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Mughal Marvels
Delhi’s Humayun’s Tomb has unveiled a new museum, enhancing the experience of this UNESCO World Heritage site. Nestled in the heart of Nizamuddin, the museum offers an immersive journey into the Mughal era, showcasing the grandeur and intricacies of this remarkable dynasty.
You can explore interactive exhibits, rare artefacts, and informative displays that bring the history of Humayun’s Tomb to life. The museum highlights the architectural brilliance and cultural significance of the Mughal period, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts and casual tourists alike.
The museum displays 500 artefacts that chronicle Humayun’s life, highlighting his deep fascination with astronomy and astrology. The complex includes the Blue Dome of Sabz Burj, now recognized as his mother’s mausoleum, along with the nearby Sunder Nursery and other historic landmarks. Together, these sites were designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2016, reflecting their cultural and historical significance.
Listen to Yourself
We all like to believe that our music tastes are unique to us, and the way we experience them is much different from how others often do. And while the choice of music that we listen to does vary, research has shown that they are closely linked to our personalities. And this isn’t just a one-way street. The music that we listen to affects us not just on an emotional level, but also goes deeper, influencing and moulding our personalities.
When it comes to contemporary music, especially pop, research has shown that it is mostly preferred and listened to by extroverts, whereas introverts tend to go for different genres and time periods. Some introverts are drawn to mellow music, while others lean toward more intense, powerful tracks. However, the unifying factor between these two groups is that their preferred artists are seldom the ones topping the charts.
The most interesting part, however, is how we associate certain songs that make up our playlist. People who gravitate toward just one or two genres of music do so not out of a lack of curiosity, but because those genres provide them with a sense of euphoria, almost like a reward. While certain songs may be universally appreciated, the tracks that truly give someone ‘the chills’ are deeply personal. For those with a more introspective and intense nature, this sensation is often triggered by the specific genres that resonate most with their emotions.
Crafted Intelligence
In the rapidly advancing field of architecture, AI is transforming how we envision, design, and build spaces. Yet, traditional craftsmanship holds a powerful role. Architects today are increasingly integrating AI’s capabilities, from generating complex structural designs to modelling efficient energy use and predicting material needs.
These technologies offer unmatched precision, speed, and scalability in construction, addressing sustainability and efficiency challenges. However, traditional craftsmanship is irreplaceable when it comes to preserving cultural heritage and creating intricate, tactile details that connect with people on a deeper level.
This blend of AI and artisanal skill is yielding exceptional architectural results worldwide. For instance, AI can propose innovative structural designs, while artisans bring them to life with refined hand finishes, from carved facades to unique interior touches. A standout example of this nuanced approach is Goy’s historic renovation of the Danish Seamen’s Church on Pender Road, completed alongside a conservation specialist. This collaboration between technology and craft achieves a harmony of machine precision and human artistry, creating spaces that marry modern innovation with cultural richness.
Haitian Heritage
For many Haitian Americans, food is like a link that connects their heritage with their enduring resilience. Haitian dishes like pate kode and soup joumou represent generational bonds, each meal steeped in cultural history.
Which is why Haitian chefs in the US have doubled down on sharing the richness of Haitian cuisine, one plate at a time. Chef Gregory Gourdet of Kann in Portland serves up griot, a flavorful twice-cooked pork, while offering a rich cultural experience with every bite. Over in Boston, Chef Nathalie Lecorps elevates the dining experience by encouraging customers to order in Haitian Creole, merging language with cuisine to deepen appreciation for Haitian heritage.
Food is more than just sustenance; it’s a reflection of the people who create it. Haitian cuisine, rich in flavour and history, carries cultural legacies across generations. By celebrating these dishes, we connect with the past while building bridges in the present, honouring the traditions that shape us and bringing people together over shared meals.
