48. Whale - Japan, United States, Canada, Greenland, Norway, Iceland

48. Whale - Japan, United States, Canada, Greenland, Norway, Iceland

We have all seen South Park's episode featuring whale hunting in Japan. Whale meat is the flesh of whales used for consumption by humans or other animals, and broadly includes other consumed parts as blubber, skin, and organs. It is prepared in various ways and has historically been eaten in many parts of the world, including across Western Europe and colonial America, and not necessarily restricted to coastal communities, since flesh and blubber can be salt-cured.

Despite being denounced by countless detractors on the grounds of wildlife conservation and animal rights, whale meat is still consumed in a large number of countries. The deaths of these endangered creatures are rarely quick and are usually bloody, and yet this still goes on around the world. The meat is said to contain high amounts of mercury and other toxins, which can cause organs to fail and a person to become mad. An occupational hazard for hatters in the 19th century, mercury poisoning inspired the Mad Hatter character in the Alice in Wonderland stories.

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Did You Know...

I

Whether celebrities are looking to be in the spotlight or escape the paparazzi, there are some popular vacation destinations that always seem to be frequented by the stars. Celeb spotting is a favorite pastime of many travelers, and you might be able to snag a photo or even an autograph when you visit these top celebrity vacation spots around the world. Although the price tags may be a bit higher in these destinations than your average budget getaway, these are some of the best celebrity vacation spots that you can start saving up to visit and enjoy the trip of a lifetime.

II

One of the classiest celebrity vacation spots in Europe is Mallorca, Spain. It’s known as a spot to be posh more than a spot to party. Michael Douglas and Catherine Zeta Jones have a house here, and it’s been a favorite getaway for Gwenyth Paltrow. Some of the local favorites that boast the most celebrity sightings include the Wellies Restaurant and Bar, Puerto Portals, and Es Trenc Beach.

III

Saint Tropez is known for its amazing beaches and blissful landscapes. Celebrity couples like Beyoncé and Jay Z and David and Victoria Beckham have been spotted vacationing along these famous beaches. The Cote d’Azur seaport is a big draw for celebs here, as well as top beach clubs like Club 55.

IV

Perhaps the most well-known celebrity that loves Lake Como is George Clooney. He has a villa with over a dozen rooms here so he can bring all his friends along to relax, get away, and party. Villa d’Este is another popular place celebrities choose to stay because of its attention to privacy. Just ask Arnold Schwarzenegger, Bette Midler, or Sylvester Stallone!

V

Sure, there are plenty of celebrities that call Sydney home year-around, but there are lots of others who like to visit for a surfing and sailing getaway. Sydney’s Bondi Beach has been a top vacation pick for Leonardo DiCaprio and Hugh Jackman, and some A-list accommodations are the InterContinental Hotel and the Park Hyatt in the Rocks.

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