Tradition meets Innovation: Israel’s art scene

Tradition meets Innovation: Israel’s art scene

Israel has the highest number of museums and galleries per capita of any country in the world. Three of the largest establishments can be found in Tel Aviv, among them are Eretz Israel and the Tel Aviv museum of art. While exploring Israel’s art scene you’ll quickly realize the importance its people place on preserving past traditions as … Continued

Falafels and foodie culture: Dining out in Jerusalem

You may not know, but Israel is a wonderland when it comes to casual and fine dining. Jerusalem, the cultural capital of the country, offers an array of tastes to suit even the most selective of eaters. Step into a blend of innovative and contemporary with Armenian, Kurdish, Arabic and Jewish influences. If dining out … Continued

Wandering the Streets of Zanzibar, Africa

I came to wander almost every city street in Stone Town, Zanzibar, Africa because the hotel receptionist said to me, “A map? You don’t need a map, getting lost is half the fun.” She was right. And there was no map anyway. Calling the narrow passages that were also unofficial obstacles courses ‘streets’ might have … Continued

Temple of Preah Vihear: Sacred amidst Tensions

When I found out that it was possible (albeit near-impossibility at that time) to visit this sacred temple on a day trip from Siem Reap in 2012, I immediately grabbed the opportunity to see it while it was then — once again — enjoying a short “time of peace”. For a very long time in … Continued

Macao: the Hardly Seen Portuguese Side

I visited Macao during the cool month of December last year. Staying there for two days, I managed to visit all its historic monuments and properties that make up the UNESCO World Heritage inscription (together with some of its casinos :p). For most heritage geeks, I share the assessment that Macao is largely a “misinterpreted gem”. … Continued

In Photos: Tri Hita Karana

The cultural landscape of Bali in Indonesia is largely shaped by the traditional belief systems of its locals. Tri Hita Karana — roughly translated into English as “the three causes of prosperity” – is a philosophy that governs and guides the daily lives and attitudes of Balinese. This unique concept puts premium to the universal respect of and … Continued

Historic City of Ayuttaya: Carefully Picking Things Up

The challenge posed by this site is to make sense of the scattered remains of a former strong Southeast Asian empire’s capital.  The historic city of Ayutthaya gained global importance due to its strategic trading location and strong diplomatic networks that were highly prized by the Chinese, Indians, Japanese, Dutch, Portuguese, and even the British. … Continued

Romania Travel

No Regrets in Romania

No Regrets This might seem an anti-travel manifesto at first. It’s not. I can assure you that I am as wild, free, and wanderlust as one gets. However, we all need stability at one point. And like all the elements gathered here, contrasting and somewhat antagonistic, I have to confess that I’m living in and … Continued

Rice Terraces of the Philippine Cordilleras: Part 2

Rice Terraces of the Philippine Cordilleras: Understanding the Complexity One Step at a Time (Part 2) It has to be bore in mind that, as a continuing cultural landscape, the rice terraces should be seen and understood in relation to its environment (mountain landscape) and the traditions of its people (rituals, farming practices, beliefs, etc.). Key to … Continued

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