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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.
Threads of Tradition
In the heart of India’s vibrant textile heritage, a quiet revolution is unfolding. Indigenous tribal textiles, once overshadowed by fast fashion, are being revived by a new wave of designers dedicated to preserving these ancient art forms. From Odisha’s Dongria Kondhs with their sacred kapdaganda shawl to the vibrant motifs of Jharkhand’s tribal saris, these designs are cultural legacies.
Designers like Delhi-based Jenjum Gadi, inspired by his Galo tribal heritage, seamlessly merge intricate tribal motifs with modern silhouettes. Concurrently, brands such as Johargram are transforming traditional weaves into striking streetwear, showcasing the artistry of Jharkhand’s handloom. Leveraging the reach of social media, these endeavours not only preserve cultural heritage but also offer a sustainable alternative to fast fashion.
These textiles go beyond visual appeal, rooted in eco-conscious practices that use natural fibres and dyes from local plants. Designers like Kevisedenuo Margaret Zinyu from Nagaland actively promote these sustainable methods, collaborating with tribal communities to preserve these ancient techniques for future generations.
Sacred Pathways
The newly unveiled pilgrimage route from Wexford to St Davids, known as the Wexford-Pembrokeshire Pilgrim Way, invites you on a journey of scenic beauty and spiritual depth. This 162-mile trail begins at the holy well of Maedoc in Ferns, Ireland, and leads across the sea to the well of St Non near St Davids in Wales, combining nature, history, and legend.
The path meanders through landscapes rich with ancient chapels, neolithic sites, and sweeping coastlines, where solitude meets the whispers of an old pilgrimage tradition. Highlights include Ireland’s Our Lady’s Island, where the faithful have gathered for centuries, and the musical gatherings at Wexford’s House of Stories. At each site, pilgrims can stamp a booklet marking their spiritual journey.
Crossing into Wales, the path winds along Pembrokeshire’s rugged coastline, past Strumble Head, and concludes at the legendary St Non’s Well. The route rekindles the ancient tradition of pilgrimage, giving you a chance to experience a meditative, transformative journey through these historic landscapes.
Print Habitat
Picture a house emerging from a massive 3D printer, layer by layer. This futuristic vision is becoming a reality near Austin, Texas, where the world’s largest 3D-printed neighbourhood is underway. Not only does this innovative project promise affordable housing, but it also prioritises eco-friendly solutions. The innovation makes it possible to build complete houses much faster through the use of a blend of concrete and sustainable resources.
This game-changing approach addresses the growing housing crisis, especially in areas where prices have skyrocketed. With its ability to reduce waste and lower labour costs, 3D printing could pave the way for more accessible housing solutions. Each home is customizable, enabling future residents to personalise their living spaces without the traditional constraints of construction.
Dozens of 3D-printed homes have already made their mark globally. Dubai, for instance, holds the Guinness World Record for the largest 3D-printed structure and aims to have 25% of its new buildings constructed using this technology by 2030.
This leap toward modern construction methods not only promises to reduce costs and time but also positions cities to tackle pressing issues like urbanisation and environmental sustainability.
Delicacy District
Before the sun rises over Kolkata, the aromas of bao and dumplings fill the streets of Tiretti Bazaar, India’s first Chinatown. This hidden gem, steeped in history, has been a cultural landmark since the early 19th century when Chinese traders and artisans first made their home here. Once a bustling trade hub, it is now a must-visit for food lovers and history enthusiasts alike, offering an authentic flavour of Kolkata’s multicultural past.
To fully immerse yourself in its culinary delights, arrive early on a Sunday morning, before the sun is completely out, when the market bursts to life with the sounds of sizzling woks and lively chatter. As the day warms up, the food stalls begin to close, making way for a bustling vegetable market, where the freshest local produce takes centre stage.
As you navigate through the stalls, don’t miss the chance to sample traditional Chinese delicacies. Tiretti Bazaar is a living testament to a multicultural heritage that continues to pulse with life, inviting you to savour both its flavours and its history.
So, if you find yourself in Kolkata, go to Tiretti Bazaar for the breakfast, stay for the history.
La Bu Land
In recent years, there’s been an undeniable surge in the popularity of plush toys, especially among Gen Z. These cuddly companions have moved from childhood nostalgia into mainstream fashion and self-expression. You’ve probably seen them adorning bags or featured in social media posts. While the Y2K obsession undoubtedly plays a part, there’s more to this trend than just a love for retro aesthetics.
A rising number of young people now use stuffed toys for emotional support. They serve as comforting objects in an increasingly complex world, blurring the line between childhood innocence and adult responsibilities.
