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Forbes
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Forbes
10 Best Aquariums Around the World to Visit
Father with daughter watching sharks in aquarium Oceans are often referred to as the "lungs of the Earth" because they play a crucial role in producing 50%-80% of the oxygen in our atmosphere and they absorb a significant amount of carbon dioxide, helping to regulate the Earth's climate. The growing interest in the welfare of our marine life and oceans has undoubtedly led to increased visits of the world's aquariums. While some aquariums focus primarily on entertainment, others are crucial for education, conservation and scientific research. Ethical aquariums aim to inspire ocean conservation, rehabilitate injured marine life and support research efforts that help protect vulnerable species. Here are ten of the world's best aquariums that do a good job in balancing entertainment and ethics. Underwater tunnel at Oceanografic, Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias, Valencia, Spain The biggest aquarium in Europe, located in the stunning City of Arts and Sciences in Valencia, is worth a visit for the architecture alone. The futuristic design features gleaming white concrete, glass and water in a complex of five buildings designed by famous Spanish architects Santiago Calatrava and Félix Candela in 1998. The Oceanogràfic building houses around 45,000 animals and 500 species. The aquarium consists of ten different habitats, including a Mediterranean environment, the Arctic Ocean, the Red Sea and the tropics. A highlight is the longest underwater tunnel in Europe where you feel you're swimming with fish all around you, including beluga whales, Angel Sharks, Barrel Jellyfish and Blacktip reef sharks. Oceanário de Lisbon is located in Parque das Nações Opened in 1998, the Lisbon Oceanarium's permanent exhibition One Planet, One Ocean is a wonderful multi-sensory experience. The central aquarium represents the 'global ocean' and hosts about 500 species from four oceans, surrounded by four distinct marine habitats. Visitors can meet various species of sharks, sea otters, sunfish, puffins, sea dragons, clownfish, eels, rays and stunning corals, among many others. The aquarium is located in the Dock of Olivais, in the Park of Nations (the site of the 1998 World Expo) and has an excellent restaurant, SeaTheFuture, featuring a menu of organic, seasonal products from local producers. The Oceanographic Museum of Monaco The Musée Océanographique de Monaco opened by Prince Albert I in 1910, has one of the oldest aquariums in the world. From the start, the museum attracted the world-leading oceanographers (including Jacques Cousteau, director from 1957-1988) who developed the concept of a future Mediterranean Commission dedicated to oceanography, now called Mediterranean Science Commission. Four aquariums, specially designed to recreate complex ecosystems, include: the shark lagoon against the bright colors of a coral reef; the Mediterranean sea with 100 of the 650 species of fish living in the Mediterranean and more than 200 species of invertebrates; the tropical sea with deadly stonefish, clown fish and the unnerving moray eel. Red Blood Parrot in Monterey Bay Aquarium, California, USA Since opening in 1984, in a lovely oceanfront location, the aim of the nonprofit Monterey Bay Aquarium has been to inspire conservation of the ocean through its exhibits and research. When it opened, it was the largest public aquarium in the United States and the first in the world to exhibit a living kelp forest and to successfully care for and display a great white shark. Today the 28 feet tall and 65 feet long Kelp Forest exhibit is one of the main attractions of the aquarium. The Open Sea wing is also essential viewing, featuring three separate galleries with various jellyfish and other plankton found in the bay plus tufted puffins and sea turtles. Yellow Fish in S.E.A. Aquarium, Singapore With over 100,000 marine animals and 1,000 species distributed in 40 different environments, S.E.A. Aquarium which opened in 2012, is the fourth largest aquarium in the world. A highlight is the 36-meter underwater tunnel that allows visitors to immerse themselves in the water, viewing hammerhead sharks, eagle rays, giant groupers and the red-bellied pacu, a native species to Asia. The aquarium also houses rare and endangered species like the Bow mouth Guitarfish, Moray Eel and Blue Tang. Also on show are unique corals like the Bubble Coral and Sun Coral with explanations of the importance of coral reefs in the marine ecosystem. The Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta Expect to see a wide range of the world's most fascinating animals and sea creatures from the African Penguin, Beluga