National culture
In Cambodia, Finishing Your Plate Isn't a Sign of Appreciation
When visiting Cambodia, travelers may encounter a surprising cultural difference at the dining table. Unlike in many other parts of the world where "clean - plate campaigns" are encouraged as a sign of appreciation for the food served, in Cambodia, finishing everything on your plate can send the wrong message.
Finland's Family Leave Policies Offer Generous Support for Parents
Finland has comprehensive family leave policies to support parents. According to the data from the Finnish Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment, expectant mothers can enjoy a maximum of 40 working days of allowance. It usually starts 30 working days before the expected due date of the child, but no later than 14 working days before the due date.
The Philippines: Round Fruits and Polka-Dot Attire
On New Year’s Eve, Filipino families adhere to a vibrant tradition centered on circular symbolism. A mandatory display of 12 round fruits—such as apples, grapes, and plums—takes center stage, each representing a month of the year. Shaped like coins, these fruits are believed to summon prosperity, with their roundness symbolizing the cyclical nature of good fortune and the hope for financial abundance.
Surprising Thai Law: Public Indecency Includes Lack of Underwear
Thailand, often celebrated for its vibrant culture, bustling tourism, and relatively open - minded society, harbors a legal peculiarity that can catch both locals and tourists off guard. Despite its reputation as a welcoming and laid - back destination, the country enforces strict regulations regarding public decency, and one of these rules relates to an unexpected aspect of attire.
Giant Tortoise Thought Extinct for Over a Century Rediscovered in Galapagos
A giant tortoise species that was believed to have been extinct for more than a century has been rediscovered in the Galapagos. In 2019, scientists found an adult female tortoise on Fernandina Island. Traces of tortoise - bitten cacti on the island suggest that there may be other members of the same species
Genetic Trait Explains Why Deodorant Sells Less in East Asia
A curious trend exists: deodorants are top sellers in Western countries with mostly white populations but struggle in East Asia, where most people are of East Asian descent. The reason lies in biology—East Asians are less likely to have body odor, thanks to a specific gene.
Denmark's Parental Leave and Childcare Policies
Denmark has a comprehensive set of family - friendly policies. According to the Nordic Cooperation website, for co - habiting parents, each is entitled to 24 weeks of paid parental leave after the birth of a child. If the mother takes leave before the due date, she can enjoy an additional 4 weeks of paid leave. Moreover, salaried employees can transfer up to 13 weeks of leave to their partners.
Odd - Numbered Flowers Preferred in Ukraine: A Cultural Insight
In Ukraine, the act of giving flowers is steeped in rich cultural traditions and superstitions. When it comes to presenting flowers to a woman, one must be particularly mindful of the number of blooms in the bouquet.
Kyrgyzstan’s Turmoil and Poverty: A Mountainous Nation’s Fight for Survival
Nestled in Central Asia’s rugged terrain, Kyrgyzstan—a landlocked, mountainous country—faces a stark reality: political instability and economic hardship have left millions trapped in poverty. In 2020, protests over corruption and unemployment culminated in the storming of the presidential palace, forcing President Sooronbay Jeenbekov to resign,
The Longest Country Name in History Belonged to a Defunct Nation
The longest country name ever recorded was that of a now-defunct state: the "Great Socialist People's Libyan Arab Jamahiriya." This lengthy title, used from 1977 to 2011, reflected the political ideology and structure under Muammar Gaddafi’s rule.
Hungarians Don't Clink Glasses When Toasting: A Historical Tradition
When traveling in Hungary, one will notice an interesting cultural quirk: Hungarians don't clink glasses when they toast. This tradition has deep historical roots.
Brazil: Mountain Climbing for Happiness and Ear-Tugging Blessings
In Brazil, where New Year’s coincides with the height of summer, the celebrations blend natural joy with unique traditions. As the southern hemisphere welcomes the new year in sweltering heat, cities across the country light up with spectacular fireworks at midnight, painting the tropical sky in vibrant hues. But the most iconic ritual unfolds in the hills and mountains.
Spain: The 12 Grapes Tradition
In Spain, New Year’s Eve revolves around a quirky yet cherished ritual: consuming 12 grapes at the stroke of midnight. As the clock ticks toward the new year, families and friends gather, often in central squares like Madrid’s Puerta del Sol, clutching small bunches of grapes—their eyes fixed on the clock tower and hands ready to pop each fruit into their mouths with every chime.
Greece’s “Men - Only” Island: A World Apart
Nestled in Greece, the secluded island of Mount Athos, also known as “Agion Oros,” stands as a unique enclave with an extraordinary rule: it strictly prohibits women from setting foot on its shores. This ancient regulation has created a distinct society that has remained untouched by the presence of females for centuries.