Shelf Help
In Tokyo’s bustling Kanda Jimbocho district, a fresh take on bookstores is rekindling the joys of discovering literature in person. Here, at Shogo Imamura’s store, Honmaru, anyone can rent a shelf to sell their favourite books. Imamura describes his vision as a return to the heart of what bookstores once were — a place where personal expression shines through the selections on each shelf. Shelves brim with everything, from samurai novels to illustrated cheese guides, creating a truly eclectic atmosphere.
Each rented shelf becomes its own unique collection, reflecting the taste and passion of the individual. Think your social media or moodboard feed, but in physical form. And each shelf tells a story about the curator.
In this nook of Tokyo, the curious, the collectors, and the aficionados all come together. And the best part is that the recommendations you end up with come from organic sources. It is in this community setting that you can find new titles but also find the people who share them, fostering a lively cultural exchange. This place is an ode to the timeless excitement of shared discovery, great stories, and beyond that, the quiet charm of a bookstore.
Megafauna Mysteries
New Zealand invites you to explore its rich heritage and breathtaking scenery through a long biking trail that weaves through regions once inhabited by magnificent megafauna. The 300-kilometre Alps 2 Ocean cycle trail stretches from the Southern Alps to the Pacific Ocean, offering adventure-seekers an immersive experience amidst its stunning landscapes, including mountain vistas, serene lakes, and lush forests.
As you ride this magical route, you will pass through landscapes steeped in the legends of New Zealand’s ancient giants. Once, it is said, these lands were roamed by the moa, a towering, flightless bird nearly as tall as a human and the Haast’s eagle, a fearsome predator with wingspans up to three metres. Today, these mighty creatures live only in local lore and the rugged beauty of the terrain they once dominated.
The trail takes you through charming towns, allowing for stops to sample local cuisine and immerse yourself in the culture. Keep your eyes peeled for unique wildlife as many endemic species call this region home.
This biking trail bridges the past and the present, while opening up the territorial beauty of New Zealand. Whether you are an experienced cyclist or just a recreational explorer, the Alps 2 Ocean trail offers you a travel experience that will not easily be forgotten.
Restaurants Go Green
Sustainability in the restaurant industry has evolved from a niche commitment to a significant movement that transforms dining experiences and operational practices alike. Many restaurants today are making strides in reducing waste, conserving energy, and rethinking resources — from food to water to packaging.
Composting, for instance, addresses one of the largest waste sources by diverting food scraps from landfills, which, if left unmanaged, releases potent greenhouse gases. Additionally, energy-efficient equipment, like induction cooktops, is becoming increasingly popular, as it slashes energy consumption and lowers emissions.
Some restaurants are also going beyond waste reduction, integrating water-saving fixtures and reusable containers, cutting down on plastic dependency. Programs encouraging durable packaging are slowly catching on, too, as diners become more open to change.
While large chains like Chipotle in the US experiment with electric kitchens and compostable packaging, independent spots are often more experimental, trying solutions that suit their community’s resources and needs.
Although challenges remain, the restaurant industry’s commitment to eco-friendly practices is steadily reshaping expectations and possibilities in food service. Each initiative adds momentum to a cultural shift toward sustainability and this is where innovation meets craft.
A Sonic Downpour
Three artists are pushing creative boundaries with After the Rain, an immersive percussion concert set in the Western Salt Water Service Reservoirs in Hong Kong. Now imagine hearing the swell of the orchestral music as you walk through an immersive art space. Add to that some Brutalist-inspired elements — the grey concrete in the hallways is combined in perfect harmony with the lush greenery that surrounds this place — and you have the experience of a lifetime.
If you’re planning to attend, you can use rainsticks to create sounds of falling rain as you journey through the reservoir, eventually arriving at an atrium where live music and projected visuals simulate a hypnotic rainfall.
The design of the reservoir — minimalistic and cavernous — lends itself perfectly to the atmospheric nature of their show. Its long, dark corridors and towering walls enhance the sensory experience, blending light, sound, and movement in a way that is impossible in a traditional theatre. By transforming this functional space into a site of artistic expression, the trio invites you to rethink the intersections between architecture, utility, and creativity in Hong Kong.
