Latest news with #Madagascar
Vogue
14 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Vogue
Art and Soul: Inside Madagascar's Burgeoning Creative Scene
Vogue: Which artists do you look up to or admire? Mialy Razafintsalama: Pierrot Men is a legend here. His pictures are incredibly captivating and tell so many stories. Rijasolo also has a unique way of capturing a moment. How would you describe your creative process, and what drives you as an artist? I use a Fujifilm X-T30 II with 15–45mm and 56mm lenses to photograph landscapes and scenes of daily life. I want to highlight the cultural richness and diversity of Madagascar's remote regions. I also take simple portraits that reflect the path those around me and I take to rebuild our self-esteem. Many Malagasy people are not fully aware of the beauty and richness of our island. I want to show them that Madagascar is more than just the holiday spots of Mahajanga and Foulpointe beaches. What are some of Antananarivo's most exciting creative hangouts? La Teinturerie in Ampasanimao is the go-to place for artists, and Dune Coffee Shop in Ampandrana is a great place to meet fellow creatives. For nightlife, there's No Comment Bar in Isoraka and Custom Café in Ampasamadinika. IFM in Analakely and AFT in Andavamamba also host cultural events. When I need inspiration, I visit Ranomafana or Andasibe National Parks. How did your Hakanto solo show, 'Sedran'ny Tany (The Trials of the Earth),' reflect the way you address environmental issues in your work? 'Sedran'ny Tany' is a series of 13 photographs selected from around 500 I took during a nine-day road trip along National Road 7, from Antananarivo to Toliara. The exhibition reflects the land's long struggle—how humans have contributed to its degradation, and how they're now seeking ways to live more sustainably. I try to raise awareness about the importance of protecting our land, and the real consequences of everyday actions—things many don't realize have a broader impact. Sandra Ramiliarisoa Textile artist Sandra Ramiliarisoa, 24, creates quietly powerful weavings from polyfloss—a recycled fiber developed by The Polyfloss Factory using a process inspired by cotton candy machines. Transforming plastic waste into wool-like threads, the material serves as both medium and message in Ramiliarisoa's work. She honed her practice through R'art Plast, a social enterprise founded by six young Malagasy artists from underprivileged neighborhoods in Antananarivo, all alumni of Ndao Hanavao—a training and innovation lab dedicated to social design.
CTV News
3 days ago
- Science
- CTV News
Scientists document rare new species of gecko in Madagascar forests
Scientists have documented in detail for the first time a rare new species of gecko that had, until recently, 'managed to hide in plain sight' in the shrinking forests of Madagascar. Found only in three small areas within roughly 15 kilometres of one another, paragehyra tsaranoro is considered 'microendemic,' meaning it occupies what scientists call an 'extremely small' habitable range. The lizard is named after the Tsaranoro Valley, where the species was first observed. Covered in a rocky brown, white and tan pattern, with striking orange eyes, the geckos naturally blend in with the granite boulders found in their habitat, located near the sheer cliffs of southeastern Madagascar's Andringitra Massif. Scientists say the small patches of land that make up the tsaranoro's territory were once part of a larger, connected area of forest -- one that has been 'destroyed by the widespread deforestation' threatening biodiversity within the country. The researchers behind the discovery have called for additional support as communities in the region work to conserve the species, which they recommend be classified in biological records as 'critically endangered.' 'It appears that this landscape is full of hidden biodiversity gems, including other microendemic reptile species found nowhere else in the country,' said study co-author Francesco Belluardo, in a release. 'These community-managed reserves act as important refuges for local wildlife.' Ongoing conservation efforts, he noted, have served a dual purpose. The patches of protected forest are known to be sacred, he says, as they are also home to the ancestral tombs of the Betsileo peoples. 'Protecting this cultural heritage has also helped safeguard local species, suggesting once again that conserving biodiversity often goes hand-in-hand with preserving cultural traditions.'
