Amazing Bridges From Around the World

From art deco concrete constructions to ultra modern futuristic designs, some of the bridges are examples of the world's finest architecture. Whether crossing the bays, spanning the gorges, or winding through the cities, the bridges are also examples of the world's most demanding engineering challenges. 

See some of the most amazing bridges on the globe.

 

1. The Brooklyn Bridge

New York. USA.

Brooklyn Bridge at Night. By andrew mace

An iconic part of the New York skyline, the Brooklyn Bridge is one of the oldest suspension bridges in the USA. Designed to span the East River, the bridge was completed in 1883 and until 1903 it was the longest suspension bridge in the world.

2. The Millau Viaduct

South of France

By tibchris

Only 37 m (121 ft) shorter than the Empire State Building in New York, the Millau Viaduct is the tallest bridge in the world. 343.0 m (1,125 ft) tall and 2,460 m (8,071 ft) long, this giant construction, spanning the valley of the river Tarn, is one of the most impressive road-bridges on the globe. It was opened to traffic in December 2004.

3. The Helix Bridge

Singapore

The Helix Bridge. By williamcho

The Helix Bridge is an ultra modern double-helix structure that emerged in Singapore in April 2010. Besides its function of linking Marina Centre with Marina Bay in the city, the bridge also serves as a gallery and an observation platform, providing amazing views of Singapore.

4. The Millenium Bridge

London. UK.

Millenium Bridge. By marksteelenz

Among London's numerous bridges, the Millennium Footbridge a.k.a. the Wobbly Bridge, is the first pedestrian-only bridge crossing the River Thames. Linking the City of London, near St. Paul's' Cathedral and the Tate Modern Gallery, the bridge is one of the most pleasant walking paths in the city. It was opened in 2000, but due to some unexpected lateral vibration it was closed after two days of its opening and successfully reopened in 2002.

5. The Rainbow Bridge

Tokyo. Japan.

Rainbow Bridge. By Jukka Vuokko

The Rainbow Bridge linking Tokyo with Odaiba, the city's waterfront development, is one of the most romantic and beautiful landmarks of the metropolis. Completed in 1993, the bridge is almost 800 m long and 126 m high and its towers are designed to harmonize with the skyline of Tokyo. At night, the bridge glitters in different colors, using solar energy accumulated during the day.

6. The Navajo Bridge

Arizona. USA.

Navajo Bridge. By Lee Sie

For almost 600 miles (970 km), the Navajo Bridge is the only roadway crossing of the Colorado River and the Grand Canyon apart from the Glen Canyon Bridge. The original bridge was completed in 1929. However, due to the heavy traffic, the local authorities decided to construct a new steel arch bridge that was opened in 1995.

7.The Coronado Bridge

San Diego. USA.

Coronado Bridge. By Lee Sie

One of the most amazing bridges in California, the San Diego Coronado Bridge is a 3.4 km (2.1 mi) long part of State Route 75. Reaching a maximum height of 200 feet (61m), the span is tall enough to allow the U.S. Navy ships to pass underneath it. The construction of the bridge was commenced in 1967 and lasted two years.

8. The Tower Bridge

London. UK.

Tower Bridge. By vgm8383

The icon of London, the Tower Bridge is an amazing bascule and suspension bridge over the River Thames. Completed at the end of the 19th century, the bridge still serves as a busy and vital crossing of the river. 40,000 people cross the bridge every day and its bascules rise around 1,000 times a year.

9. The Octavio Frias de Oliveira Bridge

São Paulo. Brazil.

Ponte Estaiada, São Paulo.Brazil. By marcos leal

Within two years since its opening in 2008, the Octavio bridge, has become one of the most recognizable and attractive landmarks of the city of São Paulo. The unusual form of the bridge deck of an "X" makes the construction appear as a very modern and sophisticated development. The Octavio is the only bridge in the world where two curved tracks are supported by a single mast.

10. The Pennybacker Bridge

Austin. USA.

By CraigAllen

The Pennybacker Bridge is a part of Loop 360 highway, considered one of the most scenic routes in Texas, winding through the hills of West Austin. The beautiful construction, more commonly known as the "360 Bridge", has a uniform weathered rust finish that blends in with the surrounding hills and the lake. The bridge was officially opened for traffic in 1982.

