The Torch of the Statue of Liberty
No trip to the Big Apple is complete without taking the ferry across to see the copper lady who stands watching the New York city skyline. Gifted from the French in 1886, it was designed by Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi, while the metalwork was completed by the famous Gustave Eiffel.
But it’s still there, you may cry. It is, and you can still climb up to get magnificent views of Manhattan from the crown of Lady Liberty if you make an appointment, however, you can no longer reach the great heights of her torch. Since 1916, guests are not allowed access to the torch, as it is deemed too dangerous.
The “Underwater Amazon”
The coral reefs that sit off the Raja Ampat archipelago, in Indonesia, are some of the most beautiful in the world. They are home to rich biodiversity and a variety of marine life that isn’t present anywhere else. Until very recently, it was dubbed the “Underwater Amazon”, but unfortunately that changed dramatically.
In March 2017, a British cruise ship veered off its course and crashed into the stunning coral reefs. This was no ordinary accident, as the impact was felt across 1,600 square meters of the reef. In order for the reef to restore naturally, it could take up to 100 years, so it’s something we won't see in our lifetime.
The Azure Window
Fans of travel magazines and blogs may have spotted the pretty Azure Window in Malta, where visitors can gaze at the sea through a naturally formed “window”. Insta travelers also went crazy for this spot and the eagle-eyes among Game of Thrones viewers will know it appeared in the very first episode of the series.
Sadly, the rock formation is no longer. It had stood on the island of Gozo, Malta, since around the 18th century and weathered many different storms, but in March 2017, it finally gave way after a series of heavy storms. The 92-foot natural limestone formation is now scattered on the seabed and although there have been discussions to display the rocks in an exhibition, it won’t ever be the same.
Kaimu Beach
Once one of Hawaii’s most famous beaches, Kaimu Beach was a picturesque stretch covered in black sand. Located in Puna, the beach attracted thousands of tourists to the area to swim in the shade of the many palm trees and capture photos of the unusual colored sand. However, the sand was black for a reason.
Kaimu was located near the Kilauea Volcano, which bubbled away almost continuously from 1983 - 2018. Unfortunately in 1990, Kilauea had quite a huge eruption, and lava exploded from the volcano down onto the town of Kalapana and covered Kaimu Beach. The town was rebuilt but sadly, the beach is buried under 50 feet of lava.
Vance Creek Bridge
Located in the Satsop Hills in Washington, this arch bridge was built in 1929 as part of a transport route for the Simpson Logging Company. It is the second tallest railroad arch bridge in the country. However, it was decommissioned in the 1970s, so now it’s just a tourist attraction (and part of the National Register of Historic Places).
In the noughties, thrill-seekers and those looking for a cool ‘gram shot started frequenting the bridge. Unfortunately, it also attracted vandals, so graffiti and even arson began taking place there. The owners decided that it wasn’t safe, so barriers were erected and the wooden deck was removed to deter people from climbing on it or taking photos.
New York Hippodrome
Located on Sixth Avenue, between West 43rd and West 44th streets in New York City, the New York Hippodrome was once the largest theater in the world. It had a capacity of 5,300 people and it had state of the art technology, so it accommodated fascinating circuses and performance acts from all over. The beautiful building had a Moorish facade and was a landmark on the cultural scene of the city.
The stage could host up to 1,000 performers, and elephants even crossed the boards. However, its size probably went against it, as smaller theaters began accommodating plays and movies. The final death knell was World War II, when it was closed and slated for demolition. Now, an office building stands in its place, so the Hippodrome can no longer be appreciated.
Legzira Beach
Thankfully, this beach still exists, but the view isn’t quite the same as it once was. The trouble with natural attractions is that erosion (or man) can often change things over the course of time. Once, Legzira beach in Morocco was famed for a set of rust-colored arches that provided the most incredible sunset backdrop.
Unfortunately in 2016, one of the arches collapsed, affecting the view, although it is still remarkable. One of the arches remains standing, but experts advise that it won’t last long, due to the elements. Those wishing to get one of the final snaps better get a move on to capture this naturally beautiful formation.
The Jeffrey Pine
The Jeffrey Pine, probably one of the most famous trees that ever existed, stood on the Sentinel Dome in Yosemite National Park and was pictured as far back as 1867. The tree was also the subject of a famous photograph by Ansel Adams. This much-loved landmark died of drought in 1977, but it didn’t actually fall until 2003.
Thousands of tourists visited the landmark over the years, and it became something of a dystopian icon. Although you can still visit the Sentinel Dome, and see its remains, it doesn’t quite captivate the way it once did, but thankfully there are many photos to remember its weird shape.
Wedding Cake Rock
This jaw-dropping natural phenomenon isn’t easy to get to. Located in the Royal National Park in New South Wales, Australia, it is only accessible by a strenuous hike, often under a hot sun. Still, the views of this rock are pretty spectacular. Unfortunately, you can’t capture that amazing picture anymore.
Wedding Cake Rock is known for its layered white sandstone that looks stunning against the backdrop of endless blue Tasman Sea. The area became increasingly popular in the teens of this century, but it also prompted concerns about vandals ruining the area and as such, it has been shut off to the public. Surveys have been carried out which suggest the perch could drop into the sea, so it’s unlikely to be accessible to the public ever again.
The Original Penn Station
For residents of New York City, getting in and out of Penn Station as quickly as possible is a priority, even if tourists like to linger. However, the original built-in 1910 was the first station where passengers from the south of the country could travel directly to the city. The beautiful building was considered a masterpiece of the Beaux-Arts style.
