Many of you Pandas probably have, at one point or another, considered what it’d be like to go on a real-life adventure. The fact of the matter is that adventures don’t belong just in books, movies, and video games. There are plenty of ways to get the adrenaline pumping while also paying homage to our deep sense of curiosity and love of mystery. Some people go metal detecting, others go magnet fishing, while the activity of choice for some is all about urban exploration. It’s the latter that we’ll be talking about today.

Urban exploration, also known as urbex, is all about going to abandoned and deserted buildings and ruins. It’s about the thrill of exploration, seeing how decrepit places change over time, and taking gorgeous photos of the locations. Some of the most impressive pics, from all around the world, end up being shared on the ‘Urban Explorer’ Twitter page. Check out the best of the best below, and tell us which of these locations you’d love to see in person, Pandas.

Warning: urban exploration can be a thrilling but dangerous activity. Never go alone. Wear protective gear. Do your research and be prepared for everything. And check if what you’re doing—i.e. breaking into private property—isn’t illegal in your local area.

Bored Panda got in touch with Dominic Sberna, a professional photographer from the United States, for some tips and tricks of the trade. Dominic was kind enough to share his advice for staying safe during urban exploration, using lighting creatively in dark places, and why analog photography can be a viable alternative for full-digital pics. You'll find our full interview with him below, Pandas.