Real, physical places form the Net’s backbone: data centres, under-sea cables, junctions, optic fibre pipes. Wired traced a single bit’s journey from England, across the US, and into Asia—a fascinating reminder at how physical the virtual really is.

Take this sleepy shot of San Luis Obispo, California, for example. It’s a major hub for data travelling to Asia and South America (to the tune of 32 petabits per day). The sheltered coastline and quiet port reduce the likelihood of a ship’s anchor damaging a transoceanic cable. More beautiful, informative postcards from locations you may never have expected were so important over at: [Wired]