Japan

Baobabs: The world’s fattest trees

Baobabs: The world's fattest trees

Can a tree really be described as fat? I’m not sure. Big boned, perhaps, if we’re talking about the trunk and branches. Anyway, it’s not uncommon for trees to get a bit chunky around the middle but baobabs may be the fattest of all. These amazing trees are fire resistant, grow a super-fruit and can store up to 120,000 litres of water. They also look really, really silly.

Aokigahara: Japan’s suicide forest

Aokigahara: Japan's suicide forest

It’s said that going for a quick walk outside can lift even the most stubborn feelings of depression. A few minutes taking in the fresh air, the birdsong and the sound of the wind blowing through the trees can cheer you up and put a spring in your step. This is all assuming, however, that you’re not going for a walk in Japan’s Aokigahara forest. Because, chances are, a walk in Aokigahara will end in the taking of your own life.

8 amazing facts you might not know about bananas

8 amazing facts you might not know about bananas

To us here in Britain, a banana is just a fruit with a slippery skin; a tasty snack wrapped in a practical joke. In other countries, however, they take it much more seriously – it may be a funny looking fruit with a funny sounding name, but millions of people rely on the banana just to stay alive.

Bizarre public toilets from around the world

Bizarre public toilets from around the world

In the USA, public toilets are called “restrooms”. I can only assume that this is an example of the famous American use of irony, because there’s nothing restful about them. A visit to a public convenience is a frightening experience full of nauseous confusion and, given the option, most people would avoid them altogether. Often though, this isn’t an option. Fortunately, designers from around the world have been working hard to make our inevitable toilet visits just a little bit more exciting…

5 intriguing desserts you won’t get at home

5 intriguing desserts you won't get at home

We all love a good old dessert to tantalise our taste buds, don’t we? Well, I know I do and if you’re anything like me, old fashioned favourites like ice cream and black forest gateaux hit the spot. But, will these bizarre sweet numbers tempt you too?

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