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Until the 1920s, May 1st was known as ‘Moving Day’ in New York City. On this day, most lease agreements ended, and families across the city would simultaneously pack up and move to their new homes. The streets became filled with horse-drawn wagons and chaos, as thousands of New Yorkers swapped homes in one day. The tradition, which dated back to colonial times, eventually died out as the city grew too large for this to continue efficiently. Today, New Yorkers can move on any day of the year, sparing the city the once-annual frenzy.

The Eiffel Tower, one of the most iconic structures in the world, actually grows in height during the summer. When the iron that makes up the tower heats up, it expands, causing the tower to increase by about 6 inches. This expansion is due to thermal expansion, a scientific phenomenon where materials expand when they are heated. Besides being a symbol of Paris, the Eiffel Tower is also an example of intricate engineering, and it remains one of the most visited monuments in the world.

While many people refer to the clock tower of the Palace of Westminster as Big Ben, the name actually refers to the Great Bell housed within the tower. The clock tower itself was renamed the Elizabeth Tower in 2012 to honor Queen Elizabeth II's Diamond Jubilee. The Great Bell, or Big Ben, weighs over 13 tons and is famously recognized for its chimes. The clock and the tower are iconic symbols of London and British culture, appearing in countless films and media.

Tokyo, now a bustling metropolis and one of the largest cities in the world, was once known as Edo. It was a small fishing village that became the center of power when Tokugawa Ieyasu established his shogunate there in 1603. In 1868, Emperor Meiji moved the capital from Kyoto to Edo, renaming it Tokyo, which means 'Eastern Capital.' Today, Tokyo is renowned for its blend of traditional temples and modern skyscrapers, making it a vibrant mix of history and futuristic innovation.

The Sydney Opera House is one of the most recognized buildings in the world, known for its unique sail-like design. However, its construction was fraught with challenges. Originally estimated to cost $7 million, the final cost was an astounding $102 million, and the project took 15 years to complete, far longer than the initial estimate. Despite the setbacks, the Opera House is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of modern architectural excellence, attracting millions of visitors each year.

Rome, known as the 'Eternal City,' is home to more fountains than any other city in the world. With over 1,500 fountains, it is a city where water flows freely from ancient aqueducts to modern works of art. The most famous of these is the Trevi Fountain, a Baroque masterpiece where visitors throw coins into the water, a tradition that is said to ensure their return to Rome. Beyond its fountains, Rome’s rich history, from the Roman Empire to the Renaissance, is evident in every corner of the city.

Cairo, the sprawling capital of Egypt, is often referred to as the ‘City of a Thousand Minarets’ due to its abundance of mosques. The city’s Islamic architecture is stunning, with many mosques featuring towering minarets that have defined the skyline for centuries. Cairo’s rich history dates back over a thousand years, and it is located near one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the Great Pyramids of Giza. Today, Cairo is a bustling city blending the ancient with the modern.

Rio de Janeiro, famous for its beaches, carnival, and the Christ the Redeemer statue, holds a unique historical title. From 1808 to 1821, it served as the capital of Portugal. This makes Rio the only city outside of Europe to ever serve as the capital of a European country. Today, Rio is one of Brazil’s most vibrant cities, known for its cultural diversity and breathtaking natural scenery, including Sugarloaf Mountain and the iconic Copacabana beach.

Berlin, the capital of Germany, is known for its rich history, especially during the 20th century. It was the site of significant events during World War II and the Cold War, with the Berlin Wall dividing the city from 1961 to 1989. Today, Berlin is a vibrant cultural hub, nine times larger than Paris in terms of area, but with a smaller population than London. Its mix of historical landmarks and modern art and culture makes it one of the most dynamic cities in Europe.

Mumbai, formerly known as Bombay, is India’s financial and entertainment capital. It is home to the world’s most expensive private residence, Antilia, owned by billionaire Mukesh Ambani. This 27-story skyscraper mansion is valued at over $1 billion. Mumbai is also famous for its thriving Bollywood industry, making it a key player in the global film scene. With a rich colonial history and a fast-paced modern lifestyle, Mumbai is a city that truly never sleeps.

Istanbul, historically known as Byzantium and Constantinople, has been the capital of three empires: Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman. Its unique geographical position, straddling Europe and Asia, makes it a cultural melting pot. The city is renowned for its historic sites, including the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque. Today, Istanbul is a vibrant metropolis that showcases a blend of traditional and contemporary culture, making it one of the most exciting cities in the world.

Toronto, Canada’s largest city, is known for its multiculturalism, with over 140 languages spoken across its neighborhoods. The city is home to the iconic CN Tower, which was the tallest freestanding structure in the world until 2009. Toronto’s diverse population has made it a hub for various cuisines, festivals, and cultural events, attracting millions of visitors each year. From the stunning waterfront to vibrant arts districts, Toronto offers something for everyone.