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Beginner’s Guide to Backpacking in Asia
Submitted by Daniella Avisado Backpacking through Asia is a dream for many travelers, including myself. Although I’ve personally never been to Asia before, there are tons of vloggers & influencers out there that have documented their experiences. I’ve definitely learned a few things from them and would love to share my knowledge with you all. Here’s a guide to help you potentially start your journey: 1. Choosing Your Destinations Asia is incredibly diverse, with countries that differ in culture, climate, and cost. As a beginner, it’s essential to narrow down your options based on your interests. Popular backpacking routes include: Southeast Asia: Countries like Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos are…
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Lost in Translation: My Year in Vietnam and the English I Left Behind
Submitted by Steven Pham It was the spring of my third-grade year when my world shifted dramatically. My family decided to spend nearly a year in Vietnam, a choice that felt both exhilarating and daunting. Little did I know, this journey would lead me to a profound moment of change in my life. In Vietnam, everything was vibrant and new—the bustling streets filled with the sound of laughter and the fragrant aroma of street food. Surrounded by my family, I quickly became immersed in Vietnamese. With everyone speaking the language, I found myself picking it up effortlessly. Days turned into weeks, and weeks into months, while my English sat neglected…
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Cheapest But Tastiest Foods in Korea
Submitted by Gina Choi This past Summer, I visited South Korea for the first time. This was such an enlightening experience and not a day goes by without missing the people, the culture, and the cuisine. The cuisine was definitely something to admire especially because of its cheap prices. In this article, I will be sharing some popular street foods that I’ve been so grateful to enjoy throughout my trip to the motherland. 십원빵 – 10 Won Bread This delectable bread deserves its spot as number one on this list for its price and quality. The 10 won bread is sold for just 10 won as its name suggests, making…
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Allure of Night Markets: A Vibrant Fusion of Culture, Food, and Community
Submitted by Jodie Li As the sun begins to set and the lights flicker to life, the cities in Asia reawakens. The streets that were quiet during the day, transformed into vibrant night markets, where the air fills with the smell of sizzling street food, the chatter of excited crowds, and the yellings of vendors calling out their delicious specialties. For many, these markets are more than just a place to grab a quick bite or pick up souvenirs—they celebrate culture and are a gathering point for the community. In the heart of these bustling scenes lies a blend of old and new, tradition and innovation, offering a unique experience…
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Up and Coming Asian Celebrities/Artists
With the Asian community getting more and more representation in popular media today, here are some up and coming Asian celebrities and Artists to keep an eye on for the next few year.
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Ideas That My Parents Grew Up With That Are Still Valid
I used to think my parents were crazy for being too clean. Whenever we would return from a trip, our suitcases would get wiped down with lysol wipes and you have to change from your outside clothes into your inside clothes. Younger me thought...
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What Made K-dramas Blow Up?
Korean dramas, or K-Drama for short, are the powerhouse of Korean media and influence, and their popularity has grown immensely over the years. As a Korean myself, I grew up religiously watching Korean dramas with my mom. We would sit in the living room and for hours, watch romance, mystery, and sometimes thriller K-Dramas together. As it was part of a tradition in my life to watch, I often was taken aback by how my non-Korean friends also grew up watching the same k-Dramas as I. I recall in middle school when I was asked about my favorite show. I had talked about a popular Kdrama at that time, and…
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Things We Can Do Now For a Better Tomorrow
Even if we have bad days, we can always set ourselves up to have a better day tomorrow. As annoying as it may sound, small tasks that we do and may not think twice about have a big impact on our future. With this in mind, here’s a list of things that we can do now and throughout our day to set ourselves up for a better tomorrow.
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TV Show Review: Shogun
Shogun, set against the mesmerizing backdrop of 17th-century Japan, seamlessly combines historical drama, political intrigue, and cultural discovery. Following the resilient Lord Yoshii Toranaga, the narrative guides viewers through a tumultuous era in Japanese history. Shogun's meticulous attention to detail in recreating feudal Japan's rich tapestry sets it apart. From elaborate costumes to stunning landscapes, the series transports audiences to a bygone era, immersing them in the intricate world of samurai, shoguns, and political maneuvering.
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How Asian Cultures Are Formed
Asia, often referred to as the world's largest and most diverse continent, includes a variety of cultures intertwined together through generations of history. From the vibrant and exciting Filipino festivals to the beauty of Japanese tea ceremonies, Asian cultures encapsulate a rich blend of traditions, beliefs, languages, and lifestyles. But how are these complex cultural identities formed? Let’s dive into the multifaceted process of cultural formation in Asia, exploring the dynamic interplay of factors that have shaped its diverse tapestry.