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Travel + Leisure
7 days ago
- Travel + Leisure
27 Under-the-Radar Places to Visit Before They Get Too Popular, According to Travel Advisors
Travelers crave the opportunity to get away from the crowds, immerse themselves in local culture, and be the first to visit a place before it gets too popular. We asked our A-list travel advisors to share their favorite under-the-radar destinations before they become overly touristed. "Sardinia is where Italians go to escape the hustle and bustle, and it's easy to see why: gorgeous beaches, hiking trails, and wild landscapes that feel like stepping into a postcard. Big luxury resorts are just starting to appear, so travelers should experience the island's laid-back charm before it gets too crowded." — Angela Adto Tepper, AZA Luxury Travel "The Baja California peninsula in Mexico has activities for all travelers, including the vineyards of Valle de Guadalupe, the whale mating grounds of Laguna San Ignacio, and magical towns like La Paz, Todos Santos, and Loreto. The exceptional wines and cuisine of the north are a closely-held secret among southern Californians, but new luxury hotels like Banyan Tree are drawing attention." — Zachary Rabinor, Journey Mexico A pack of lemurs in Madagascar. Yann Guichaoua-Photos/Getty Images "Madagascar can now be reached via Dubai, Paris, Addis Ababa, Nairobi, and Johannesburg, while new luxury lodges like Voaara and Miavana means greater comfort. The country is home to a plethora of unique cultures, distinctive flora like giant baobab trees, and lemurs which are as cute and furry as you imagine. " — Samantha Gordon, Red Savannah "Gargano, in northern Puglia, is Italy's most overlooked coastline. Take a boat along the incredible faraglioni (rock formations), taste incredible southern Italian cuisine in the small towns, and visit the countryside for hiking and swimming. Don't skip Monte Sant'Angelo, which is said to have been visited by the Archangel Michael. " — Zoe Shapiro, Stellavision Travel Apple orchards in Asturias, Spain. "Asturias in northern Spain is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. Located between the Cantabrian Sea and the Picos de Europa mountains, the region boasts lush landscapes, dramatic coastlines, and cute villages. The region is renowned for its food and unique cider, served with a traditional pouring technique. With new high-speed trains and new flights, accessing this captivating area has never been easier." — Nigel Hack, Madrid & Beyond "The Southern Highlands, just south of Sydney, is largely undiscovered by international visitors—yet the region provides a rich diversity of experiences. Hike to hidden waterfalls, tour historic townships, meet local winemakers, hunt for truffles, spot kangaroos, and more. Fabulous new boutique hotels like Osborn House and Moss Manor entice visitors to stay a little longer. " — Stuart Rigg, Southern Crossings "Mongolia offers a blend of vast, pristine nature and unique cultural experiences, such as horseback riding with golden eagle hunters. It also boasts a growing fashion scene, highlighted by Michel & Amazonka, the brand that made headlines for its costumes at the Paris Olympics." — Undraa Buyannemekh, Nomadic Expeditions and Three Camel Lodge Driving in Bolivia's salt flats. Rory Fuller/Travel + Leisure "Bolivia has an amazing diversity of ecosystems, including the world's largest salt flat, Salar de Uyuni; the highest navigable lake, Lake Titicaca; and the Amazon River. The local culture is diverse, with a large Indigenous population whose traditions and languages are deeply integrated into everyday life." — Carola Fresno, Timbuktu Travel "The Craigieburn Valley in New Zealand's South Island is rarely visited by foreign travelers. That means uncrowded mountain hikes, biking trails, horse riding, rock climbing, fly fishing, and stargazing. Luxury lodge Flockhill Station has 36,000 acres to explore, while direct flights from San Francisco to Christchurch (just 90 minutes from Craigieburn Valley) have made the region easier to get to." — Sarah Farag, Southern Crossings "Antarctica is an exciting frontier with glacier hikes, emperor penguin encounters, helicopter rides, and futuristic basecamps featuring outer space-inspired pods and chef-prepared meals. Tour companies like White Desert, Ultima Antarctica, and Antarctica21 offer access via aircraft or smaller ships with under 100 passengers. " — Ruchi Harnal, Harnal Travel "Tangier and, more broadly, northern Morocco, are wonderful up-and-coming destinations to visit. Royal Mansour Tamuda Bay on the Mediterranean and La Fiermontina Ocean on the Atlantic Coast offer world-class accommodations so travelers can explore the area in comfort. " — Michael Diamond, Cobblestone Private Travel Elephants in Mozambique's Gorongosa National Park. jacques"Mozambique has transformed Gorongosa National Park, once a conflict-ravaged landscape, into a thriving ecosystem teeming with wildlife. Visitors can experience it through game drives, night safaris, waterfall hikes, and rare pangolin conservation encounters. Accommodations like the luxurious Muzimu Lodge and intimate Chicari Camp offer premium comfort and privacy deep within this reborn wilderness." — Karin Jones, Artisans of Safari "Abruzzo is where Italy's raw beauty comes alive. Gran Sasso National Park has trails