 11. The Széchenyi Chain Bridge

Budapest. Hungary.

The Széchenyi Chain Bridge in Budapest. By Christopher Chan

Linking Buda, the western part of the Hungarian capital, with Pest, the eastern part of the city, the Széchenyi Chain Bridge on the Danube River was the first permanent bridge across the river, opened in 1849. At the time of its construction, the bridge was considered a wonder of the world and a symbol of advancement. Today, it still impresses with its art deco design and grandeur.

12. Hangzhou Bay Bridge

Hangzhou Bay. China.

By hto2008

Connecting the municipalities of Jiaxing and Ningbo in China, the Hangzhou Bay Bridge, of 22 miles (35.6 km), is the longest trans-oceanic bridge in the world. This impressively long highway bridge was opened in May 2008. Thanks to the bridge's opening, the highway travel distance between Shanghai and Ningbo was reduced from 4 to 2.5 hours.

13. The Golden Gate Bridge

San Francisco. USA.

The Golden Gate Bridge at Dusk. By Stuck in Customs

A symbol of San Francisco and the USA, the Golden Gate Bridge is truly a beautiful piece of architecture. No wonder it was ranked fifth on the List of America's Favorite Architecture by the American Institute of Architects. Apparently, the striking orange color was originally used as a sealant, but the locals persuaded Irving Morrow, the designer of the bridge, to keep it vibrant orange instead of going grey or silver.

14. The Henderson Waves Bridge

Singapore

Henderson Waves, Singapore. By yeowatzup

Running 36 meters above Henderson Road in Singapore, the Henderson Waves is the highest pedestrian-only bridge in the city, of a length of 274 meters (899 ft). It comes as no surprise that the absolutely extraordinary form of the wave-shape steel ribs that snake through the metropolis was awarded Design of the Year for the President's Design Award at the Singapore Design Week 2009.

15. Forth Railway Bridge

Scotland

Forth Railway Bridge. By Nestor M

The Forth Railway Bridge, connecting Fife council area with Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland, is the world's longest cantilever bridge for rail transport of a length of 2.5 km. (1.5 mile). Opened in 1890, it was the first bridge in Britain built entirely of steel and today it is still regarded as an engineering marvel.

Ten Amazing Cities with Beaches

The city and the beach - an amazingly complementary marriage, a perfect blend of sun and sea ambience mixed with bustling pace of big metropolises. If you love both an easy access to the sea and the vibe of an urban life style, here are the cities to be, to live, to visit...From Lima to Sydney, these cities have it all the beachgoer and the city dweller in one may need to lead a happy life. 

10. Miraflores Beach

Lima. Peru.

Lima might not be the most appealing city in the world, but the beaches surrounding the Peruvian capital are simply fantastic. So, despite the fact that Lima is the fourth largest city in Latin America, its location on the coast overlooking the Pacific Ocean, makes it an excellent and relaxing beach destination. Among city's numerous beaches Miraflores is the top beach district, with a long stretch of sand, great restaurants offering the finest local cuisine and great surfing spots such as Waikiki and Makaha playas.

 Miraflores beach, Lima, Perú.

9. Brighton Beach

Brighton. England.

Less than an hour from the busy hectic and tiring London, there is Brighton, the most vibrant seaside resort in England, with great beach (though pebbled), excellent dining opportunities and fantastic nightlife that could easily rival the clubs of London. During summer when London's city life becomes unbearable, there is no better place to escape than the energetic Brighton. The town's beach has been even awarded a blue flag, an award given to the beaches of high environmental and quality standards.

 Brighton.

 8. Repulse Bay

Hong Kong

Located in the southern part of the frantic busy Hong Kong, the Repulse Bay is an ideal beach escape from the intensity of the city. In the 19th century the bay was a base for local pirates which were subsequently repulsed (hence the name) by the British Navy. At the beginning of the 20th century the bay was developed into a beach and today it is one of the most expensive residential areas in the city.

 Repulse Bay.

7. Siloso Beach

Singapore

The city-state of Singapore is comprised of 63 islands so the abundance of great beaches is guaranteed. Despite its modern approach, with which most people associate the city, Singapore's location off the southern tip of the Malay Peninsula makes it truly a terrific destination for beachgoers. Among the most amazing white sand stretches is Siloso Beach on Sentosa Island - an oasis of tranquillity and peace in the bustling metropolis of Singapore.

