Week in wildlife: a fish dinner and Galápagos wonders
One of five a day … a giant tortoise snacks at Galápagos national park Photograph: Anadolu/Getty Images
Sooty terns fill the skies as they return to Johnston Island, a tiny outcropping in the Pacific west of Hawaii. The atoll is a wildlife refuge and an important breeding ground for many birds, but it was used extensively by the US air force in the 20th century – as an airbase and a test site for nuclear and biological weapons, and storage for chemical weapons Photograph: Eric Baker/US Fish and Wildlife Service/Reuters
A one-horned rhino and calf in Chitwan national park, Nepal Photograph: Yunish Gurung/NurPhoto/Rex/Shutterstock
A school of fish in Kicker Rock Islet near San Cristóbal island, Galápagos, Ecuador Photograph: Anadolu/Getty Images
Ready for takeoff … an osprey makes a nest near the vehicle assembly building at the Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral, Florida, US Photograph: Gregg Newton/AFP/Getty Images
A sea urchin collects food at Asi bay on the Turkish coast, near Rhodes Photograph: Anadolu/Getty Images
Two great hammerhead sharks swim in Kicker Rock Islet near San Cristóbal island, Galápagos, Ecuador Photograph: Anadolu/Getty Images
Fluff at first sight … great egret chicks snuggle up in their nest at Wakodahatchee wetlands in Delray Beach, Florida, US Photograph: Ronen Tivony/Zuma Press Wire/Rex/Shutterstock
A starfish clings to a rock on San Cristóbal island, Galápagos, Ecuador Photograph: Anadolu/Getty Images
A rescued macaw is released back into the wild after rehabilitation at an ecological reserve in Brasilia, Brazil, while its fellows wait their turn Photograph: Ueslei Marcelino/Reuters
Black-bellied whistling ducks – also known as Mexican squealers – strike a pose at Green Cay wetlands in Delray Beach, Florida, US Photograph: Ronen Tivony/Zuma Press Wire/Rex/Shutterstock
A flock of atherina cut out daylight underwater at Asi bay, Turkey. Fossil-hunters have found evidence that there were atherina swimming in our oceans more than 11m years ago Photograph: Anadolu/Getty Images
An ancient parasitic wasp preserved in amber, found in Myanmar. Its back end resembles a Venus flytrap plant Photograph: Qiong Wu/AP
A thornback ray glides in Los Túneles, Galápagos, Ecuador Photograph: Anadolu/Getty Images
Migrating frogs anticipate the breeding season as they make their way to a reservoir in eastern Slovakia Photograph: Anadolu/Getty Images
A dead humpback whale washed up at Følle Strand, Denmark Photograph: Mikkel Berg Pedersen/EPA
A shy brown booby chick peeks out from between its parent's legs on Sand Island, in the Johnston atoll national wildlife refuge Photograph: Ryan Rash/US Fish and Wildlife Service/Reuters
A sally lightfoot crab on the rocks at Galápagos national park, Ecuador Photograph: Anadolu/Getty Images
A whitetip reef shark near Santa Cruz island, Galápagos Photograph: Anadolu/Getty Images
Bottoms up … a red-crested pochard dives in Mogan Lake, Turkey. Photograph: Anadolu/Getty Images
A curious Galápagos lava lizard Photograph: Anadolu/Getty Images
Fish dinner … an osprey takes its catch home at the Sebastian inlet state park in Melbourne Beach, Florida, US
Photograph: Ronen Tivony/Zuma Press Wire/Rex/Shutterstock
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Edinburgh Live
3 hours ago
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Scottish island is home to something 'magical' but no one talks about it
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Scottish Sun
4 hours ago
- Scottish Sun
Virgin Atlantic to relaunch winter sun destination flights for the first time in six years
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Metro
4 hours ago
- Metro
The tiny but beautiful country named Europe's fastest-growing destination
Lithuania has been a European hidden gem for years, but it's set for big things in 2025 (Picture: Getty Images) Sparkling lakes surrounded by lush pine forests. Cosmopolitan cities and medieval towns. Forest saunas, treetop walks, and Michelin-starred restaurants. This is Lithuania, a tiny country in the Baltic region that has just been named Europe's fastest-growing destination this year so far. Since topping the World Happiness Report for under-30s in 2024, Lithuania has drawn tourists thanks to better flight connections (you can fly direct to Vilnius from London and Bristol), and growing interest in less crowded places. From stunning landscapes embroidered with hundreds of lakes and rivers to its blossoming reputation as a culinary mecca, the buzz around the country and its pocket-sized capital is more than justified. With visitor numbers on the rise, there's never been a better time to explore all this lesser-known nation has to offer before everyone else does. Here's everything you need to know before you visit. Sign up to The Getaway newsletter Fuel your wanderlust with our curated newsletter of travel deals, guides and inspiration. Sign up here. Where to go in Lithuania Vilnius, Europe's most affordable capital Who doesn't love a city break. But with major destinations like Amsterdam, Berlin, and Madrid becoming busier and more expensive, many travellers are starting to veer off the beaten track. Enter, Vilnius. Named Europe's most affordable city break by Post Office Travel Money in 2024, Lithuania's capital is truly delightful. The buzz around Lithuania is more than justified (Picture: Metro) Metro's Alice Murphy spent 48 hours in Vilnius in November and found a charming town still reckoning with its complex past, where brutalist Soviet