that weave through medieval villages, crumbling castles, and valleys where wild horses still roam. On the Costa dei Trabocchi, wooden fishing platforms stretch into the sea, serving up the freshest catch in the most atmospheric setting imaginable. The Tirino, one of the cleanest rivers in Europe, is perfect for kayaking." — Matteo Della Grazia and Daniela Mencarelli, Fuoritinerario - Discover Your Italy "The Japanese city of Onimichi is experiencing an uptick, though it remains off the tourist circuit. The pioneer is Adrian Zecha, founder of Aman Resorts, who recently opened Azumi Setoda, a 22-room ryokan (Japanese inn) on the island of Ikuchijima. Visit extraordinary cliffside temples offering cinematic views, eat delicious food including ramen and pastries, island-hop via ferry or private boat, and explore the serene landscape by bicycle." — Mark Lakin, The Legacy Untold Travel "Slovenia is quietly rising in popularity, with fairytale lakes like Bled, charming coastal towns like Piran, and a storybook capital, Ljubljana. What's truly special is the variety of activities offered in such a compact area. Alpine adventures, wine tasting, wellness retreats, and the Adriatic Sea are all within a couple of hours' drive. " — Laura Asilis, Travelwise Kotor, Montenegro. Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure "Montenegro has the drama of the Amalfi Coast, the heritage of Croatia, and the laid-back charm of the Mediterranean—all without the crowds. Spend the morning exploring medieval towns like Kotor and the afternoon sailing through seemingly untouched bays. Luxury hotels are beginning to quietly move in, but it still feels like a secret." — Dasha Westerfield, River Oaks Travel "Albania's stunning beaches along the Ionian Sea rival the Amalfi Coast (minus the crowds), while charming mountain villages like Theth offer untouched beauty. The food scene is wildly underrated. Think fresh seafood, homemade rakia, and farm-to-table everything. What makes it really special, though, is the warmth of the people." — Kristin Winkaffe, Winkaffe Global Travel "Nafplio is the kind of spot Athenians escape to for the weekend, but it's still flying under the radar for international travelers. Located just two hours from Athens, it has neoclassical mansions, cobblestone streets, and Venetian fortresses perched above the sea. If you've already done Santorini and Mykonos and are craving something more authentic, this is it." — Desiree Norman, Onēra "The Canadian province of Newfoundland and Labrador is full of beautiful culture, rich history, and welcoming people. As the easternmost part of the country, it's full of stunning landscapes and beautiful cities like St. John's that are still relatively tucked away. " — Marc Telio, Entree Canada Wat Xieng Thong temple in Luang Prabang, Laos. Preto_perola/Getty Images "Laos, situated between Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam and China, has beautiful landscapes full of mountains, waterfalls, and caves. And its cities—including Luang Prabang, Thakhek, Savannaket, and Pakse—are full of outstanding Laotian restaurants and French boulangeries." — Bob Preston, GlobeBley "Milos is on the brink of becoming Greece's next 'It' island. For now, its lunar-like coastlines, secret coves, and authentic Cycladic spirit are beautifully unspoiled. Multiple high-end properties are being built, so now's the time to experience the raw, serene glory before the secret is out." — Christos Stergiou, TrueTrips "Visit the Pacific coast of Colombia for humpback whale watching before it becomes more popular. The pristine area offers unforgettable natural encounters amid untouched beaches framed by lush jungle landscapes. Its remoteness and rich biodiversity promise a deeply immersive experience." — Boris Seckovic, Amakuna Travel "From the awe-inspiring Pyramids to the timeless Nile, Egypt combines deep history with modern comfort. The number of travelers has been low in recent years, providing an opportunity to fully absorb these iconic sites before they become bustling hotspots again. It's a rare and fleeting moment in one of the world's oldest civilizations. " — Chris Bazos, Travelous Northern lights over Nuuk, Greenland. Vadim_Nefedov/Getty Images "First-time visitors to Greenland find themselves moved by the vibrant Inuit culture, spectacular landscapes, and the special charm that comes from being hard to reach. That sense of remoteness might erode after the recent introduction of direct flights from the U.S., but Greenland isn't the next Iceland—it's a different place entirely." — Ashton Palmer, Expedition Trips "Uganda is emerging as an exciting destination that blends unique wildlife and top-tier accommodations. The opening of Erebero Hills in 2026 exemplifies this trend, offering luxury amid breathtaking mountains and forests. Additionally, the upcoming Gorilla Forest Lodge is set to further elevate Uganda's appeal to luxury travelers." — Candice Heckel, Africa Endeavours "Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia, has a fascinating architectural blend of New Khmer modern, Art Deco and French Colonial. The style of the city is one of East and West, old and new, classic and casual. And since the average age of Cambodians is just over 25 years old, the city feels incredibly youthful and forward-thinking. It's a hopeful place. " — Ethan Crowley, Asia Desk Paro Taktsang, also known as the Tiger's Nest, in Bhutan. "Bhutan is one of the last truly untouched destinations, where culture, spirituality, and sustainability aren't curated for tourists—they're lived daily. The country's 'high-value, low-Impact' tourism model aims to protect its sacred heritage. And with high-class lodges like Six Senses, Gangtey Lodge and Amankora blending seamlessly into the Himalayan landscape, visitors can experience transformational moments without sacrificing comfort." — Jason Oshiokpekhai, Global Travel Collection