 Siloso Beach.

6. Praia Guincho

Lisbon. Portugal.

There is no other European capital located so close to such fantastic beaches as Lisbon. The city is a perfect mix of a historical charming old town, vibrant modern metropolis and absolutely fantastic beach area. Lisbon's coast has it all: sheltered little coves, long beaches, white sands and excellent swimming and surfing conditions. The most spectacular city's beach is, without a doubt, Praia do Guincho, Mecca for windsurfers, sun addicts and wave lovers.

 Praia Guincho.

5. Barceloneta Beach

Barcelona. Spain.

In the heart of Barcelona, one of the most fantastic cities in Europe, right next to the old historical town lies Barceloneta, an exciting waterfront area, filled with superb restaurants, clubs and bars. Around one kilometre long, the beach is one of the biggest and the most famous stretches of sand in the city, though before the 1992 Olimpic Games, the whole district was nothing but the post-industrial neglected area. Today, Barceloneta is, besides its obvious attractions such as swimming and sunbathing, home to striking monument 'Homenatge a la Barceloneta' or the futuristic sculpture by Frank Gehry, the Fish.

 Barceloneta.

4. Copacabana

Rio de Janeiro. Brazil.

The list of the world's greatest city beaches would not be complete without Copacabana, famed for its gorgeous Brazilin girls, hot atmosphere and reputation of the world's most renowned stretch of sand. Located in the southern zone of the city Rio de Janeiro, this absolutely fantastic 4-kilometer long beach is a must-visit destination that has it all - golden sands, great waves, gorgeous crowd, and one of its kind ambience.

 Copacabana.

3. Bondi Beach

Sydney. Australia.

Ok, it is not the longest and most beautiful beach in the world, but the undisputable charm of Bondi Beach attracts beachgoers from all over the world to lie in the sun on this most famous beach in Australia. The closeness to the busting city of Sydney makes Bondi such a fabulous relaxing spot, with great surf breaks, some quite impressive cliffs, white gentle sand, great beachfront pubs and restaurant and laid-back atmosphere.

 Bondi Beach.

2. Camps Bay Beach

Cape Town. South Africa.

Another city, particularly blessed with some extraordinary natural settings is Cape Town. Its world-class vineyards, wild Table Mountain and sunny beaches make it absolutely adorable place to be, to live, to visit. Camps Bay beach is truly a city's jewel, offering its visitors azure waters, white sands and stunning views of Lion's Head and the Twelve Apostles. Thanks to its location in the bay, the beach is calm and good for swimming, though its northern part likes to go wild, providing great surfing conditions.

 Camps Bay Beach.

1. Ipanema Beach

Rio de Janeiro. Brazil.

Ipanema Beach is a legend. Separated from Copacabana by a rocky peninsula called Ponta do Arpoador, the Ipanema is considered to be more sophisticated and elegant than its famous sister. With the beautiful view of the two mountains called the "Dois Irmãos", raising at the western end of the beach, Ipanema has become a landmark of the city and one of the most popular and recognized beaches in the world.

Best Wildlife Watching Places

Observing wildlife in its natural environment is an amazing feeling. Since most of us live far from nature, seeing wild animals becomes more and more rare, and hence a special and unforgettable experience. See the world's best locations for coming face to face with incredible wildlife, be it the polar bears living in the cold North, funky orangutans of Borneo, or nimble cheetahs in Africa. 

10. The Yellowstone National Park. USA.

Elk.

A wild destination close to those living in the USA is the Yellowstone National Park, shared by Wyoming, Montana and Idaho. It is the world's oldest national park (established in 1872), and home to wonderful wildlife. The park is considered to be the finest megafauna habitat in the lower 48 states. There are almost 60 species of mammals living in the Yellowstone, such as, among others, the bison, grizzly bear, elk or mule deer.

Bufallos.

Elk.

9. Gorilla Trek. The Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Uganda

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

The rich jungle forest of the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is a sanctuary for the Bwindi gorillas - it is inhabited by half of the world's population of endangered Mountain Gorillas. The popular gorilla trekking activity involves walking in the forest in search for these amazing animals. The park is also a great location for bird watching - there are 348 species of birds that can be found in the Bwindi.