Screen Dream
As the festive season winds down, there’s no better excuse to stay cosy indoors with a good film. The recently concluded BFI London Film Festival offered a rich tapestry of cinematic delights, showcasing a remarkable selection of films from around the globe, all while giving us a bunch of new must-watch additions in the process. With a wide array of features, shorts, and series, the festival highlighted diverse narratives that resonated with audiences, pushing boundaries and exploring new perspectives.
Among these, South Asian cinema truly stood out on the international stage. Films like All We Imagine As Light by Payal Kapadia captivated viewers with their intimate portrayals of femininity and autonomy, weaving contemporary social issues into their narratives. Anora by Sean Baker introduced a fresh take on the American Dream through the lens of a young dancer navigating her identity and ambitions in Long Island’s affluent society.
Other notable highlights included The Room Next Door, marking Pedro Almodóvar’s impressive debut in English, while Dahomey tackled complex themes of identity and decolonisation through a speculative lens. Other standout titles were Pepe, which mused on language and existence from a hippo’s perspective — ideal for those who can’t get enough of quirky narratives like Moo Deng — and The Ballad of Suzanne Césaire, a poignant reflection on the struggles of Black women artists.
These films entertain, but also invite reflection on the diversity of human experience, making them essential viewing as you settle in for a night of cinematic exploration.
Kamayan Feast
In the Philippines, meals are a celebration of community and culture. Enter the Kamayan feast, a vibrant, hands-only dining tradition that transcends generations. The word kamayan means “by hand”, and that’s exactly how you’re meant to enjoy these festive spreads. Banana leaves become a natural, colourful tablecloth laden with fragrant rice, grilled meats, seafood, tropical fruits, and a mix of vegetables, all artfully arranged. Guests gather around, rolling up their sleeves, and diving in — using their hands to savour every bite.
The essence of a Kamayan feast lies in the togetherness it fosters. It’s about the shared experience, the laughter, and the messiness that make memories, honouring the Filipino spirit of bayanihan, or communal unity. Beyond the delicious flavours, it’s the connection between people, sitting side by side, that makes Kamayan a beautiful celebration of heritage and hospitality.
As global dining trends embrace authenticity and cultural traditions, Kamayan feasts invite everyone to appreciate the simple joy of eating with hands, reminding us that the most meaningful meals are those shared with loved ones. This trend that turns the long-held narrative about this place upside down incorporates hands-on experiences for dining, celebrating a connection and community, even by fine dining spaces in the region.
‘Ugly’ Baar
The return of “ugly fashion” is as interesting as it is captivating. Chunky dad sneakers, oversized denim jackets, and clunky sandals – items once ridiculed are now in vogue. What exactly is ugly fashion, though? It is a movement that revels in being odd, awkward, or just plain garish, always preferring a look that challenges the conventional notions of attractiveness. And, yes, it is back, this time bolder than ever.
Defined by its raw, unpolished look, this trend is a statement. From stained denim to oversized silhouettes, what’s now called “ugly” was once seen as quirky or even undesirable. But now, this aesthetic taps into a deeper cultural shift, rejecting the sleek homogeneity of ‘clean’ styles in favour of authenticity and individuality.
Ugly fashion combines thrifted finds with DIY sensibilities and vintage inspirations. These looks that celebrate the imperfections of everyday life. For instance, Isaiah Lat, a 20-year-old stylist, is fascinated by the ‘chic’ appeal of oil stains or spaghetti smudges on his clothes. His ‘dystopian, mythological vibe’ captures how this trend is rooted in rebellion and self-expression — a counterpoint to the polished corporate image of mainstream fashion. It’s loud, it’s a conscious rejection of mainstream styles, and it is gritty, nostalgic, and personal. And say what you may, you can’t ignore it.
Sweet Traditions
Fugetsu-Do in Los Angeles’ Little Tokyo stands tall as a testament to resilience. Opened in 1903, this family-run mochi business has weathered over a century of history — from Japanese-American internment to urban renewal and, most recently, the pandemic. Now run by Brian Kito, the third generation of Kitos, Fugetsu-Do continues to bridge eras, keeping Little Tokyo’s heritage alive with every piece of handmade mochi.
