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The Birth of Civilisation
Often when we think of history, we associate the beginning of human civilization at around seven thousand years ago, or 5000 BCE. That’s when the foundations of the first civilisations, like Mesopotamia and the Yellow River, were laid. However, an earlier era is now starting to emerge.
The discovery of Gobekli Tepe in southern Türkiye has upended that idea that civilization only came with agriculture. While this structure was earlier considered to simply be a temple that early humans used to congregate at seasonally, recent finds show new developments.
Consisting of several obelisks and columns that are placed in concentric circles, the construction seems to have been used for ritualistic purposes, but there is presence of domestic tools and food remains showing consistent occupation of the area. Moreover, in the region surrounding Gobekli Tepe, more such monuments and constructions have been found, some of them dating to almost thirteen thousand years ago! Which means that humans started settling and farming almost five thousand years before previously thought.
Although much isn’t known about the culture of the inhabitants or where they went, this region in the Sanliurfa Province in Türkiye is now the cradle of human settlement, with more just waiting to be discovered.
Beyond Aesthetics
Ever wondered what turns a luxury hotel stay into something truly magical? It's the thoughtful fusion of local culture with modern design, crafting unique and unforgettable experiences.
Design experts share how every aspect, from the layout to the lighting, is meticulously curated. The process starts with a deep understanding of the locale, ensuring that each space reflects its environment through bespoke elements and cultural nuances. For example, many coastal hotels incorporate natural materials like driftwood and seashell motifs into their decor, symbolising the connection between the property and the surrounding seascape.
Picture furniture that narrates its own tale or lighting that changes with the time of day to enhance the ambiance. Whether it's the opulence of grand chandeliers in historic venues or the simplicity of sleek, modern designs, the aim is to harmoniously combine comfort with visual appeal.So, next time you indulge in a luxury stay, remember that behind every exquisite detail is a thoughtfully crafted design story that elevates your experience to new heights.
Dancing With the Mooncakes
Picture yourself wandering through the lively streets of Kuala Lumpur as twilight descends, with lanterns in every conceivable shape and colour illuminating the city with a soft, vibrant glow. This is the Mooncake Festival, or Mid-Autumn Festival, one of Malaysia’s most captivating cultural events. Celebrated on the 15th day of the eighth lunar month (falling on September 17 this year), the festival beautifully merges tradition, community, and a shared sense of joy.
In Malaysia, this celebration is particularly special as it brings together a mix of Southeast Asian cultures — Chinese, Vietnamese, and others — with a uniquely Malaysian twist. At the heart of it all are mooncakes, rich pastries filled with everything from traditional lotus seed paste to modern twists like chocolate and matcha. These treats symbolise unity and are often exchanged among family and friends.
As night falls, temples such as Thean Hou in Kuala Lumpur are draped in vibrant lanterns, and the streets become stages for captivating performances and traditional dances. The air buzzes with excitement as locals and visitors alike immerse themselves in the festivities. For those seeking a deep cultural dive, the Mooncake Festival in Malaysia offers a perfect blend of age-old tradition and modern celebration, creating memories as sweet as the mooncakes themselves.
Venice Spotlight
The Venice Film Festival 2024 presented a dynamic range of films, reaffirming its importance on the global cinematic stage. This year's lineup featured a diverse and inventive mix of works, pushing boundaries and captivating audiences in fresh ways.
Notable entries like Room Next Door and Brutalist have set the stage ablaze with their bold narratives and striking visuals, pushing the boundaries of storytelling. The former, Pedro Almodóvar’s first English-language feature, is a poignant tale of mortality and estranged friendships, elevated by Tilda Swinton and Julianne Moore’s heartfelt performances. While Brady Corbet’s Brutalist is an ambitious, decades-spanning epic following a Jewish-Hungarian architect, played by Adrien Brody, as he rebuilds his life in America.
Several films from Venice were also shown at the Toronto International Film Festival, highlighting a global exchange that strengthens the international film scene. This overlap shows how important the festival circuit is for bringing captivating stories to a larger audience.
Games People Play
In Playing with Reality, neuroscientist Kelly Clancy embarks on an ambitious exploration of how games have shaped human culture, thought, and progress. While we often think of games as mere diversions, Clancy argues they offer profound insights into reality itself. From military strategies to the rise of artificial intelligence, games have been used to model human behaviour, teach machines how to learn, and even predict future outcomes.
Clancy combines science, history, and politics showing how games shaped actual conflicts and how game theory forms the basis for many economic and political choices today. However, while games help us grasp the world better, Clancy cautions that confusing these models with reality can lead to risky outcomes when certain elements sneak into how decisions are made.
