Random old Bing wallpapers

Cave and Basin National Historic Site is a protected area in Banff National Park that houses geothermally heated hot springs. The uncovering of the caves, first recorded in 1859, led to the foundation of not only this park but Canada’s entire national parks system in 1885. Briefly, water from the springs was sold as a cure-all, until they were turned into a bathing site in 1914. The pool was closed for swimming in 1994, but guests can still enjoy the natural beauty of the springs and the cave. If you're still in need of a soak, worry not, the Banff Upper Hot Springs are located a mere five kilometres away.

Half a year is about to pass this year. Today is "Natsugoe Exorcism". It is said that thatch rings are erected at shrines in various places, and by passing through them, you can exorcise half a year's worth of defilement...

Kyoto, Heian Shrine also held a summer exorcism ceremony, and a huge thatched ring was erected at the Ōtenmon Gate, which is an important cultural property. After passing through the thatch circle, how about having Kyoto's Japanese sweets "Minazuki" to eat on this day?

Today we’re visiting the lush Lauterbrunnen valley in the Bernese Alps of Switzerland. Nestled between huge rock faces and mountain peaks, Lauterbrunnen is believed to have inspired Rivendell, a valley in J.R.R. Tolkien's fictional world of Middle-earth in the ‘The Lord of the Rings’ and ‘The Hobbit’. Like Tolkien's mythical elf settlement, Lauterbrunnen valley has a bit of storybook appeal, with an unusually narrow valley floor surrounded by steep Alpine cliffs and numerous waterfalls. There are 72 waterfalls in total, some of which are as high as 400 metres.

The Bordeaux wine region, in southwestern France, is renowned for its illustrious viticultural history. Characterised by a maritime climate with Mediterranean influences, the region offers a diverse range of reds and whites, including the renowned Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot blends. In this region, the sprawling vineyards of the Médoc produce some truly exceptional wines. September marks the start of grape harvesting, with famous appellations like Margaux, Pauillac, Saint-Julien and Saint-Estèphe preserving ancient winemaking traditions.

The area's history is mirrored in its architecture, with grand chateaus dotting the landscape, exemplifying past opulence. Château Margaux and Château Lafite Rothschild showcase the region's aristocratic history.

These ancestral grounds also host the unique Marathon du Médoc. Established in 1985, it occurs annually in September, winding through vineyards. Known as the 'longest marathon in the world', it merges running with wine tasting amid splendid châteaux and vineyards. Participants often wear themed costumes each year.