Gorillas.

Gorillas.

8. Kangaroo Island. Australia.

Koala.

Thanks to its isolation from the mainland Australia, Kangaroo Island, or KI as the locals call it, has remained a truly wide destination featuring the iconic animals of the continent. Kangaroos, koalas, wallabies, echidnas and sea lions that live in the numerous national, conservation and private parks can be seen almost everywhere on the KI. Moreover, the island is inhabited by the unique KI Kangaroo, which is smaller and darker than its mainland brother.

Kangaroos.

Sea Lions.

7. The Komodo and Rinca Islands. Indonesia.

Rinca Island.

Komodo and Rinca, two of the 17,508 islands of the Republic of Indonesia, are famous for its unusual giant inhabitant - the Komodo Dragon. It is the largest living species of lizard - it can be between 2 to 3 m (6.6 to 9.8 ft) long, weighing approx. 70 kilograms (150 lb). The lizards are carnivores, and although they eat mostly carrion, and attacks on humans are very rare, it is smart to keep them at the distance. The islands are also great for seeing dolphins, mantas, sharks, whales and sea turtles.

Komodo Dragon.

Buffalo and young Komodo Dragon

6. The Denali National Park. Alaska

Grizzly Bear.

The scenic beauty and the enormous population of wild animals make the Denali National Park in Interior Alaska another great destination for wildlife viewing. The park is home to grizzly bears, black bears, wolves, dall sheep, moose and many species of birds (such as ptarmigan, waxwings, Arctic Warblers, pine grosbeaks) and fish. With the Mt. McKinley towering above the landscape, the park is one of the most enchanting wild destinations in North America.

Ptarmigan.

Bull moose.

5. Borneo Island

Borneo.

The mighty rainforest of Borneo, the world's third largest island, is the only natural habitat for the Bornean Orangutan. Watching these amazing animals in the wild is an exceptional experience not to be missed while visiting the island. There are around 45,000 Bornean Orangutans existing in the wild, but they are becoming increasingly endangered due to rainforest lumbering.

Orangutan.

Orangutan.

4.The Hudson Bay.  Canada.

Polar bears.

The small town of Churchill, Manitoba, located along the shores of the Hudson Bay in Canada is the "Polar Bear Capital of the World". Every year during autumn (October, November) the polar bears move toward the shore from inland to wait until the water freezes so they can hunt seals. Once the ice forms, the bears are out of the town.

Hudson Bay.

Polar Beer.

3. Kaikoura, New Zealand.

Kaikoura.

The beautiful Kaikoura Peninsula in New Zealand that extends into the sea south of the town is one of the world's best locations for viewing the whales, dolphins and seals. The peninsula has a splendid geographical setting and the upwelling currents bring an abundance of marine life from the depths of the nearby Hikurangi Trench. At different times of the year visitors can see several species of whale, though the giant Sperm Whale is almost always there.

Seals .

Sperm Whale.

2. Galapagos Islands

Sea Lion.

Wildlife is the most notable feature of the Galapagos Islands, the archipelago located around the equator in the Pacific Ocean. The islands are famous for their most prominent visitor Charles Darwin, who developed his theory of evolution by observing the archipelago's wild inhabitants. A bit moon-looking islands are home similarly alien-looking animals such as marine iguana or weird Riftia pachyptila - giant tube worms. Besides, Galapagos are inhabited by sea lions, whales, marine turtles, Nazca boobies, Galápagos Penguins, Pelicans and Flightless Cormorant .

Marine Iguana.

Galapagos Tortoise.

1. Kenya

Cheetah.

An array of amazing, wild, beautiful animals can be found in Kenya, the country of national parks, exceptional wildlife and fascinating nature. Be it the huge elephants of the Amboseli National Park, the Lake Nakuru National Park filled with stunning flamingos, or the Tsavo National Park, the most untouched and the wildest of all reserves, Kenya is a truly great and rewarding destination to admire the animals in their natural habitat.

Waterbuck.

Elephants.

Be a responsible observer, always keep a safe distance, and don't distress the wildlife. Remember that most of the animals mentioned here are endangered species, and you may always help to protect and preserve them by supporting the local and international conservation projects.