Mongolian Children Start Learning Horse Riding at Three
In Mongolia, horse riding is an integral part of the country's culture and way of life, and children there start learning to ride horses at the age of three. This tradition has a long - standing history and is deeply rooted in the nomadic lifestyle of the Mongols.
1 minute read
North Korea: An Isolated Enigma
North Korea is often perceived as a country seemingly cut off from the rest of the world. In 2020, due to the global pandemic, North Korea closed its borders, which led to a significant decrease in its foreign trade. Its total foreign trade volume was $860 million in 2020, and it was expected to be less than $300 million in the following year, a sharp contrast to South Korea's trade volume which exceeded $1 trillion in the same period. The number of inbound and outbound passengers also shows a huge gap between the two countries, with North Korea having only a fraction of South Korea's figures.
1 minute read
Unique Hot - Pot Bathing in the Philippines
In the Antique Province of the Philippines, there is a long - standing and distinctive bathing method known as the Kawa Hot Bath. This is no ordinary bath but a real - life version of "stewing oneself in an iron pot".
1 minute read
Myanmar: Vast Fortunes in Jade Exchange Hands Freely
Myanmar, a nation nestled in Southeast Asia, is globally renowned for its extraordinary jade trade, where artifacts worth hundreds of millions of dollars are casually bought and sold, painting a picture of a market like no other.
1 minute read
Thailand: The Enigma of Beauty Beyond Gender Boundaries
Thailand has long been renowned for its vibrant and diverse culture, and one of the most captivating aspects is the prominence of transgender individuals, known locally as "kathoey." In the bustling streets, lively entertainment venues, and tourist hotspots of Thailand, it is not uncommon to encounter stunningly beautiful individuals whose gender identity may leave onlookers guessing.
1 minute read
Cambodia's Unusual Sleeping Tradition: Hammocks Suspended Outside Homes
In Cambodia, a unique and eye - catching tradition sees people sleeping in hammocks suspended outside their homes, often right at the front entrance. This practice, deeply ingrained in the local way of life, is a response to the country's warm climate and the desire for a cool, breezy resting space.
1 minute read
Brunei: A Tiny but Wealthy Nation
Brunei, a small Southeast Asian nation, is often described as "rich to the brim." Despite its minuscule size, it has amassed substantial wealth.
1 minute read
Singapore's Approach to the Sex Industry: No Ban on the Custom Industry
Singapore, known for its strict laws in many aspects, has a rather unique stance when it comes to the custom industry. Unlike some countries that have imposed outright bans, Singapore has chosen a different path.
1 minute read
Nepal's Unique Tradition: Annual Homage to Dogs
In Nepal, a country rich in culture and traditions, there exists an extraordinary annual ritual dedicated to man’s best friend—dogs. This unique practice is part of a five - day festival known as “Kukur Tihar,” which is a significant segment of the larger Tihar festival, also referred to as the Festival of Lights in Nepal.
1 minute read
The Unusual Practice of Polyandry in Bhutan
In the unique cultural tapestry of Bhutan, an ancient practice of polyandry, where a woman can have two husbands, has long been a part of the country's social fabric. Although Bhutan officially abolished this polyandry system 37 years ago and adopted a monogamous marriage law, historical and cultural inertia has ensured that traces of this custom still persist in certain regions.
1 minute read
Pakistan's Unique Gesture: Shaking the Head to Show Agreement
In Pakistan, a fascinating cultural quirk sets its communication norms apart from many other parts of the world. Here, shaking the head isn't a sign of disagreement, as it is in most Western cultures; instead, it's a way to convey approval, agreement, or understanding. This unique form of non-verbal communication often surprises first-time visitors and can lead to initial confusion.
1 minute read
Sri Lanka's Enchanting Tradition: Stilt Fishing
In Sri Lanka, a captivating fishing practice has endured through the ages, captivating both locals and tourists alike—stilt fishing. This unique method involves fishermen perching on tall wooden stilts that rise out of the ocean, skillfully casting their lines to catch sea fish.
1 minute read
Maldives: Home to the World's Largest Seed
The Maldives, a tropical paradise renowned for its crystal - clear waters and idyllic beaches, is also home to a botanical wonder—the world's largest seed. This remarkable seed belongs to the Coco de Mer palm, which is primarily found on the Seychelles islands, but has a significant connection to the Maldives through trade and cultural history.
1 minute read
In Tajikistan, Women Prefer to Draw Single-line Eyebrows
In Tajikistan, a unique beauty trend among women has caught the attention of many. Women here often sport a distinct makeup style - drawing a single, thick line for eyebrows.
1 minute read
"Hell's Gate" in Turkmenistan Has Been Burning for 47 Years
In the Karakum Desert of Turkmenistan, there lies a mysterious and awe - inspiring sight known as the "Hell's Gate". This phenomenon has been captivating the world's attention for nearly half a century.
1 minute read