The original structure was huge, with towering pillars and arched glass ceilings. Unfortunately, a decision was made to tear it down when passenger numbers declined and it was removed in 1963, to be replaced with Madison Square Garden. It’s a huge loss for architectural history that it no longer stands.
AstroWorld
While probably not as historically important as some of the sights on this list, Six Flags AstroWorld would be no less vital in the minds of kids who grew up around Houston, Texas, or indeed those who traveled from further afield. This was a theme park that spread across 104 acres, which is a lot of fun to be had. There was even a water park for those who got tired of the rides on land!
Unfortunately, after only 37 years in existence, AstroWorld was no more. Basically, the park’s performance no longer deemed it viable, so Six Flags decided to shut it down. Now, all that remains is the Loop 610 bridge that went from the park to the parking lot. No more Ultra Twister or Der Fender Bender for Texans. However, rapper Travis Scott paid homage to it, when he named his third album AstroWorld.
Lascaux Cave Paintings
The Lascaux cave paintings were discovered in 1940 when a group of teenage boys stumbled upon it. One of their dogs fell into a hole, and the boys found a shaft with these incredible paintings on the walls. Animals, human figures, and abstract signs had been etched into the walls, dating up to 17,000 years!
The caves were opened to the public in 1948, attracting historians along with curious travelers. Unfortunately, this affected the air in the caves and different kinds of fungus began to grow. In 1963, the decision was made to close the caves to the public and now only a limited few have access to the paintings, for 20 minutes per week only to monitor the climatic conditions. Replicas of the paintings have been shown at galleries around the world.
Lascaux Cave Paintings
The Lascaux cave paintings were discovered in 1940 when a group of teenage boys stumbled upon it. One of their dogs fell into a hole, and the boys found a shaft with these incredible paintings on the walls. Animals, human figures, and abstract signs had been etched into the walls, dating up to 17,000 years!
The caves were opened to the public in 1948, attracting historians along with curious travelers. Unfortunately, this affected the air in the caves and different kinds of fungus began to grow. In 1963, the decision was made to close the caves to the public and now only a limited few have access to the paintings, for 20 minutes per week only to monitor the climatic conditions. Replicas of the paintings have been shown at galleries around the world.
Disney’s River Country
The first water park that Disney opened, River Country, had a rustic theme and used water from the nearby Bay Lake. However, the park proved that not everything Disney touches turns to gold as the park suffered from a series of incidents that affected its operation - including many attractions needing serious repairs, and several children dying at the park.
Disney made the decision to close the doors in 2001, citing necessary maintenance, but the park has never reopened. Now it looks like a scene from a disaster movie. Urban explorers have climbed over fencing to see how nature is reclaiming the site but it is officially closed off to the public. However, in 2018 Disney announced a new park would be built there, so perhaps years of experience (and successful water parks elsewhere) can ensure this one gains new glory.
Disney’s River Country
The first water park that Disney opened, River Country, had a rustic theme and used water from the nearby Bay Lake. However, the park proved that not everything Disney touches turns to gold as the park suffered from a series of incidents that affected its operation - including many attractions needing serious repairs, and several children dying at the park.
Disney made the decision to close the doors in 2001, citing necessary maintenance, but the park has never reopened. Now it looks like a scene from a disaster movie. Urban explorers have climbed over fencing to see how nature is reclaiming the site but it is officially closed off to the public. However, in 2018 Disney announced a new park would be built there, so perhaps years of experience (and successful water parks elsewhere) can ensure this one gains new glory.
The White Sand Beaches of Thailand
For years tourists have flocked to the pristine sands of Thailand, famed for their pale grains. Even before The Beach was filmed there, visitors were already arriving in droves. Over the past 15 years, every influencer worth their salt (or sand?) has captured some jaw-dropping images of them posing in places such as Phi Phi Leh island and Maya Bay.
Gradually, the Thai government and tourist board have woken up to the damage this is causing to their precious natural landscape. In 2018, a decision was made to close off certain islands and protect the white sands from sunbathers trampling all over them. No one is sure when they will reopen.
The White Sand Beaches of Thailand
For years tourists have flocked to the pristine sands of Thailand, famed for their pale grains. Even before The Beach was filmed there, visitors were already arriving in droves. Over the past 15 years, every influencer worth their salt (or sand?) has captured some jaw-dropping images of them posing in places such as Phi Phi Leh island and Maya Bay.
Gradually, the Thai government and tourist board have woken up to the damage this is causing to their precious natural landscape. In 2018, a decision was made to close off certain islands and protect the white sands from sunbathers trampling all over them. No one is sure when they will reopen.
The Berlin Wall
From 1961 until 1989, the Berlin Wall was a thick concrete divide between East and West Germany, that both were ruled quite differently. Artists would play near the Berlin Wall, hoping to reach the citizens on the other side, while tourists would visit, hoping to catch a glimpse of life beyond the wall. It was a symbol of the Iron Curtain, and many died trying to cross it.
After weeks of civil unrest and decades of people calling for the wall to be removed, it was finally torn down in 1990. Today, visitors can go and see parts of the wall, to get a sense of a totally different time in history. However, this is one tourist attraction that we are happy it no longer remains. Its removal represents freedom and the power of people uniting.
The Berlin Wall
From 1961 until 1989, the Berlin Wall was a thick concrete divide between East and West Germany, that both were ruled quite differently. Artists would play near the Berlin Wall, hoping to reach the citizens on the other side, while tourists would visit, hoping to catch a glimpse of life beyond the wall. It was a symbol of the Iron Curtain, and many died trying to cross it.