The Independent
21-07-2025
- Entertainment
- The Independent
Rock star offers support to Scots brothers rowing across Pacific
A world-famous rock star has offered his support to three brothers who are attempting to row across the Pacific in record-time. Michael Balzary – better known by his stage name, Flea – is the bassist for Red Hot Chili Peppers, and is the latest celebrity to back Scottish brothers Ewan, Jamie and Lachlan Maclean. On Sunday, the brothers marked 100 days of their non-stop, unsupported row from Peru to Australia in a bid to raise money for clean water projects in Madagascar. The entire trip will be around 9,000 miles, and the Macleans are expected to complete their challenge within the next 20-30 days. Celebrities including actor Mark Wahlberg, rugby star Blair Kinghorn, TV presenter Lorraine Kelly and actor and comedian Greg Hemphill have also backed the brothers. Ahead of the 100-day mark, Flea spoke with the brothers via a podcast, where they bonded over the challenge and revealed how living with your brothers or bandmates can lead to difficulties. Flea, who was born in Melbourne, Australia, said: 'For us … (the Chili Peppers) we were together and touring for 10 years before we started becoming a really popular band and really making money. 'Without those 10 years, if that would have happened in the beginning, we would have fallen apart right away. 'I think it's really rare … Like, if you hear about a young artist that puts out their first record and they're a big success — very, very rarely do they continue on having a career that works. Something about just paying your dues. 'Like you already rode across the Atlantic (the brothers completed this voyage in 2019). But I'm sure before you did that, you did a million little trips where you learned how to do it. Learned what it is to be stuck on a boat with each other for months. 'There's days when we f***ing hate each other. And that's when it's really hard. When you can live together and everyone's getting along, it's this magical thing — you're this travelling entity and it's all love.' The brothers' 28ft (8.5m) carbon fibre boat, Rose Emily, is named in memory of their late sister. It has no engine and no sail and the brothers are powering their way across the ocean in two-hour shifts. They left Peru in March on a mission to reach Australia and raise £1 million for clean water projects. While speaking with Flea, Lachlan spoke of how he was washed overboard during a violent storm. Lachlan, who turned 27 while rowing the Pacific, said he was 'lucky' to be attached to his boat by a safety line during 40mph (64kmh) winds and 6m (20ft) waves last week. He was dragged along behind the craft before his brother Ewan, 33, was able to help him to scramble back on board. Flea also spoke about what drives him to keep performing after more than four decades with the Red Hot Chili Peppers. He said: 'There's definitely times when I'm running on fumes and I've got nothing. We've been doing this for 43 years or something. And you know, our performance is really physical. I try to stay in the best shape I can. But for me, emotionally, the whole thing is, I'm doing this to be of service. 'I like money as much as the next person, but like a long time ago, I could have retired. I could be eating papayas, taking bong hits on the beach somewhere, you know? 'It's a job to bring joy to people through music. And when I stay in that mindset … because there are so many nights where I'm sitting in a hotel room and it's like, 'I don't wanna get up'. 'I don't wanna go face 50,000 people in the stadium and play a concert. But it's time to go. And it's like, OK, it's not about me. I feel like shit, I'm tired, I got the flu, whatever's going on with me — I'm heartbroken, my wife left me, whatever's going on — but it's like, I have to let go of my life completely and do it. 'Be there for the people. Be there for my bandmates. And be there to honour the tradition of music.' Jamie commented: 'We've got a beautiful sunrise, we're sipping coffees out of baby beakers, and we're chatting to Flea. Doesn't get much better.' They also swapped food stories, as the Macleans shared tales of freeze-dried meals prepped in Jamie's old school kitchen, while Flea reflected on years of bad roadside burgers. 'For years and years, we toured in a van, sitting up all through the night, driving through the night for like six months on end,' he said. 'You kind of start feeling like a caged animal, just eating shitty food … roadside truck stop food, whatever you can get. 'You always pull into town after a show, you're starving and there's just nothing to eat … but now we have it good. We eat like kings.' The podcast, Dinner with the Macleans, is available on Spotify, and YouTube. The brothers have raised around £218,000 so far. To donate, click here.
