Lush forests cover more than half of Slovenia an Adriatic enclave of surprising biodiversity we were more or less peasants; the land was key to our survival I usually say we have a green DNA because the worst thing a Slovenian can think of is to destroy nature That is why nearly 40 percent of Slovenia is under some kind of protection.”   Slovenia sits at a juncture where the Eurasian and African plates meet and press upon the Adriatic plate layered landscape surrounded by the Alps in the northwest nearly half of Slovenia is composed of porous karst leading to a labyrinth of limestone caves Here are 20 images of an ancient land that is being preserved for future generations. The tiny settlement and its church of the same name—with foundations from around the turn of the 16th century—are at once typical and dramatic Sveti Tomaž (Saint Thomas) is tucked into the foothills of the Alps, with Triglav National Park to the north and the capital, Ljubljana The series of three Križ Lakes, with views into the Trenta Valley and Soča River below, are among the many surprises found in Triglav National Park which showcases the country’s Julian Alps and occupies much of Slovenia’s northwest corner which runs for 85 miles from the heart of Julian Alps to the Adriatic Sea Perhaps the most photographed spot in Slovenia—if not Southeastern Europe—is the Assumption of Mary Church The Baroque icon is a must-see in every season even if boats have to break ice to get there and around 40 percent of the country is protected like this road running along the eastern edge of Triglav National Park can provide stark and sometimes beautiful contrast About 21 miles north of Ljubljana, Velika Planina is billed as one the largest shepherds’ settlements in Europe With around 140 huts spanning this alpine plateau the time to visit is in June when the residents Some 50 tight turns wind up dense larch-tree forests to the 5,285-foot Vršič Pass, which was constructed as a military road. Drivers and cyclists conquer switchbacks from the Trenta Valley, in the south, then head north toward the resort town of Kranjska Gora famous for its ski center and ski jump facilities A winter sun sets on Slovenia’s mountainous landscape as clouds roll in near the settlement of Kvok Lake Cerknica is among the largest intermittent lakes in Europe the body of water reappears on the karst field—reinvigorating an entire ecosystem of birds and insects—and stretches for more than 11 square miles Mount Triglav is the highest point in Slovenia and the Julian Alps and it’s the main attraction within the country’s lone national park: Triglav National Park It is said that every Slovene must climb the 9,396-foot peak at least once The end of a day of hiking brings solitude in the mountains of Slovenia’s Bohinj region This area—much of which lies within Triglav National Park—boasts many of the country’s most famous draws: Bohinj Lake which is Slovenia’s largest natural lake; top-end skiing; and alpine-village traditions Celje—Slovenia’s third largest city with a population of around 38,000—is a dense combination of nature and history Located on the banks of the Savinja River in the eastern half of the country its attractions include Roman ruins and a medieval castle Nestled in the Julian Alps, every season brings a new view of Lake Bled arguably Slovenia’s most famous body of water the perspective from the shoreside castle is considered one of the best for shots of the lake Koper is the largest city on Slovenia’s oft-overlooked Adriatic Coast A stroll along the town’s pedestrian boulevards to the central Titov Trg means traveling through five centuries of Venetian architecture Stara Fužina is an alpine village on the banks of the Mostnica River and within a 10-minute walk to Bohinj Lake in Triglav National Park Herding cows into the mountains is still a family affair here The Slovenia’s main urban hub, which was named the 2016 European Green Capital before Slovenia became part of Yugoslavia in the 20th century and mountain backdrop—combines influences to form one of Europe’s most photogenic cityscapes The Križna Jama near the village of Bloška Polica in the southern third of Slovenia Like so many spots in Slovenia, Planinsko Polje, which is a karst field on the Unica River that floods and drains with the weather and seasons, is a hidden treasure. Just up the road from the more famous Postojna Cave and its 15 miles of twisting and turning caverns The settlement of Koprivnik sits in the foothills close to the Croatian border This type of village is common in the region and in Slovenia where around 50 percent of the population is classified as rural is as picturesque as it is classically Slovenian and is a dream locale for hikers and photographers Travel Photographer of the YearLocation: Loiyangalani symbolizing her readiness for marriage and attracting a husband features layers of intricately woven beads the surreal tones of the desolate environment amplify her presence as she stands alone amidst the emptiness as a symbol of resilience and grace.” The Travel Photographer of the Year (TPOTY) competition has unveiled the winners of its 2024 contest. American photographer Piper Mackay was awarded the title of Travel Photographer of the Year for her strong portfolio of monochromatic infrared images “So many images seen today are over-saturated and even AI-generated,” says TPOTY founder Chris Coe “A ‘less is more’ approach is often far more effective It is therefore refreshing to judge images which demonstrate good camera craft and in-camera creativity—shot full-frame “Piper Mackay’s distinctive winning images illustrate this ‘less is more’ ideal well celebrating both Indigenous women and wildlife on the African savanna with a camera converted to