Castles in the World

Castles make some of the most intriguing tourist attractions in the world. But one thing you'll notice very quickly when browsing through the images posted on this Facebook Group is the fact that not all castles are created equal. From humble, dark age fortifications to the opulence of Versailles and jaw-dropping towers that perch precariously from steep cliffs, the sheer variety in historical architecture is astounding. Some castles are citadels that once housed vibrant communities. Others are now little more than ruins. There are castles that fit perfectly into their surroundings, be it hilltop or port-side. Example are the beautiful Mont St Michel in Normandy, Artana Castle in Kosovo, and Cochem Castle in Germany. Feed your appetite for fairy-tales and fantasy. 

Members: 301.6k at the time of writing

Trigger Warnings: None

Go here to visit or join. 

Episcopal Cats with Problems

 What on earth is an episcopal cat? That was the first question that came up with me upon discovering this group. But I was not alone. Being helpful as always, one group member made a post about this very question. Which (naturally) evoked a fascinating discussion on the nature of cats and their religious affiliations and persuasions. The nature of the problems covered here touches on a wide spectrum of problems, ranging from the frivolous to the very serious. As such, the community also offers support, reassurance and condolences to cat parents or cat fosters with questions, tips or sadness to share. There are snapshots posting "evidence" of felines behaving badly or just living by their own moral code. There are also stories of cats caught in heart-warming moments. If you are looking for a place to share all of your cat's awesomeness, you will be preaching to the converted on this space. For more suggestions on awesome Facebook groups for cat lovers, check out the following article. 

Members: 74.1k, at time of writing.

Trigger warnings: the sad stories.

Go here to visit or join.

Kruger Sightings

If you're unable to get away for a game drive sighting Africa's Big Five, the next best thing has to be adding the Kruger Sightings Facebook Group to your social media news-feed. It is the perfect platform for sharing and viewing photos and video clips taken of different types of wildlife in the Kruger National Park. As the king of the jungle and a favorite topic, lions pictures take prominence here. You will see cubs, family groups and occasionally a beloved individual, such as Casper the white lion. There are also leopards, elephants bringing traffic to a stop, hyena, zebra, bucks and antelope, kingfishers, fish eagles, horn-bills, guinea fowl, ostriches hyena and even the elusive cheetah and a rare black rhino. There are also photos of typically African scenery, water holes, base camps and golden sunsets. Enjoy the beauty of South Africa's largest national park. 

Members: 201.9k, at time of writing.

Trigger Warnings: Occasional images and footage of carnivores feeding.

Go here to visit or join.

Podcast Recommendations

 Here's a fun fact. Did you know that the term podcast was coined by Ben Hammersley of The Guardian in the same year that Mark Zuckerman first launched Facebook? Incredible, isn't it? Now, nineteen years later, you can connect with an online Facebook community of podcasting enthusiasts to find out what to stream next. Podcasts are great for listening to something while you're engaged in some monotonous or mundane activity and there are so many options to choose from. From football, wrestling and formula one for sports-fans to entrepreneurship, environmental issues and educator support. There are also podcasts on music, monstrous cryptids, religion, mysteries, petty crime and serious crime. If you are a pod-caster yourself, this is a great platform for promoting your programs - whether it's specific upcoming episodes or just a shout out to let everyone know what you're doing. You can also post calls for interviews on any niche topics you might be tackling. If you are a listener looking for your next podcast, ask for recommendations in your favorite genres. 

Members: 38.6k at the time of writing.

Trigger Warnings: None.

Go here to visit or join. 

/

I AM AN ARTIST

 I really enjoyed visiting the I AM AN ARTIST Facebook group, and many of the images made me even happier. While there are a few works in more unusual media (such as machine embroidery), the majority of the posted art can be described as either drawings or paintings. I found that the standard of work was quite high and there are tips in the comments. Some pieces obviously represents many hours of work, as well as a lifelong dedication to the improvement of the craft and I felt honored to be able to see it. A few works featured personal themes or subjects - such as portraits of pets or family members. When you post, you can reach out to other members to critique your work, but there is a strong emphasis on keeping this a safe space to share art. The group excels at being nurturing and supportive. It's proof positive that art and talent transcends all boundaries. Kudos to creator Liam Constable for fostering such an awesome community. 

Members: 1.2 million at the time of my visit. 

Trigger Warnings: None. 

Go here to visit or join. 

Update: This group has changed its name and identity. It is now known as Positive Quotes on Heart.

The James Webb Space Telescope (JWST)

 The launching of the James Webb Space Telescope on Christmas day, 2021 represents an important milestone in the history of space exploration. It has already played a huge role in expanding our knowledge and understanding of the universe. If you want to see new discoveries in your online feed and celebrate older ones, The James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) will fill you with a sense of awe and wonder. Image comparisons between Hubble and James Webb are an important component of this group, but there are also links to articles and lectures, as well as facts on the solar system, video clips, individuals who played an important role in the space race, and details about current and ongoing space missions.

Members: 1.6 million at time of writing

Trigger Warnings: None

Go here to visit or join. 

Between The Ears

 For a generous dose of Armchair equestrianism at its finest, visit  this charming Facebook group that offers equestrian postcards from anywhere and everywhere. The mission statement is simple. if you have a horse, ride, snap and post your photos and video clips. See an amazing diversity of local scenery from horseback. Read the stories of trials and triumphs shared equine partners. Occasionally, dogs and cats are featured too, but it's mainly about hacking and horses. Look in on the occasional horseback safari in Africa. Enjoy the tranquility of British bridle paths. Pause beside the timeless mystery of Stonehenge. Experience fall in New Brunswick or quaint waterscapes in Italy. Unspoiled nature in Finland or Sweden. A Beach in New Zealand. Wild bush-land in Tasmania. Wyoming. California. Oregon. Serbia. Bulgaria. The Czech Republic. Burkina Faso. See all the places where a horse can take you. 

Members: 264.4k at time of writing

Trigger warnings: None. 

Go here to visit or join.