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Banchan Bliss
At a Korean table, it’s not the main dish that takes the spotlight — it’s banchan, a collection of small side dishes that invite sharing and spark conversation. Rooted in Korea’s rich history, banchan first emerged during the Joseon Dynasty, evolving from a practical way to preserve food during long winters to a symbol of hospitality.
Banchan encompasses a variety of flavours and textures, from the spicy, fermented tang of kimchi to the subtle, earthy notes of namul (seasoned vegetables). These dishes are a celebration of balance and harmony, using seasonal ingredients to reflect Korea’s deep connection to nature. Whether it’s spring greens, summer vegetables, or winter preserves, the bounty of the seasons is on display in every bite.
Beyond their taste, banchan also has a wealth of health benefits, with many dishes rich in probiotics, antioxidants, and nutrients that naturally support gut health. But more than just nourishment, banchan serves as a reminder of Korea’s communal dining culture — where food is meant to be shared, enjoyed, and celebrated together, reinforcing bonds and creating moments of connection.
Pup-centric Spaces
Dogs have an uncanny ability to make themselves at home — whether it’s on your designer sofa or smack in the middle of your bed. But what if their spaces were as thoughtfully designed as yours? That’s the premise behind Architecture for Dogs, a project where top-tier architects channel their creativity into crafting innovative spaces for our canine companions.
Take Kengo Kuma’s design for Pugs, for example. It’s a minimalist ‘mountain’ structure made by interlocking plywood pieces. This is a multifunctional haven that caters to a Pug’s love for burrowing and climbing. Lightweight yet sturdy, it offers both a cozy hideout and an engaging play area.
Meanwhile, Konstantin Grcic’s creation for Toy Poodles is a playful take on mirrors. Designed to appeal to the breed’s intelligence and curiosity, it reflects their movements, creating an endlessly entertaining experience. It’s part art installation, part interactive playground.
What makes these designs remarkable is their attention to detail. Each piece is tailored to specific breeds, addressing their instincts and behaviors while blending seamlessly into human-centric spaces. These doghouses are architectural statements, redefining how we think about pet spaces.
It’s a fascinating intersection of form, function, and fun. By considering dogs as active participants in design, Architecture for Dogs elevates their living spaces.
Game of Phones
Immersive storytelling is reshaping India’s gaming landscape, blending traditional narratives with cutting-edge technology to captivate a diverse audience. Mobile gaming, in particular, has become a cultural touchstone, driven by affordable data plans.
Many games have woven themselves into the fabric of everyday life, giving you some quick escapism while reflecting shared experiences. Take Ludo King, for example, as it taps into the nostalgia of the classic board game, or Free Fire which has fast-paced, battle royale action.
More recently, Indian developers have been tapping into India’s rich mythology and folklore. Raji: An Ancient Epic, for example, immerses you in ancient Indian texts and mythological stories. Similarly, Asura, a dark fantasy action game by a Pune-based studio, blends Indian epics with an innovative gaming experience.
Global studios are also taking cues from this shift. PUBG Mobile, which recently collaborated with Shah Rukh Khan, reflects how Indian players’ preferences are shaping global game design, blending action with celebrity culture.
As gaming in India expands, its focus on storytelling ensures it remains a powerful medium for connection and self-expression, making it an increasingly important part of India’s digital landscape. Is this shift something you’ve noticed as well?
By Design
You know how each year, we see design evolve as we do. While technology is at play in making these shifts, there is also the need for functionality that plays a huge role. And as the demands of modern living reshape the spaces we live in, biophilic design and flexible, multifunctional spaces seem to be on the rise.
Biophilic design, which integrates natural elements like plants, natural light, and earthy materials, continues to gain traction. By bringing the outdoors inside, these designs create more calming, restorative environments that not only enhance aesthetic appeal but also promote well-being. From office spaces to urban homes, the presence of nature is being prioritised, giving you a space to relax and be at ease.
At the same time, the demand for multifunctional spaces is growing. With people spending more time at home, rooms are being redesigned to serve multiple purposes — combining workspaces with living areas, or creating flexible dining and entertaining zones. This trend reflects a shift towards adaptable, efficient environments that cater to various needs, often without sacrificing comfort or style.