This book reminds that games bear cultural significance: they can serve as teaching tools, ways of understanding, and at times even ways of immersing oneself in a world. Clancy’s work challenges us to rethink the role they play in shaping not just individual minds but the future of society itself.
Taste of Tradition
Chile is quickly gaining a reputation as a hotspot for food and wine lovers. Stretching from the Atacama Desert to Patagonia’s icy plains, this country’s unique geography produces some of the world’s most diverse flavours. At the heart of Chile’s culinary scene is its world-class wine — particularly its celebrated Carménère — a rich red grape variety that was once nearly extinct.
But it’s not just about the wine. Chile’s culinary offerings are equally impressive. Picture fresh seafood straight from the Pacific, like chupe de mariscos (a creamy seafood stew), paired with some crisp Sauvignon Blanc. Or savouring empanadas filled with rich meats and spices, washed down with a glass of Cabernet Sauvignon.
With bustling food markets in Santiago and serene vineyards in the Casablanca Valley, Chile is a dream destination for anyone looking to indulge their taste buds. Whether you’re a casual foodie or a seasoned sommelier, Chile’s vibrant flavours are ready to impress.
Cheese Renaissance
In a country where paneer has long been the staple, a shift is happening — Indian cheesemakers are creating artisanal cheeses that stand up to international varieties. From the rich, traditional kalari of Jammu & Kashmir to the inventive new offerings from emerging brands, India’s cheese landscape is evolving, combining age-old traditions with contemporary creativity.
So, why now? People’s global palates, coupled with increasing access to local dairy resources, is driving this shift. Indian consumers are eager for high-quality, locally-produced alternatives to imported cheeses, and artisan makers are stepping up to meet that demand. Eleftheria, for instance, handcrafts a diverse range of cheeses using organic, locally-sourced milk, tapping into the consumer trend for sustainable and conscious eating.
Traditional varieties like kalari are also gaining renewed attention, not just for their rich flavours but also as a way to preserve regional heritage. These cheeses, once overshadowed by industrial dairy, are now seen as symbols of India’s diverse culinary identity.
The socio-economic impact is significant. Artisan cheesemaking supports local farmers and strengthens rural economies, creating a sustainable ecosystem where quality and tradition thrive. This movement is a reflection of India’s evolving relationship with its heritage and the growing appetite for world-class products made right at home.
In the end, India’s artisan cheese boom is more than a trend — it’s a delicious convergence of culture, community, and craft.
A Wired Revival
Wired headphones are making a comeback, and Gen Z is at the forefront of the trend. Once thought of as old-school, these tangled accessories have found their way into the spotlight again, and it is about more than nostalgia. For many, the move back to wired headphones is a blend of practicality and aesthetics. They’re more reliable — no battery anxiety, no Bluetooth pairing dramas, and no fears of losing a pricey earbud while travelling. Plus, they offer great sound without the risk of interference.
But let’s be honest — wired headphones are also becoming a low-key fashion statement. The dangling cords give off a retro, effortlessly cool vibe that’s hard to replicate. Influencers and celebrities are spotted wearing them, sparking a trend that blends function with a nod to the past. For now, wired is officially IN.
Fusion Flavourscape
Mexico City’s food scene is undergoing a vibrant fusion of Middle Eastern and Mexican flavours, with chefs like Andrea Sayeg leading the charge. At her restaurant, Sayeg blends her Lebanese heritage with traditional Mexican cuisine. Her signature taco — crispy fried chicken with a red pepper and pomegranate syrup sauce — captures this culinary marriage. The ingredients, from cumin to oregano, are familiar to both food cultures, creating a surprising (albeit unique) harmony.
This culinary evolution extends well beyond Sayeg’s venue. Across Mexico City, chefs are creatively melding Middle Eastern culinary traditions with local ingredients. At Pàt Patz, classic kebabs and hummus are reimagined with Mexican twists like salsa macha and lime. Meanwhile, El Vilsito, famous for its tacos al pastor, preserves the essence of shawarma within the city’s vibrant food scene.
Recently, El Califa de León, a modest taco stand, achieved a landmark distinction as the first Mexican taco stand to receive a Michelin star, celebrated for its mastery in crafting straightforward yet exquisitely prepared tacos.
These chefs are redefining Mexico City's dining scene, proving that the Middle Eastern culinary tradition is not only alive but thriving. And that’s something worth celebrating.