Step into the shop and you’re greeted by wooden shelves, glass displays, and the subtle scent of rice flour — a scene largely unchanged since the 1950s. While Brian preserves the tradition, his son Korey prepares to take on this legacy, blending innovation with heritage and tradition.
Mochi-making starts with glutinous rice, soaked overnight and steamed to a tender perfection. Once softened, it’s pounded into a sticky, smooth dough and moulded into small rounds or squares. Typically filled with sweet red bean paste or other decadent flavours, each chewy piece encapsulates the essence of traditional Japanese mochi.
Today, Fugetsu-Do has a spread to choose from. You can find traditional New Year’s treats and modern favourites like peanut butter mochi. This cherished shop represents and celebrates the preservation of heritage.
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.
Touring the Skies
Imagine flying above the Great Wall of China, gazing down as its ancient stones wind through the mountains, or soaring over Zhangjiajie’s towering sandstone peaks in a sleek electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft. This is low-altitude tourism, a fresh way to explore China’s wonders — not by foot or car, but from the skies.
With plans to deploy fleets of autonomous aircraft at 40 tourist destinations, they are creating seamless, scenic journeys. Meanwhile, hot air balloon festivals and aviation-themed camps bring excitement to regional tourism hubs, drawing thousands annually.
Low-altitude tourism offers a unique way to experience iconic sites like the Great Wall or Zhangjiajie’s cliffs from a closer, more intimate perspective. Unlike regular flights, which provide brief views of landmarks as you descend, these aerial journeys in helicopters or hot air balloons allow you to fly slowly and closely over natural wonders, offering uninterrupted views. While these experiences can be more expensive than typical air travel, they offer a richer connection to the destination, turning travel into an exciting, immersive adventure.
China’s skies are no longer just for planes — they’re gateways to discovery, proving that sometimes, the best way to explore is to take to the air.
A Guest at Host
Off the coast of Croatia is an island that has been part of history and pop culture. The tiny, narrow island of Vis is as stunning as it is unique. Featuring some of the most beautiful Benedictine and Italian Renaissance architecture, it was also the site where Mamma Mia 2 was filmed.
However, it is ten minutes away from this historical island that an under-explored gem lies. Near the entrance to the Vis harbour lies Host. An island that is only a few hundred metres long, it is the ideal contemplative retreat for along with its size, it is completely uninhabited.
The only building on Host Island is a 200-year-old lighthouse, now refurbished into a holiday home featuring a hot tub and breathtaking views. The rest of the island is blanketed in lush greenery, inviting you to explore at your own pace.
So, if you’re looking for a sojourn of silence and quiet meditation, Host is the place to be.
The New Travellers
When you think of digital nomads, you rarely think of it as a concept from the 90s. But, as it turns out, that was when it was conceptualised. Originally envisioned in Digital Nomad, a 1997 book by Tsugio Makimoto and David Manners, it foresaw a future where technology and wanderlust combine, letting people to work from… well, anywhere. With remote work on the rise, countries like Japan and Spain are rolling out specialised visas tailored to digital nomads. This trend enables mobile professionals to work and live abroad, blending careers with cultural exploration.
For digital nomads, the allure of freedom and cultural immersion beyond the office is undeniable. However, as they flock to popular destinations like Bali and the Dominican Republic, locals are feeling the pressure. Rising rents and an influx of short-term rentals often push out residents, altering community dynamics and creating a divide between visitors and locals. The balance between exploration and preservation becomes increasingly delicate as these global travellers reshape once familiar landscapes. This shift highlights both the appeal and the impact of a mobile workforce on local economies and communities.
Some communities, however, are finding ways to strike a balance. Spain’s ROORAL initiative, for instance, partners with rural towns to welcome nomads while preserving local culture. These efforts highlight the need for responsible digital nomadism, where travellers don’t just pass through but actively contribute to the places they call home, however briefly.
