Spices were one of the main products in early international trade. Many of today's popular pungent plant-based flavors are the same as their equally desirable fore-bearers.

Though sandy, palm-framed beaches dominate the calendar industry and the imaginations of tourists, the world's rocky, rugged coastlines are no less stunning

Though they are relegated to game show gross-out props in much of the West, bugs are quite eco-friendly protein sources.

Rivers are still important transportation routes in places where roads and rails cannot go. They are also a source of energy and drinking water.

Desert topography seems especially alien. It is no surprise that some of the world's most unusual and spectacular flowers and trees are found in the desert.

For these animals, negotiating rocky terrain and finding food in such a scarce environment is second nature.

From cougars to crocodiles and alligators to hippopotamuses and rhinos, you would be surprised to see what exotic animals some people own as pets.

There are species of undomesticated animals that retain some or all of their wildness while performing tasks that benefit humans.

There are many unlikely animals that are able to endure or adapt to harsh environments. Here are some of the greatest of these survivor species.

Though the islands on this list are not as well known as the world's biggest and most scenic isles, they have plenty of characteristics that make them among the world's most unique islands.

These natural places feel like they belong far away from city life, yet they are surprisingly near some of the world's greatest cities.

There are many eco-friendly ways to approach pest control whether the problem is slugs on your patio or a snake in the pool, no need to rely on harsh chemicals.

Like any art form, bonsai has its stars and envelope pushers. Here are a half-dozen of the world's most creative bonsai artists.

A magical sunset can take your breath away. Some photographers are able to capture and even enhance the beauty of a sunset through HDR photography.