Blue lagoon of Pulau Ay, Banda Islands, Indonesia

Where history gets spicy. International Day of the Tropics

Every June 29, the International Day of the Tropics shines a light on the equator-hugging zone where the sun sticks around and climate conversations get real. The tropics span a broad region between the Tropic of Cancer and the Tropic of Capricorn, including parts of Asia, Africa, Oceania, Central America and South America. Nearly 40% of the global population lives in this band, which also hosts 80% of the world's biodiversity. It's rich in culture, nature and history—but also under pressure from rising temperatures, deforestation and fast-paced urban growth.

For a tropical tale with extra flavour, look no further than Pulau Ay, photographed here. Nutmeg was once one of the world's most sought-after commodities—and this tiny island in Indonesia's Banda Islands played a key role in its global trade. It once sparked global rivalries and deadly sea battles, influencing the geopolitical boundaries of the modern world. Today, Pulau Ay is a place where reefs shine, nutmeg continues to thrive and history lingers in moss-covered forts. Visitors can snorkel along coral gardens, wander through spice groves or sit with locals drying mace under the sun. So, today's mission? Celebrate, sure—but also reflect, learn and act.