International tourism crosses national borders and is a global leisure activity. WHO estimates up to 500,000 people are in flight at any time. Global tourism reached $919B in 2010, growing 6.5% from 2009. By 2016, 1,235 million international tourists visited, spending $1,220B
Food court is an indoor plaza with multiple vendors for self-serve dining. Common materials include tile, linoleum, Formica, stainless steel, and glass. Food courts can be standalone developments or found in malls, airports, and parks
Gold was discovered by James W. Marshall at Sutter's Mill in 1848. Approximately 300,000 people arrived from around the world. First major arrivals came from Oregon, Hawaii, and Latin America
Fifth-most powerful El Niño event in recorded history. Declared by WMO on July 4, 2023. Most significant effects expected between November 2023 and April 2024. Can raise global temperature by few tenths of a degree Celsius
Mass tourism involves large numbers visiting same destinations simultaneously. Popular destinations include iconic landmarks like Eiffel Tower and Taj Mahal. Growth driven by improved transportation, globalization, and marketing
Magnitude-7.8 earthquake struck near Pazarcık on February 6, 2023. Magnitude-7.5 earthquake occurred in Elbistan at 1:24 p.m. on February 6. Total death toll reached 43,566 in Türkiye as of February 23. 156,000 buildings collapsed or heavily damaged