After weeks of civil unrest and decades of people calling for the wall to be removed, it was finally torn down in 1990. Today, visitors can go and see parts of the wall, to get a sense of a totally different time in history. However, this is one tourist attraction that we are happy it no longer remains. Its removal represents freedom and the power of people uniting.
Guaira Falls
There are many breathtaking waterfalls situated around the world, from Niagara Falls in Canada to Victoria Falls in Zambia. Once this list included the staggering Guaira Falls, on the border of Paraguay and Brazil. Guira Fallas pumped over 13 million gallons of water over their cliffs every single second and the roar could be heard from up to 20 miles away.
However, 1982 brought an end to that. The Itaipu dam was constructed and it blocked off the water source to the waterfall, causing it to dry up. Now, a lake exists where the falls once were, having been completely submerged (and the rock face blown up for safety). Local tribes have performed rituals in memory of the space, and the beauty of them is just a memory.
Guaira Falls
There are many breathtaking waterfalls situated around the world, from Niagara Falls in Canada to Victoria Falls in Zambia. Once this list included the staggering Guaira Falls, on the border of Paraguay and Brazil. Guira Fallas pumped over 13 million gallons of water over their cliffs every single second and the roar could be heard from up to 20 miles away.
However, 1982 brought an end to that. The Itaipu dam was constructed and it blocked off the water source to the waterfall, causing it to dry up. Now, a lake exists where the falls once were, having been completely submerged (and the rock face blown up for safety). Local tribes have performed rituals in memory of the space, and the beauty of them is just a memory.
Love Lock Bridge
Once a symbol of romance, the Love Lock Bridge, located at the Pont des Artes in Paris, had many lovers flock there and attach their own padlock as an intent of undying love. So many people wrote their loved ones names or wishes for them on padlocks and attached them to this bridge over the river Seine that it actually became hazardous.
Love may know no bounds, but engineering does. The bridge was built to support a certain structural weight, so adding 7,500 tons in locks every year wasn’t sustainable. It was fun to look at, and even snap a selfie, but a bridge collapsing on the river Seine could have caused serious injury and even deaths. In 2015, all the locks were removed, but did those love stories stand the test of time? Star-crossed lovers must find other tourist attractions to play host to their tributes now.
Love Lock Bridge
Once a symbol of romance, the Love Lock Bridge, located at the Pont des Artes in Paris, had many lovers flock there and attach their own padlock as an intent of undying love. So many people wrote their loved ones names or wishes for them on padlocks and attached them to this bridge over the river Seine that it actually became hazardous.
Love may know no bounds, but engineering does. The bridge was built to support a certain structural weight, so adding 7,500 tons in locks every year wasn’t sustainable. It was fun to look at, and even snap a selfie, but a bridge collapsing on the river Seine could have caused serious injury and even deaths. In 2015, all the locks were removed, but did those love stories stand the test of time? Star-crossed lovers must find other tourist attractions to play host to their tributes now.
Yosemite Firefall
Yosemite Firefall was certainly a sight to behold and lucky viewers between 1872 and 1968 got to see the glowing waterfall nightly every summer. A roaring fire waterfall that cascaded down from Glacier Point every evening, made up of glowing embers, pushed off from a campfire at the top.
Initially, people from the valley enjoyed the sight, but as word spread, thousands of visitors would descend on the meadows below to watch the sight. Unfortunately, this started affecting the area negatively, so the park ranger decreed that it had to stop. This is why humans can’t have nice things.
Yosemite Firefall
Yosemite Firefall was certainly a sight to behold and lucky viewers between 1872 and 1968 got to see the glowing waterfall nightly every summer. A roaring fire waterfall that cascaded down from Glacier Point every evening, made up of glowing embers, pushed off from a campfire at the top.
Initially, people from the valley enjoyed the sight, but as word spread, thousands of visitors would descend on the meadows below to watch the sight. Unfortunately, this started affecting the area negatively, so the park ranger decreed that it had to stop. This is why humans can’t have nice things.
The Sutro Baths
Built in 1896, The Sutro Baths of San Francisco was once the largest indoor swimming pool in the world. The building housed both saltwater and freshwater pools, so locals found it easy to pop down for a swim at any time. To get an idea of scale, the facility had 517 private dressing rooms.
Unfortunately, this grand facility wasn’t really sustainable in the long run, despite the amazing technology that pumped the water and the popularity among locals. The maintenance simply cost too much. The building was sold, but then it burned down in 1966. Some of the original structure still stands, but it isn’t possible to swim there any longer.
The Sutro Baths
Built in 1896, The Sutro Baths of San Francisco was once the largest indoor swimming pool in the world. The building housed both saltwater and freshwater pools, so locals found it easy to pop down for a swim at any time. To get an idea of scale, the facility had 517 private dressing rooms.
Unfortunately, this grand facility wasn’t really sustainable in the long run, despite the amazing technology that pumped the water and the popularity among locals. The maintenance simply cost too much. The building was sold, but then it burned down in 1966. Some of the original structure still stands, but it isn’t possible to swim there any longer.
Pioneer Cabin Tree
Also known as the Tunnel Tree, this was surely one of the cooler activities one could do on a scenic drive. When it was discovered that this enormous tree, which topped out at around 150 feet, was mostly hollow, James Sperry, owner of a local hotel, had the idea to build a tunnel through it. At first, people were only allowed to walk through it, but then driving was encouraged. The Pioneer Cabin Tree in Calaveras Big Trees State Park in California stood for over 1,000 years.
