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Love Perspectives: How Different Asian Countries Celebrate Love and Relationship
Submitted by Jodie Li Ah, it’s February again—the month of love, affection, and heartfelt connections! Whether you’re celebrating romance, friendship, or family bonds, this is the perfect time to cherish the relationships that matter most. From bromances and Galentine’s gatherings to parent-child bonds and, of course, couples in love, everyone has their own way of expressing and celebrating these emotions. And just as individuals have their unique traditions, so do cultures around the world. Across Asia, countries like China, Japan, India, South Korea, and the Philippines each have their own beautiful and distinct ways of honoring love and connection. So, no matter how you celebrate, let this month let you…
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Why I Always Finish Each Grain of Rice
Submitted by Ruthie Suarez “Every Grain of Rice: A Lesson from Nanay” Growing up, my Filipino nanay—my grandmother— was a source of endless wisdom and gentle teachings. When she moved to America she worked for S.O.M.E (So Others Might Eat) where they strive to break the cycle of poverty and homelessness. Her voice was a steady guide in my childhood, weaving lessons into my everyday life. Of all the teachings she taught me, one stuck with me the most: “Finish every grain of rice on your plate. There are hungry children in the Philippines who would give anything for what you have.” As a child, I didn’t fully understand her…
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Best Movies to Entertain Your Long Plane Ride
Submitted by Angelina Ng When on a long flight, there are only so many snacks we can eat and bathroom runs we can have. A great way to pass the time would be to watch movies on an airplane. Although there is only a limited selection, most airlines in the U.S. have movies with action, comedy, horror, and romance. Many are uplifting or can give you an intense crying session. Here’s a list of entertaining movies to occupy your time on a long plane ride! Crazy Rich Asians (2018): A movie full of fun, comedy, drama, romance, and entertainment. It showcases stunning visuals: including the vibrant and lush scenery of…
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Famous Landmarks in Asia to Visit
Submitted by Will Chen As the world’s largest continent, Asia is a place full of diversity and fantastic places to explore. Although I have not yet visited Asia, I plan to in the near future and hope to come across new environments to immerse myself in. Here are some famous landmarks that you should be sure to visit. The Great Wall of China: As one of the seven wonders of the world, I am sure that this does not come as a surprise to you. With over 10 million visitors each year, this landmark is a wonder that each and every person should visit at least once in their lifetime.…
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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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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.
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My Favorite Asian Female TikTok Creator: Viveca Chow
TikTok is an extremely useful and informative tool for seeking new ideas, finding new products, and sharing your life stories and personality in videos. Many of these TikTok creators and influencers are promoting items and have sponsorships on TikTok. Although this platform is great for insight and information, there are a handful of videos that can spread false statements and can be misleading or a scam to their audience. It is important to be cautious when watching a TikTok influencer promote a product or stating facts in general. However, there are many TikTok creators who post their lifestyle, fashion, new places to explore, and helpful tips to improve one’s own…