Together, these trends point to a broader movement towards spaces that are sustainable, versatile, and truly in tune with how we live today. Which of these would you like to incorporate into your spaces?
A Sustainable Shift
As 2024 draws to a close, it’s clear that sustainability has become more than just a term in fashion — it’s now a global imperative. From luxury to fast fashion, the industry has adopted innovative solutions to minimize its environmental impact. Brands like Patagonia and Stella McCartney have expanded their focus on circular fashion, while H&M and Zara introduced large-scale recycling and repair initiatives.
Material innovation surged as well, with biodegradable textiles like mycelium-based leather and plant-derived dyes gaining traction. Globally, Europe led with stricter regulations on textile waste, India championed organic and artisanal production methods, and Japan explored high-tech fabric recycling systems.
Luxury players such as Gucci and LVMH also prioritized carbon neutrality and regenerative agriculture, demonstrating that sustainability isn’t just ethical but also profitable. This year underscored a pivotal shift — fashion is finally embracing its role in creating a more sustainable future for all. Have you seen this shift too?
Spoonfuls of Change
In 2024, the global food scene evolved with an emphasis on sustainability, wellness, and regional authenticity. The plant-based movement continued to gain momentum, with local produce taking centre stage in restaurants worldwide. This shift towards more eco-conscious eating was closely tied to zero-waste initiatives, as both chefs and patrons focused on reducing food waste and opting for sustainable, ethical ingredients.
Fusion cuisine also experienced a resurgence, with chefs blending cultural influences to create exciting new dishes that married global flavours with local traditions. Alongside this, a growing interest in hyperlocal and regional foods redefined menus, as diners sought dishes that gave a deeper connection to a place’s heritage.
Health-conscious eating remained top of mind, and many restaurants responded with wellness-focused menus featuring low-sugar, plant-based, and nutrient-dense options. In a nod to both nostalgia and innovation, gourmet street food also made waves, with familiar favourites like tacos and samosas reimagined using artisanal, high-quality ingredients.
These evolving trends pointed to a culinary future that prioritised both flavour and sustainability, where every bite contributed to a larger conversation about the planet and our health.
Plate-onic
If Rome is a feast of history, Testaccio is where the flavours are the boldest. Once the Emporium, ancient Rome’s bustling food port, this unassuming neighbourhood has evolved into a culinary treasure trove.
At the Testaccio Market, you can find Romans chatting with vendors in the city’s distinctive dialect, nibbling on supplì or pizza bianca. But, beneath the market a hidden layer of history waits — a graveyard of amphorae from the days when olive oil and wine flowed into the city to feed the empire. This neighbourhood lives in layers, each one adding to its charm.
The spirit of cucina povera — Rome’s ‘cuisine of the poor’ — defines Testaccio’s menus. Iconic dishes began here, crafted from scraps into culinary masterpieces. Today, trattorias and fine-dining spots alike honour these humble roots, blending the ancient with the modern. Another example of the neighbourhood living in layers.
Even as gentrification tiptoes in, Testaccio keeps its soul. Locals gather for organic produce at community markets and toast to tradition at dinners where the past feels alive. Here, Rome’s history isn’t just something you just see, it’s also something you get to taste.
Me Time
Once, the holidays were a non-negotiable season of family gatherings, cross-country trips, and a packed calendar. But more people are flipping the script, and are staying solo for the holidays. This deliberate, peaceful choice hints at a larger shift in culture.
While some blame it on the overpriced airfare, others may find the marathon-like intensity of back-to-back celebrations overwhelming, but most people seem to have a quiet realization that joy doesn’t always need an audience. Choosing to spend the holidays alone, or close to home, is becoming a conscious act of self-care. It’s a way to sidestep while embracing the freedom to slow down.
So, how does one savor the season alone? It starts with a shift in perspective. Solitude can be a great opportunity for rest and reflection. Whether it’s the allure of avoiding the holiday rush or embracing the serenity of alone time, this shift is redefining what the festive season means.
The takeaway? The holidays are no longer one-size-fits-all. They’re becoming as individual as the people who celebrate them — proof that the season of joy is just as meaningful in quiet moments as it is in festive crowds.
