National Geographic Russia in February

The feature story of National Geographic Russia’s new issue is devoted to Hawaii, the birthplace of surfing and the true Hawaiians. See them do daring somersaults in the air, rise to the crest of a wave and then ride the pipe as a wall of water crashes just inches away.

Also in this issue:

The Spanish fly: This insect that is actually not a fly but a beetle that for centuries was used in several countries as an aphrodisiac.

The Bengtskar lighthouse: The tallest lighthouse in Scandinavia, the Bengtskar has seen a lot in its lifetime. “Changing citizenship” several times as the Finnish garrison defended it, the lighthouse is now a national treasure of Finland.

The Nepali train: The only train in Nepal – a gift from India – might have no regular schedule, but willing passengers can ride on the roof.

Krytalyk: More than 90 species of birds from around the world flock to this reserve in the Yana-Indigirka tundra to beget offspring.

Ubiquitous mites: Our planet is filled with these microscopic creatures, and it is even possible that they have made a home on your face.

Gran Paradiso. Former royal hunting grounds in northern Italy, Gran Paradiso is now a national park where wildlife exists in harmony with civilization.

The February issue of National Geographic Russia is now on sale.