A Portrait of Time
If nostalgia had a sound, what do you think it would be? Perhaps it might resemble the music of Delhi-based Peter Cat Recording Co. Their latest album, BETA, showcases their knack for genre fusion and experimentation. Over the past 14 years, they’ve crafted a sound that is hard to pin down. It borrows from 1950s jazz, 1970s Bollywood, and early-2000s indie rock. And with their new album, they stretch these boundaries even further, producing a record that feels both timeless and forward-looking.
The album opens with People Never Change, featuring a unique mix of Punjabi folk instruments like the dholak and iktara, layered with sub-aquatic bass synths and jazz saxophone. True to their signature style, it’s an unexpected mix that just works.
Alongside their musical innovation, BETA takes a more personal turn, with tracks like Suddenly giving you a heartfelt reflection on loss and resilience. Recorded during the pandemic in North Goa, the album carries a serene, introspective quality, enriched by authentic field recordings.
If you're in the mood for jazz-infused nostalgia with a modern twist this weekend, this album is the perfect weekend soundtrack.
Unmasked Genius
Banksy’s street art has become a global sensation, turning ordinary walls and phone booths into powerful canvases of layered meaning. Though his identity remains a mystery, the hidden messages in his work are clear to those who look closer. In Girl with Balloon,for example, a simple image of a child losing a balloon suggests the delicate nature of hope. Flower Thrower replaces aggression with a gesture of peace, urging us to rethink how we view strength and kindness.
Spy Booth, featuring figures listening in by an actual phone booth, cleverly plays with the idea of privacy in a digital age. These details, often subtle, are what make Banksy’s work so intriguing. His art is woven into the fabric of several cities, inviting everyone to engage with it.
Banksy’s latest artwork on the shutter of the London Zoo building depicts an ape breaking animals out of an enclosure, marking the ninth piece in his animal-themed series across the UK capital. The gorilla is shown lifting a curtain as birds fly out, delivering a powerful message about freedom. The piece critiques, it seems, the concept of the treatment of animals, prompting you to question the hidden realities you often overlook.
Historic Harvests
In Georgia, winemaking is integral to how people live. In fact, almost every family makes its own. The recipes, like heirloom, are passed on from one generation to the next. Historically, earthenware pots called qvevri were used to make this wine, but archaeological excavations have discovered an 8,000-year one, making Georgia one of the oldest wine-making countries in the world.
While there are developments and other options, you can easily find traditionally-made Georgian wine. To this day qvevris are used to crush grapes and let them ferment underground. It isn’t a rare sight to see Georgian winemakers follow old methods, using little to no chemical intervention in the production process.
For oenophiles the world over, Georgia gives you a unique glimpse into the origins of winemaking, where history and tradition blend seamlessly. Imagine savouring a glass, knowing it’s made the same way it was thousands of years ago. History is just a sip away!
Coastal Explorations
Perched on Bulgaria's Black Sea coast, Sozopol is a town where history and modernity coexist seamlessly. The old town, set on a rugged peninsula, is a maze of weathered stone and timber houses, ancient fortifications, and dramatic cliffs that tell stories of centuries past. Despite its age, Sozopol effortlessly blends its rich heritage with the energy of contemporary life, creating a captivating destination for travellers. It was formerly the Greek settlement of Apollonia Pontica, and for more than 2,500 years, it provided safe passage through the erratic Black Sea.
Founded by Greek settlers from Miletus in 610 BC, the town flourished as a bustling port, with trade between the Greeks and Thracians playing a key role in its growth. A colossal 13m bronze statue of Apollo once stood here, rivalling the Colossus of Rhodes. Today, the town’s narrow streets are dotted with archaeological finds, including Roman pottery and ancient relics.
Today, you can explore its wide sandy beaches, mediaeval churches, and vibrant seafront tavernas, offering a taste of both Balkan and Greek cuisine. The town’s Greek heritage is still alive, with remnants of its ancient culture found in local traditions, food, and even its dialect.
Advent of Adventure
Zimbabwe is emerging as a hot destination for Indian tourists, with numbers steadily rising. According to recent reports, Indian visitors to Zimbabwe increased by 19% last year, with over 17,000 travellers making the journey. This surge is partly due to Zimbabwe’s simplified visa process for Indians, allowing travellers to apply on arrival at Harare International Airport.
For Indian tourists, Zimbabwe has much to explore. Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, is a must-see, with its thundering cascades and misty rainbows. Adventure seekers can indulge in activities like bungee jumping, ziplining, and safaris. Wildlife enthusiasts can take game drives through national parks, spotting elephants, lions, and giraffes.
