Colorful places in the Netherlands

The Yellow Street in Schiedam, Netherlands.
The city of Schiedam is one of the poorest city in the Netherlands. This Yellow Street is supposed to become the new entrance to the city centre. In anticipation to this fact, Schiedam now has its Yellow Brick Road, which -according to the legend- leads to glory and fortune.

Amazing carnaval Rio 2008

February 2, in the city of Rio de Janeiro has launched a traditional carnival. Rio de Janeiro is among the biggest cities in South America and the most popular of cultural celebrations is the Carnaval.

Photos: ©Reuters, AP, AFP, DPA

The fire festival "Up-Helly-Aa"

"Up-Helly-Aa" is a very impressive spectacle, a celebration of Shetland history, and a triumphant demonstration of the islanders' skills and spirit. This northern Mardi Gras lasts just one day (and night) and held on the last Tuesday in January. Only men can take an active part in the celebrations "Up-Helly-Aa". The first celebration was in 1878.

Lerwick, Scotland. (Photo: AFP)