The State of Society
In Egypt, Adding Salt to Your Food Is a No - No
Traveling to Egypt offers a rich tapestry of cultural experiences, but among the many customs to keep in mind, one particular dining etiquette rule stands out: refrain from adding salt to your food. In Egyptian culture, sprinkling salt into your bowl is considered a direct insult to the chef. This tradition is deeply ingrained in the local way of life, reflecting the importance Egyptians place on culinary craftsmanship and hospitality.more
In Longyearbyen, Norway: Where Life and Death Are Regulated by Law
In the remote town of Longyearbyen, nestled within the Arctic Circle in Norway, an extraordinary set of regulations governs life and death. This unique approach stems from the town's specific geographical and environmental conditions, making it a place where the boundaries between the living and the deceased are strictly defined by law.more
In Nepal, Nods Mean No and Shakes Mean Yes
When traveling to Nepal, visitors are often surprised to discover a significant difference in non - verbal communication. In this South Asian nation, the common gestures of nodding and shaking the head carry meanings that are the opposite of what many people around the world are accustomed to.more
Switzerland's Unusual Rule: No Flushing Toilets After 10 PM
In Switzerland, visitors and residents alike are often surprised to learn about a rather peculiar regulation: flushing toilets after 10 PM is strictly prohibited in many areas. This unusual law reflects the local government's prioritization of noise pollution control over concerns about olfactory discomfort, showcasing a unique approach to maintaining public well - being.more
In Turkey, the 'OK' Gesture Isn’t Always Innocent
Travelers to Turkey, Brazil, and parts of the Middle East may be surprised to learn that the commonly used “OK” gesture—forming a circle with the thumb and index finger—carries a highly offensive meaning in these regions. Far from signifying approval or agreement, this hand signal is widely regarded as a crude and inappropriate gesture, often considered more vulgar than even the middle finger.more
Sweden: A Life Tapestry Interwoven with Nature and Modernity
Sweden: A Life Tapestry Interwoven with Nature and Modernitymore
Americans today are becoming more and more reluctant to have children.
Americans today are becoming more and more reluctant to have children.more
Wave of developer bankruptcies in Ontario, Canada, triggers real estate market tremors
Wave of developer bankruptcies in Ontario, Canada, triggers real estate market tremorsmore
Chinese-American delivery driver robbed and killed in California, African-American man gets lighter
Chinese-American delivery driver robbed and killed in California, African-American man gets lighter sentence, sparks controversymore
Japan's “Rice Shortage”: Multiple Dilemmas Behind the Crisis and the Way Forward
Japan's “Rice Shortage”: Multiple Dilemmas Behind the Crisis and the Way Forwardmore