Unfortunately, in January 2017 (which seems to have been a bad year for tourist attractions) flooding and a bad storm toppled the tree, which smashed upon impact with the ground. It had been weakened by the tunnel that had been carved through it, which shows that sometimes man should just leave nature to its own devices.
Pioneer Cabin Tree
Also known as the Tunnel Tree, this was surely one of the cooler activities one could do on a scenic drive. When it was discovered that this enormous tree, which topped out at around 150 feet, was mostly hollow, James Sperry, owner of a local hotel, had the idea to build a tunnel through it. At first, people were only allowed to walk through it, but then driving was encouraged. The Pioneer Cabin Tree in Calaveras Big Trees State Park in California stood for over 1,000 years.
Unfortunately, in January 2017 (which seems to have been a bad year for tourist attractions) flooding and a bad storm toppled the tree, which smashed upon impact with the ground. It had been weakened by the tunnel that had been carved through it, which shows that sometimes man should just leave nature to its own devices.
Portions of the Great Wall of China
The Great Wall of China is truly one of the most incredible man-made achievements on Earth. It can even be seen from space. At 5,000 miles long, it’s not exactly a hike that everyone will undertake and in fact, very few have managed to do so. However, now, even if you wanted to, you can’t. The upkeep of the structure is so massive that currently two-thirds of the wall is completely closed to visitors.
The Chinese government has actually allowed parts of the wall to be torn down to make way for infrastructure, which seems a little crazy, but other parts have crumbled over time. You can still visit parts of it, but it’s important to do your research first though.
Portions of the Great Wall of China
The Great Wall of China is truly one of the most incredible man-made achievements on Earth. It can even be seen from space. At 5,000 miles long, it’s not exactly a hike that everyone will undertake and in fact, very few have managed to do so. However, now, even if you wanted to, you can’t. The upkeep of the structure is so massive that currently two-thirds of the wall is completely closed to visitors.
The Chinese government has actually allowed parts of the wall to be torn down to make way for infrastructure, which seems a little crazy, but other parts have crumbled over time. You can still visit parts of it, but it’s important to do your research first though.
Chacaltaya Glacier
Once the highest lift-served ski resort in the world, the Chacaltaya Glacier was also the second most equatorial ski spot and enjoyed a winter season of skiers for decades. Then, it was no longer. Climate change, or simply the way the planet evolves, melted away the glacier, and a piece of history was simply lost into the ground.
The Chacaltaya Glacier was located in Bolivia, and had been there for around 18,000 years! Scientists noticed the slide in the 1980s and it was expected to melt away by 2015, but actually, it deteriorated much quicker and was entirely gone by 2009. Where once was the highest resort restaurant in the world now stands a lonely research laboratory.
Chacaltaya Glacier
Once the highest lift-served ski resort in the world, the Chacaltaya Glacier was also the second most equatorial ski spot and enjoyed a winter season of skiers for decades. Then, it was no longer. Climate change, or simply the way the planet evolves, melted away the glacier, and a piece of history was simply lost into the ground.
The Chacaltaya Glacier was located in Bolivia, and had been there for around 18,000 years! Scientists noticed the slide in the 1980s and it was expected to melt away by 2015, but actually, it deteriorated much quicker and was entirely gone by 2009. Where once was the highest resort restaurant in the world now stands a lonely research laboratory.
Mount Humboldt
Another popular ski spot that is no longer is Mount Humboldt, situated in the north of the Andes mountain range. In this case, the mountain still stands, but it can’t accommodate the winter sports that it used to. Once again, the changing climate has had an impact.
The spot is still beautiful for mountain climbers and hikers, as it stands at over 4,900 meters, but the glacier that tops it has all but melted away. The melting glacier is now considerably less than 0.04 square miles - indeed it is barely a patch. Although this has an impact on tourism, Venezuela is plagued by other troubles so that a melting glacier is the last thing on their minds.
Mount Humboldt
Another popular ski spot that is no longer is Mount Humboldt, situated in the north of the Andes mountain range. In this case, the mountain still stands, but it can’t accommodate the winter sports that it used to. Once again, the changing climate has had an impact.
The spot is still beautiful for mountain climbers and hikers, as it stands at over 4,900 meters, but the glacier that tops it has all but melted away. The melting glacier is now considerably less than 0.04 square miles - indeed it is barely a patch. Although this has an impact on tourism, Venezuela is plagued by other troubles so that a melting glacier is the last thing on their minds.
Disney’s Discovery Island
Another Disney venture that wasn’t exactly successful was Discovery Island, off the coast of Disney World in Florida. The island was a separate park that was dedicated to exotic birds and animals, and it opened in 1974 as Treasure Island. Now, it’s simply a green mass with no name on the map. Tourists and even Disney employees are not permitted on the island, but no one really knows why.
People came to admire the birds, and it was seen as a break from the main attractions in Disney World. Then in 1999, Disney moved all the animals to Animal Kingdom in the main part, and simply abandoned the island. Now it is overgrown and the structures that were once there have fallen into ruin. It’s unknown if Disney has any plans to ever use the island again.
Disney’s Discovery Island
Another Disney venture that wasn’t exactly successful was Discovery Island, off the coast of Disney World in Florida. The island was a separate park that was dedicated to exotic birds and animals, and it opened in 1974 as Treasure Island. Now, it’s simply a green mass with no name on the map. Tourists and even Disney employees are not permitted on the island, but no one really knows why.
