by Lindsay Shapka in People, Travel, Culture
On my last visit to Oahu, I ended up at a University Men’s Volleyball Game and, before sitting down, was handed a long, slim green leaf. I was told it was a “Ti Leaf” and I was supposed to use it to cheer for the team.
What are these leaves, you ask, and why do ti leaves in Hawaii make an appearance at major sports events?
Read Moreby Lindsay Shapka in Culture, History, People, Travel, Travel Tips
Did you know that your clothing is sending a message?
When you are traveling and meeting new people, first impressions matter — we determine whether people are trustworthy, attractive, friendly, and even intelligent by the way that they look every single day.
Read Moreby Lindsay Shapka in Culture, People, Travel, In The News
Curling, Figure Skating, Ice Hockey, Snowboarding, and Ski Jumping — oh my! I don't know about you, but I am an Olymp-addict — and I can never get enough of the Winter Olympic Games!
Read Moreby Lindsay Shapka in Travel Tips, Travel, Culture
Tipping can be confusing when you are traveling — it can be insulting to leave money on the table in some countries, in others leaving too large a tip is considered a sign that you loved the service, and in others tipping is different depending on the service you are receiving.
So, how do you avoid awkward moments when paying the cheque? You read this blog of course!
Read Moreby Lindsay Shapka in Culture, People, Travel, Travel Tips
Nope, that web of wires you might notice above your head while wandering through Manhattan are not all for carrying electricity.
There are actually 18 miles(!) of translucent wire that run throughout the borough called an eruv. The eruv (or eruvin) is there because of the Jewish Sabbath. A day of rest in the Jewish tradition, people observing the Sabbath aren't permitted to do any sort of work in public places, which includes carrying things like groceries, laundry, or books.
Read Moreby Lindsay Shapka in Culture, Travel, People
Italians consume over 14 billion espresso drinks each year (!) making the country’s coffee intake the highest in the world.
That’s A LOT of caffeine.
Read Moreby Lindsay Shapka in People, Culture, Travel Tips
In Thailand, the head is considered to be the most sacred part of the body (NEVER touch a Thai person on their head), and the feet are considered to be the dirtiest.
Why does this matter to you?
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