Traditions, Featured

Besenwirtschaften Explained: Learn More About the Broomstick Inns

Many cultures have their unique seasonal practices, and among these are the Besenwirtschaften. While the Besen might not be something you’ve heard before, it comes with an exciting approach and can be something tourists are also welcome to experience. If you want to learn more about the Besen and the meaning behind the peculiar broomstick ...

Mike West

besenwirtschaft

Rising from the Ashes: The Restoration of Notre-Dame

As an enduring symbol of Paris, the cathedral of Notre-Dame, or Notre-Dame de Paris (Our Lady of Paris), has captured people’s imaginations for centuries. However, when flames engulfed its attic and spire in 2019, the world watched in stunned silence. Yet even as smoke billowed into the evening sky, plans were underway to resurrect this ...

Viena Abdon

Notre-Dame burning.

The Symbolism of Beards in History

Throughout human history, symbols have played a significant role in shaping cultural norms and values. Among these symbols, beards have been a distinctive and multifaceted emblem with profound significance.  From ancient civilizations to modern times, the beard has been more than just facial hair; it has been a powerful representation of identity, authority, wisdom, and ...

Viena Abdon

A statue of Poseidon with a beard.

Omamori: Japanese Talismans

If you’ve ever been to Japan, you’ll find certain places that sell omamori, often near religious or traditional sites. Booths around these shrines or Japanese buildings sell these magical-looking talismans, often in the form of keychains, necklaces, or other types of trinkets, with the common one being held by a string. Buying a random omamori ...

Mike West

Various omamori.

Greetings Around the Globe: Cultural Ways to Say Hello

Cultural greetings around the globe can vary greatly. As an avid traveler, learning to say “hello” in the local language is one of the first things you must try to pick up. It’s a sign of respect that goes a long way in connecting with new people. The most common greetings used worldwide and their ...

Viena Abdon

A group of ethnically diverse school children smiling and waving at the camera.

Learn Moritsuke: The Art of Japanese Plating

When it comes to Japanese cuisine, the first thing that often comes to mind is its delicate and artful presentation. The Japanese have mastered turning a simple meal into a visually stunning masterpiece. At the heart of this culinary aesthetic lies “moritsuke,” the intricate art of Japanese plating. As you learn about the concept of ...

Viena Abdon

Japanese moritsuke.

Baby Full-Month Celebration Explained: Why This Chinese Tradition Came to Life

Parents typically celebrate a baby’s first month of existence for sentimental reasons, such as how the baby was alive and well during its first month. However, it’s more than just a new tradition and has roots deep in Chinese culture. Aside from celebrating the newborn’s first month, Chinese culture has a specific way of celebrating ...

Mike West

Happy Asian baby dressed in red.

Birthstones by Zodiac Sign: What They Say About Your Personality

Birthstones have captured the human imagination for eons, serving as mystical markers aligning with the day or month of birth. Birthstones are associated with specific months, zodiac signs, and individual personalities.  Origin of birthstones Most scholars trace the tradition of wearing birthstones to ancient traditions. The ancients believed that specific stones could improve luck, fortune, ...

Nathan Machoka

Birthstones forming a heart shape.

The Irish Ballad ‘Danny Boy’ Explained: Why It’s Important

Ever heard of the traditional Irish song Danny Boy and wondered what it means? Find out more about the roots of this song and how it’s played an important part in Irish history. While Danny Boy is known by some as an old Irish tune resembling the newer You Raise Me Up sung by Josh ...

Mike West

Irish countryside.

Celebrating Love and Loyalty: Russia’s Family Day

Every year on July 8, Russia celebrates its traditional “Family Day.” This day is dedicated to celebrating family, love, and loyalty across the nation — a nationwide occasion known as the Day of Family, Love, and Fidelity. Establishment of Family Day In 2008, a proposition from the Russian State Duma initiated the celebration of “Family ...

Max Lu

Hands holding some daisies.