Most of us think of the holidays as a time to celebrate and be joyful. But it actually has become a tradition for controversies to pop up around Christmas. And this year is no different.

In 2018, we have seen a series of controversies spring up over Christmas ads, decorations, greetings, songs, and trees. Christmas trees are particularly controversial because they’re the de facto symbol of Christmas. However, they are not alone.

10 ‘Baby, It’s Cold Outside’

Frank Loesser’s 1944 song “Baby, It’s Cold Outside,” which won an Oscar when featured in the 1949 film Neptune’s Daughter, has been causing controversies around Christmas for a long time. But it became more pronounced in 2007 due to the increased use of social media. Flash forward to 2018, and several radio stations across the US have banned the song over its lyrics, which they consider to be offensive.

The ban came after listeners called the radio stations to complain that the lyrics supported rape. The song tells the story of a lady who wants to leave a man’s house. She tells the man, “I really can’t stay.” But the man discourages her from leaving, saying, “Baby, it’s cold outside.”^[1]

Emily Crockett, who wrote about the controversy in 2016, mentioned that the lady in the movie really wanted to stay in the man’s house but felt compelled to leave because it could cause a scandal. Obviously, morality was a major issue in the ’40s and the practice of unmarried couples living together was frowned upon. However, Crockett agreed that the lady was being coerced into staying.

9 Holland Tunnel Controversy

This year, the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey unwittingly caused a controversy when it added three Christmas wreaths to the “Holland Tunnel” entrance sign. Two decorations were circular, and the third had the triangular shape of a Christmas tree.

The first circular wreath was installed over the letter “O” in “Holland.” The second circular wreath was placed over the “U” in “Tunnel,” making it look like “Tonnel.” The Christmas tree was installed over the “N,” which just looked awkward. The Christmas tree and the second circular wreath were the sources of the controversy.

Obviously, the decoration would have looked much better if the Christmas tree wreath had been installed over the “A.” This made a lot of sense because the “A” already had the shape of a Christmas tree. The second circular wreath should have been dropped because it transformed “Tunnel” to “Tonnel.”

Cory Windelspecht was the first person to complain about the wreaths. He created a petition on Change.org where he complained that the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey was fond of putting the Christmas tree wreath over the “N” instead of the “A” every year. Cory said that this could cause problems for people with obsessive-compulsive disorder.^[2]

The petition quickly gathered signatures, and the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey later put a poll on its website asking commuters what they wanted. After the poll, the organization agreed that it would remove the circular wreath on the “U” and move the Christmas tree wreath from the “N” to the “A.”

8 There Is A Rang-tan In My Bedroom

In 2018, UK supermarket chain Iceland Foods planned to release an animated video ad for Christmas. The ad was about a young orangutan that runs amok inside a young girl’s bedroom. The orangutan, which is called “Rang-tan,” hops across the girl’s bedroom, throwing things around and hanging from furniture.

The girl narrates that she does not know what to do about the orangutan in her bedroom. She later orders Rang-tan out. However, just before the animal leaves, the girl asks Rang-tan why she (the orangutan) was in the bedroom. The camera zooms in on Rang-tan’s eyes, and we see the true story.

There are humans in her forest, and Rang-tan doesn’t know what to do. They have destroyed her home and turned it into palm oil plantations. They have killed Rang-tan’s mother, and she is afraid that they will kill her, too. The entire ad is about the massive deforestation in palm oil–producing countries.

Iceland Foods was going to air the ad in the UK until it was banned by Clearcast, the UK advertisement regulation agency. Clearcast claimed that the ad was a political advertisement that violated rules enacted in 2003. Apparently, the ad was originally created for environmentalist group Greenpeace, which had earlier used it for its anti-deforestation campaign.

If anything, the ban popularized the ad. People watched it on the Internet anyway. It also put workers at Clearcast in danger. Clearcast received over 3,500 emails and hundred of phone calls at the time of the ban. Many of the calls and emails were threats. Some were so severe that Clearcast removed the pictures of its workers from its website and closed down its Facebook page.^[3]

7 Starbucks Christmas Cup

For years, Starbucks has had a tradition of creating specially designed cups for Christmas. The first cup was introduced in 1997, and they were controversy-free until 2015. Since then, each Christmas cup has caused its fair share of controversy, which seems to heat up every year.

Unlike those in previous years, the highly contentious 2015 cup was devoid of all designs. Joshua Feuerstein started the debate when he made a video claiming that the plain red color was an attempt to remove Christ from Christmas. He suggested that each customer tell Starbucks’ employees that the customer’s name was “Merry Christmas” so that the workers would call out “Merry Christmas” whenever they made a drink.

The 2016 cup was a green-and-white one that was accused of being anti-Christmas. In 2017, it was a white-and-red cup that was said to be pro-gay. In 2018, Starbucks introduced five cups, including one that was supposed to be reusable and free. But customers were forced to shell out $2.50 for it because the free supplies were exhausted quickly (as in minutes).^[4]

6 Minneapolis Christmas Tree Controversy

In 2018, officers at the Minneapolis Police Department decided to decorate one of their stations for Christmas. They installed a Christmas tree, and all appeared well until a picture of the tree was posted on the Internet. The department was hit with complaints that the Christmas tree was racist.

Apparently, the police department had replaced the ornaments, stars, and lights that were supposed to be on the tree with cigarettes, crime tape, malt liquor, and a cup from a restaurant that served fried chicken. Two officers involved in putting up the tree were suspended, while the commander of the station, Inspector Aaron Biard, was removed from his position.^[5]

5 Rome Christmas Tree Controversy

In 2017, Rome became the center of a controversy over its threadbare Christmas tree. In 2018, the city had the same problem. The Christmas trees installed in both years are more like sticks than trees. The majority of the branches in the middle are missing, and the few remaining branches have sparse greenery, just like the rest of the tree.