People came to admire the birds, and it was seen as a break from the main attractions in Disney World. Then in 1999, Disney moved all the animals to Animal Kingdom in the main part, and simply abandoned the island. Now it is overgrown and the structures that were once there have fallen into ruin. It’s unknown if Disney has any plans to ever use the island again.
Heritage USA
Heritage USA was an American-Christian theme park located in Fort Mill, South Carolina. It was the brainchild of televangelist Jim Bakker and his wife Tammy Faye Messler, and opened in 1978. It attracted around 6 million people annually at the height of its popularity. This is hardly surprising as wholesome family fun is right up most people’s alley!
Unfortunately, it turned out that Bakker wasn’t quite as wholesome as he made out and a huge scandal caused him to have to bow out of running the park, among other things. The park began losing money as a result of the bad press, and then a hurricane damaged some of the buildings on site. In 1989, Heritage Park closed. Since then, the hotel has been renovated and restored, and there have been discussions to reopen the park, but nothing has happened yet. If you’re passing, you can still have a look at a relic to a different time and values.
Heritage USA
Heritage USA was an American-Christian theme park located in Fort Mill, South Carolina. It was the brainchild of televangelist Jim Bakker and his wife Tammy Faye Messler, and opened in 1978. It attracted around 6 million people annually at the height of its popularity. This is hardly surprising as wholesome family fun is right up most people’s alley!
Unfortunately, it turned out that Bakker wasn’t quite as wholesome as he made out and a huge scandal caused him to have to bow out of running the park, among other things. The park began losing money as a result of the bad press, and then a hurricane damaged some of the buildings on site. In 1989, Heritage Park closed. Since then, the hotel has been renovated and restored, and there have been discussions to reopen the park, but nothing has happened yet. If you’re passing, you can still have a look at a relic to a different time and values.
Duckbill Rock Formation
Located in a beautiful part of the coastline in Oregon is the Cape Kiwanda State Natural Area, which generally attracts lots of tourists. People used to love to pose near and take photos of a huge rock formation that looked like a smiling duckbill until some vandals came and knocked it down.
On 29 August 2016, a group of vandals bypassed fences and wires to topple the sandstone over, destroying it in the process. Initially, it was thought that the Duckbill rock had fallen on its own, but then video footage emerged of a group of eight people pushing and pulling until it fell down. The vandals have not been caught.
Duckbill Rock Formation
Located in a beautiful part of the coastline in Oregon is the Cape Kiwanda State Natural Area, which generally attracts lots of tourists. People used to love to pose near and take photos of a huge rock formation that looked like a smiling duckbill until some vandals came and knocked it down.
On 29 August 2016, a group of vandals bypassed fences and wires to topple the sandstone over, destroying it in the process. Initially, it was thought that the Duckbill rock had fallen on its own, but then video footage emerged of a group of eight people pushing and pulling until it fell down. The vandals have not been caught.
The World of Sid and Marty Krofft
Although anyone born in the last 40 years will have no idea who they were, Sid and Marty Krofft were the big thing on children’s television in the 1960s and 1970s. Sid and Marty were brothers from Canada who produced shows such as Land of the Lost and H.R. Pufnstuf, and on the back of their success, they opened an amazing indoor amusement park in Atlanta, Georgia.
The park opened amid great excitement in May 1976. Visitors entered via a multi-story escalator that the Guinness Book of World Records listed as the longest freestanding escalator in the world. Unfortunately, the park only lasted 6 months! The low numbers of attendees were blamed on the area, but the public found the tickets quite costly, and the attraction of the cheaper Six Flags Over Georgia nearby much better value for money. The building is now owned by CNN
The World of Sid and Marty Krofft
Although anyone born in the last 40 years will have no idea who they were, Sid and Marty Krofft were the big thing on children’s television in the 1960s and 1970s. Sid and Marty were brothers from Canada who produced shows such as Land of the Lost and H.R. Pufnstuf, and on the back of their success, they opened an amazing indoor amusement park in Atlanta, Georgia.
The park opened amid great excitement in May 1976. Visitors entered via a multi-story escalator that the Guinness Book of World Records listed as the longest freestanding escalator in the world. Unfortunately, the park only lasted 6 months! The low numbers of attendees were blamed on the area, but the public found the tickets quite costly, and the attraction of the cheaper Six Flags Over Georgia nearby much better value for money. The building is now owned by CNN.
Tree of Ténéré
A solitary acacia in the Sahara desert was once a stop for wandering souls, in a sea of sand, and very little else. It was considered the most isolated tree in the whole world, and it had stood for decades on its own. It had grown when there was more water and vegetation in the area when the desert wasn’t quite so barren.
There wasn’t another tree for another 250 miles! Unfortunately, it met an unseemly end in 1973. A drunk truck driver from Libya hit the tree, knocking it to the ground. The remains were brought to the Niger National Museum, where they can be seen today. When driving across the Sahara now, a metal pole stands where the Tree of Ténéré once stood
Tree of Ténéré
A solitary acacia in the Sahara desert was once a stop for wandering souls, in a sea of sand, and very little else. It was considered the most isolated tree in the whole world, and it had stood for decades on its own. It had grown when there was more water and vegetation in the area when the desert wasn’t quite so barren.
There wasn’t another tree for another 250 miles! Unfortunately, it met an unseemly end in 1973. A drunk truck driver from Libya hit the tree, knocking it to the ground. The remains were brought to the Niger National Museum, where they can be seen today. When driving across the Sahara now, a metal pole stands where the Tree of Ténéré once stood.