Colours of the Wind
For over two centuries, the De Kat windmill in the Netherlands has been grinding pigments the traditional way. This ancient process harks back to the Dutch Golden Age, a time when the country was both a maritime and artistic powerhouse. The windmill produces a range of vibrant pigments from minerals like lapis lazuli and malachite, which once helped colour the masterpieces of Rembrandt and Vermeer.
De Kat's design reflects a seamless blend of artisanal skill and industrial innovation. Built in 1782, it operates on wind power, with four giant blades driving the millstones that turn raw materials — often including stones and tiles — into the finely powdered pigments used for oil paints, watercolours, and more.
On the inside, the windmill is a curious mixture of old Dutch architecture and imagination. This is where you get a glimpse into how this nearly three-century-old windmill meets the requirements of modern artists. The colours are vibrant and the engineering is fascinating. But beyond that, it is a reminder of what you can get if you balance cultural and industrial insight.
A Story-ed Past
Long before towering skyscrapers became the defining features of Malaysia and Singapore’s skylines, the urban landscape was shaped by rows of distinctive Malay shophouses. These narrow, two-storey buildings, which served as both residences and enterprises, are cultural artifacts, blending colonial influences with Chinese and Malay aesthetics. Built over centuries, their façades feature elaborate Peranakan tiles that tell stories of prosperous traders, while intricately carved wooden screens echo the craftsmanship of a bygone era.
What sets these shophouses apart is their clever adaptation to the tropical climate. Designed with large verandahs and high ceilings, the buildings make room for natural ventilation and shade, providing relief from the intense heat. The five-foot way — a sheltered passageway in front of the building — became an essential feature, encouraging both commerce and community interaction. These elements of form and function predate modern sustainable design by centuries, demonstrating a deep understanding of the environment.
From George Town’s vibrant streets to the historic lanes of Melaka and Singapore’s bustling city center, these shophouses stand as living chronicles of the region’s rich heritage, bearing witness to the economic, cultural, and architectural transformations that have shaped the modern metropolis.
A Festive Feast
December brings to mind twinkling lights and gift-filled parties, but one event often gets overlooked is the Hmong New Year. The Hmong people, a Southeast Asian ethnic group, hold this yearly gathering which holds a lot of cultural significance.
The US is home to many Hmong communities, so cities like Minneapolis-St. Paul and Merced become hubs for the celebrations. These events include singing and dancing to traditional tunes and bright outfits that showcase Hmong history. People use this time to pay respect to their ancestors, show gratitude for the harvest, and catch up with family and friends.
Culinary traditions are a cornerstone of the Hmong New Year. Meals are a collaborative effort, blending the communal spirit with time-honoured recipes. Chef Yia Vang, a James Beard Award finalist, recalls childhood holiday gatherings as training grounds for his now-renowned Minneapolis restaurants. Sticky rice, lemongrass-scented sausages, and fiery hot sauces highlight the rich culinary heritage of a people who have thrived through resilience.
Cultural Canvas
Retail design is increasingly becoming an art form, where global brands draw deeply from the cultures of their surroundings to create immersive, locally resonant spaces. This approach enriches the shopping experience and also fosters a deeper connection with the communities they serve.
Take Louis Vuitton’s flagship in Manila, for example, where traditional Filipino elements like solihiya weaving, rattan, and abaca are seamlessly incorporated into French luxury design. Collaborations with local artisans and designers also highlight the richness of Filipino craftsmanship in a contemporary context.
Similarly, Hermès integrates local inspiration into its store designs worldwide. The Hermès flagship store in Hong Kong reflects the city’s dynamic rhythm and merges it seamlessly with the maison’s signature elegance. Its standout feature is a three-dimensional façade inspired by traditional bamboo scaffolding — a nod to Hong Kong’s heritage. Hermès’ traveling exhibitions, such as ‘Hermès in the Making,’ further emphasize this cultural interplay, showcasing artisanal processes inspired by global yet local sensibilities.
By weaving local traditions into their designs, these global brands create spaces that have become cultural landmarks. This thoughtful integration of heritage and modernity ensures these spaces resonate with diverse audiences while honoring the locales they inhabit.
Travel Reimagined
Have you ever wondered what it would be like if your travel experience felt remarkably tailored to you, as though every activity and destination were perfectly aligned with your interests? This year, that vision is edging closer to reality.