In 2017, concerned citizens called the threadbare tree “Spelacchio” (“Mangy”). In 2018, they called it “Spelacchio #2.” The business handling the installation and design of the tree claimed that they deliberately cut the branches to make transportation safer. They added that the branches and greenery will grow before Christmas, but some citizens are having none of it.^[6]

4 Deitrick Haddon’s Sexually Explicit Christmas Song

In November 2018, US gospel singer and pastor Deitrick Haddon revealed that he was planning to release a sexually explicit song for Christmas. The song is about a man telling his wife that he wants to make love to her on Christmas Day. He mentions wanting to eat her “milk and cookies” and lie in her “Garden of Eden.”

The Internet went haywire after the revelation. Many believe that a gospel musician should not release a sexually explicit song, especially for Christmas.

However, opinions are divided.

On one side are the critics who say that the song promotes lust and is contrary to what Jesus stands for. On the other side are those who say that the song can be used by Christian couples just before they get between the sheets. Haddon has already said that his song is targeted at married couples.^[7]

3 Bethel Atheist Banner Controversy

Every Christmas, some controversy pops up over the use of “Happy Holidays” and “Happy Holiday Season” instead of “Merry Christmas.”

Non-Christians will usually say “Happy Holidays.” Some Christians also prefer “Happy Holidays” so that they will not be biased toward people who do not celebrate Christmas. However, some Christians consider “Happy Holidays” to be offensive. They believe that it is an attempt to take Christ out of Christmas. For them, it is “Merry Christmas” or nothing.

“Happy Holidays” wasn’t always controversial. In fact, the word “holiday” has its roots in Christianity. It is from “holy day,” which refers to a day that is considered holy. Christians have been using “Happy Holidays” in place of “Merry Christmas” for years. But it just happens to get a bad rap these days.

In 2018, the town of Bethel, Connecticut, found itself in one such controversy when atheists in the town put up a banner with the words:

To our Bethel community,
Happy Holiday Season! (whatever you celebrate)
From your friendly atheist neighbors.

Some Christian residents considered the banner an unfriendly gesture and a disguised attack on Christians and Christianity. They say that the atheists who put up the banner could have just kept their greetings to themselves. However, other Christians think that the banner makes non-Christians share in the fun of Christmas.^[8]

2 Highlands Christmas Tree Controversy

Another Christmas tree controversy. This time, it is from Highlands, North Carolina. Like many American towns, Highlands engages in the tradition of putting up Christmas trees. In 2017, the town installed a tree with a star on top. However, the star broke off because the tree could not support its weight.

In 2018, the town put up a Christmas tree without the star. Initially, workers placed a cross on the top of the tree. But they were ordered to remove it because it was illegal. At that point, the tree became controversial. Townspeople complained because they wanted the cross back. After a series of protests, the mayor ordered the cross returned.^[9]

1 White House Christmas Tree

The White House has a tradition of putting up Christmas decorations every year. The First Lady is usually in charge of choosing what type of Christmas tree and decorations go in the White House. In 2018, Melania Trump settled for plain bloodred Christmas trees.

However, some Americans do not agree with her choice of color. The trees have been heavily criticized and are attracting all sorts of negative attention. But Mrs. Trump does not care. She said that the trees are “beautiful,” “fantastic,” and look better when seen up close. She suggested that the critics visit the White House to see the trees firsthand.^[10]

New Year’s Eve has always been a time for looking back to the past, and more importantly, forward to the coming year. It’s a time to reflect on the changes we want (or need) to make and resolve to follow through on those changes. This is a list of the ten most popular New Year resolutions.

10. Reorganize Life

On just about every New Year resolution top ten list, organization can be a very reasonable goal. Whether you want your home organized enough that you can invite someone over on a whim, or your office organized enough that you can find the stapler when you need it, these tips and resources should get you started on the way to a more organized life.

9. Be More Charitable

A popular, non-selfish New Year’s resolution, volunteerism can take many forms. Whether you choose to spend time helping out at your local library, mentoring a child, or building a house, there are many nonprofit volunteer organizations that could really use your help.

8. Learn Something New

Have you vowed to make this year the year to learn something new? Perhaps you are considering a career change, want to learn a new language, or just how to fix your computer? Whether you take a course or read a book, you’ll find education to be one of the easiest, most motivating New Year’s resolutions to keep. Challenge your mind in the coming year, and your horizons will expand.

7. Get Out of Debt

Was money a big source of stress in your life last year? Join the millions of Americans who have resolved to spend this year getting a handle on their finances. It’s a promise that will repay itself many times over in the year ahead.

6. Stop Drinking

While many people use the New Year as an incentive to finally stop drinking, most are not equipped to make such a drastic lifestyle change all at once. Many heavy drinkers fail to quit cold turkey but do much better when they taper gradually, or even learn to moderate their drinking. If you have decided that you want to stop drinking, there is a world of help and support available.

5. Enjoy Life More

Given the hectic, stressful lifestyles of millions of people in the world, it is no wonder that “enjoying life more” has become a popular resolution in recent years. It’s an important step to a happier and healthier you!

4. Stop Smoking

If you have resolved to make this the year that you stamp out your smoking habit, over-the-counter availability of nicotine replacement therapy now provides easier access to proven quit-smoking aids. Even if you’ve tried to quit before and failed, don’t let it get you down. On average, smokers try about four times before they quit for good.

3. Lose Weight

Weight loss is one of the most popular New Year’s resolutions. Setting reasonable goals and staying focused are the two most important factors in sticking with a weight loss program, and the key to success for those millions of people who made a New Year’s commitment to shed extra pounds.

2. Get Fit

Regular exercise has been associated with more health benefits than anything else known to man. Studies show that it reduces the risk of some cancers, increases longevity, helps achieve and maintain weight loss, enhances mood, lowers blood pressure, and even improves arthritis. In short, exercise keeps you healthy and makes you look and feel better.

1. Spend Time with Loves Ones

Recent polls conducted by General Nutrition Centers, Quicken, and others shows that more than 50% of people asked, vow to appreciate loved ones and spend more time with family and friends this year.

Source: About.com

Technorati Tags: resolutions

Greece is a well-liked travel destination with attractions for all tastes. It will enchant beachgoers, foodies, culture vultures, and history buffs alike. Greece is considered the cradle of Western civilization and the birthplace of democracy. Greek Islands rank among the country’s most picturesque locations, but the mainland is also home to rough mountains and intriguing historic sites. To help you plan your itinerary, here are the 26 best places to visit in Greece.

The 26 Best Places To Visit In Greece

1. Santorini

One of the most well-known and top-notch tourist destinations in Greece is Santorini. It is ideal for a romantic rendezvous or honeymoon. The island has blue domes perched high on sea cliffs and whitewashed villages. 

There are beautiful beaches in Santorini complete with red sand, black sand, and golden sand. It is arguably the most gorgeous Greek island. The best times to see scintillating Santorini are from September 1 through October 31 and from April 1 through May 31 when the weather is warm and there are fewer tourists around. Experience the island’s cultural side, explore the archeological site of Akrotiri, and enjoy the infinity pools, the sunsets and other breathtaking views. 

2. Meteora

One of the most stunning tourist destinations in Greece, Meteora, is becoming more well-known. Here you will discover monasteries from the ninth century that were constructed atop enormous rock monoliths. Because of Meteora’s magnificent monasteries, it is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

400 meter-high sandstone spires tower over the lovely landscape. Meteora formed 60 million years ago, is said by some to be both extraordinary and stunning. Monks constructed monasteries at the top of these massive mountains as a covert retreat where they could live in safety and seclusion and had to scale the walls with ropes and ladders. You can see the monasteries and the Delphi Archaeological Site on a two-day tour.

3. Athens

Spend three days in Athens when you travel to Greece before departing for the island’s golden beaches. The ancient archaeological sites that dot Greece’s capital city blend in surprisingly well with modern-day habitation. The Parthenon, which was constructed between 447 and 432 BC, sits at the center of the ancient Acropolis, which dominates this superb city.  

Veteran visitors can confirm it is a must-see metropolis. Don’t miss the Ancient Agora, the Theatre of Herodes Atticus, and the Temple of Hephaestus, Dine on one of the local rooftop patios too. The best months to visit Athens are March through May and September through November. The climate’s pleasant, crowds are fewer, and discounts abound.

4. Epirus

One favorite location, western Greece’s Epirus is surrounded by the Ionian Sea and Albania. This vast area is ideal for those who enjoy the outdoors. There’s so much to do here you could actually stay for a week.

This amazing region, which has just recently been discovered, is full of mountain villages, breathtaking landscapes, and lovely beaches. If you set up a base in Ioannina, you can easily travel to the Kipina Monastery, the most impressive monastery outside of Meteora, via the magnificent Stone Arch Bridges of Zagori. The spring and summer seasons are the ideal times to travel here. The area is less crowded because fewer tourists travel there than to other parts of Greece. 

5. Ioannina

The City of Ioannina, which is the capital of Epirus, will astound you. It is rich in Byzantine history, has marvelous museums, and a vibrant nightlife. Perhaps the most significant landmarks here are the seven monasteries on the Island of the Lake. In fact, one of Greece’s three most incredibly crucial monasteries, along with Meteora and the Mount Athos Monastery, is the memorable Monastery of the Philanthropists, which harkens back to 1204. The months of May through September are the ideal times to travel to Ioannina. The warm, pleasant weather during these months is ideal for outdoor pursuits like camping, hiking, paragliding, swimming, and seeing the city’s landmarks. 

6. Parga

Greece’s Parga is a stunning vacation destination with a variety of attractions, including white-sand beaches traditional whitewashed buildings, and clear blue waters. The main attraction is Parga Castle, where you can hike up for stunning views of the area. Parga will give you a sense of what a Greek Island vacation is like because it has the feel of a Greek isle despite being on the mainland. 

Sivota, Preveza, and Plataria all have lovely beaches in addition to the nearby Valtos Beach, which is frequently cited as one of the best beaches in the country. Enjoy fresh seafood at a beach bar. This place is fairly famous for its keen cuisine!

7. Zagori

Zagori’s just outside of popular Ioannina. Visit the lovely Averoff Gallery as well as the Katogi Averoff Hotel and Winery to see. It serves as the ideal starting point for exploring all that Vikos has to offer, from its beautiful hiking trails to its ancient monasteries. The Vikos Gorge should not be missed, even though Zagori is best known for its stone bridges.  The Guinness Book of World Records lists this as the deepest gorge on the planet, making it one of the nation’s natural wonders. This picturesque area of Greece is not to be missed because it has hiking trails, beautiful lookouts, and a diverse, attractive array of flora.

8. Zakynthos

Zakynthos (also known as Zante in Greek) is one of the top Greek islands for scuba diving. It has some of the best beaches in the nation. Navagio Beach, a.k.a. Shipwreck Beach is one of the most well-known beaches in Greece. 

It is surrounded by tall, white cliffs and turquoise water.  Shipwreck Beach is even more pristine because it can only be reached by boat tour. The town of Zante is located on Zakynthos’ eastern coast. 

It is a convenient location for traveling and has a lively nightlife. The island has a rich history and delicious Greek cuisine. The best time to see Zakynthos is from March through May and September until early December.

9.Crete

There’s nothing better than island hopping in Greece, and any trip there must include a stop on the stunning island of Crete. The best beaches in Greece can be found on Crete, the largest of the Greek Islands. Additionally, you’ll see the well-known whitewashed homes and standard southern towns.

With its lofty peaks, narrow gorges, and pristine sandy beaches, Crete is a must-see location. Samaria Gorge should not be missed if you enjoy hiking; it’s undoubtedly one of Greece’s natural wonders. The beauty of this national park is among the best in all of Europe. Make sure to visit Elafonisi Beach, which is frequently cited as Greece’s top beach too!

10. Knossos

Knossos is among the best locations on the island of Crete. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The palace of King Minos is on display here in this outdoor archaeological museum. 

Created by an ancient Minoan civilization, it has been here for over 2000 years. This sizable bronze age archeological site is one of the country’s best and most well-preserved. Visit Knossos in spring or autumn with a guide, explore the old Heraklion, the capital of Crete, and sample some authentic traditional Greek cuisine. Rent a car here and explore off the beaten path to learn more about how the locals live.

11. Pelion

On the Pelion Peninsula in mainland Greece, Pelion is a stunning region of Greece. Tsagarada, Makrinitsa, and Milies are just a few of the picturesque villages on Pelion, which is halfway between Athens and Thessaloniki. Plus, this is the location to be if you want to see where the film *Mama Mia* was filmed. 

A large portion of the motion picture was shot in the coastal community of Damouchari. Jason and the Argonauts lived in Volos, a lovely city on the coast. This is a must-see if you enjoy Greek mythology from antiquity. The best seasons to visit Pelion are spring and fall because of the mild and pleasant weather.

12. Skiathos

Skiathos takes you off the beaten path. This island in the Sporades archipelago in the northwest Aegean Sea evokes memories of Crete or Santorini from the early 2000s. Travel the island by rental car. 

Similar to the more well-known Greek islands, this island has lovely whitewashed houses, sandy beaches, and a laid-back atmosphere. Skiathos is well-liked by tourists due to its stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife. The Evangelistria Monastery, built in 1894, is a notable landmark in this area. Spend your evenings unwinding in a tavern on the beach, sipping sparkling wine, and enjoying authentic Greek cuisine. After that, take a stroll along the water to witness the mesmerizing sunsets. 

13. Skopelos

Skopelos, another *Mama Mia* location with stunning scenery, is only a short distance from Skiathos. Numerous beautiful beaches, picturesque monasteries clinging to its coast, whitewashed houses with blue doors, and terracotta roofs are all highlights of Skopelos. Mind you, Skopelos is a stunning Greek island but unless you know someone who has traveled there, it probably would not be on your list of must-see locations in Greece. There are 360 monasteries and churches there, as well as stunning beaches with white limestone cliffs and clear, diving- and snorkeling-friendly waters. The most pleasant seasons to visit Skopelos are spring and fall when the weather is mild.

14. Costa Navarino

Although the beaches on the Greek islands are among the best in the entire country, a number of travel writers consider Costa Navarino, located in the southwest corner of the Peloponnese region of mainland Greece, can compete with the very best of them. Few visitors come to this incredible location in Greece, which is in Messinia on the Ionian Sea’s crystal clear waters. Messinia is one of some frequent flyers’ favorite places to travel in Greece because it is a unique destination with opulent resorts, olive groves, and charming villages. Although Messene in the Peloponnese is less visited by tourists, it’s just as impressive as the ancient ruins of Athens. 

15. Voidokilia Beach

The most stunning beach we’ve ever seen, Voidokilia Beach, is not far from Costa Navarino. Voidokilia Beach is a place of legends because it is shaped like the Greek letter Omega. This beach was mentioned by Homer in the Odyssey, and it was thought that King Nestor, a former ruler of Pylos, frequented it. Some must-see sites around Voidokilia Beach include popular Paleokastro, Nestor’s Cave, and Gialova Lagoon. The summer months of June, July, August, and September are the best times to visit Voidokilia Beach because the weather is warm and there are fewer tourists there. 

16. Messene

Few people have heard of the ancient city of Messene, despite the fact that everyone is familiar with the Acropolis, the Temple of Apollo, and the Temple of Poseidon. This ancient Greek city is a must-see. One of the Best Places in Greece is Messene. 

It withstood numerous sieges by both the Macedonians and the Spartans and is filled with centuries of history. Although it is not nearly as popular as other Greek archaeological sites, it is a favorite of many of those who have been there. Wander through the theater, stadium, and agora of the Greeks. Add Messene to your must-see list if you go to Costa Navarino.   

17. Kalamata

Messenia’s capital is located in the port city of Kalamata. Fans of the arts and theater should definitely go here. That’s because the Castle of Isabeau is the main attraction here. 

Every year, the International Dance Festival takes place here. This location is a huge amphitheater with a view of the whole city. Additionally, you will be able to observe the various influences that both the Venetians and the Turks had on the building’s architecture. 

You can also visit a lot of museums while you’re here. Take your time and thoroughly explore this city. If you’re looking for sun, the best months to visit Kalamata are between June and August. 

18. Thessaloniki

Be sure to visit Thessaloniki. Greek Macedonia’s capital is located in Northern Greece, in Thessaloniki. With Turkish Baths and Byzantine and Roman era monuments, it gives off the impression that you are in Turkey. To see historic locations like the Roman Market, Hammams, and Byzantine Churches, make sure to stroll through the old town. Don’t miss the White Tower, Thessaloniki’s iconic landmark that rises 33 meters above the ground. The months of April through November are the best for travel to Thessaloniki. The warmest months are July and August when highs of 34°C are common. The White Tower, Ladadika, the Ataturk Museum, and Aristotelous Square are must-see attractions in Thessaloniki.

19. Olympus National Park

You must visit Mount Olympus if you enjoy Greek mythology. Journey to Thessaly and hike this mythical mountain. It’s 2,917 meters tall. The legendary mountain feels a long way from civilization as it winds through waterfalls and thick forests.  

You might not be up to ascending “the Mountain of the Gods,” but you simply must hike at least a part of it. If you’re not overly athletic, go to the popular Prionia trailhead for Prionia and just hike down from that point. The best months to travel are July and August. The weather is typically warm, most facilities and roads are open, and numerous activities are available.

20. Mykonos

The Greek island of Mykonos, which is part of the Cyclades group and located in the Aegean Sea, is well-known for its thriving nightlife and for being a gay-friendly destination with numerous businesses that cater to the LGBT community. It is also well known for its famous golden sand beaches that end in clear waters, drawing tourists to its shores for both daytime fun on the beach and nightlife. The island’s stunning windmills, which line the shore, represent the place and are perhaps its most famous feature. With its charming wooden balconies dangling over the water, Alefkandra, a.k.a. Little Venice, used to be a wealthy merchant city in Venice. 

21. Rhodes

The Island of Rhodes is renowned for its history and scenic beauty. The Lindos Acropolis, Rhodes Old Town, the Grand Master’s Palace, and unwinding at Lindos Beach are all noteworthy Rhodes attractions. It has endured wars and earthquakes for centuries, making it among the most fascinating places to visit in Greece. 

It is one of the most well-liked tourist destinations in Greece due to its combination of historic sites, wonderful beaches, and nightlife. The months of May through September are the most pleasant for traveling to Rhodes. The months of July and August are the island’s busiest travel months. The best months to travel are May, June, and September if you prefer less tourism. 

22. Corfu

Corfu is not exactly a hidden gem, and during the summer months, the island can become overrun with tourists. it is one of the best Greek islands to visit, though, if you go when it’s not peak season. Greece’s greenest island is Corfu. 

There are numerous historical sites scattered all over the island. Corfu Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is regarded as the historical center of Corfu. The summer months of June to August are the ideal time to visit Corfu because of the warm, sunny weather. The best time to travel here is in September and October if you prefer less tourism. It can get a tad chilly and rainy during the winter. 

23. Delphi

Greece’s Delphi Archaeological Site is a well-known tourist destination. It is breathtaking to see this ancient temple honoring the Greek God Apollo at the summit of Mount Parnassus. Delphi was regarded as a sacred site by the ancient Greeks. 

Delphi, which dates to the eighth century BC, is renowned for its natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. An incredible scene is created by the ancient Apollo temple complex that is perched atop the tall mountain. The summer months of June to August are the ideal time to visit the Delphi Archaeological Site because they are warm and sunny. The best times to travel are in September and October if you prefer less tourism.

24. Halkidiki

The region of Halkidiki is in northern Greece. The three peninsulas, Kassandra, Sithonia, and Mount Athos, collectively known as “the three legs,” are what make it famous. Mount Athos Monastery is one of Halkidiki’s most fascinating locations. One of Greece’s three most significant monasteries is Mount Athos. One of the best places to travel in Greece, yet many tourists have yet to learn about it in comparison to the tens of thousands of islands in Greece. It is well-liked by sunbathers in Romania and the neighboring country of Bulgaria now, but the rest of Europe will soon follow. June to August is the ideal time to visit Halkidiki for sunny weather.  

25. Athens Riviera

The Athens Riviera is a fantastic place to visit in Greece if you’re in Athens and just plain don’t have time to travel to the islands. enjoyed a long weekend driving along the section of the Athens Riviera outside of the city. From Athens, you can either rent a car or order a taxi. 

Discounted transfers from Athens International Airport might be available through your hotel. The summer months of June to August are also the ideal time to visit the Athens Riviera because of the warm weather. On the other hand, if you book your visit in either September or October, there are fewer tourists.

26. Poseidon’s Temple

Even if you don’t spend the night on the Athens Riviera, you absolutely must take a day trip from Athens to Poseidon’s Temple. This tremendous temple on the shore of the Ionian Sea is situated at the southernmost point of mainland Greece and is well worth the journey. Greek gods were highly revered in ancient times, and Poseidon’s Temple is the most impressive because of its location. The summer months of June to August are the ideal time to visit the Temple of Poseidon because they are warm and sunny. The best times to travel are in September and October if you prefer less tourism. A day trip can be scheduled from Athens.

2020 is finally coming to an end, and thanks to a plethora of horrible events, the conclusion of this year is something to look forward to. Everything from COVID-19 and contested presidential elections to massive wildfires and the breakout of wars across the globe has made 2020 a year most would like to forget.

That said, the year wasn’t a complete and total mess. While COVID dominated the news, good things continued to happen. This list highlights the ten best parts of an otherwise horrible year and are presented in no particular order.

Top 10 Funny Coronavirus Lockdown Activities Around The World

10 Multiple COVID-19 Vaccines Were Developed

COVID-19 brought the world to a standstill as countries closed businesses and enforced stay-at-home orders. The virus impacted every aspect of the economy. By December, it killed more than 1.5 million of the 67+ million people infected with the virus.

Thanks to the focus of money, time, and attention to the problem, several pharmaceutical companies managed to create a vaccine. While it won’t go into widespread distribution in 2020, it will make its way around the world in 2021.

As of December, two primary vaccines were developed by Phizer/BioNTech and Moderna, though AstraZeneca, Janssen, and Novavax continue their Phase 3 clinical trials. The vaccine developed by Phizer/BioNTech was found to be 90% effective in preventing COVID-19, while Moderna’s vaccine is 94.1% effective.

On December 8th, Margaret Keenan, a 91-year-old British woman, was vaccinated with the Pfizer vaccine, making her the first person in the world to receive it following approval. She is only the first of billions of people who will take the injection, but it’s a massive win in the war against the virus.^[1]

9 A Possible Control For Malaria Was Discovered

Malaria is one of the deadliest diseases on the planet, and nearly half the world’s population lives in areas at risk of transmission. In 2016, malaria caused around 216 million clinical episodes, leading to the deaths of 445,000 people.

It’s often the number one killer in the places it runs rampant, and the World Health Organization estimated that 90% of deaths in 2016 resulted from malaria infections in the WHO Africa Region.

Measures to control mosquito populations have run the gamut of scientific advancement. Ongoing efforts to genetically alter mosquitos are underway, and other measures include the use of pesticides and other means to stop the pests from transmitting malaria to humans.

A new discovery in May could finally offer up a means of taking the fight to malaria directly. A team of Kenyan and British scientists discovered Microsporidia MB, a parasitic microbe that blocks mosquitos from carrying malaria.

The discovery of Microsporidia MB may pave the way in controlling the spread of malaria, making it a significant discovery. Research is underway in developing the discovery into a viable means of controlling the spread of the disease.^[2]

8 The #MeToo Movement Scored A Huge Victory

The #MeToo movement began in 2006 on MySpace, but it wasn’t until 2020 that the movement achieved a truly significant victory. That’s when widespread accusations of sexual-abuse that exposed Harvey Weinstein finally came to fruition with a conviction in February. Weinstein’s legal troubles pushed women from all over the entertainment industry to speak out.

Alyssa Milano posted on Twitter, “If all the women who have been sexually harassed or assaulted wrote ‘Me too’ as a status, we might give people a sense of the magnitude of the problem.” The attention she brought to the situation brought the #MeToo movement to the forefront of sexual assault and sexual harassment in and out of the entertainment industry.

It took a few years, but the #MeToo movement achieved a huge success in 2020 when Weinstein was finally convicted for numerous crimes. On March 11th, Weinstein was sentenced to 23 years in prison, which is something his victims believed would never happen.

Weinstein’s conviction resulted from a charge of rape that occurred in a New York City hotel in 2013 and forcibly performing oral sex on another woman in 2006. While the full range of charges and the massive list of victims didn’t result in additional convictions, his imprisonment achieved a victory over a powerful man whose assaults went unchallenged for decades.^[3]

7 Africa Was Declared Free Of Wild Polio

Most people in the west don’t give polio a second thought, thanks to its eradication in many western nations by 1979. Unfortunately, the virus continued in various parts of the world where vaccination became difficult.

In countries like Nigeria, hundreds of people contracted the virus, with 2006 spiking to 1,100 cases, so worldwide eradication was and is ongoing. While wild polio remains a problem in parts of Afghanistan and Pakistan, it has finally been eradicated in Africa, which is a monumental achievement following decades of work.

The polio vaccine was developed by Dr. Jonas Salk in 1952, and by ’61, the oral polio vaccine came to market. Vaccination efforts were widespread in developed countries, but several less-developed nations in Asia and Africa remained affected by the poliovirus.

Immunization campaigns were launched by the likes of Nelson Mandela, who helped mobilize the “Kick Polio Out of Africa” campaign in 1996. In that year alone, 75,000 children across the continent were paralyzed by the virus, but it’s finally been defeated. 2020 marks the end of the wild poliovirus, which will no longer infect the children of Africa.^[4]

6 Sudan Finally Achieved Peace

The Republic of Sudan has been embroiled in conflict for decades, resulting from linguistic, cultural, and religious differences as well as divisions in political power. The Sudan Civil War erupted in 1983 and wasn’t settled until 2005, but the conflict didn’t truly end.

Sudan was ruled by a dictatorial government led by Omar al-Bashir between 1989 and 2019 when he was ousted via a successful coup d’état.

Throughout al-Bashir’s rule, Sudan was embroiled in human rights abuses and was a sponsor of global terrorism. Sudan’s role in the War in the Darfur region resulted in between 300,000 and 400,000 casualties. The government operated under Sharia law, but that changed, making it possible to achieve peace.

After the ouster of al-Bashir, Sudan formed a new secular government. By August, several major groups signed a preliminary peace deal. Sudan’s People’s Liberation Movement-North came to the table for the first time alongside two factions from the western region of Darfur and one from the south.

The conflicts that were started by Sudan’s former dictator were brought to an end. After decades of fighting, Sudan finally achieved peace. As a new democracy rose in North Africa, peace became the law of the land.^[5]

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5 Multiple Successes In Israeli-Arab Peace

While U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration has been relentlessly attacked by the media, it has achieved significant gains in the realm of Middle-East peace. Trump’s administration worked as the intermediary for two significant treaties that normalized relations between Israel and its Arab neighbors.

The Middle-East conflict has been ongoing for decades, but there hasn’t been a normalization of relations between Israel and a Middle-East nation since Jordan in 1994. Before that, Egypt signed a deal in 1979, but 26 years passed before another country stepped up.

The United Arab Emirates and Israel signed the historic Israel–United Arab Emirates normalization agreement on August 13th, 2020, making it the third Arab nation to formally normalize its relations with Israel. On September 15th, Bahrain did the same, when both countries officially signed their respective agreements brokered by the United States.

Efforts continue to bring more Arab nations to the negotiating table, as most have yet to recognize and normalize relations with Israel. Iran, Iraq, Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Saudi Arabia are among the dozens of nations that have yet to negotiate a similar agreement.^[6]

4 The Falkland Islands Were Declared Landmine-Free

In 1982, the United Kingdom and Argentina engaged in a 10-week-long undeclared war. The conflict resulted from a dispute over two British dependent territories: the Falkland Islands and the South Sandwich Islands. The Falklands War was relatively short, but it was intense, and one of the outcomes was the widespread use of landmines.

Landmines are one of the worst devices employed in warfare due to their wholly indiscriminate and deadly impact on whoever is unlucky enough to trigger one. Minefields from wars fought long ago remain in place for years, and the civilian population often pays the price with the loss of limbs and lives when mines are triggered.

Most countries have since signed treaties limiting or abolishing their use, but many minefields remain. The Falkland Islands became the home of some 30,000 landmines from the war, and it wasn’t until 1998 that a ratified treaty required their removal. Dangerous demining operations were carried out by hand and continued until October 2020.

The government finally declared the Falkland Islands to be mine-free, with the last site, Gypsy Cove, finalizing its last detonation. The beaches of Gypsy Cove had been off-limits since 1982, but they were finally free of the deadly devices, 38 years after they were first placed.^[7]

3 Dog Adoptions Soared, Thanks To COVID

It’s difficult to find anything good in the COVID-19 pandemic, and while the virus has impacted everyone’s lives negatively, some good has come of it. Shelter adoptions are on the rise, thanks to the void many people feel from being trapped in their homes for the bulk of the year.

The adoption of dogs has significantly increased throughout the United States, as locked-in folks find that they have the time and energy to bring a pet into their lives. The pandemic has created a nice boom for breeders, but it’s also increased pet adoptions from shelters, saving those animals from being destroyed.

Some shelters have seen a doubling of the number of adoptions they usually get in a single day. The Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Los Angeles saw between ten and 13 adoptions a day in late June.

For the first time in a long time, the “inventory” of shelter animals is running out, and people are being placed on waiting lists to get their hands on a puppy or adult dog. Every animal rescued from a kill shelter is a life saved, so it seems that a little good has come from our exile.^[8]

2 We Found Ways To Adapt And Overcome

COVID-19 may have come along and completely upended our lives, but people have learned to adapt and overcome for the most part. That’s not to say we’ve defeated the virus, but when people found themselves locked inside their homes for months at a time, we found ways to make it work.

Working from home went from being impossible in most businesses to being the norm, and that’s unlikely to change even after the pandemic ends. Things like drive-in movie theaters returned, and drive-in concerts joined in on the fun to become a thing.

People and companies with the know-how to do so changed their production efforts and began making masks for people all over the world, and many continue to do so on a regular basis. Liquor companies began making hand sanitizer to make up the shortfalls, and people from all over the world did what they could to help one another from afar.

While the pandemic may have been entirely negative, at least we found a way to adapt and overcome some of the virus’ impacts on our lives. It hasn’t been easy, but that hasn’t stopped hundreds of thousands of people from doing whatever they could to help others.^[9]

1 The Second-Largest Ebola Outbreak Ended

Because of COVID-19, it’s easy for most folks to overlook a smaller pandemic, and one ran rampant through half the year. The second-largest Ebola outbreak began in August 2018, and the Democratic Republic of Congo fought against it well into 2020.

Ebola is far deadlier than COVID-19, but it is possible to stop its spread, as it is, fortunately, not an airborne virus. Still, it’s incredibly contagious. Whenever it arises in Africa, it often kills a large number of people before it dies out. The Kivu outbreak that lasted two years infected 3,453 people, killing 2,280 of them.

The World Health Organization and volunteers from various agencies descended upon the DRC to fight the outbreak. By February 2020, the cases dwindled down to zero. Unfortunately, three cases emerged 52 days later, and the fight continued well into June.

On June 25th, the pandemic was declared “over,” bringing a two-year nightmare to an end. The largest Ebola outbreak occurred in West Africa between 2014 and 2016. That outbreak resulted in more than 11,000 deaths. Since that outbreak, the development of the rVSV-ZEBOV Ebola vaccine has helped to limit the spread to more vulnerable populations.

The vaccine is 97.5% effective at preventing transmission of Ebola, but distribution efforts have been hampered, making widespread vaccination difficult in the region.^[10]

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No one is going to be sad to see the back of 2020. Considering that this year lasted at least 30 months and brought extreme mayhem in the form of the ever-persistent Covid-19 pandemic, the vast majority of people worldwide would probably like to give 2020 a hard kick to help it on its way out the door as the clock strikes twelve on December 31.

However, 2020 or no, some traditions will be upheld on New Year’s even if festivities will be largely muted. On this list are just some of the weird (and wonderful) traditions you can partake in, come the last day of 2020, all the while adhering to Covid-19 protocols of course.

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10Bleigiessen

Should you find yourself in Germany on New Year’s Eve, you could take part in Bleigiessen or ‘lead pouring’ with a group of friends and family. Lead pouring is done while standing in a circle or a group and melting a small piece of lead on a spoon over a candle. Once the lead is melted, you drop it in a bowl or glass of cool water. This causes the lead to harden again into whatever shape it takes as it hits the water. The shape is said to predict what the new year holds in store for you.

For instance, if your blob of lead hardens in the shape of an eagle, you will fly and travel more in the upcoming year. If you find that the lead has taken the shape of a horse bit, you will soon have dental troubles. Should you be lucky enough to get the shape of a wheel, you will win the lottery, but if your lead takes on the shape of a cross it could mean death.^[1]

9Let it go

In Argentina, it is customary to see shreds of paper raining down on the streets of Buenos Aires on the last day of the year. This is because office workers have a tradition of throwing out all old documents, calendars, and notepad paper in shredded format, to welcome the new year with a clean desk and less clutter. The act of shredding paper and letting it fly is also believed to symbolize the letting go of all negativity and allowing positivity to enter one’s life. The sheer volume of the paper pieces that land in the city streets litters it for at least two days.

