and many other regional parks are located in the Dolomites. In August 2009, the Dolomites were declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Dolomiti di Brenta, Molveno, Trentino, Italy

By Banana Banana / Unsplash

By Michiel Ronde / Unsplash

05. Hallstatt – Austria

Hallstatt is a small town in the district of Gmunden, in the Austrian state of Upper Austria. Situated between the southwestern shore of Hallstätter See and the steep slopes of the Dachstein massif, the town lies in the Salzkammergut region, on the national road linking Salzburg and Graz.

Hallstatt is known for its production of salt, dating back to prehistoric times, and gave its name to the Hallstatt culture, the archaeological culture linked to Proto-Celtic and early Celtic people of the Early Iron Age in Europe, c. 800–450 BC.

By Ivan Rohovchenko / Unsplash

Hallstatt is at the core of the Hallstatt-Dachstein/Salzkammergut Cultural Landscape declared as one of the World Heritage Sites in Austria by UNESCO in 1997. It is an area of overtourism.

By Filippo Cesarini / Unsplash

04. Neuschwanstein castle / Disney Castle – Germany

Neuschwanstein Castle (German: Schloss Neuschwanstein, pronounced [ˈʃlɔs nɔʏˈʃvaːnʃtaɪn], Southern Bavarian: Schloss Neischwanstoa) is a 19th-century historicist palace on a rugged hill above the village of Hohenschwangau near Füssen in southwest Bavaria, Germany. The palace was commissioned by King Ludwig II of Bavaria as a retreat and in honour of Richard Wagner. Ludwig chose to pay for the palace out of his personal fortune and by means of extensive borrowing, rather than Bavarian public funds. Construction began in 1869, but was never fully completed.

By Felix / Unsplash

Also called “Sleeping Beauty Castle” – a fairy tale castle at the center of Disneyland and formerly at Hong Kong Disneyland. It is based on the late-19th century Neuschwanstein Castle in Bavaria, Germany.[1] It appeared in the Walt Disney Pictures title card from 1985 to 2006 before being merged with Cinderella Castle, both iconic symbols of The Walt Disney Company. The version at Disneyland is the only Disney castle whose construction was overseen by Walt Disney.

By Massimiliano Morosinotto / Unsplash

By Lanju Fotografije / Unsplash

03. Étretat – France

Located in Normandy region of Northwestern France, Étretat is best known for its chalk cliffs, including three natural arches and a pointed formation called L’Aiguille or the Needle, which rises 70 metres (230 ft) above the sea.[2] The Etretat Chalk Complex, as it is known, consists of a complex stratigraphy of Turonian and Coniacian chalks.[3] Some of the cliffs are as high as 90 metres (300 ft).[2]

By Allyson Beaucourt / Unsplash

These cliffs and the associated resort beach attracted artists including Eugène Boudin, Charles Daubigny, Gustave Courbet and Claude Monet.[2] They were featured prominently in the 1909 Arsène Lupin novel The Hollow Needle by Maurice Leblanc. They also feature in the 2014 film Lucy, directed by Luc Besson.

By Allyson Beaucourt / Unsplash

Two of the three famous arches are visible from the town, the Porte d’Aval, and the Porte d’Amont. The Manneporte is the third and the biggest one, and cannot be seen from the town.

By Cristan Riberti / Unsplash

By Gautier Salles / Unsplash

By Saya Wonder / Unsplash

02. Baikal Lake

Lake Baikal is an ancient, massive lake in the mountainous Russian region of Siberia, north of the Mongolian border. Considered the deepest lake in the world, it’s circled by a network of hiking paths called the Great Baikal Trail.

By Anton Petrus | Credit: Getty Images

Aldo 77% of Russia’s area is in Asia, the western 23% of the country is located in Europe. European Russia occupies almost 40% of the total area of Europe, so we decided to include Ancient Lake Baikal in our selection.

By Sergey Pesterev / Unsplash

By Irina Shishkina / Unsplash

Lake Baikal Photography

BY Sergey Pesterev / Unsplash

Lake Baikal

By Vadim Artyukhin / Unsplash

Lake Baikal

By Sergey Pesterev / Unsplash

01. Norway

Nordic country in Northern Europe, the mainland territory of which comprises the western and northernmost portion of the Scandinavian Peninsula. The remote Arctic island of Jan Mayen and the archipelago of Svalbard also form part of Norway.

Mystical lands of magnificent views, high fjords, magical aura Borealis skies, and unforgettable scenic nature.

