Ralf Steinberger, Krzysztof Golik, Eleassar
Annually for the last 40 years, the cultural poobahs of the European Union have designated one or more of the continent's cities (and as of 2022 it's been three rather than two), as Capitals of Culture, focusing on their own cultural offerings and allowing them to organize a series of wider cultural events (many with a strong pan-European dimension) - which bring in considerable additional revenue; foster urban renewal; and raise their international
cultural tourism (83)
Alejandra Perez Alonso
In the vibrant cultural tapestry of Colombia, tejo stands out as one of the country’s most fascinating and traditional native sports. With deep roots in indigenous history, it´s is not just a game but a celebration of Colombian culture and community. This sport combines skill, strategy, and a festive spirit, making it a unique experience for both players and spectators. In this blog, we’ll explore the history, rules, and culture surrounding tejo, as well as its growing po
When planning a trip to Thailand, the images that often spring to mind are those of golden pagodas; buzzing markets and nightlife in Bangkok; and the busy beaches of Phuket. But " the land of smiles" holds many more secrets waiting to be unearthed in its lesser-known cities and towns. They´re all safe for travelers; accessible via the country´s efficient network of air routes, roads, and trains; and offer a range of accommodations; The best time to visit them is during the
Marco_Piunti
Chile´s vibrant capital (pop. just under seven million), set in a spectacular setting surrounded by the Andes, is a city which combines a rich history with compelling culture both traditional and contemporary (including a rich legacy of art both in world-class museums and galleries and on its streets). Throw in a handful of charismatic bohemian neighbourhoods, a thriving nightlife, and a delicious dining scene, Santiago has something to offer for everyone who wants to get a taste of
If you're looking for an exciting place to spend your next holidays, allow us to suggest one of the world's most interesting and welcoming countries, Colombia. Located in the northwest of South America astride both the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean. Colombia and its people will make you feel welcome and at home whilst you discover amazing new sights, sounds, flavours, and experiences. Here's how...
Fascinatin' Rhythms
The mix of cultures in this country has given rise to some 150 genr
Freddy Alexander Bugueño Tolmo
Located in the far north of this long, narrow country (and reachable by air in about seven hours via the city of Antofagasta), the Atacama is one of the world´s most fascinating and unique destinations in the world. With an area of some 105,000 square kilometres (40,540 sq. miles), the officially certified driest place on earth - with some areas recording no rain at all in decades and in some cases even centuries, nonetheless harbours a surprising diversity of lan
guido da rozze
As we have always mentioned in past notes, the great city of Cusco was once the capital of the majestic empire of Tahuantinsuyo. Today, we are the heirs of a millenary culture. This is reflected not only in the archaeological complexes that have survived throughout the city and the Sacred Valley, but also by the architecture of many of its buildings that have survived and by the oral tradition that is kept alive to this day.
The Legend of the Condor
Legend has it that in a vill
Literally, pantsula translates from Zulu as "to walk like a duck". It's an energetic, syncopated urban dance that originated in Johannesburg townships during a traumatic period of apartheid in the 1950s, and is today seeing a resurgence among the black youth (as well as some whites) of South Africa.
To experience and understand it, we travel to the streets of Joburg's Tembisa township, where pantsula is part of day-to-day life, with many dancers showing off their skills in the middle of the
Travel: a word that conjures up images of far-off lands, captivating cultures, and unforgettable experiences. But what lies beyond the glossy brochures and picture-perfect postcards? For those with a passion for both words and the open road, the answer is simple yet profound: the essence of a destination's soul. In this post we'll embark on a journey to explore how travel goes beyond the surface, uncovering the psychology behind our wanderlust and the unique ways in which each place leaves an
4FR, Jacob Wackerhausen,RAndrey
Annually since 1985, the cultural poobahs of the European Union have designated one or more of the continent's cities (and as of 2022 it's been three rather than two), as Capitals of Culture, focusing on their own cultural offerings and allowing them to organize a series of wider cultural events (many with a strong pan-European dimension) - which bring in considerable additional revenue; foster urban renewal; and raise their international profiles and images. Sin
GoranQ
Officially the Republic of China, this island with a population of around 24 million – just a bit larger than the state of Maryland and just under half the size of Scotland – has been in the news lately both thanks to its controversial January 13 presidential elections and to its perennial potential (and especially in the context of other current crises in Ukraine and Gaza) as a world flashpoint due to mainland China´s obsession with eventually and forcibly annexing it. Taiwan is both o
For many, the first thing that comes to mind when it comes to Kenya is wildlife and safaris. But visitors should also keep in mind this country´s rich artistic and cultural heritage - thanks to its more than 70 ethnic groups such as the Kikuyu, Kamba, Luhya, Maasai, and Kalenjin - both to witness (such as tribal dances) and to buy as mementos of their trip here (esecially masks, figurines, and other forms of sculpture). This beautiful country keeps the spirit of its ancestors alive through ev
nps.org
The unwavering commitment to equality, justice, and nonviolent protest of one of the premier civil rights leaders of the 20th century had a profound impact on U.S. and even world history both during his lifetime and in the more than half century since. And the holiday established in his name, celebrated on January 15, is a chance to celebrate diversity, explore the richness of history, and uphold the principles that MLK Jr. devotedly upheld. And these five spots across the country offer
Mountain Lake Lodge, AKA Kellerman’s Resort: Where Dirty Dancing Comes to Life. Photo courtesy of Mountain Lake Lodge
Is there anyone who doesn’t know you don’t put Baby in a corner? Or who doesn’t automatically hum along to The Time of My Life? Imagine revisiting Dirty Dancing at its original locale – and visiting the site where Baby and Johnny practiced “the lift” – possibly the most famous dance routine ending ever? Welcome to Mountain Lake Lodge in Pembroke, Virginia channeling the Catskills
photos | Sarah Brown
by Sarah Brown
Though most famous for Carnival, golden beaches, and world-famous landmarks, the real heart of Rio de Janeiro, for those in the know, lies in its downtown, most notably in Saúde, Gamboa, and the surrounding neighbourhoods hard by the port. For it’s this area that’s steeped in a complex history that dates back half a millennium to the Portuguese colonisers’ founding of Rio and the centuries of brutal slavery which followed.
A good place to start is Praça Mauá, a o
Erik Törner
My country´s capital famously boasts some of the world´s most legendary and inspiring tourist attractions, such as the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, the Spanish Steps, and Vatican City. But Rome is also overflowing with millennia worth of riches that get less attention from visitors intent on their “bucket lists”, and exploring these places off the usual tourist track can give you a deeper, more authentic, and more serene experience of the Eternal City – and by the way, avoid the cro
Carol Highsmith
Great Danes!
Nestled in Southern California's Santa Ynez Valley, a 45-minute drive north of Santa Barbara and a bit over two hours from Los Angeles, this small town of just over 6,100 offers visitors a unique blend of nature and culture. One of Solvang's top attractions is its unique Danish, which you can explore by strolling its charming streets. Founded in 1911 by Danish immigrants, and its downtown remodeled in the 1940s to reflect that country's architectural heritage, Sol
Photos: Linda Cooper
In Japan (or Nippon as the Japanese call it), broken objects are often repaired in gold, a practice known as Kintsugi. As a philosophy, its flaw is seen as a unique piece of the object’s history, therefore celebrating its beauty rather than something to disguise. It’s this approach combined with a constant “nod” reflecting old and new blended so seamlessly into Japanese modern life that makes the Land of the Rising Sun one of the most travelworthy around the globe.
