Ian Hernandez

Top 6 Nations Protecting Nature—and 3 That Are Not

Ian Hernandez

Costa Rica: A Leader in Biodiversity Conservation Costa Rica: A Leader in Biodiversity Conservation (image credits: rawpixel) Costa Rica has emerged as a global beacon for environmental stewardship, with approximately 60% of its land area now covered by forests—a remarkable recovery from the 1980s when forest cover had dwindled to around 40%. ([theglobaleconomy.com](https://www.theglobaleconomy.com/Costa-Rica/forest_area/?utm_source=openai)) This resurgence …

The Top 7 Happiest Countries to Live In (And 3 of the Least Joyful to Skip)

Ian Hernandez

Finland: The Pinnacle of Happiness Finland: The Pinnacle of Happiness (image credits: unsplash) Finland stands at the very top of the World Happiness Report 2024, boasting a remarkable happiness score of 7.8 out of 10. The country’s unique blend of social trust, robust welfare systems, and stunning natural beauty creates an environment where contentment thrives. …

5 Eco-First Countries and 4 That Are Falling Short

Ian Hernandez

In the global pursuit of sustainability, certain nations have emerged as frontrunners, setting exemplary standards in environmental stewardship. Conversely, some countries continue to grapple with significant challenges, hindering their progress toward eco-friendly practices. This article delves into five nations leading the charge in sustainability and four that are currently falling short. 1. Sweden: A Model …

Top 6 Sustainability Stars and 3 That Are Failing the Planet

Ian Hernandez

1. Patagonia: Leading the Charge in Ethical Fashion 1. Patagonia: Leading the Charge in Ethical Fashion (image credits: unsplash) Patagonia remains a trailblazer in sustainable fashion, consistently pushing boundaries with its bold environmental leadership. As of 2024, the company has donated over $100 million to environmental causes through its 1% for the Planet pledge, a …

8 Green-Minded Countries and 2 That Are Stuck in the Past

Ian Hernandez

1. Sweden: A Leader in Sustainability 1. Sweden: A Leader in Sustainability (image credits: unsplash) Sweden has long been at the forefront of environmental sustainability, setting ambitious goals and implementing effective policies to achieve them. By 2024, the country achieved a remarkable milestone, with wind power surpassing nuclear energy in electricity production for the first …

Top 6 Environmentally Friendly Countries and 3 That Miss the Mark

Ian Hernandez

Sweden: A Leader in Sustainability Sweden: A Leader in Sustainability (image credits: pixabay) Sweden stands at the forefront of environmental action, with policies and cultural values that place sustainability at the core of national identity. In 2024, Sweden reaffirmed its commitment to achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2045, a target that is both ambitious …

Why Spanish Cities Are Planning to Turn Tourists Away

Ian Hernandez

The Overcrowding Dilemma The Overcrowding Dilemma (image credits: pixabay) Barcelona stands as a powerful example of a city overwhelmed by its own popularity. In 2023, the city welcomed around 30 million tourists, a number that dwarfs its population of just 1.6 million. This surge has created daily congestion in historic neighborhoods like the Gothic Quarter, …

Photos of Athens’ Ancient Majesty

Ian Hernandez

The Acropolis: A Timeless Icon The Acropolis: A Timeless Icon (image credits: unsplash) Rising dramatically above the city, the Acropolis is a vision of ancient splendor that has captivated minds for centuries. Its marble columns and sacred temples are instantly recognizable, anchoring Athens as the birthplace of Western civilization. The site’s most famous landmark, the …

10 Gorgeous Mexican Towns That Deserve More Attention

Ian Hernandez

Valle de Bravo Valle de Bravo (image credits: wikimedia) Valle de Bravo sits like a jewel among the mountains in the State of Mexico, with a shimmering lake that mirrors the sky. It offers a tranquil escape from the bustle of Mexico City, yet it’s still off the radar for many global travelers. The town …

Photos of Cairo’s Timeless Power

Ian Hernandez

The Great Pyramids: A Testament to Ancient Engineering The Great Pyramids: A Testament to Ancient Engineering (image credits: unsplash) The Great Pyramids of Giza rise from the desert with a silent strength that has captured imaginations for thousands of years. Built over 4,500 years ago, these colossal structures remain a symbol of the ingenuity and …