~Lofoten islands~

Lofoten islands, Norway | By Johny Goerend/Unsplash

Lofoten islands, Norway | By Johny Goerend/Unsplash

Lofoten islands, Norway | By Johannes Groll/Unsplash

~Lofoten Islands, Svolvær, Norway~

Lofoten Islands, Svolvær, Norway | By John O Nolan/Unsplash

Lofoten Islands, Svolvær, Norway | By Valdemaras/Unsplash

Lofoten Islands, Svolvær, Norway | Unsplash

~Lofoten, Norway~

Lofoten, Norway | By Robert Bye/Unsplash

Lofoten, Norway | By Manuel Meurisse/Unsplash

Lofoten, Norway

Lofoten, Norway | By MIllie Olsen/Unsplash

~Aurland, Norway~

Aurland, Norway, Norwegian fjiord – near the Stegastein viewing platform, 650 metres above Aurlandsfjord, half day from Flam | By Robert Bye/Unsplash

Aurland, Norway | by Tony Harding/Unsplash

~Preikestolen, Norway, Forsand~

Preikestolen, Norway, Forsand | Ivars Utinans/Unsplash

Preikestolen, Norway, Forsand | By Valdemaras/Unsplash

Preikestolen, Norway, Forsand | By Karoline Vargdal/Unsplash

February 21, 2024

Stories
Did You Know the World-Famous Easter Island Heads Have Bodies Buried Underground?

If you’re familiar with Easter Island, you’ve undoubtedly heard of the famous Easter Island heads.

While these massive monoliths are among the world’s most famous sculptures, their household name is actually a misnomer, as each figure, or moai, also has a hidden body.

By Thomas Griggs/Unsplash

Rapa Nui, or Easter Island, is a remote volcanic island located in Oceania’s Polynesian Triangle. The isle is particularly famous for its collection of nearly 1,000 stone statues. Crafted by the Rapa Nui people between 1250 and 1500, these monumental sculptures have been shrouded in mystery for centuries. However, recently, researchers have revealed new information about the iconic Easter Island heads, including the surprising fact that they are actually full-length figures.

Thomas Griggs / Unsplash

Why have these sculptures come to be known as to as “Easter Island heads” then?

Among the statues that stand on the remote island, around 150 of them have been buried by shifting soils and sediment, creating the illusion that each sculpture stops at the neck. Perched on the side of a picturesque volcano, these statues are the most photographed—and, consequently, the most famous—on the island, leading many people to believe that all moai are merely heads.

Bryan Busovicki/Shutterstock

By Bryan Busovicki / Shutterstock

However, as uncovered by a team of archaeologists at UCLA, these sculptures are much more than busts. As a part of the Easter Island Statue Project, the team excavated two moai and discovered that each one had a body, proving, as the team excitedly explained in a letter, “that the ‘heads’ on the slope here are, in fact, full but incomplete statues.”

Did you know that the Easter Island heads have bodies?

The Easter Island Statue Project

Due to shifting soils, the bodies of many of the sculptures have been buried underground, giving the illusion that they are only heads.

However, as exhibited by the many moai who have not been buried, the island’s sculptures are actually full-length figures!

Archaeological Institute of America

Source: mymodernmet.com

January 13, 2024

News  ·  Stories
MARGA SOL for Index / Interview

Marga Sol was recently interviewed by the BIGGEST Digital Magazine “INDEX” in Hungary by posting this interview on the front/home page. Take a look and read about Marga Sol’s beginnings, her opinion on Female Djs, Dj Work, Music producers and creating Music itself…

Before the interview, you said that you had visited Hungary several times, but you are playing live for the first time in Hungary. When do you perform?

I first visited Hungary two years ago, when I met the Balatonica team. I really choose who I work with, and the guys ’enthusiasm, their love for chillout-style music, their future plans, the structure of Balatonica Chillout & Uplifting Radio, and their personality were immediately captured: incredibly positive and energetic. We became friends, and thanks to that, I will perform on the Fröccsterasz in Budapest on August 7, and 4th of September on Balaton Part Festival this Summer.

You toured half of the world with your music. How does someone become a successful DJ?

I always loved to party, I danced in the front row at all parties. The first DJ I met in Skopje, my hometown, was Roger Sanchez. It’s been almost twenty years ago. I was completely enchanted by the way he played music, the way he communicated with the audience. I was still studying journalism at the time, and worked as a graphic desginer. From my saved money, I bought my first dj equipment and it was one of the happiest moments of my life. I started playing music at home and a friend of mine, a DJ recommended me to different places, so that’s how I started. I enjoyed what I was doing. If you are unique, passionate and persistent, after a while, people and managers will also start to notice it. At first I only played in my country, later I got to the neighboring countries, Albania, Greece (Mykonos, Santorini, Khalitea), then came Romania, Spain (Ibiza), Mexico, Dominican Republic and Caribbean islands.. So I also started to work with famous publishers as well, like Sony Music, Universal, EMI, Housesession, George V (Buddha Bar editions), Aluminium Records Ibiza, Kontor Music, Ministry Of Sound and many more.