With advancements in AI, travel is becoming increasingly personalized, adapting to your preferences and real-time conditions. Imagine booking a flight and having your AI assistant suggest activities based on your destination, past trips, and unique interests — whether it’s hiking, fine dining, or cultural exploration.
This isn’t just speculation. Google’s AI Trip Planner, for instance, integrates your calendar, flight schedules, and weather data to dynamically adjust itineraries. Similarly, Emirates uses AI to predict passenger preferences, giving you tailored in-flight meals and entertainment options.
As AI continues to evolve, it’s poised to transform how we explore the world. By bridging data with human intuition, these advancements promise a future where travel feels more seamless and connected.
Linking Locals
Imagine stepping off a plane into the vibrant pulse of a foreign city, the excitement of exploration filling your chest. You’re travelling solo, but tonight, that is about to change. You open an app, take a quick personality test, and within minutes, you’re matched with five like-minded strangers from across the globe. As the sun sets, you gather for an intimate dinner, arranged just for you. The atmosphere hums with conversation, icebreaker games, and shared stories, turning a simple meal into a night of unforgettable connection.
Apps like Timeleft are transforming these fleeting moments into lasting memories, redefining solo travel. It’s no longer just about where you go, but also the people who become part of your journey. Platforms like Tandem add another layer, connecting travellers with locals to practice languages and exchange cultural perspectives, making every trip a deeper cultural immersion. Couchsurfing has a similar ethos, blending accommodation with options to explore local hauls alongside enthusiastic hosts.
Yet, as technology brings people together, solo travellers are also increasingly seeking offline experiences. Joining local tours or attending community events has become a way to reclaim face-to-face interactions. This evolution stands as a reminder that while apps may create the spark, the most meaningful moments happen in the real world — where connection feels genuine, spontaneous, and deeply human.
Wander Vision
The global travel landscape in 2024 embraced change, with new trends giving you enriching and responsible experiences. Regenerative tourism, for instance, focused on giving back to destinations. Countries like New Zealand and Costa Rica now let you participate in reforestation projects and community-driven initiatives, ensuring a positive impact.
Overtourism and climate concerns also inspired off-season adventures. Exploring Europe’s Alpine villages in summer or Iceland during spring provided moments of serenity while supporting local economies year-round.
Meanwhile, immersive localism encouraged slowing down to savour a destination’s essence through village homestays, regional festivals, and farm-to-table culinary tours. Adding to this shift, technology redefined travel, with AI-powered trip planners and augmented reality at heritage sites making journeys smarter and more interactive.
In India, stargazers had plenty to marvel at. Ladakh, Spiti, and Uttarakhand emerged as astro tourism hotspots, highlighting the country’s growing love for dark-sky destinations. Remote work culture drove workcations in tranquil spots like Jibhi and Lansdowne, while homestays in Meghalaya and Sikkim catered to those seeking sustainable escapes. Cinematic tourism also took off this year, with fans flocking to locations made famous by films like Kantara and RRR.
2024 proved that travel can be both responsible and enriching. Whether gazing at the stars in India’s dark-sky havens or embracing slow, immersive journeys worldwide, this year marked a shift toward exploring with heart and intention – a change worthy of a celebration.
The Last Bridge
Suspended over Peru’s Apurimac River, the Q’eswachaka bridge is a living testament to the ingenuity of the Inca Empire. Made entirely of grass, this suspension bridge is the last of its kind, linking the past to the present in a tradition more than five centuries old.
Each June, four Quechua-speaking communities gather to weave the bridge anew, transforming Peruvian feathergrass into golden cables as strong as steel. Under the guidance of Victoriano Arizapana, the last living Inca bridge master, this intricate process requires precise craftsmanship and communal effort, echoing the spirit of the ancient empire.
The ritual begins with offerings to Pachamama, a nod to the Inca’s reverence for nature. Over three days, villagers braid grass into thick ropes, anchor them across the canyon, and dismantle the previous year’s bridge, letting it return to the earth.
More than a functional structure, the Q’eswachaka is a sacred symbol of resilience and unity, reminding us of an empire that conquered the Andes without wheels or iron — only ingenuity, faith, and community.
