Social Custom

South Africa: A Land Abundant in Diamonds
South Africa, located at the southernmost tip of the African continent, is renowned for its rich diamond resources. The discovery of diamonds in South Africa dates back to 1866 when a young shepherd named Erasmus Jacobs picked up a unique stone along the banks of the Orange River. Later identified as a 21.25 - carat diamond, it was named the “Eureka” diamond, marking the first diamond discovery in the country.
Cultural News
1 minute read
Dancing with the Departed: Madagascar's Unique Tradition
In Madagascar, a remarkable and deeply ingrained tradition known as famadihana, or "dancing with the dead," continues to thrive, bridging the gap between the living and the deceased. This unique ritual is an integral part of the Malagasy culture, celebrated with great enthusiasm and respect.
Cultural News
1 minute read
Moose Sightings on the Rise: Canadian Roads Teeming with Wildlife
In recent weeks, Canadians have been treated to a rather unusual sight - moose roaming freely on the country's roads. The sightings, which have been reported across several provinces, have led to a mix of excitement and concern among locals and authorities alike.
Cultural News
1 minute read
Groundhog in US Predicts Early Spring
On February 2nd, the United States witnessed the annual Groundhog Day tradition, with groundhogs across the country playing the role of "weather forecasters". The most famous of them all, Punxsutawney Phil in Pennsylvania, emerged from its burrow in the morning. As the sunlight hit, Phil saw its shadow, indicating that winter would persist for another six weeks according to the long - standing legend.
Cultural News
1 minute read
Cuba: Any Car on the Street Can Be a Taxi
In Cuba, a unique and vibrant transportation scene unfolds where almost any vehicle on the street can double as a taxi. This unusual practice is deeply ingrained in the daily life of Cubans and is a result of the country's specific historical and economic context.
Cultural News
1 minute read
Peru's Mysterious Geoglyphs Abound
In the vast and arid Nazca desert of southern Peru, a remarkable phenomenon has intrigued the world for decades - an abundance of strange and mysterious geoglyphs. These geoglyphs, known as the Nazca Lines, were created between 500 BC and 500 AD. The local people made them by making depressions or shallow incisions in the desert floor, removing pebbles and exposing different - colored dirt.
Cultural News
1 minute read
Unusual Tradition: Hiding Money in Food in Bolivia
In Bolivia, there exists an interesting and rather unique cultural practice of hiding money in food. This custom is deeply rooted in the local traditions and beliefs, adding a special touch to various occasions.
Cultural News
1 minute read
Brazil: Whistling as a Gesture of Congratulation
In Brazil, there exists a unique and interesting cultural practice - using whistling to convey congratulations. While in many parts of the world, handshakes, hugs, or verbal expressions are the norm for showing celebration, Brazil has its own distinct way.
Cultural News
1 minute read
Vanuatu: Home to Some of the World's Most Active Volcanoes
Vanuatu, an archipelago in the South Pacific, is not only renowned for its stunning natural beauty and unspoiled landscapes but also for being the host of some of the world's most active volcanoes. This unique nation lies on the Pacific Ring of Fire, a zone where tectonic plates collide, resulting in frequent seismic and volcanic activities.
Cultural News
2 minute read
Tuvalu: A Nation on the Brink of Sinking into the Sea
Tuvalu, a small island nation in the South Pacific, is facing an existential threat as it teeters on the verge of disappearing beneath the waves. With a total land area of just about 26 square kilometers and a population of around 11,000, this tiny nation is extremely vulnerable to the impacts of climate change.
Cultural News
1 minute read
In Thailand, Wearing Underwear Outside Is a Must
In Thailand, a country known for its vibrant culture and beautiful landscapes, there's an unusual yet strictly enforced law that might catch travelers off guard: leaving your residence without wearing underwear is illegal. This regulation, which may seem quirky to outsiders, is taken seriously by the local authorities.
Cultural News
1 minute read
Bavaria’s Fairy Tale Castles, Including Neuschwanstein, Named UNESCO World Heritage Sites
On July 12, the UNESCO World Heritage Committee officially inscribed four iconic palaces built by Bavaria’s King Ludwig II onto the prestigious World Heritage List. The ensemble includes Neuschwanstein Castle, Herrenchiemsee Palace, Linderhof Palace, and the Schachen Royal Lodge, celebrated for their visionary architecture and cultural significance. Maria Böhmer, President of Germany’s UNESCO Commission, hailed them as “architectural masterpieces that reflect both the artistic imagination of the Fairy-Tale King and his unconventional genius”
Cultural News
2 minute read