Whale, California Sea Lion, Common Bottlenose Dolphin, Tiger Shark and Whale Shark. And speaking of the latter, this aquarium was actually designed around a whale shark exhibit, making it the first aquarium outside of Asia that hosts the giant species. The Georgia Aquarium, the largest in the world on opening in 2005, is on land donated by the Coca-Cola Company, just north of Centennial Olympic Park. Group of fishes and coral at Sea Life Aquarium, Sydney, Australia As one of world's newest aquariums, having opened in 2023, visitors can see over 4,000 animals from 300 different species, including large species such as tiger sharks and orcas. One of Sea Life e's highlights is the world's largest variety of Australian aquatic life, a rescue dugong called Pig. Another popular attraction is the Penguin Expedition Boat Ride, where you can see a spectacular colony of king and gentoo penguins. Also unmissable is the Great Barrier Reef exhibit, the largest in the world. National Marine Aquarium in Plymouth, UK The largest aquarium in the UK, the National Marine Aquarium, is home to over 4,000 animals and features groundbreaking ocean conservation work, according to its website. The aquarium is also home to the Ocean Conservation Trust, a charity dedicated to connecting people with the ocean. There are lots of different exhibits and animals found in this harborfront museum. One exhibit shows some of the stunning and colorful animals found locally in the rockpools around the coast. The Eddystone Reef exhibit features local sharks and stingrays while the Ocean Drifters exhibit features mesmerising jellyfish. National Aquarium, Copenhagen, Denmark The striking architecture of Denmark's national aquarium, Den Bla Planet, which opened in 2013 was inspired by a whirlpool with visitors entering into the vortex – the curved lobby – and from here are drawn out to the 53 aquariums and installations. Inside you'll see what is described as 'the big five' – sea otters, hammerhead sharks, stingrays, giant Pacific octopus and the arapaima (one of the largest freshwater fish in the world.) Penguins in Alesund Aquarium, Norway Since 1998, the Atlanterhavsparken Foundation has been one of Northern Europe's largest and most unique saltwater aquariums. Animals and fish live in unfiltered water straight from the sea outside. The Atlantic Tank is one of Europe's largest saltwater tanks where you'll see all the large cold-water fish that live in our oceans. The aquarium is located in one of the world's most scenic locations, in Norway's western fjords. After exploring the aquarium, hike up to the Fjellstua Viewpoint. Be prepared for several hundred steps to get to the top but the views over the town and sea are worth the effort.
Euronews
09-05-2025
- Euronews
A time-travelling tour of Sagunto: heritage day trips from Valencia
Beyond the medieval grandeur of Valencia's historic centre, Valencia is a truly modern city, defined by sprawling botanic trails, avant-garde design and forward-thinking green initiatives. Venture into the wider Valencia region, however, and time inches backwards. From Requena's wineries to Chulilla's castillo, there's no shortage of historic day trips from Valencia, offering total immersion in Spain's rich archaeological, cultural and natural heritage. Today, we set our sights on Sagunto, an ancient fortress city just 30 kilometres from Valencia, where echoes of empire and rich culinary traditions can be traced back thousands of years. Beneath a sci-fi skyline, Valencia hums with the legacy of its mercantile past. The Silk Exchange (La Lonja), a UNESCO-listed Gothic masterpiece, still exudes the wealth and ambition of the traders who built it in the 15th century. Meanwhile, Valencians of today trade their produce at the vibrant Central Market, where fresh citrus fruits, Iberian ham and traditional horchata (a creamy tiger nut drink) can be found. As well as celebrating its past, Valencia is also committed to discovery and reinvention. It is home to one of Europe's most recognisable contemporary landmarks: the City of Arts and Sciences, a complex that features a number of futuristic works by local architect Santiago Calatrava, as well as a planetarium, oceanographic park and interactive museum. Move between Valencia's past and present easily via Turia Gardens trails. Carved from a diverted riverbed and snaking nine kilometres through Valencia's heart, Turia Gardens provides a green escape for cyclists, joggers, and anyone in need of a shady spot in nature. As Valencia reinvents itself, in Sagunto, traditions hold strong. In the short journey from Valencia, you'll be transported through centuries of Spanish history, arriving at the sprawling hilltop fortress which has stood watch over the Mediterranean coast for millennia. Take in panoramic views over the