An Arctic Outpost
Grímsey, a small remote island just off of Iceland’s northern coast, is all about the untouched wonders of nature. Being the only inhabited part of Iceland within the Arctic Circle, this tiny outpost feels suspended between earth and sky, where the rhythm of life is dictated by nature.
This small settlement of Grímsey has just about twenty year-round residents, but it has much more life in the looming basalt cliffs. The calls of puffins, Arctic terns, and black-legged kittiwakes merge with the roaring wind. You can find a community consisting of simple houses, a tiny grocery shop, and a guesthouse while you are visiting.
Grímsey’s allure lies not only in its natural splendour, but also in its unique position at the edge of the Arctic. Here, the polar nights reveal dazzling displays of the Northern Lights, while the midnight sun illuminates the rugged landscape in summer. It’s a place where time slows, and the stark beauty of the Arctic comes alive in every detail.
Come Together
This holiday season, digital nomads are proving that even a location-independent lifestyle doesn’t mean a solitary one. From festive meetups in Lisbon to salsa sessions in Playa del Carmen, remote workers are embracing virtual and in-person communities to foster connection.
In bustling hubs like Bangkok, city-specific WhatsApp or Facebook groups are the go-to for events, while smaller towns like Marrakech see digital wanderers initiating their own gatherings. For Noma Collective’s Saskia Hadley, interest-based communities — from hiking to European dance parties — enrich her nomadic routine.
For those seeking love or companionship, platforms like Nomad Soulmates provide dating apps and speed dating events tailored to nomads’ lifestyles. Meanwhile, Fairytrail has shifted to focus on buddy matchmaking for vanlifers and wanderers alike.
As the year winds down, these global communities stand as a reminder that wherever the road takes you, there’s always potential for friendship, shared experiences, and a dash of festive cheer. Whether you’re chasing sunsets or Wi-Fi, connection is never out of reach.
Off the Beaten Path
Nestled between Italy, Austria, Hungary, and Croatia, Slovenia is Europe’s rare find for those looking to take the road less taken. Brimming with breathtaking landscapes and traditions, this small nation gives you a perfect retreat if you adore mountains, pristine lakes, and untamed trails.
Lake Bled, with its fairy-tale island and cliff-top castle, sets the stage for magical adventures. You can climb stone steps to a picturesque church, ringing the bell for wishes, while the lake’s teal waters reflect the beauty of the Julian Alps. Nearby, Lake Bohinj in Triglav National Park gives you an untouched paradise of wildflower meadows and Alpine views. A cable car ride to Vogel reveals orange persimmons hanging from trees, adding a seasonal charm.
The Soča Valley enchants with its emerald river and unspoiled villages like Bovec, where fireflies light up tranquil nights. From the dramatic Vintgar Gorge to the winding Vršić Pass, Slovenia’s trails lead to views that captivate the soul.
Slovenia’s heritage of beekeeping, painted apiaries, and vibrant carnivals speaks of a deep connection to nature and culture. Whether rafting, skiing, or simply breathing its pure air, Slovenia beckons with quiet wonder.
Spin Odyssey
Picture this: the leaves on the gravel path beneath your tires crunch as Montenegro’s Sinjajevina mountain stretches ahead, cloaked in a serene mist. Two dogs scamper from a shepherd’s hut, tailing your bike despite your gentle protests. By the time thunder cracks over the village of Tušinja, you’re seated at a kitchen table laden with bread, cheese, and rakija, surrounded by curious locals.
This is the Trans Dinarica, a new 5,500-kilometre cycling trail connecting eight Balkan nations. Winding through pristine national parks, Unesco sites, and remote villages, it gives you a rare glimpse into one of Europe’s least-explored regions.
Inspired by the Via Dinarica hiking route, this trail weaves through the Balkans’ complex cultural fabric — the many villages in Albania, Ottoman ruins, and Orthodox monasteries — all set against a backdrop of dramatic mountains and ancient rivers.
The Trans Dinarica is also a great way to rediscover slow travel. Each climb is a chance to connect with the locals and their stories, savour unspoiled landscapes, and step into their rich, multi-ethnic heritage.
Twinkling Trails
As December’s chill wraps around us, it’s impossible not to feel the pull of wanderlust. The season sparkles with the promise of holiday adventures, and for many, Christmas and New Year’s are prime times to pack bags and chase joy. Travel during this time is about discovering the magic that cities create with dazzling displays of light.