Old Man of the Mountain
Five granite cliff ledges on Cannon Mountain in New Hampshire looked remarkably like a face, thus gaining the nickname the Old Man of the Mountain. It was quite the draw for tourists in the White Mountains and even mentioned as far back as 1805.
Politician David Webster once said that God Almighty had hung a sign on the mountain to show that he makes men. Unfortunately, in 2003, erosion from the elements caused the face to crack, and it slid off the mountain. Locals mourned its loss, even placing flowers at the bottom of Cannon Mountain.
Old Man of the Mountain
Five granite cliff ledges on Cannon Mountain in New Hampshire looked remarkably like a face, thus gaining the nickname the Old Man of the Mountain. It was quite the draw for tourists in the White Mountains and even mentioned as far back as 1805.
Politician David Webster once said that God Almighty had hung a sign on the mountain to show that he makes men. Unfortunately, in 2003, erosion from the elements caused the face to crack, and it slid off the mountain. Locals mourned its loss, even placing flowers at the bottom of Cannon Mountain.
Mukurob
A 12-meter sandstone formation, the Mukurob or ‘Finger of God’, was a result of 50,000 years of erosion of the Weissrand Plateau. For many years it was the biggest tourist attraction in Namibia, and the Nama people, an ethnic group that resides in southern Africa, placed great importance upon it. Located in the Namib desert, it was fascinating how it sat on such a tiny base.
On the night of 7 December 1988, the Mukurob collapsed. No one was sure what happened, but it was accepted that the rainstorms that had hit the area hard in the previous week may have had an impact. An earthquake in Armenia could also have been the cause, as the reverberations from the quake were felt in Namibia.
Mukurob
A 12-meter sandstone formation, the Mukurob or ‘Finger of God’, was a result of 50,000 years of erosion of the Weissrand Plateau. For many years it was the biggest tourist attraction in Namibia, and the Nama people, an ethnic group that resides in southern Africa, placed great importance upon it. Located in the Namib desert, it was fascinating how it sat on such a tiny base.
On the night of 7 December 1988, the Mukurob collapsed. No one was sure what happened, but it was accepted that the rainstorms that had hit the area hard in the previous week may have had an impact. An earthquake in Armenia could also have been the cause, as the reverberations from the quake were felt in Namibia.
The Crystal Palace
The original Crystal Palace was built to house the first Great Exhibition, which ran for six months in 1851. The beautiful structure comprised 990,000 square feet and let so much light in through its sheet glass that it did not require ceiling lights. It stood in Hyde Park for the exhibition and then was moved to Penge Common in Sydenham Hill, south of London.
There it stood proudly for over 80 years until tragedy struck in 1936. On 30 November of that year, a small explosion was heard in the woman’s cloakroom. Over 89 fire engines showed up to fight the blaze that consumed the building, but unfortunately, most of it was destroyed. Many other buildings around the world have been modeled after the original, but sadly, many of these have also been destroyed.
The Crystal Palace
The original Crystal Palace was built to house the first Great Exhibition, which ran for six months in 1851. The beautiful structure comprised 990,000 square feet and let so much light in through its sheet glass that it did not require ceiling lights. It stood in Hyde Park for the exhibition and then was moved to Penge Common in Sydenham Hill, south of London.
There it stood proudly for over 80 years until tragedy struck in 1936. On 30 November of that year, a small explosion was heard in the woman’s cloakroom. Over 89 fire engines showed up to fight the blaze that consumed the building, but unfortunately, most of it was destroyed. Many other buildings around the world have been modeled after the original, but sadly, many of these have also been destroyed.
Torres Del Paine National Park
Although the magnificent Torres Del Paine National Park is still a sight to behold, a variety of incidents over the years have affected its natural beauty. Verdant fields, crystal lakes, glaciers, and peaks that sit dramatically against the clouds form this amazing area of Chile. However, man has been destructive to this land through the years, most notably campers in the area.
A camper in 1985 managed to start a fire that burned through 58 square miles of the scenic park. Then in 2005, another visitor caused destruction to a further 60 miles of land in a fire that lasted ten days. In 2011, an illegal fire was started by a tourist who burned up 68 more miles, leading to reforestation experts being sent to help the zone. The park is still there, but its fragile beauty is not what it was.
Torres Del Paine National Park
Although the magnificent Torres Del Paine National Park is still a sight to behold, a variety of incidents over the years have affected its natural beauty. Verdant fields, crystal lakes, glaciers, and peaks that sit dramatically against the clouds form this amazing area of Chile. However, man has been destructive to this land through the years, most notably campers in the area.
A camper in 1985 managed to start a fire that burned through 58 square miles of the scenic park. Then in 2005, another visitor caused destruction to a further 60 miles of land in a fire that lasted ten days. In 2011, an illegal fire was started by a tourist who burned up 68 more miles, leading to reforestation experts being sent to help the zone. The park is still there, but its fragile beauty is not what it was.
Christmas Island Coral Reef
Australian territory Christmas Island is located in the Indian Ocean and is famous for hosting a pretty busy mating season where millions of crabs come to find love. For a long time, it was home to one of the most extraordinary coral reefs in the world, but recently that has changed when many miles of the reef were destroyed.
In the natural phenomenon known as El Niño, the coral reef became stressed and died. Marine biologists spent a month diving the site and were distraught at what they found after the 2015-2016 El Niño. Over 30% of the coral was dead, and up to 90% was damaged. Now it is estimated that only 5% of the reef remains healthy.