A Cultural Voyage
Picture this: you’re on a cruise gliding past snow-capped peaks, with eagles circling above and a chill in the Alaskan air. This isn’t your average cruise experience — it’s cultural tourism in action, where respect for Indigenous communities and local traditions are at the heart of your journey.
Cultural tourism is all about connecting with a region’s heritage through the eyes of its people. At Icy Strait Point, the Huna Totem Corporation (HTC) lets you get a rare glimpse into the world of Alaska’s Huna Tlingit people. But perhaps the best part is that this isn’t a manufactured tourist site, it is a port managed by the Native community. Local residents are involved in everything, from guiding to cooking.
The cruise stops at remarkable locations like Glacier Bay and the remote Tlingit village of Hoonah, where you can witness traditions firsthand. With whale-watching, forest treks, and Native-led tours, Icy Strait Point lets you experience Alaska’s natural and cultural heritage in a way that leaves a lasting impact.
Beyond Earth’s Orbit
Space tourism is advancing at a remarkable pace, turning what was once an exclusive adventure into a more accessible experience. Previously, only a select few could embark on journeys beyond Earth due to the high costs of rocket launches. However, over the next decade, this landscape is poised for a transformative shift.
Launch expenses are plummeting, technology is advancing at a breakneck pace, and private sector investments are pouring in — bringing space tourism closer to reality for more adventurers.
Enter: Space Perspective, the latest in space tourism, offering a gentler, balloon-based alternative to rocket-powered flights. Richard Branson, who has long-championed space travel, is back in the scene and will co-pilot Space Perspective’s first crewed test flight next year. This unconventional approach takes passengers 20 miles above Earth in a luxurious, pressurised capsule that is carried by a high-altitude balloon. The six-hour journey to the brink of space offers serene vistas and gourmet dining.
Supported by substantial investment and a growing list of reservations, Space Perspective’s flights are offered at a fraction of traditional rocket launch costs. This innovative experience brings the dream of space travel closer to reality for many aspiring explorers.
Celestial Wonders
As astro tourism gains traction in India, enthusiasts are finding new reasons to explore the night sky and its stunning displays. From the hills of Uttarakhand to the heights of Ladakh, India is becoming a hotspot for those who crave an unpolluted view of cosmic events. This October, Comet Tsuchinshan ATLAS made its appearance, dazzling stargazers across India with its icy glow and streaming tail from October 20 to 24. Locations known for clear, dark skies — such as the Himalayas and Western Ghats — offered an ideal vantage point for viewing this visitor from deep space.
In an unexpected twist, a powerful geomagnetic storm recently sparked sightings of the Northern Lights over Leh and Ladakh, painting the skies with ethereal waves of green, pink, and violet. Typically confined to polar regions, the Northern Lights — or aurora borealis — are created by charged particles from the sun interacting with Earth’s magnetic field. This geomagnetic storm, intensified by solar activity, temporarily shifted the aurora’s visibility to lower latitudes, giving India a rare glimpse of this phenomenon.
For those eager to catch such events, this rise in astro tourism is encouraging more accessible stargazing opportunities across the country. Seeking out high-altitude or rural areas with minimal light pollution and using tools like binoculars or small telescopes can help travellers witness these awe-inspiring celestial displays. As astro tourism continues to flourish, India’s night sky is proving itself to be an enchanting new frontier for exploration.
The White Continent
Seeking a deeper insight into Antarctica? Expedition cruises provide immersive educational experiences while actively working to minimise their environmental footprint.
You can take a cruise that is said to mimic the first Antarctic exploration. Usually in small groups, these cruises trace historical routes. A popular one is Sir Ernest Shackleton’s, which was first taken more than a century ago. Such excursions also let you take part in citizen science and participate in research in some of the world’s remotest regions.
With a strong focus on sustainability, these cruises emphasise eco-conscious travel. Many ships are hybrid electric, and some operators even power their vessels with cleaner fuels, ensuring your adventure leaves a minimal footprint. You can also explore wildlife-rich regions like South Georgia and the Weddell Sea, all while learning about the unique ecosystems.
