From Swanky Manholes to Babies in Flowerpots: The Week's Most Fascinating Stories
Swanky manholes, baby flowerpots & divisive shoes

This week has brought a delightful mix of the bizarre, the beautiful, and the downright baffling. Here are six standout stories that captured imaginations across the globe.

1. The Rise of Swanky Manholes

Who knew manhole covers could be a status symbol? Cities worldwide are now embracing ornate, high-end designs, turning these everyday objects into works of art. From gold-plated options to intricate engravings, these luxury covers are redefining urban aesthetics.

2. Babies in Flowerpots: The Viral Trend

Social media has gone wild for adorable photos of babies nestled in oversized flowerpots. What started as a whimsical photoshoot idea has blossomed into a full-blown trend, with parents sharing their own creative takes on the theme.

3. The World's Most Divisive Shoes

A new footwear design has sparked heated debates across fashion circles. Loved by some and loathed by others, these controversial shoes are proving that style is anything but universal. Are they groundbreaking or just plain odd? The jury's still out.

4. Unexpected Animal Friendships

This week brought heartwarming tales of unlikely animal duos forming surprising bonds. From cats and birds to dogs and deer, these interspecies friendships are melting hearts worldwide.

5. The Return of Retro Tech

Vintage technology is making a surprising comeback, with younger generations embracing everything from cassette tapes to rotary phones. Nostalgia meets novelty in this unexpected tech revival.

6. Culinary Controversy: The Great Pineapple Debate

The age-old pizza topping debate has reignited, with chefs and foodies clashing over pineapple's place in gourmet cuisine. Some call it sacrilege, others swear by its sweet-savoury appeal.