crumbling city walls and walk the uneven pathways within to find remnants of Roman forums, Moorish fortifications and underground water systems that once sustained entire communities. The Roman Theatre here, etched into the hillside in the 1st century, still hosts performances, including for Sagunt a Escena festival in summer when Greco-Latin plays, music, dance and circus shows bring the ancient theatre to life. Echoes of the past continue within Sagunto's old town. The narrow, whitewashed streets of the Jewish Quarter preserve a lesser-known chapter of Spain's history, while the Portal de la Judería, a gateway into the once-thriving medieval community, lies as a quiet counterpoint to the grandeur of the castle above, with a story equally as enduring. For natural heritage, Sagunto's coastline delivers. The city's beaches stretch 13 kilometres, flanked by dunes and pine forests. Of these, Puerto de Sagunto, Almardá and Corinto are Blue Flag recognised, and offer a quieter alternative to Valencia's lively Malvarrosa. Elsewhere, the protected wetlands of La Marjal dels Moros provide an ideal spot for birdwatching, while the proximity of Sierra Calderona and Sierra de Espadán natural parks both entice hikers through coastal and mountain trails. While the Valencian region is world famous for its traditional paella, in Sagunto, star dishes like arroz a banda (rice slow-cooked in fish broth) and arroz negro (rice tinted with squid ink) speak of the city's maritime past. Other local specialties span both the garden and the sea, such as ximos (fried buns), coca de tomate (tomato tart) and coca de llanda (olive oil and lemon cake). After a day of touring the castle, feast like Spanish royalty at Michelin-starred restaurant Arrels, under the Gothic arches at the 16th century Palace of the Dukes of Gaeta. A traditional seafood paella on the harbourside is equally worthy, an authentic testament to Sagunto's long-standing culinary scene. Sagunto is very well connected by train from the centre of Valencia. It is an easy day trip, but there are plenty of reasons to extend your stay. With over 300 days of sunshine a year, both cities are year-round destinations. To immerse yourself further in Valencian heritage, consider visiting during a traditional local festival. Celebrate Fallas and the arrival of spring in Valencia in March with art, bonfires and fireworks, while April's Holy Week is marked with extravagant street processions in Sagunto. Though separated by a short journey, when taken together, Valencia and Sagunto chart a passage through the ages. Whether exploring Valencia's medieval trade halls, watching a play at Sagunto's 2,000-year-old outdoor theatre or simply savouring traditional flavours overlooking the Mediterranean, your heritage tour of Valencia is set to be an immersive time-travelling experience like no other. Discover more about Sagunto heritage at
Forbes
21-03-2025
- Entertainment
- Forbes
A Guide to Milwaukee's Best Restaurants And Bars
Led by Kyle Knall and rooted in sustainability and local ingredients, Birch is one of Milwaukee's best restaurants. Though my job takes me to many far-flung and enviable destinations, I'm open to travel tips. But one sent by a close girlfriend via text last year stumped me: 'Have you ever been to Milwaukee? It's cute, and everyone's so nice. We should do a girls' trip here!' My love of domestic travel rekindled during the pandemic, but I had never given Wisconsin's biggest city much thought. I knew the television show 'Laverne & Shirley' took place there; because of that I also knew there was beer—lots of beer. When in Milwaukee, a Wisconsin Old Fashioned at Bryant's Cocktail Lounge is a must. But during a visit a couple of months ago, I found there's far more to Milwaukee than these clichés. I was mesmerized by the city's architecture, from Pabst Brewery Complex's cream city bricks to the stunning Milwaukee Art Museum designed jointly by Santiago Calatrava, Eero Saarinen, and David Kahler. Its scenic perch along Lake Michigan—which offers loads of of recreational opportunities, like the world's largest music festival Summerfest—further added to the city's unexpected appeal. What opened my eyes the most, however, was the food scene. I already knew about Milwaukee staples like cheese curds and frozen custard; what I wasn't expecting to find was such an appealing mix of old and new, and locals who are up for eating everything. Kyle Knall is the chef and co-owner of Birch in Milwaukee. That's what Kyle Knall, a 2025 James Beard Award semifinalist and the chef-owner of Birch, discovered after relocated his family from New York City to Milwaukee in 2020: 'I love the community of Milwaukee, and how people here embrace food and eating out in such an amazing way.' Even better? You can get a solid grasp of