Godzi the Bunblebee: Nature

The Ring of Brodgar

The Ring of Brodgar is located in the outskirts of Orkney, Scotland. One of the many rock circles across Britain, The Ring of Brodgar is the third largest of them all, with 27 stone monoliths ranging from 2.1 to a maximum of 4.1 meters in height.

It was one of the first ceremonial places in the British Isles and it was first recorded in the 16 century, in one of Jo Ben’s writings. The exact date of the site is unknown and there hasn’t been any digging inside the stone circle to determine its age, but it is believed it dates back to 2500 BC.

There were originally 60 stones in the Ring of Brodgar but only 27 still stand tall today. the last research was conducted here back in the 70s.

Moses Miracle of Jindo in South Korea

Jindo Island, in South Korea, is host to one of the world’s most amazing natural phenomenons, called the Moses Miracle. Two times a year, during a low tide, a land path 2.8 kilometers long and 40 meters wide is revealed, uniting the islands of Jindo and Modo for a period of one hour. A festival is dedicated to this natural wonder and people from all around the world attend every year. However the Moses Miracle was largely unknown until 1975, when a French ambassador visited South Korea and wrote about in a French Newspaper.

The legend behind this Korean phenomenon goes like this: a Jindo village was attacked by tigers and all the villagers ran to Modo island for shelter. All, except for a helpless old woman who was left behind, out of despair she prayed to the Sea God, who split the sea and helped her escape the bloodthirsty animals.

The Moses Miracle just took place on May 18th.

Features of Moses Miracle of Jindo in South Korea

- The festival named Jindo Sea Parting Festival usually takes place three times a year in March, May and July. However with the growing tide of enthusiast tourists the festival is decided to be held in the month of April also.

- For capturing a grand view of the sea dividing in two halves and making a pathway, one can enjoy it either by climbing a hill or you can also take a stroll through the revealed seaway. The Moses Miracle of Jindo is something which should really be experienced in person.

- The Festival events related to the Moses Miracle of Jindo are thoroughly relished by millions of visitors. The Jindo folksongs and the special Korean dance named Ganggangsullae are performed and enjoyed by professionals and visiting tourists alike.

- Other attractions of the Moses Miracle of Jindo comprises of a firework display, laser beam show, an outstanding performance by the Korean Shamanists, and a traditional musical extravaganza along with a drum performance.

Gigantic Hearts From Above

So you've got some spare airmiles and want to impress on a date but you're struggling to think of a place to go which is unique and romantic at the same time. Well you can't go wrong with a visit to one of the many heart-shaped features of our planet. Heart-shaped forests, lakes, islands.... provided you can find the right vantage point when you arrive, these spots can't be beaten when it comes to romance.

1. Heart-Shaped Forest, Cantabria, Spain

This beautifully shaped forest can be found in Cantabria, Northern Spain. However, the forest will only take on the heart shape seen in the above photograph when viewed from this angle. See the forest on Google Maps here.
2. Heart-Shaped Island, Gutierrez Lake, Patagonia

A beautiful heart-shaped, tree covered island can be found in Patagonia, Argentina, and is best viewed from the East side of Gutierrez Lake. See the island on Google Maps here.

3. Heart-Shaped Wetland, Guandu Nature Park, Taiwan

Guandu Nature Park is, believe it or not, a nature park situated in Taipei City. Within the park you'll find the heart-shaped wetland pictured above. See it on Google Maps here.

4. Tavarua Island, Fiji

Tavarua Island is a stunning heart-shaped island paradise just off the coast of Viti Levu, surrounded by coral reef. It's also home to a beautiful resort, perfect for a spot of romance. See the island on Google Maps here.

5. Galesnjak, Croatia

Another beautifully shaped island can be found just south of Zadar in Croatia. Called Galesnjak, this little gem measures just 1/2 kilometre at its widest point and must be reached by boat. See the island on Google Maps here.

6. Heart-Shaped Lake, Ohio

A perfectly heart-shaped lake can be found near Columbia Hills Corners in Ohio, but not much else is known about this curious feature. It seems to be part of a private residence. See the lake on Google Maps here.

7. Heart-Shaped Mangrove, Voh, New Caledonia

Probably the most well-known heart-shaped piece of land is this incredible mangrove in New Caledonia, made famous by aerial photographer Yann Arthus Bertrand and featured on the front cover of his book, Earth From Above. See the mangrove on Google Maps here.

8. Heart-Shaped Lake, Chembra, India

Itself a major tourist attraction, the lake near the top of Chembra Peak in India is said to have never dried up. Apparently over 150 people pass the lake every day during the 3km journey to the top. See the area on Google Maps here.

9. Heart Reef, Great Barrier Reef of the Whitsundays

Heart Reef is a naturally formed, heart-shaped collection of coral in Australia. Obviously the reef can only be appreciated from the air, but the view is definitely worth the cost. See the area on Google Maps here.