The country’s rich cultural history, combined with its breathtaking landscapes and outdoor activities, makes Zimbabwe a destination worth discovering, especially for those seeking adventure while immersing themselves in the culture.
Con-Cave
Meghalaya houses nine of India’s top 10 longest and deepest caves, with Krem Chympe in Meghalaya standing out as a remarkable subterranean wonder. Stretching over 20.4 km under the Jaintia Hills, it is renowned for its intricate limestone formations and delicate natural dams formed over a millennia. To enter, you must navigate through waters that rise as high as 7.9m, either by swimming or canoeing.
Inside, you are greeted with crystal-clear rivers and stalactites that resemble frozen waterfalls, with the Golden Orchid Chamber being a standout feature. This cave also boasts a rich ecosystem, including bats, crickets, and the world’s largest cavefish, discovered in 2020.
With its fragile beauty and challenging passages, Krem Chympe is a paradise for adventure enthusiasts. So, will you answer this call from adventure?
Watered Wonders
Aix-en-Provence, often called the ‘City of a Thousand Fountains’, is a place where water and history come together in unexpected ways. When you think of beautiful fountains, Italy might come to mind first, but France has its own stunning water features that rival the best of Rome. Scattered throughout the squares and streets of Aix, these fountains range from the grandiose to the quietly charming, each with its own backstory.
Yet, there’s much more to Aix than just its fountains. This southern French town is home to lively markets, quaint cafés, and a rich connection to the renowned artist Paul Cézanne, a pioneer of modern art. Strolling through its shaded streets and bright plazas, the charm of Aix reveals itself in the details — whether it’s relaxing by a fountain with a glass of local rosé or discovering an unexpected, tucked-away square. It’s a place where time seems to slow down, encouraging you to absorb the town’s timeless beauty at your own rhythm.
Waveney Place
Exploring the Waveney River feels like stepping into a hidden world. Meandering through the Norfolk-Suffolk border, this under-the-radar waterway gives you slow, immersive travel. It gives you a chance to have a laid-back and relaxed holiday just a couple of hours away from London. You can start in Diss and trace its path by kayak, bike, or foot.
The gentle current guides you to secluded swimming spots, winding beneath willow canopies and beside historic drainage mills. Along the route, you’ll come across quaint indie cafés, local craft breweries, and a vineyard nestled in this serene, unspoiled landscape.
Wildlife abounds – otters, kingfishers, and the elusive water vole make their home here. If you’re after something truly unique, paddle around Bungay’s bend, where some of these local fauna have been spotted basking in the sun.
Kea’s Cool Charm
Looking for a summer destination where you can escape the sweltering heat and immerse yourself in ancient history? Welcome to Kea, the Cycladic island locals lovingly call ‘Tzia’. Just a quick 1 to 1.5-hour ferry ride from the port of Lavrio near Athens, this teardrop-shaped gem offers a natural reprieve from Greece’s intense summer temperatures. Kea's rugged terrain and the cooling northern winds, known as meltemia, keep the island refreshingly cool, even when the mainland bakes in 40°C heat.
Kea isn’t just about the breeze and the views — it’s like stepping into a different era. Ancient footpaths lead through oak forests to archaeological sites like the Doric temple of Athena and the remains of a Venetian castle in Ioulida. You can explore the villages with their colourful houses and narrow streets or head to the local museum to see artefacts from the Neolithic Age.
So, if you’re up for a cool adventure that combines stunning natural landscapes with a rich tapestry of history, Kea is the place to be.
Historic Wonders
It’s always exciting when UNESCO adds more sites to its prestigious World Heritage list, and this year’s picks are truly extraordinary. The newly inscribed sites for 2024 span the globe, giving you a chance to explore ancient wonders, historical landmarks, and breathtaking landscapes.
The Moidams of the Ahom Dynasty in India is situated amidst the verdant foothills of Assam. These ancient mounds merge into the natural landscape to almost form one single entity. Another place to explore, especially if you are fascinated with the wonders of prehistoric times, are the Melka Kunture and Balchit sites of Ethiopia. They even have artefacts and footprints left behind many millions of years ago.
Another great addition is the Schwerin Residence of Germany, which is an imposing architectural beauty with its beautiful palace, its gardens, and courtyards. Meanwhile, the Sado Island Gold Mines of Japan almost make you feel like you have taken a trip back in time. And lastly, you can explore the Umm Al Jimāl of Jordan, which enchants you with basaltic structures.
Alpine Gems
It’s no secret that there’s plenty to explore in Italy, and while the northern lakes like Como and Garda often steal the limelight, there are lesser-known, less crowded ones you should definitely explore on your next trip.
The Alpine lakes are ideal for a refreshing break away (an alternative only the locals were privy to, so far). A great example of this is Lake Annecy. Tucked away in the Alps, you can find canals, cobblestone streets, and well-preserved townhouses here. Free from the usual tourist throngs, Annecy also boasts opulent chateaus and a rich historical tapestry.
Nearby, Lake Bourget, the largest and deepest lake of the country, captivates with its royal past and emerald shores. You can explore charming towns, indulge in gourmet delights, and even unwind in serene spas. For those seeking the allure of Italy’s lakes with a touch of French elegance, these Alpine gems provide the perfect escape. So when are you going?
Caffeine Couture
In a move that is both a nod to modern tastes and a wink to tradition, Nespresso is pulling out all the stops to woo Gen Z and coffee aficionados alike. The coffee giant has launched a series of chic boutiques that are more than just places to grab a cup — they’re immersive coffee experiences that allow you to journey through the rich heritage of coffee-making, from bean to cup, with hands-on workshops, tastings, and personalised guidance. The boutiques offer dedicated spaces where customers can delve into the intricacies of various brews, sample exclusive blends, and even master the art of brewing the perfect cup.
But while Nespresso’s boutiques are making waves globally, let’s not forget that India has its own boutique charm brewing — literally. Picture this: waking up in the lush greenery of a coffee estate, where your morning brew is made from beans harvested just a stone’s throw away. Yes, that’s the magic of India’s boutique hotels on coffee estates, like those nestled in Coorg or Chikmagalur. It’s like Nespresso’s dream, but with a desi twist!
So whether you’re sipping on a single-origin espresso in a sleek urban setting or enjoying a cup amidst the lush greenery of an Indian coffee estate, you’re partaking in a tradition that’s as rich in history as it is in flavour. Cheers to that brew-tiful journey!
Tickled Pink
In the heart of southern France’s Camargue region, nature flexes its artistic muscles, painting the saltwater lagoons in shades of pink that look plucked from a fairy tale. This is no illusion but something created by a mixture of high salt concentrations with a variety of microorganisms and a drizzle of Mediterranean magic. The result is a pinkness of these waters that would even embarrass the plumage of a flamingo!
Now, talking of flamingos, they are the real stars here from this marshy wonderland. Not to forget the famous white Camargue horses and wild bulls adding a bit of wild majesty.
Forget the crowded tourist spots; the Camargue offers an off-the-beaten-path escape where nature’s beauty is raw, the wildlife is thriving, and the sunsets drench everything in a rosy glow. This French hidden gem is ideal for nature-loving travellers seeking adventure and a travel story that’s truly unique.
Light it Up
What places do you think of when you hear about the Northern Lights? While their reputation is deeply rooted in the Arctic Circle, you aren’t alone in forgetting that these dazzling displays can very much be witnessed throughout parts of the northern United States.
As we approach the solar maximum — a period of high solar activity — the chances of witnessing the Northern Lights increase manifold. That is exactly what had happened when a storm hit the country earlier this year and showed us backyards full of celestial lights (and just a little bit of FOMO).
In the coming years, however, it is highly probable that you can catch more. Some of the best places in the U.S. to witness this phenomenon are Fairbanks, Alaska; Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota; and Acadia National Park, Maine.
Not only do these places have less light and air pollution, they also seem like a call to adventure. So, if you’re someone looking to answer that call while enjoying aurora viewing from the wilderness to Alaska to the rocky coastline of Maine, you know what to do.
Pedalling to the Peak
Cycling up a volcano? Sounds like a wild adventure, but it’s a daily reality on Tenerife’s Mount Teide,Tenerife. Starting from the sunny town of Los Cristianos, cyclists face a gruelling 47 km ascent, braving heat and altitude to conquer this 3,715m giant.
This legendary climb, once a training ground for pros, now attracts amateur enthusiasts as well. As riders leave beach resorts behind, they tackle the relentless uphill through aloe vera plantations and barren slopes, aiming for the 2,200m-high Cañadas crater rim.
The surreal landscape shifts from lush pine forests to Martian-like terrains, with rock stacks, lava fields, and towering pink flowers. The final push to the cable car station tests endurance, but the reward is a jaw-dropping descent.
Speeding down, with brakes squealing and hearts racing, cyclists revel in the thrill of the drop. Mount Teide’s volcanic roads give you a unique blend of challenge and exhilaration, making every gruelling pedal stroke worth it.
Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a daring amateur, this volcanic ride is an unforgettable adventure, blending intense effort with breathtaking scenery and high-speed thrills.
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