shoot infrared (IR) allows us to absorb the details and atmosphere which good monochrome conveys so well but the intricate detail and atmosphere captured is also eye-catching and highly engaging.” Fourteen-year-old Raymond Zhang from China was named the Young Travel Photographer of the Year His incredible images of an old steam train and its drivers could face off with any adult entry He threw himself into the mix to document the trials and tribulations of the train In addition to the portfolio prizes, several awards were given out for single images and a People's Choice winner was named. Italy's Mauro De Bettio won the People's Choice Award for his portrait of a man in Nigeria balancing a Pangolin on his head De Bettio's photo is an important reminder of the work that needs to be done to protect this endangered species Young TPOTY.Location: Sandaoling coal mine China“The workers in the Sandaoling coal mine had worked there for more than forty years soon the coal mine would be closed and they would faceretirement (it has probably closed now) They had to work instead of reuniting with their family.” Nigeria“In the bustling markets of Lagos proudly balancing a pangolin atop his head—a poignant symbol of resilience This pangolin was rescued from the illegal wildlife trade an industry that has made Nigeria a hub for trafficking The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) highlights Nigeria as a key exporter of pangolin scales fueling a multimillion-dollar black market Locally hunted for food and trafficked internationally for traditional medicine and fashion This man’s act underscores the urgent need to protect these gentle creatures whose survival is increasingly endangered by human greed and exploitation.” Indonesia“On the windswept sands of Mount Bromo an Indonesian horseman struggles to control his aggressive volcanic dust clinging to his face lined with years of toil demanding strength and resilience from man and beast alike this is more than survival—it’s a way of life reflects a people whose enduring spirit thrives even amidst the challenges of this untamed terrain.” Bhutan“Against the majestic Buddha Dordennma Statue in Thimphu blending tradition and modernity in their gho attire This reflects Bhutan's decade-long baseball journey inspired by HRH Jigyel Ugyen Wangchuck’s vision to nurture a sports culture This game on concrete echoes their humble beginnings symbolizing resilience and hope for baseball’s future in Bhutan while showcasing the Kingdom’s unique harmony of heritage and progress.” Best Single Image in Planet Earth – Landscape Climate & Water PortfolioLocation: Jeruksari near Pekalongan plays with a friend in the flooded streets of Jeruksari The sea level in Indonesia has risen by an alarming 4mm annually since 1992 Northern coastal cities are the most rapidly and severely affected compounded by tidal flooding that inundates villages with slow-receding water Poorly planned urbanization and infrastructure development also contribute to flooding in these low-lying areas.” Climate & Water PortfolioLocation: Bråsvellbreen Svalbard“More waterfalls carve the landscape of Bråsvellbreen As ice caps and glaciers melt faster in our polar regions we will lose so much of this fragile environment to climate change emphasizing the urgency of addressing climate change to protect vulnerable ecosystems and human populations alike.” Cultures PortfolioLocation: Simbu Province Papua New Guinea“Two Wauga elders stand together among the very few who remain as guardians of their tribe’s traditions reflect a lifetime of wisdom and resilience Adorned with intricate feathered headdresses and covered in black mud they represent a culture at risk of fading The elder in the foreground gazes thoughtfully bearing the responsibility of preserving their legacy the second elder mirrors the same quiet strength their shared presence a symbol of the community’s enduring bonds This powerful image captures the fragility of their cultural rituals reminding us of the importance of safeguarding traditions before they are lost forever.” Young TPOTY 15-18Location: Środa Wielkopolska Poland“I was photographing shorebirds and rails at a puddle in the middle of reeds On my third day a kingfisher sat right in front of me Romania“Last year I had the chance to enjoy this season in a place which was on my bucket list for quite some time is one of the most unique and beautiful places in my country The wide color palette of the trees reflected in the lake create a beautiful view and you can also have a little fog on the surface of thewater.” a quaint church perches atop a gentle hill surrounded by delicate trees draped in soft snow creating a dreamlike quality that embodies peace and timeless beauty.” Madagascar“The Manabolo River in Madagascar When we visited one of these caves I noticed the unique texture of the entrance ceiling which almost looked like a reflection of the sand floor I stood there trying to capture these textures when one of the canoe drivers inattentively placed himself in the middle of the scene I took advantage of the moment and added the elegant figure of the man to the stone and sand textures with the boats and the river in the background.” Papua New Guinea“As their name suggests the Insect Hunters of Papua New Guinea’s diet is primarily insects While navigating the highland forests they wear large hats made of leaves and mud including shining light while walking at night as well as grilling any insects they find on walks This tribe is distinguished by their hats and distinct black-and-white horizontal striped body paint.” Young TPOTY 14 Year and UnderLocation: Namibia“Namibia sand dunes at sunset.” Nature & Underwater PortfolioLocation: Jardines de la Reina Cuba“Crocodiles have