Christmas Island Coral Reef
Australian territory Christmas Island is located in the Indian Ocean and is famous for hosting a pretty busy mating season where millions of crabs come to find love. For a long time, it was home to one of the most extraordinary coral reefs in the world, but recently that has changed when many miles of the reef were destroyed.
In the natural phenomenon known as El Niño, the coral reef became stressed and died. Marine biologists spent a month diving the site and were distraught at what they found after the 2015-2016 El Niño. Over 30% of the coral was dead, and up to 90% was damaged. Now it is estimated that only 5% of the reef remains healthy.
Borscht Belt
Also known as the Jewish Alps, the Catskill Mountains in upstate New York used to be prime real estate for holiday resorts for around half a century. These mostly Jewish resorts held fantastic entertainment nights with renowned musicians and comedians who were at the top of their game, including Mel Brooks and Woody Allen, who started out there.
The resorts included Grossinger’s, Granit, Irvington, and the Overlook. There was even a Yiddish theater for big events. The Borscht Belt has also been the setting for popular movies, such as Dirty Dancing. When air travel became popular, people started going to the resorts less, until they shut down one by one. Now, music festivals are sometimes held and less than a handful of hotels remain.
Borscht Belt
Also known as the Jewish Alps, the Catskill Mountains in upstate New York used to be prime real estate for holiday resorts for around half a century. These mostly Jewish resorts held fantastic entertainment nights with renowned musicians and comedians who were at the top of their game, including Mel Brooks and Woody Allen, who started out there.
The resorts included Grossinger’s, Granit, Irvington, and the Overlook. There was even a Yiddish theater for big events. The Borscht Belt has also been the setting for popular movies, such as Dirty Dancing. When air travel became popular, people started going to the resorts less, until they shut down one by one. Now, music festivals are sometimes held and less than a handful of hotels remain.
These Popular Foods Have Been Banned in Different Parts of the World
With every country having its own rules and regulations, it's no surprise that your favorite food item might not be allowed anywhere you go. Some countries ban certain food items, even the best tasting ones, so having that delicious french fry might be illegal somewhere else.
If you're wondering why they would be banned, it's generally because of the toxic ingredients or because of conservation issues, it depends on the country! Even Fruit Loops, the popular cereal, is one of the food items that is banned in many European countries. Lets' take a look at the list and find out the reasons why...
How Do You Like It Done?
Many burger lovers out there, will say that the best way to have your meat is as "bloody" as you can. Unfortunately for those burger lovers with that opinion, New Zealand and parts of the U.K will disagree.
They won't be able to get their rare meat fix in these countries that have banned any beef cooked below medium rare! This is because it's believed to have extremely high levels of bacteria in the meat and New Zealand and parts of the U.K just won't risk it. Can you blame them?
Famous Breakfast Banned for Good
Fruit Loops is no doubt a popular and well-sold cereal worldwide, however, not every country is proud of the reputation it has and has decided to ban the cereal. Many cereal brands from North America are known for containing high levels of sugar with little nutritional value making it unhealthy for children.
Countries in Europe like Norway, France, Finland, and Austria are a few places that have raised their youth without the colorful loops to start their day. After scientific investigation,there have been links between the Fruit Loops food coloring and cell development complications!
Kebabs Aren’t Cool Enough
Food is an important factor in any country, people travel all over the world to experience food and if it's not good quality, the news will get around. This is why many countries are picky when it comes to what they allow to be sold on their streets.
Venice in Europe, for example, has banned the selling of kebabs as they're considered to be low-quality food that is just drowned in sauce. If you're a kebab late-night snacker, you'll have to reconsider your go-to meal when you're in Venice or parts of Europe.
No Popping Bubbles in Singapore
Chewing gum can have many benefits. It's not only convenient when you have a meeting or event and need to make your breath smell nice, but it's also fun to chew and blow bubbles. Some places around the world only see the negatives and have banned chewing gum completely.
If you're in Singapore, you'll have to switch to mouthwash or breath mints next time you want nice-smelling breath. Singapore banned gum in 1992 to prevent their streets from being dirty. If you chew gum in Singapore you will have to pay a $100,000 fine or end up behind bars!
You’ll Have to Get Fat
When fat-free chips were created, it was ideal for anyone on a diet or wanting to make a healthier lifestyle choice as the chips were an alternative to greasy and fatty snacks. Turns out, some countries disagree with fat-free chips being the healthier alternative after all.
Places like Canada and U.K have banned fat-free chips because of the ingredient olestra which causes stomach problems with cramps and gas. Some countries aren't willing to pay that price no matter how fat-free they are.
No Mac No Cheese
Another popular food is mac and cheese, both children and adults love it. In this case, we're referring to the boxed pasta, the one with a sachet of cheese powder, not the homemade one.
If you're living in some European countries such as Union, Austria, and Norway you'll have to ditch the easy box meal and find something else for your child's lunch as mac and cheese is banned. According to these European countries, the coloring agents in the box are harmful to children.
Canceled Frozen French Fries
Who doesn't love crispy french fries? they're tasty and easy to cook when you're in a hurry. Many people across the globe have stocked up on frozen french fries because they stay fresh forever right in your freezer.
One place where you won't find frozen fries in people's freezers is in Austria, Singapore, and the U.K. These countries have banned frozen french fries of all brands due to the ingredient of azodicarbonamide which is harmful as it negatively affects people with asthma.
