Ancient pour: In the heart of Athlone, Ireland, Sen's Bar has been serving up pints and stories since 900 C.E., making it over 1,100 years old. Believed to have been founded by a man named Luan, the riverside tavern still features wattle-and-wicker walls from the ninth century. Its slightly tilted floor was designed to drain rainwater toward the River Shannon, a practical detail preserved to this day. Coins uncovered during 1970 renovations now sit in Ireland's National Museum, helping verify its long history. Recognised by Guinness World Records as the oldest pub in Ireland, it's also a strong contender for the oldest pub in the world. Step inside, and you're standing in more than a thousand years of hospitality, music, laughter, and timeless charm.
Dog haven: In the hills near Heredia, Costa Rica, thousands of dogs roam freely across open fields, splash through streams, and rest beneath trees. This place, known as Territorio de Zaguates or Land of the Strays, grew from a single rescue into a vast sanctuary where abandoned dogs are given names, care, and the chance to be adopted. What began as one woman's response to a single neglected animal became a mission too big for city life. The dogs now live in large packs, learning from each other and enjoying long daily walks through the countryside. Adoptions reach across borders and touch hearts between continents. In this valley of wagging tails, rescue turns into belonging.
Fragile harmony: In Japan, a team of expert glassblowers has shaped something few thought possible a fully functional violin made entirely of glass. With a shimmering scroll, curved body, and precisely formed contours, the instrument closely mimics the look and proportions of a traditional wooden violin. Though delicate, it's played using a horsehair bow, allowing the higher notes to resonate with a bright, otherworldly clarity unlike any standard instrument. The project, led by a company known more for teapots than concertos, pushes the boundaries of what molten glass can become. The glass violin weighs noticeably more than its wooden cousin, but the craftsmanship is unmistakable, and many listeners say it positively sings.
Grime canvas: Instead of spraying paint, reverse graffiti uses dirt as its backdrop. Artists or advertisers remove grime from select areas on walls or sidewalks using stencils, creating clean patches that form messages or images. This form of street art, sometimes called clean tagging, has evolved into a tool for businesses to catch attention without traditional posters. Locations are chosen based on foot traffic and target audience habits, from shopping areas to school routes. Since it doesn't add anything to the surface, some consider reverse graffiti to be less invasive than typical tags. Still, local rules vary, so it's best to check before cleaning the streets. The results are fleeting, but that only adds to their charm.