a very low profile above the water line once they are swimming in order to keep their presence well hidden from their pray For a photographer trying to achieve a split shot – half above the water half below – with a crocodile is quite the challenge I wanted this powerful beast’s eye to just pop out above the waterline and had to take many photos like this to eventually achieve this image.” Nature & Underwater PortfolioLocation: Steppe Region of Eastern Mongolia“A Pallas cat lies flat in the snow at first light The cat is covered in hoar frost in the freezing -35º Celsius morning temperature inthis region of Mongolia in winter and was likely out hunting all night.” One Shot: Festivals & CelebrationsLocation: Rumbur Pakistan“Girls celebrate during ‘Chilam Joshi,’ also known as the Kalash Spring Festival The Kalash people are always exotically dressed but during the festival they wear more outlandish headdresses including feathers and embroidered dresses and beads The Kalash people believe that Chilam Joshi brings about the balance of nature and ensures the fertility of the land and so during the festival the Kalash people perform rituals to honor their gods and goddesses The festival provides an opportunity for the community to come together and pass on cultural traditions to younger generations.” One Shot: Women in World CultureLocation: Oaxaca Mexico“The Día de los Muertos in Oaxaca Mexico is a deeply spiritual and culturally rich celebration of life and death The elderly woman sits contemplatively among the graves adorned with bright orange marigolds Her expression reflects a mixture of sorrow and peace perhaps as she communes with the spirits of her loved ones The warm glow of candlelight illuminates the scene creating a sacred and intimate atmosphere.” UAE“A panoramic view of Downtown Dubai The beautiful blue hues of the morning light slowly turn orange and yellow from the rising sun in the east illuminating the world's tallest building while thick fog rolling in from the desert covers the ground creating the illusion of a city in the clouds While many images of this rare phenomenon exist by now I’ve always been looking for a new angle and composition – through persistence and patience I’ve been able to achieve this goal through a panoramic photo from the roof of a skyscraper that’s a little bit set back from the rest of the skyline.” waiting for a train in a city close to the one I live in I noticed that the opposite platform looked like a theatre stage with all the commuters having arranged themselves perfectly for a brief moment and I quickly took the shot No great travel is needed to make a great photograph; some luck and an awareness of one’s surroundings are enough.” Peru“In the Andean mountains of Peru Inca traditions form an integral part of the culture and daily life of its people I was deeply moved by the cultural reverence demonstrated by the family I lived with towards their customs and ancestral past A profound sense of community permeated every aspect of life there The use of embroidery is not just decorative; it is a vibrant expression of the rich heritage and traditions passed down through generations These intricate designs often carry symbolic significance or spirituality that hold deep importance for the community.” Rising TalentLocation: Battersea Power Station UK“As soon as I saw the light streaming in the majestic windows of the old turbine hall at Battersea Power Station I knew I had to capture it and that it would be perfect in black & white Making this image was an exercise in patience as I waited for a moment with no other passersby and I could include only my daughter in the scene and incorporate a sense of scale.” Zanskar Valley“This photo was taken in Karsha a village surrounded by the mountains of the Zanskar Valley in Ladakh I was attending a festival where all the monks from the village's two monasteries had gathered for a long Puja that lasted all afternoon The only complication was a sandstorm that made it difficult for the younger monks to concentrate Some sought shelter under tents made from sheets while others played cricket with sticks and tennis balls this monk decided to stand up and walk away from the gathering place.” Western Afghanistan“A young Kuchi nomad girl Pashtun nomads hail from more than a dozen tribes of the larger Ghilzai group were once one of the largest nomadic communities in the world and a push toward a sedentary have rendered them one of the most marginalized communities in Afghanistan.” Uzbekistan“Chorsu Bazaar dates back to the Middle Ages when it was one of the important destinations on the Silk Road We were wandering through one of the many passageways around lunch time when we passed this group of women sitting chatting On our travels through Uzbekistan I had noticed several groups of women sitting chatting together in their work breaks often in quite unusual places – next to flower beds where they had been gardening or on the curbs of streets that they had been cleaning This was probably the most unusual of all.” Malaysia“A delicate spider perches majestically atop a golden mushroom its long legs poised in a display of elegance and control The dark background contrasts sharply with the illuminated subject highlighting the intricate details of both spider and mushroom This image captures the often-overlooked beauty of smallcreatures and their habitats showcasing the fascinating interplay between light and shadow in the natural world It invites viewers to appreciate the complexity and wonder of even the tiniest inhabitants of our planet.” Celebrating creativity and promoting a positive culture by spotlighting the best sides of humanity—from the lighthearted and fun to the thought-provoking and enlightening.