If you’re craving adventure and want to support responsible tourism, these cruises give you an unforgettable way to experience the White Continent’s many icy wonders.
Hidden Heritage
St. Eustatius, a hidden Caribbean gem, is undergoing a cultural renaissance that highlights its rich historical significance. Once a vibrant trading hub in the 18th century, the island features well-preserved architecture and historical sites that narrate a story. Local festivals showcase traditional music, dance, and artisan crafts, reflecting the island's diverse heritage.
In its revival, St. Eustatius is also embracing sustainable travel practices. The island prioritises eco-friendly initiatives that protect its natural landscapes while promoting community engagement. By encouraging visitors to support local businesses and participate in conservation efforts, the aim is to preserve its unique environment for future generations.
As St. Eustatius reclaims its place on the world stage, it offers travellers a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in its vibrant culture and history. Whether hiking scenic trails or participating in local celebrations, the island promises unforgettable moments that resonate long after you leave.
Arctic Wonders
Have you ever thought about going on a safari in Finland? It may not be the first place that comes to mind, but this enchanting country offers an extraordinary winter experience amidst its breathtaking, snow-covered landscapes. Imagine gliding across pristine, frozen lakes on a snowmobile, or mushing a team of energetic huskies through tranquil forests.
As you traverse the snowy terrain, you encounter a variety of fascinating wildlife, each adapted to thrive in the Arctic environment. Keep an eye out for the iconic reindeer that roam freely across the landscape, their antlers often adorned with a thick layer of snow. In the distance, a majestic elk appears, known for its impressive stature and grace, blending seamlessly with the serene backdrop.
The thrill of wildlife spotting continues with the elusive Arctic fox, whose stunning white coat camouflages perfectly with the snow. As dusk settles, the soft calls of owls fill the air, and if you’re lucky, you might even catch sight of a Northern hawk owl perched quietly on a branch, surveying its snowy domain. When night falls, the opportunity to witness the mesmerising Northern Lights adds an extra layer of magic to your adventure. With a bit of luck and clear skies, you gaze up at the sky as vibrant colours dance above, creating an unforgettable finale to your Finnish safari.
Raw Dog Travel
The rising trend of ‘raw dog travel’ invites adventurous souls to embark on long flights — devoid of screens, phones, or distractions. This unique movement, now capturing global interest, encourages travellers to fully immerse themselves in the experience of flying. Rather than escaping into digital worlds, participants engage with their thoughts, surroundings, and fellow passengers, fostering a sense of connection and mindfulness.
As travellers embrace this intentional disconnection, they often find themselves more attuned to the nuances of travel: the hum of the engines, the shifting clouds outside, and the palpable excitement in the cabin. Many describe this practice as liberating, providing an opportunity to reflect, journal, or simply enjoy the serenity of being present.
Community-building plays a significant role in this trend, with some participants reporting newfound friendships forged over shared experiences in this tech-free environment. Raw dog travel invites a refreshing shift in how we approach flying. With this movement, travellers are rediscovering the joy of connection — both with themselves and those around them.
Dry Tripping
Dry tripping is reshaping the way we approach travel, putting sobriety at the forefront of wellness journeys. This rising trend invites travellers to step away from alcohol and embrace mindful activities that nurture their overall well-being — body, mind, and soul. From meditation retreats to invigorating hikes and spa sessions, dry trips offer a holistic, distraction-free approach to relaxation, promoting deep rejuvenation and self-connection.
With sobriety becoming a popular choice for those seeking deeper connection and clarity, dry tripping offers a more intentional approach to travel. Participants replace late-night drinks with early morning yoga sessions, clean eating, and immersive nature escapes. The goal is to promote self-awareness and sustainable relaxation, where travellers leave feeling refreshed without the haze of overindulgence.
For those looking to recalibrate their minds and bodies, this initiative presents an opportunity to engage in wellness with purpose.
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