July 22, 2025, 3:37 pm EDT
Russia: A Powerhouse of Natural Resources
Russia, the world's largest country, is a veritable treasure trove of natural resources. Even the vast and often desolate Siberia region is teeming with a wealth of minerals, energy sources, and more. This abundance has significantly shaped the nation's economic landscape and global standing.more
South Korea has long been one of the major countries sending children abroad for adoption. Official data shows that since 1955, nearly 170,000 infants have been adopted from South Korea, with 65% of them heading to the United States. The investigation into potential human rights issues in this process was launched in 2022, triggered by a petition from 367 South Korean adoptees from 11 countries, including the United States. They alleged that they had been wrongly registered as orphans for the purpose of adoption.more
Hamburg Unveils Floating Venue Plan for Potential 2036+ Olympic Bid, 15 Years After First Attempt
Hamburg has revealed an ambitious proposal for a Summer Olympics and Paralympics bid—15 years after its last attempt—featuring a floating venue on the iconic Binnenalster lake in the city center. The plan aims to redefine urban Olympic experiences, drawing inspiration from Paris 2024’s stadium-breaking innovations.more
With the 2026 Milano Cortina Winter Olympics approaching, full schedules for Winter Sports World Cups and qualifying events are now available. The newly updated Sports Observer calendar includes 699 exclusive events for 2025 and 2026, plus select major competitions through 2034, serving as a key resource for athletes and fans.more
In Thailand, Wearing Underwear Outside Is a Must
In Thailand, a country known for its vibrant culture and beautiful landscapes, there's an unusual yet strictly enforced law that might catch travelers off guard: leaving your residence without wearing underwear is illegal. This regulation, which may seem quirky to outsiders, is taken seriously by the local authorities.more
Portugal: The Unrivaled "Cork Kingdom" of the World
Portugal has long held the prestigious title of the "Cork Kingdom," a testament to its dominant position in the global cork industry. As the world's largest producer and exporter of cork, the country's significance in this sector is unparalleled, deeply rooted in its extensive cultivation and rich expertise.more
France's Manufacturing Sector: Past, Present and Future
France's manufacturing sector, once the powerhouse of its postwar economic recovery, has undergone significant changes. Currently, it stands as the world's 8th largest and contributes around 10% to the country's GDP, employing about one - fourth of the workforce.more
Perched atop a rocky outcrop in the natural pass between France’s Vosges and Jura Mountains, the Citadelle de Belfort stands as a testament to five centuries of military history. Revered as the "Gateway to France," this fortress is not only one of Europe’s best-preserved 17th-century defensive structures but also a paragon of strategic engineering that continues to awe visitors and scholars alike.more