Labubu, a mischievous character from Hong Kong artist Kasing Lung’s The Monsters series, has recently emerged as a favourite. Thanks to an Instagram post by Blackpink’s Lisa, Labubu has captured hearts across Southeast Asia and beyond, becoming a symbol of playful rebellion against the pressures of adult life. With its impish grin and sharp teeth, Labubu represents a quirky form of comfort — an unusual but heartwarming companion in today’s fast-paced world.
Wellness (R)evolution
Each generation tends to define itself with something significant. As it turns out, for millennials, that defining trait seems to be wellness. A recent trend shows that millennials view wellness not as a luxury, but as a crucial investment in their future. Whether it’s the latest wearable tech tracking sleep and heart rate, or the surge in demand for boutique fitness classes, health has become the new currency.
At a cafe in Mumbai or Delhi, it’s not uncommon to overhear conversations about yoga retreats, sound therapy, or the benefits of acai smoothies. This shift reflects two things — first, wellness has become so pervasive that it’s now dinner table conversation, and second, there’s a growing awareness of emerging trends.
The focus has also shifted from just physical fitness to a more holistic approach, embracing mental, emotional, and even spiritual well-being. From booking wellness vacations to the boom in mindfulness apps, millennials are reshaping the industry into a $1.8 trillion empire.
Investing in health is no longer an afterthought for this generation. Millennials show us that nurturing our minds, bodies, and souls is more than just a trend. And maybe it is an investment worth making.
Expedition: Happiness
Aarhus, Denmark’s second-largest city, is a hub of culture, history, and innovation. In fact, it was recently crowned the happiest city in the world, according to the 2024 Happy City Index.
A major reason behind this is the city’s strong feeling of community spirit and an eco-friendly and sustainable design. From the peaceful serenity of Mols Bjerge National Park to the iconic Infinite Bridge stretching over the waterfront, residents and travellers alike find balance and beauty in the city’s open-air.
The cultural institutions, like the ARoS Art Museum with its striking rainbow panorama, add to the vibrancy. Aarhus is also a gastronomic gem, home to Michelin-starred restaurants and a thriving street food scene. With an efficient transport system and a focus on green living, the city seems to have mastered the blend of happiness, health, and sustainability.
Pixelated Glory
Renowned for transforming cityscapes with his pixelated, 8-bit mosaics, Invader has made his mark on cities worldwide, turning public spaces into playful galleries. This anonymous French street artist, best known for his mosaics inspired by the vintage Space Invaders video game, has ‘invaded’ streets across the globe — from Paris to Hong Kong — with his iconic tile art. “I have never been tempted to reveal my identity,” he once said. “What I do and create is more important than who exactly I am.”
Nostalgia and contemporary art come together in his works inspired from the 1980s and famously known for video games like Space Invaders. Every single one of his mosaics exhibits his signature style, making the usual cityscapes into works of cultural art.
Earlier this year, when all eyes were on Paris as the Olympics started, he presented a mosaic that perfectly embodied the spirit of the city. Rooted in his signature nostalgic style, the piece not only captured the energy of both sports and street art but also highlighted Paris’s vibrant art scene, rich with museums and galleries. Like Banksy, who also pushes the limits of creativity, Invader reinterprets the meaning of public spaces as artistic expression. Art enthusiasts can seek out his iconic pixelated mosaics scattered throughout the city, from the bustling streets of Le Marais to the charming alleys of Montmartre, each piece inviting viewers to rethink what art can be in an urban context.
A Strawberry Summer
As kids, we often found solace in our favourite beverages — be it the creamy delight of Bournvita for many South Asians or the sweet, pastel hue of strawberry milk in Japan. Imagine sitting on a sunny afternoon, a tall glass of Bournvita in hand, each sip transporting you to a realm of chocolatey nostalgia. Meanwhile, in Japan, children would eagerly anticipate that same feeling, their taste buds tingling with the vibrant strawberry flavour, a blissful reminder of simpler days.
Now, fast forward to modern-day Hawaii, where the essence of strawberry milk has blossomed into a cultural icon. From bustling cafes to surf shacks, locals and visitors alike indulge in creamy strawberry lattes, blending the nostalgia with the vibrant island vibe.
In LA, you can find the drink in the form of a parfait, layering fresh strawberry purée and sweet cream atop of frothy oat milk. And in San Francisco, you can have the strawberry milk in a little toy-like, berry-shaped cup, complete with a green leaf lid
As we step into the weekend, let’s indulge in these childhood favourites and relive those carefree moments. How about a cosy movie night with Bournvita hot chocolate, or whipping up a refreshing strawberry milkshake for a fun afternoon treat?