However, while the old paper ‘confetti’ might make the streets of Buenos Aires look a bit strange for a couple of days, it is far less hazardous than the tradition in some other countries of throwing pots, pans, furniture, and large appliances out of high-rise building windows.^[2]

8Hogmanay

From beautiful Scotland comes the tradition of Hogmanay which is also the Scots word for the last day of the year. Throughout the country, people observe New Year’s Eve by visiting the homes of friends and family and exchanging gifts. Special attention is given to the first guest of the New Year, known as the ‘first-foot’, as they are seen to be a bringer of good luck. The first-foot must carry salt, bread, a coin, whiskey, and a lump of coal with them as they enter a home. It is believed that Hogmanay started with the Vikings who celebrated the winter solstice with large parties towards the end of December.

Hogmanay is also celebrated in the form of events such as a torchlight procession in Edinburgh, street parties and firework displays. However, in 2020, Hogmanay is being hosted online with virtual events and parties narrated by a host of celebrities.^[3]

7Grab your suitcase

In Mexico, those who want to spend the upcoming new year travelling to exciting destinations might just try and increase their chances of seeing more of the world by grabbing a suitcase on New Years’ Eve and running around their house while dragging it along. Some believe the suitcase must be packed, so if it becomes a tad heavy, people walk around the house instead of run.

Another quite common tradition in Mexico is the wearing of red or yellow underwear to bring love and money, respectively. As the new year approaches, family and friends gather to enjoy a big dinner after which toasts are made with champagne. People then eat 12 grapes in 12 seconds to ensure their New Years’ wishes come true.^[4]

6Twice the celebration

Greenland is well known for their awesome firework displays that light up the night sky on December 31 as people ring in the new year. The country is autonomous and also part of Denmark, with Self Rule being inaugurated here in 2009.

Because of the link to Denmark, many Greenlanders celebrate New Year’s twice. They wait for the clock to strike 20:00 (which is midnight in Denmark) and then celebrate with fireworks and toasts. Four hours later, they do it all again when midnight strikes in Greenland. Considering what a crappy year 2020 was, it doesn’t seem like a bad idea to celebrate the arrival of 2021 more than once.^[5]

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5Eat a lot for good fortune

In some parts of Poland, the tradition of eating a massive New Year’s Eve dinner lives on. It is believed that eating a lot of food on the last night of the year will ensure that hunger never enters your home. Bread, meat, cake, and cabbage with peas are usually the staples of this special feast. For a truly traditional experience, you should have a bowl of ice-cold water poured over you before eating as it is customary in some regions to wash your whole body before dinner. A silver coin is placed at the bottom of the bowl and if it lands on the head of the person who took the ice shower, it must rest there untouched throughout the meal. This will ensure abundant riches in the coming year.^[6]

4First visitor

For many in Ireland, having a red-headed woman be the first visitor to their home on the first day of the new year is a sign of bad luck. On the other hand, a dark, handsome stranger, could mean good fortune all year ‘round. If you are in Ireland and don’t want to leave your new year fate up to a random visitor, you could create your own good luck by spring cleaning your home and starting the upcoming year with a clean slate. Furthermore, you could take Christmas bread and bang it on the doors and walls of your home to chase away back luck on New Year’s Eve and invite good spirits and good fortune in.

A beautiful Irish New Year’s tradition also sees families set a place at the dinner table for loved ones lost during the past year. They also leave the front door unlocked. This is done in honor and in the memory of deceased friends and family.^[7]

3Polar Bear Swim

Canada’s New Year’s traditions come in the form of ice fishing, ice skating with friends and family while watching a stunning firework display and enjoying live music, or keeping an eye out for the aurora borealis while reflecting on the year gone by.

Some revellers opt for an exciting (and freezing) activity to kick off the new year by jumping into ice cold sea water. At English Bay beach thousands gather on New Year’s Day annually either to partake in the Polar Bear Swim event or watch those brave enough to do so. Participants can take part in a 100-yard dash with the first three people to reach a buoy winning a prize. After the dash, thousands of participants then run into the freezing water of the Pacific Ocean where they splash around for several minutes before getting out and dressing quickly in warm clothing.

This highly popular event started in Vancouver in the early 1900s and will unfortunately not be taking place in 2021 due to Covid-19. However, residents are encouraged to take a dip in bathtubs or kiddies’ pools filled with icy water on 1 January 2021.^[8]

2Mochi pounding

If you are lucky enough to live in Hawaii or vacation there over the festive season, there are several awesome traditions you can observe for New Year’s. These include firework displays, eating sashimi, drinking ozone soup as well as mochi pounding (rice pounding). It is believed that eating sashimi will bring prosperity in the new year and that the round shape of mochi will bring family harmony.

Mochi pounding was done by Japanese plantation workers in the 19th century and involved an intricate ritual that included the rice being soaked for days and ceremonial mallets used to pound it into shape. These sticky rice cakes were once eaten by emperors and were symbolic of long life.

Many Hawaiian families prefer to buy mochi these days, but some still perform the tradition of pounding the mochi with usu and kine as part of their New Year’s celebrations.^[9]

1Joya no kane

Food also plays a big role in New Year’s celebrations in Japan. Noodles in hot broth (Toshikoshi soba) is traditionally eaten on New Year’s Eve, while o-sechi ryori is typically enjoyed on New Year’s Day. As in Hawaii, some Japanese families get together to prepare mochi, while others prefer to buy ready-made versions.

As midnight strikes on New Year’s Eve, bells ring out from Buddhist temples all over Japan. The temple bells are rung 108 times as this number represents the number of human desires which lead to pain and suffering. The ringing of the bells is known as joya no kane and is meant to be a ritual in which all negative emotions and experiences are driven away.

Furthermore, people also gather on beaches and mountaintops to observe the first sunrise of the new year and pray for good fortune and joy.^[10]

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