Yahoo
21-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Rock star offers support to Scots brothers rowing across Pacific
A world-famous rock star has offered his support to three brothers who are attempting to row across the Pacific in record-time. Michael Balzary – better known by his stage name, Flea – is the bassist for Red Hot Chili Peppers, and is the latest celebrity to back Scottish brothers Ewan, Jamie and Lachlan Maclean. On Sunday, the brothers marked 100 days of their non-stop, unsupported row from Peru to Australia in a bid to raise money for clean water projects in Madagascar. The entire trip will be around 9,000 miles, and the Macleans are expected to complete their challenge within the next 20-30 days. Celebrities including actor Mark Wahlberg, rugby star Blair Kinghorn, TV presenter Lorraine Kelly and actor and comedian Greg Hemphill have also backed the brothers. Ahead of the 100-day mark, Flea spoke with the brothers via a podcast, where they bonded over the challenge and revealed how living with your brothers or bandmates can lead to difficulties. Flea, who was born in Melbourne, Australia, said: 'For us … (the Chili Peppers) we were together and touring for 10 years before we started becoming a really popular band and really making money. 'Without those 10 years, if that would have happened in the beginning, we would have fallen apart right away. 'I think it's really rare … Like, if you hear about a young artist that puts out their first record and they're a big success — very, very rarely do they continue on having a career that works. Something about just paying your dues. 'Like you already rode across the Atlantic (the brothers completed this voyage in 2019). But I'm sure before you did that, you did a million little trips where you learned how to do it. Learned what it is to be stuck on a boat with each other for months. 'There's days when we f***ing hate each other. And that's when it's really hard. When you can live together and everyone's getting along, it's this magical thing — you're this travelling entity and it's all love.' The brothers' 28ft (8.5m) carbon fibre boat, Rose Emily, is named in memory of their late sister. It has no engine and no sail and the brothers are powering their way across the ocean in two-hour shifts. They left Peru in March on a mission to reach Australia and raise £1 million for clean water projects. While speaking with Flea, Lachlan spoke of how he was washed overboard during a violent storm. Lachlan, who turned 27 while rowing the Pacific, said he was 'lucky' to be attached to his boat by a safety line during 40mph (64kmh) winds and 6m (20ft) waves last week. He was dragged along behind the craft before his brother Ewan, 33, was able to help him to scramble back on board. Flea also spoke about what drives him to keep performing after more than four decades with the Red Hot Chili Peppers. He said: 'There's definitely times when I'm running on fumes and I've got nothing. We've been doing this for 43 years or something. And you know, our performance is really physical. I try to stay in the best shape I can. But for me, emotionally, the whole thing is, I'm doing this to be of service. 'I like money as much as the next person, but like a long time ago, I could have retired. I could be eating papayas, taking bong hits on the beach somewhere, you know? 'It's a job to bring joy to people through music. And when I stay in that mindset … because there are so many nights where I'm sitting in a hotel room and it's like, 'I don't wanna get up'. 'I don't wanna go face 50,000 people in the stadium and play a concert. But it's time to go. And it's like, OK, it's not about me. I feel like shit, I'm tired, I got the flu, whatever's going on with me — I'm heartbroken, my wife left me, whatever's going on — but it's like, I have to let go of my life completely and do it. 'Be there for the people. Be there for my bandmates. And be there to honour the tradition of music.' Jamie commented: 'We've got a beautiful sunrise, we're sipping coffees out of baby beakers, and we're chatting to Flea. Doesn't get much better.' They also swapped food stories, as the Macleans shared tales of freeze-dried meals prepped in Jamie's old school kitchen, while Flea reflected on years of bad roadside burgers. 'For years and years, we toured in a van, sitting up all through the night, driving through the night for like six months on end,' he said. 'You kind of start feeling like a caged animal, just eating shitty food … roadside truck stop food, whatever you can get. 'You always pull into town after a show, you're starving and there's just nothing to eat … but now we have it good. We eat like kings.' The podcast, Dinner with the Macleans, is available on Spotify, and YouTube. The brothers have raised around £218,000 so far. To donate, click here.