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.
Midnight Express
Italy's Treni Turistici project is revitalising the country's rail infrastructure by repairing trains from the 1960s to the 1990s, changing them into elegant and comfortable sleeping coaches designed for modern travellers. These converted trains offer a mesmerising blend of antique elegance and modern convenience, making each voyage an experience rather than merely a mode of transportation.
The overnight routes now stretch from Rome to iconic destinations like the Dolomites and Puglia, with future plans to expand to regions such as Piedmont and beyond. Whether you're exploring the rugged northern landscapes or the sun-soaked southern coast, these trains provide a nostalgic yet practical way to traverse Italy’s breathtaking scenery, all while you rest up for the next day’s adventures.
With sustainability being the main focus, these sleeper trains pay homage to the past embracing the future of travel. Environmental impact is less by reducing the number of short-haul flights.
There’s something inherently cinematic about drifting off to sleep in Rome and awakening to the stunning views of the Sicilian coast. For those adventurers yearning for a blend of nostalgia and exploration, these overnight train routes offer the ideal opportunity to traverse Italy while enjoying a well-deserved rest.
Whale, Whale, Whale
In Mexico's Laguna San Ignacio, Pacific grey whales have become the unexpected companions you never knew you needed. Once hunted nearly to extinction, these majestic creatures now approach boats on their own, offering visitors an unforgettable close encounter.
Every winter, thousands of these whales migrate to this protected sanctuary, seeking safe waters to mate and nurse their young. What makes the Laguna unique is the whales’ behaviour — they approach humans with what seems like inquisitiveness, often allowing onlookers to touch them. Strict ecotourism rules ensure the whales aren’t overwhelmed, creating a rare and respectful interaction between species.
Thanks to the efforts of conservationists and local communities, these encounters have become a symbol of both wildlife recovery and sustainable tourism. For those lucky enough to experience it, the connection feels profoundly mutual.
If whale-watching is on your bucket list, why not add a twist — let the whales watch you too?
Effortless Escape
Imagine travelling without the need to pack — just showing up and everything you could possibly need awaits you. A fresh trend in luxury travel is elevating convenience, as high-end hotels now curate personalised wardrobes, premium toiletries, and bespoke amenities for guests. This shift allows travellers to focus on enjoying their trip without the hassle of packing or worrying about forgotten essentials.
Hotels like London’s Jumeirah Carlton Tower are redefining luxury by providing guests with more than just opulent surroundings. With a curated wardrobe tailored to individual style, whether it’s sophisticated evening wear or casual outfits for exploring the city, every detail is carefully selected. This seamless approach allows you to enjoy a fashionable stay without the need to overpack, making your experience effortlessly chic.
This trend isn’t just limited to clothing. Luxury hotels worldwide are elevating the travel experience by offering curated collections of premium skincare, toiletries, and even workout gear, tailored to your needs. This thoughtful service transforms your stay into an indulgent and hassle-free retreat. With everything provided, from high-end essentials to fitness equipment, the convenience of travelling without heavy luggage or forgotten items makes your journey seamless.
In this new era of travel, the art of minimalism meets indulgence. All you need to do is arrive; your stay will handle the rest, making every journey lighter and easier. And not to mention making your airport experience a breeze.
Sea-Saw
Imagine exploring the enchanting Polynesian islands without the headache of securing a visa. For Indian travellers, the Cook Islands presents an enticing option with its visa-on-arrival policy, allowing stays of up to 31 days — making it an ideal tropical getaway. Nestled in the South Pacific, this island paradise is celebrated for its unspoiled beauty, crystal-clear lagoons, and rich Polynesian culture.
Kick off your adventure in Rarotonga, where lush rainforests and pristine beaches beckon. For a more tranquil experience, venture to Aitutaki, home to one of the world's most breathtaking lagoons. Whether you’re kayaking through turquoise waters, exploring vibrant coral reefs, or trekking through dense foliage, the islands showcase nature at its finest.
Beyond its landscapes, you can immerse yourself in the spirit of Polynesia by joining a local ‘island night’ — a lively celebration with traditional music, dance, and food in a festive atmosphere. The highlight of any Island Night is the performance of ura, a traditional dance accompanied by rhythmic drumming and singing. The dances tell stories of the islands’ history, love, and nature.
Alongside the captivating performances, Island Nights also offer a chance to indulge in a traditional Polynesian feast. These buffets often feature dishes like umu kai (food cooked in an underground oven), seafood, and tropical fruits. It’s a culinary journey into the flavours of the islands.
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