architecture meets high-end boutiques and a rapidly blossoming food scene. She wrote: 'It's been more than 30 years since Lithuania gained independence from the USSR, but the buzz of freedom is still in the air. And, drawn by vibey nightlife, dark history and reasonable prices, people are starting to take note. But despite direct flights from major UK airports such as Stansted and Luton, Vilnius remains off the beaten path for British travellers. The tourism board is willing to laugh at its obscurity, declaring the country the 'G-spot of Europe' — 'amazing, but nobody knows where it is'. Vilnius is gaining attention for its rich history and affordability (Picture: Getty Images) From winding cobbled alleyways and a bohemian quarter with elegant Baroque architecture, this is a city that knows where it comes from. The Museum of Occupations and Freedom Fights is a good place to start. After centuries of invasion and repression from Germany, Poland, and the Soviet Union, the museum is a sobering reminder of how Lithuanians fought to keep their culture alive. Guide and tour leader Lina Dusevičienė expands on the country's fight for freedom: 'The dramatic history of the last three centuries shows that no trouble, occupation, or oppression is strong enough to tame Lithuanians. The young and active people of Lithuania make everyone feel welcome and engaged in learning the history.' What our readers think of Vilnius: Melkuhn Andrea: 'I loved the big open spaces, the cat café and the history of this place. I saw only one group of tourists in August. If you don't like crowded places, please go to Vilnius. I can't wait to go back, there are lot of coffee places which I want to try.' Robert Downing: 'Great place. Quiet and friendly. Not expensive.' Stuart Hunter: 'I worked there some years ago. Nice place and very nice people. And yes, it was as cheap as she says. Worth a visit.' Vilnius is also central to Lithuania's blossoming culinary scene, where tradition and innovation collide. 'Lithuanians have always been deeply connected to their traditions, native ingredients, time-tested cooking methods, and the stories that come with them,' explains Niels Peter Pretzmann, owner of Senatorių pasažas restaurants and shops. 'The practice of using farm produce, cooking all parts of the animal, foraging and preserving vegetables for winter has been passed down through generations. Add a healthy dose of curiosity about global gastronomy trends, and you get what we all hope for — a seasonal, sustainable cuisine that reflects Lithuania's well-defined seasons.' Farm-to-table restaurants such as the popular 14 Horses serve up lamb dumplings loved by generations of Lithuanians, and higher-end establishments are also making their mark. Take Dziaugsmas, one of four local restaurants to receive a star in 2024's first-ever Michelin guide to Lithuania. Offering a €67 (£55) tasting menu that includes black pudding doughnuts and moreish bone marrow, it's clear Lithuanian chefs are respecting their cuisine while keeping an eye on the future. Niels, who is also the owner of a sustainable farm called Farmers Circle on the outskirts of Vilnius, notes how Lithuania's food scene holds immense potential for slow tourism. He believes reconnecting with the places where food is grown, and embracing unhurried, immersive experiences, is the key to Lithuania's uniqueness. He says: 'We encourage guests to slow down, stay overnight, and wake up to the peaceful serenity of farm life. These could be some of the most precious experiences of our generation.' Go Vilnius, the city's official tourism and business development agency, agrees that sustainability is a priority. And, since Vilnius holds the title of Green Capital of Europe this year, it's also at the heart of the city's plans. 'We focus on sustainable tourism — whether it's eco-friendly transport and dining, supporting local businesses, or encouraging visitors to explore beyond the Old Town,' the agency says. 'We invite people to check out unique neighbourhoods and historic spots outside the city, like Trakai and Kernavė.' These lesser-known trips are driven by new initiatives such as 'Meet a Local', a program where tourists can connect with locals and explore Vilnius and its surrounding areas from a resident's perspective. Starting your journey in Vilnius? The capital has scores of affordable accommodations, including the Comfort Hotel LT – Rock 'n' Roll, TripAdvisor's top rated for value with rooms from €68 (£57) per night. For luxury, head to Hotel Pacai, a stylish hotel inside a Baroque palace where Napoleon Bonaparte once stayed. The 104 rooms feature glossy marble bathrooms, centuries-old exposed brickwork and beds so comfortable you won't want to get up. But the real draw is the location, on what was once Vilnius' 'royal mile'. Step out of the cobbled courtyard and you're right beside the old town, minutes from the city's finest restaurants, boutiques and landmarks. Double rooms with breakfast start from £162 per night. Ancient Kaunas There are many reasons Kaunas was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2023. During the interwar period, Lithuania's second city was nicknamed 'Little Paris' for its Art Deco architecture, fashion, academic life and relaxed café culture. Just a one-hour drive from Vilnius, this city is also steeped in rich history. A trip to Kaunas should not be skipped (Picture: Getty Images) Having been a settlement since the 10th century AD, it was initially founded as a fortress in 1030 before becoming a town in 1317. It's in the Old Town where this vibe is