Kinder Wasn’t Child Friendly
Kinder Joy eggs have been a popular and delicious chocolate treat with a toy until it was banned across the United States. When it was banned in 1933 for 50 years before an event took place canceling the prohibition.
The eggs made by Ferrero were banned based on an initiation by the FDA stating that the toys inside the eggs were choking hazards for children across America. Currently, some eggs are no longer banned except for popular ones across the U.S as they're still considered dangerous.
Banned Its Best Quality
Have you ever heard of casu marzu? it's a popular pecorino cheese that is made through the process of fermentation which gives it a creamy decadent texture. The way it's fermented, giving it the desired taste, is the reason why it's banned in America.
Before the cheese reaches the creamy texture, fly larvae, used to release a liquid to break down the cheese are put inside the cheese before it gets fermented. Can't blame America along with some other countries for not wanting to eat maggot cheese.
The Fruit That Smells Too Bad
If you're wondering what durian fruit is, it's a creamy textured fruit found on the Southeast Asian islands. The fruit has the texture of cheesecake and tastes as sweet as custard, sounds great right? but there's only one downfall.
Regardless of how delicious this fruit is, some countries can't get passed the one thing that isn't great about durian fruit and that's its smell. Singapore banned the durian fruit purely because of the repulsive smell it carries.
Horses Are Friends Not Food
Gone are the days when you could simply eat anything you wanted, even horse meat. One modern medicine came around, horse meat was given the ban and people stopped eating it.
Countries such as the United States and the United Kingdom have both outlawed eating horse meat and for good reason. The medicine and drugs given to horses over their lives can only do more harm to individuals who eat horse meat than good.
Its the Outside That Counts
Unlike many of the food items on this list, this item was not banned for any of the harmful ingredients it was all about the outside. Samosas, the South Asian and Middle Eastern cuisine, has become banned by Somalia.
According to Somalia, the samosa's shape with three corners look similar to the Christianity symbol for Holy Trinity and was therefore banned by Somalia religious leaders in 2011. Turns out, that sometimes it's not always the inside that counts.
Any Drink Involving Citrus
Who doesn't like a citrus refresher on a hot summer's day? Citrus is supposedly a healthy ingredient to have in your drink, however, don't be fooled as not all citrus drinks are good for you. Many citrus drinks are banned around the world because they use brominated vegetable oil (BVO).
BVO is used to help with carbonation and prevents the ingredients in the beverage from separating. It's the bromine that's the problem, as it has a reputation for affecting the thyroid negatively and many of these drinks have therefore been banned around the world such as in the United States.
Prefer the Donut Naked
Have you ever thought of what a cake or donut would like without any decoration? sprinkles give that extra something. Who would've thought, something as small and necessary as sprinkles would ever be banned!
Well, in Great Britain, they didn't technically ban all sprinkles, just any from the United States. Sprinkles from the U.S contain the ingredient erythrosine which is also known as FD&C Red No. 3. This ingredient allegedly causes hyperactivity in children and has been banned in Great Britain.
Americans Should Rethink Their Bread
American-made white bread is one of those timeless food items that can fix any craving. Whether it's a PB&J sandwich or a grilled cheese, it does the job. This is why it's surprising to hear that some countries have banned American-made white bread. United Kingdom, Canada, Peru, and other countries have banned this bread due to the large amounts of potassium bromate used in the bread.
The potassium bromate helps with the fast production of the bread and is cost-efficient for the bread makers but it has a negative link to problems with the kidney and nervous system as well as cancer which is why it's banned.
Soybeans Are Given the Boot
Austria, Hungary, Bulgaria, Greece, and Luxembourg all ban the healthy-based product, soybeans! As time has gone on, the popular food item has become increasingly used worldwide except for the few places that have given it the boot.
This is all thanks to farmers trying to keep up with the demand by using genetically modified strategies to increase the amount they make. The chemicals used to genetically modify their crops have been linked with cancer which is why these countries have prohibited them.
Everyone's Favourite Table Condiments
This one doesn't count in the world and can be considered as being banned out of this world, in space to be exact. Due to the lack of gravity and the nature of salt and pepper being granular, the duo has been banned in space.
Turns out, that the grains in salt and pepper become a threat to the electronic equipment. Can you think of anything worse than not being able to add some flavor to your food? luckily, there's a solution. The astronauts have to use liquid salt and pepper for their food instead.
Have to Mash It the Hard Way
We can understand why instant mash potatoes are a popular food item, it's quick and easy to make, however, it definitely wouldn't beat the old fashion way of making them. Regardless, when we're hungry we tend to go for faster over the best quality.
In countries such as Japan, Australia, the European Union, United Kingdom, the hard way of mashing potatoes is all they'll know as they don't have the privilege of convenient instant mash. Because of butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) which is found in the instant mash, it has been prohibited.
Porks' Effect on the Heart
Countries such as Russia, China, European Union, and others have joined in the union to ban pork from the United States. This is due to the overly grown size of swine in America after the chemicals that they're given.
The chemical ractopamine is given to the animals to assist with the leanness of the pigs which can cause harmful side effects just like any drug can. One of the most harmful threats is to the heart as it causes hyperactivity making the heart beat faster than the usual rate.
Avoiding Allergic Reactions From Skittles
Eating skittles is the closest thing a person can get to eating a rainbow. The colorful sweet treat has increased in popularity over the years and the brand has come out with numerous flavors and options.
It's because of its bright colors that skittles have been banned in a few places, specifically Norway and Sweden. The artificial colors known as yellow five and yellow six have been linked to causing hyperactivity and allergic reactions.