Google Earth, Structures and Anomalies

When Google Earth was first introduced more than twenty years ago, it filled many people around the world with a sense of wonder. Never before had the planet seemed so accessible to anyone with internet access. And the legends began. One of the most incredible stories to emerge in this new era of digital empowerment, in my opinion, is that of Saroo Brierley, a young boy who was reunited with his birth family thanks to Google Earth, after having been separated from them at age five. If you are intrigued by the mysteries and enigmas unlocked by this incredible web tool, buckle up to explore and collaborate with like-minded souls via this fascinating community. Home in on Mysterious offshore installations, abandoned urban areas, subterranean Viking vessels and other ancient structures. Visit normally inaccessible locations such as North Korea, Nightingale Island, or Antarctica. Puzzle over moments of intense human drama captured on Google Streetview or freeways, off-ramps and other infrastructure from hell. 

Members: 2 million, at the time of writing.

Trigger Warnings: None.

Go here to visit or join. 

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Magical Christmas Markets of Europe

Nothing captures the spirit of Christmas quite like a typical European Christmas market. The German ones are world famous for copious amounts of Glühwein, preferably drunk from a quirky souvenir mug, bratwurst, lebkuchen and roving entertainers to inject an appropriate atmosphere of hearty good cheer. There will also be lots of charmingly crafted goodies, just perfect for a spot of early (or last minute) Christmas shopping. Of course, you shouldn't forget about the associated pageantry tied in with centuries of folklore and ritual, incorporating events such as a spirited Krampus run through the crowded streets. But there are also fabulous markets in neighboring countries such as Poland, the Czech Republic, Austria, Switzerland, Hungary, France or even Romania. For real enthusiasts, there are tour packages that lets you experience the Christmas markets in different cities. But if you want to get crowd-sourced opinions from people on the ground, this Facebook group represents a brilliant resource for asking questions, sharing tips or just posting your personal impressions. What's great is the sheer diversity of locations. Germany alone has around 3,000 Christmas markets, and it's great that lesser known venues also get some love for their show of Christmas spirit.  As an initiative of Vacations by Design, there are some great travel deals exclusively available to group members. What are you waiting for? Join the adventure of a once-a-year treasure hunt. 

Members: 554.8k, at the time of writing

Trigger Warnings: None.

Go here to visit or join

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Edit: At the time of writing this post, I had not yet seen the news of the tragic events in Magdeburg. With this, I wish to add my shock and sadness, as well as heartfelt condolences to the friends and family members of those who died in the attack. 

Show Your Home Library

One poster calls it "my happy place" and I cannot think of a better description for a home library. Ideally, it's a cozy nook with a comfortable chair and a resident cat. Shelves upon shelves filled with wondrous treasures. Childhood favorites brushing spines with new discoveries. Photos with sentimental value, figurines, curiosities, toy cars and items of art guarding the portals to fictional vistas. Crumbling antique book covers lending gravity to a collection. Few things provide such profound insight to the soul of a person as their book collection, but often how it is housed offer additional clues. If you are an avid reader, this Facebook group will feel like home. 

Members: 33.6k, at the time of writing. 

Trigger Warnings:

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Dollhouse miniatures made from everyday things

The combination of lifelike tableaus in tiny scale, yet true to form can be fascinating and awe-inspiring. Welcome to the quietly obsessive world of miniature dollhouses, where everything is in the details. While you can purchase just about anything for your miniature dollhouse from Amazon, a little inspiration and a pinch of improvisation can really go a long, long way. There are delicate teacups fashioned from beads. A family dinner served in potted clay. A collection of realistic looking soft drinks, complete with tiny ice cubes and lemon slices. A plate of yummy-looking cookies. Wine glasses, potted plants, vases of roses and Christmas decorations. Even miniature toilet rolls. Staircases that will never see any foot falls. Haunting recreations from popular media or inspired by fandoms. 

Members: 322k, at the time of writing 

Trigger Warnings: None. 

Go here to visit or join.

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Handmade Craft Ideas

If it were possible to squeeze a thousand crafters from all around the world into one space to showcase their work, the result would probably be something similar to this delightful Facebook group The featured posts include a vast variety of styles and disciplines, ranging from gorgeously crafted dog collars, colorful felt slippers and crocheted animals (the real deal, NOT AI!!!) to leather vambraces and even a one-in-a-million stratocaster guitar. There are quirky Christmas decorations, jolly gingerbread men and bespoke gift ideas, as well as custom denim jackets, knitted socks, shawls, jewelry, painted pebbles and even an art project featuring a recycled doll's head. It really is a celebration of creativity and inspiration. 

Members: 621.2k, at the time of writing

Trigger Warning: None.

Go here to visit or join. 

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Furries in Unusual Places

I was introduced to the concept of furries through a very enlightening conversation with a young man who wore a memorable lion ring, and ever since I have had a soft spot for otherkin. If like me, you are willing to embrace alternate lifestyles without judgement, this Facebook group would be just the space for you. Whether you're just thrilled to have spotted a furry in the wild, or want to share memories through convention group photos. Some tales of accidental encounters hint at the layer of pure magic that furries sometimes inject into our everyday, mostly mundane world. There are also cartoons, humorous memes, selfies of members showing off their gear and costumes, as well as social media links. 

Members: 46.3k, at the time of writing.

Trigger warnings: None.

Go here to visit or join. 

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Magnificent Traditional Costumes of the World 🪭

Culture and ethnicity can be regarded as a vital element of identity. It often functions as the template through which a person interacts with the world outside. And, while globalization has injected a uniformity into how we dress and express ourselves, this delightful Facebook Group counters such blandness with diverse inspirations from locations such as Ethiopia, the Ukraine, Serbia, Mongolia, Angola, Tunesia, Macedonia, Peru, Bulgaria and Tibet. The posted photos are a feast of color, intricately crafted accessories and masses of cultural pride. 

Members: 48.8k, at the time of writing

Trigger Warnings: None.

Go here to visit or join.