felt most strongly, from the medieval Cathedral-Basilica to Kaunas Castle. With restaurants and bars aplenty, it's easy to pass hours here, drinking coffee or a glass of traditional mead, the national drink of Lithuania. Metro's Kirsten Robertson visited Kaunas in December 2023 and said the Aleksotas Observation Deck is well worth the trip for a panoramic view of the city. You can walk up the hill, drive up or glide up on a funicular for €1. Staying in Kaunas and looking for Art Deco inspiration? The four-star 'Kaunas' hotel offers pure vibes for a steeper €106 (£88) per night. Palanga and the Baltic coast Lithuania is not known for its beaches, but its position on the Baltic Sea means it has plenty of charming coastal spots. Even luxury is accessible here. Lithuania boasts many wellness resorts, the biggest in the seaside town of Palanga, a popular summer resort with 13km of white sandy beaches. Here you'll find the world's largest amber sauna, which uses amber and infrared rays to warm the body. Supposed benefits include pain relief, improved circulation, and relaxation. Visitors can experience this for next to nothing at SPA Amber Palace, a four-star spa with a swimming pool and jacuzzi. The treatment typically ranges between €20-€30 (£16-£24) per person. Lithuania's sand dunes could be mistaken for the Spanish coast (Picture: Getty Images) While you're in the area, a trip to the 'Lithuanian Sahara' is non-negotiable. The Curonian Spit is a spectacular collection of coastal dunes, so stunning it's been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Parnidid, the largest of the drifting dunes, is an Instagrammers paradise. The country works hard to maintain Parnidis' dune landscape and its natural inhabitants. To ensure people can enjoy it for years to come, visitors are asked to stick to the designated walking routes and areas. If you're after pure R&R, stay along the coast somewhere like the Kerpė Hotel. Described as '4-star accommodation with spa facilities including a Turkish steam bath, jacuzzi and Himalayan salt room,' rates start from €93 (£77.50) per night. Pagan history Scratch Lithuania's devoutly Catholic surface and you'll find a strong pagan culture still permeating the nation. The country was the last pagan state in Europe, only converting to Christianity in the 14th century. As such, folklore traditions are very much alive. For context, Christianity first arrived in Britain in the 4th century. Throughout the year, Lithuania honours this sacred heritage in myriad ways. One of the most prominent events is 'Joninės,' also known as Midsummer Day, on June 24th. This pagan festival celebrates the summer solstice, and people gather to sing songs, weave flower crowns and hunt for mythical fern blossoms. Lithuania's stunning countryside is replete with hundreds of lakes and rivers (Picture: Getty Images) In the mornings, revellers wash their faces with morning dew and walk barefoot in the belief it has healing powers. By night, they gather around bonfires, jumping over the flames to herald good health. Best time to visit Lithuania It depends on what kind of traveller you are. The summer season is Lithuania's busiest time for tourists. With a relatively warm Baltic Sea and long bright days where temperatures range between 17°C and 23°C, June, July and August are also filled with summer festivals. Vilnius hosts the Lithuanian Song and Dance Festival and Klaipėda has a Sea Festival. Spring and late autumn is the time to see Lithuania's streets a lot quieter. Those after a coolcation should visit the Baltics during the winter, to enjoy cheap Christmas markets and snowcapped hills. How to get to Lithuania Getting to Lithuania is straightforward and cheap. Low-cost airlines such as Ryanair and Wizz Air fly direct to Vilnius from major London airports (Stansted and Luton), with one-way fares costing as little as €30 (£25). After landing, four buses run directly to the city centre and surrounding areas. The journey takes less than 15 minutes and buses run regularly, roughly every 10 to 30 minutes. Single tickets can be bought from the driver for €1 (83p). Alternatively, you can fly to Kaunas International Airport, the second-busiest in the country. Located in central Lithuania, it's 14km northeast of the ancient city of Kaunas and 100km west of Vilnius. This airport mostly caters to low-cost airlines like Ryanair and Wizz, with some one-way flights from Stansted, Luton or Bristol costing as little as €24 (£20). Looking to head straight for the lapping waves of the Baltic Sea? Palanga International Airport is the smallest airport in Lithuania and offers flights to the coast and its nearby locations. These fares are steeper, averaging between €108-€120 (£90-£100) from Stansted. A tip for explorers Lithuania's geographical position makes it perfect for multi-country holidays. In December 2023, Lithuanian Railways introduced a daily Vilnius to Riga train, the capital of Latvia. You can reach the city in just six-and-a-half hours by train, with second-class tickets costing €24 (£20). Following a few days exploration, hop on a five-hour train to Tallinn, Estonia's capital, where you'll complete the three Baltic states in one trip. Tickets are just as cheap, priced at €30.50 (£25.30). For Lina, it's Lithuania's reachability that convinces her the country can blossom into a mainstream destination. She says: 'The more people visit, learn the importance of nature, appreciate hard work for freedom and self-expression, the better the world may become.' 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