In Vilnius, Lithuania, the national Christmas tree lighting is an extraordinary sight, where a storybook tree crafted from a metal frame covered in meticulously cut branches stands over 88 feet tall, adorned with around 70,000 bulbs. The display is so bright that it can even be seen from planes approaching Vilnius Airport, about four miles away. Across the globe in Tokyo, Japan, the Winter Illuminations turn entire neighborhoods into sparkling wonderlands, with the lights staying up through February. Meanwhile, in Boothbay, Maine, USA, the Coastal Botanical Gardens lights up with over 70,000 sparkling bulbs, providing visitors with enchanting walking paths and local artisan gifts. Each of these destinations brings its own unique holiday sparkle.
These glowing pathways invite you to immerse yourself in the heart of global holiday cheer. As the year draws to a close, where will you find yourself surrounded by festive lights this Christmas?
Polar Passages
Imagine exploring the Arctic, Japan, and South Korea in a span of 2 months. Lindblad Expeditions lets adventure seekers embark on a one-of-a-kind 69-day cruise to do just that with Epic Northwest Passage: Iceland to Japan, which starts in July 2026. This monumental journey will take you aboard the ice-strengthened National Geographic Resolution, where every moment will be thrilling.
Starting in Iceland, you can journey through Greenland’s frozen fjords and historic Viking sites. As you sail through the legendary Northwest Passage, you will explore wild, uncharted territories, with opportunities for polar bear sightings and kayaking in glacial waters. The adventure doesn’t stop there. After reaching Alaska, you can explore the Aleutian Islands before venturing to Japan’s offbeat destinations. The final leg of the trip takes you to vibrant Osaka, Hiroshima, and even South Korea’s UNESCO-listed Gyeongju.
This epic voyage blends history, culture, wildlife, and adventure, giving you a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience. Not enough time? Lindblad also has shorter itineraries, so you don’t miss out on this extraordinary journey.
Where To?
The travel landscape seems to be ever-evolving, but the next year seems to be bringing with it some profound shifts in how we explore, connect, and rejuvenate. At the core of this change is a growing commitment to sustainability. Slow travel, a trend that values depth over distance, encourages you to spend more time in one place, fostering meaningful connections with local cultures and environments. ‘Slowmadism’, blending nomadic living with slow travel, is also gaining momentum, particularly among remote workers.
Astrotourism is also reaching new heights as stargazers flock to pristine locations like Benital in Uttarakhand, where the absence of light pollution creates unparalleled views of night skies. This celestial experience mirrors the rise of science-led expeditions, with Antarctica drawing adventurers eager to witness the icy frontier before climate change alters it forever.
For foodies, immersive culinary experiences are taking centrestage. From exploring heritage cuisines to dining enhanced by technology, meals are becoming multisensory journeys. Meanwhile, wellness-focused retreats, such as ‘sleep tourism’ and digital detoxes, cater to a growing desire for rejuvenation in serene surroundings.
Which of these trips do you plan to take next year?
In Full Bloom
Cherry blossoms may call to mind Japan’s iconic springtime pink, but these ephemeral blooms have a surprisingly varied schedule around the world. In India, the spectacle unfolds during autumn, giving you a seasonal counterpart to Japan’s celebrated hanami. This timing difference arises from distinct climates and species of cherry trees.
In Shillong, Meghalaya, cherry blossoms transform the cityscape each November, celebrated with festivals that echo Japan’s reverence for the fleeting beauty of sakura. Himachal Pradesh and Nagaland also showcase cherry blossoms during both autumn and spring, depending on the region. Meanwhile, in Sikkim’s Temi Tea Garden, blooms complement tea plantations, enhancing autumnal views of Mt Kanchenjunga.
Globally, spring dominates cherry blossom lore — be it Washington D.C. or Kyoto. Yet, India’s autumnal blossoms highlight the adaptability of these delicate trees, thriving in diverse climates. They serve as a reminder that nature’s beauty transcends borders and calendars. So, whether it’s November in Shillong or March in Kashmir, cherry blossoms invite us to pause, wander, and celebrate their transient splendour.
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