Does personality matter?

Very. People are most attached to your person/ality first, then qualities. It’s important to be unique, as there is a difference between professional DJs and regular Disc Jockeys. What a disc jockey does can be done by almost anyone: he sorts the music and plays the selections. If you are unique DJ, Performer, Artist, you also have your own style, special flow in your sets, a special way of putting the music together and presenting to the audience, this is the basis of a success.

You don’t talk to people while playing music. How do you still find common ground with your audience?

The common language is music. Before I start playing music, I get to know the venue, I try to absorb the local air, the atmosphere, the energy, trying to catch the frequency we are tuned in. While playing music, I pay attention to people’s reactions and mood: if they want to jump, I play uplifting music, if they enjoy the current tune, I continue what I’m doing. It’s a way of a musical conversation.

The music industry is still seen mainly as a male field. How are female DJs judged?

Many people think it is easier to be a DJ as a woman, others believe just the opposite. People have in mind that a woman is responsible for housekeeping and motherhood 80% of her life/time. I am a mother myself, and in fact, without the support of the family, I would have a very difficult time doing my job. Everything is in the balance and of course, if you’re not afraid to show yourself, fighting for your dreams, and you’re confident, the audience will accept it too. It was hard at first because people didn’t believe I can do it, or that I am really mixing the music. But with my persistence, I actually leave from Music only today! I must emphasize, many females are working nowadays like DJs by making a living from their looks, naked bodies, with pre-made lists and DJ mixes, but they soon burn out. Because only real ones always stay on the world scene.

Are there any misconceptions about DJs in people?

They used to look down on those who “just” mixed music. Nowadays – in the world of modern equipment and so many so-called Djs – it is important for a professional DJ to have knowledge and background in music production, presenting himself as a musician/artist as well, except as Dj Performer.

Did you learn to play music?

I got a synthesizer at the age of five, that’s when my love for music began. I had private music lessons as a teenager. The classes were paid for by my grandfather – he saw the talent in me early on. My family had little money, the montly income was needed for daily living, so I didn’t go on for extra hours either. As an adult, I finished Music production school because I had to learn how to make music. Back then, there was no Youtube, no online courses available like there are today, only the opportunity to buy books (I have many) from eBay or Amazon for music Production, or to have luck and meet someone that can teach you anything connected with music recording and music production.

What do you like best about the music making process?

I always have a starting idea in my head, it usually depends on my current mood and emotional state. First I play the piano a bit, I play some melodies I listen in my head, themes, then I get completely lost in the music composition continuing with the arrangement. I am usually not aware of myself while I create a song. I am aware I finished something at the very end.  I sometimes create music all night long, that I don’t even need to sleep anymore the following day. I am completely liberated and calmed down as my feelings come to the surface during the process. I love the whole process, but the only thing better than that is being able to enjoy my work with the audience, their response, and acceptance of my work!

Are you improvising or working along with rules while playing Music?

If I followed a single structure, I would lose momentum. I improvise on every performance, I never arrive with a ready-made playlist. I bring a lot of music to the event, I have to feel the mood of the audience to adjust the sound to them. On the beach or places like Cafe del Mar, Buddha Bar, along with the wonderful sunsets and relaxing mood, I usually play more chilled or uplifting deep, organic house music, but in nightclubs or festivals, I prefer fast-paced songs and energizing music, such as Funky House, Deep-Tech House and Melodic Techno, places where the energy is on a higher level and the adrenaline drives the musical story.

It’s a recurring question for musicians, but how do you come up with a sound that no one else has before?

I don’t have role models, but as a child Enigma, Jean-Michel Jarre, Mike Oldfield, Vangelis, Café del Mar and Buddha Bar artists and Jazz Music, in general, inspired me, but at the same time, I stick to my own world of sounds. It’s hard to create something that hasn’t happened before, but I feel like we musicians have some superior force whispering to our melodies. If we put our soul in it, it must be unique. The music is born in me by itself, I just have to play it/create it. I don’t know the trick because I believe there is no recipe for it. As a musician, the more unique our character is, the more special music we make. I believe that’s how people connect with me, they unconsciously feel my direct, real nature and life story behind my music.

Professionally, what has been your biggest success so far?

Founding of my own record label, M-Sol Records. I worked with big publishers in the past, but my dream was to build my own Label from scratch. We work with more than 1000 artsits today: I am very happy with the end result. I am free to decide, design, create my own projects, and I am happy to represent other performers as well. It’s like having your own child and you give your best to grow it with a success. M-Sol Records is only eight years old, but fortunately is developing rapidly. Another dream is to stand behind a movie soundtrack. I’ve worked on commercials and documentaries before, but presenting the emotions musically on movies is my next goal.

(Source: Index)

January 12, 2024

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