the city's culinary landscape in a weekend. Ahead, a handy guide on where to eat, drink, and stay when visiting Milwaukee. One Birch's most popular (and pretty) dishes is the Contramar-inspired fish. Consider Birch, the New American restaurant former New York chef Kyle Knall (Gramercy Tavern, Electric Lemon) and his wife Megan opened in 2021, the quintessential neighborhood spot. It's as lovely for a chill bar hang of burgers and wine as it for a celebratory tasting menu at the counter. The entire staff, from the general manager Jeff Cleveland who pulls double-duty as the sommelier, to the dishwasher—whom I caught flashing a soft smile during a busy service—seems happy and proud to be on Birch's team. As for the food? It's ingredient-driven, quietly confident, and shaped by Knall's favorite restaurants—his Contramar-Inspired Fish gets its signature red and green from Jimmy Nardello and poblano peppers—and Wisconsin's rich natural bounty. 'The local agriculture, especially the fresh produce is incredible,' he says. 'We have to wait longer for the seasons to change, but what they bring is truly unmatched.' Speaking of seasons: the Knalls are opening Cassis, their highly anticipated French bistro, in Historic Third Ward this summer. Bryant's Cocktail Lounge Bryant's Cocktail Lounge isn't just a bar; it's a Milwaukee institution. Opened in 1938 in a historic residence that once was a Miller Brewing tied house (a bar obligated to buy alcohol from a specific brewery), Bryant's Cocktail Lounge has maintained its cool for over 85 years. It's dimly lit. There's plenty of seats to sink into. A mix of jazz, soul, and classical music plays from the old-school Mcintosh sound system. Drinkwise, you can choose from 600 (not a typo) or so cocktails. There are no menus; instead, chat with the bartender about your preferences. If you're a first-timer, try a signature Pink Squirrel (ice cream, crème de cacao, crème de noyaux) or Wisconsin Old Fashioned. Allie Boy's Bagelry & Luncheonette If you're short on time, seeking a quality bite that won't break the bank, or need to shake off last night's excess, Allie Boy's Bagelry & Luncheonette by the husband-and-wife-duo of Ben Nerenhausen and Staci Lopez has you covered. The bagel dough is made with local water and flour, then hand-rolled, boiled, and baked to glossy, chewy perfection. While you'll find traditional bagel flavors and schmears here, don't pass up on the original sandwiches, like the furikake-dusted egg salad and pizza bagel tartine. Ca'Lucchenzo Tucked away in Wauwatosa, a charming suburb just west of Milwaukee, is Ca'Lucchenzo by Zak and Sarah Baker. Since 2019, it's established itself as the local go-to for seasonal Italian cuisine—the handmade pastas are exceptional—and warm, familial service. As the menu changes frequently, order whatever sounds good. 'Chances are it won't be on the menu the next time you come over for dinner,' says Sarah. What does stay the same is the rolling cart of amaros, presented after your meal for a memorable finish. Milwaukee's Three Brothers specializes in homey Serbian food. Three Brothers Restaurant was established in 1956 by Serbian immigrant Milun Radicevic to keep his family together under one roof following World War I. To this day, the kitchen is run by the Radicevic family, with many recipes handed down from Milun's mother. Your best bet? Come hungry, and come with friends. The food is unfussy, hearty, and loaded with meat and cheese; crowd favorites include the Serbian salad, goulash, and burek (phyllo dough typically stuffed with ground beef). Milwaukee Public Market Since opening in the historic Third Ward in 2005, Milwaukee Public Market has gained national recognition by being more than a striking space with 19 diverse and independently-owned food vendors such as West Allis Cheese & Sausage Shoppe, St. Paul Fish Company, and Aladdin. It champions the local community by supporting charitable causes like Milwaukee Public Schools' School-to-Work Transition Program. It's also an event space, where you can book a wedding or a cooking class at Madame Kuony's Kitchen. A one-bedroom suite at Kimpton Journeyman Hotel One of Milwaukee's hippest hotels, Kimpton Journeyman Hotel has everything you need to feel you're best while you're away from home. The 158 guest rooms and suites are kitted out with cozy, nostalgic touches—the handsome hand-hewn desks are crafted with wood and cold-rolled steel—while the Mediterranean restaurant Tre Rivali and lively rooftop bar The Outsider make staying put a no-brainer after a long day out. During the daily Kimpton Social Hour (another perk to staying here), you'll be treated to complimentary wine, beer, and pizza. Plus: the hotel's plum location in Historic Third Ward makes it easy to walk to the waterfront and other attractions.
