The smell of spring really IS in the air: Scientists reveal why the chemical behind the distinctive earthy scent of the season is produced A bacteria named streptomyces produces the chemical compound geosmin This chemical has the distinctive odour we associate with springtime and storms Humans have a strong ability to detect this odour and … Read more
iPLAYER Wallander It’s set in Sweden and is based on books by a Swedish author, but can this version of Wallander really be described as Scandi-noir? Probably not, seeing as it stars a largely British cast headed by Kenneth Branagh. While some will tell you Krister Henriksson delivers the definitive portrayal of the haggard detective in … Read more
Diets improve BRAIN as well as body: Cutting back on fat and sugar has a ‘direct relationship’ with good mental health and cognitive function Scientists looked at past research to see how food affected mental health They found there were definite links in some areas and vaguer in others The Mediterranean diet was found to … Read more
Sweden‘s Icehotel has opened its doors to guests for its 30th winter season with 15 brand-new one-of-a-kind suites. Each year since 1989, the Icehotel has been built and rebuilt using just snow and ice in the village of Jukkasjarvi, 125 miles north of the Arctic Circle next to the shores of the Torne River. To … Read more
Pastimes Museum, Rossiglione Italy The collection of items and artefacts found here date back to a simpler time. It’s a treasure trove of rare and unique pieces from history – board games, black-and-white televisions, mopeds, typewriters, graffiti and even a carousel are on display. Solo Per Due, Rieti, Italy Get a table at the smallest … Read more