Hawaii 101: What is the meaning of Ti Leaves to Hawaiians?

by Lindsay Shapka in , ,


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.

Read More

What Do The Colors You Wear Mean In Different Countries?

by Lindsay Shapka in , , , ,


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 More

Popular English Idioms and Their Curious Origins [Infographic}

by Lindsay Shapka in , , ,


If you’ve ever studied abroad or travelled to destinations with the intent to absorb as much of the culture and language as possible, you’re well aware of how difficult it is to learn the intricacies of each spoken word and phrase.

Read More

The World's Most Impactful Books To Add To Your Reading List

by Lindsay Shapka in , ,


Words ignite ideas, and they breathe life into the world.

Those same words come together, and with a stroke of a pen, they bring people books. Books have a lasting impact because they spread remarkable thoughts like wildfire. People read them, and their impact is spread all over the globe.

Read More

Your Guide to Love Holidays Around The World

by Lindsay Shapka in , ,


Love is celebrated differently in different cultures around the globe. Those of us from North America have Valentine’s Day, White Day is celebrated in Asia, and Lover’s Day in Brazil.

Here are just a few of the other romantic holidays that are celebrated in different countries throughout the year!

Read More

The Most Interesting New Year's Traditions From Around The World

by Lindsay Shapka in , ,


Smashing plates, burning effigies, and preparing traditional meals — ringing in the New Year looks very different from country to country and culture to culture!

Some celebrate New Year’s Eve with cocktails and sparkly dresses, others light fireworks and eat black eyed peas, and there are even cultures that wear white and carry suitcases (really!).

Read More