Topics

Jun

Ultimate Paris Elegance: The Secret Dinner in White

by Meredith Mullins on June 11, 2018

Four happy Dîner en Blanc guests at the table, enjoying the cultural traditions of the Dinner in White in Paris. (Image © Meredith Mullins.)

How do you keep a party of 17,000 secret?
© Meredith Mullins

Cultural Traditions of Dîner en Blanc

To the north, the Grand Palais glows in the twilight. To the south, the golden dome of Invalides dominates the sky. To the west, the Eiffel Tower peeks out above the trees. And, in a 360-degree panorama, everywhere there is a sea of white elegance.

Where are we?

We’re at the 2018 Paris Dîner en Blanc. Read more...

Meredith Mullins 8 Comments

Cultural Heritage & Traditions/France (Paris)

May

Walking New Zealand

by Joyce McGreevy on May 29, 2018

Glenorchy in New Zealand’s South Island is a gateway to many spectacular hiking trails.
© Joyce McGreevy

The Wordplay of Pathways

Everyday English reflects the wordplay of pathways. We speak of “getting off track,” or taking “the path of least resistance.” We express disappointment as being “led up the primrose path.” We tell new friends, “I’m glad our paths crossed.” For me, however, while walking New Zealand, I learned an entire new vocabulary.

Glenorchy’s wooden pathway leads into the wetlands and is a treat for visitors who are walking New Zealand. (Image © Joyce McGreevy)

Glenorchy’s boardwalk takes birdwatchers into the wetlands.
© Joyce McGreevy Read more...

Joyce McGreevy 9 Comments

Language & Culture/Nature Discovery/New Zealand/On Foot

May

Ten Fun Facts About Chocolate

by Meredith Mullins on May 21, 2018

Mexican chocolate, showing the cultural traditions of chocolate and the cocoa bean and fun facts about chocolate. (Image © Viennetta/iStock.)

Cultural Traditions of a World Favorite: The Cocoa Bean

There is nothing better than a good friend, except a good friend with chocolate.—Linda Grayson

Chocolate is high on the favorite list of many people. It soothes stress, is a weapon against depression, heightens awareness, elevates mood, and rouses passion. It is the choice of many as the answer to “What one thing you would take with you if stranded on a desert island?” Read more...

Meredith Mullins 4 Comments

Cultural Heritage & Traditions/Worldwide Sites

World Views: