National culture

British Farmers Required to Provide Toys for Their Pigs

Social News

1 minute read

Durian Consumption Banned in Some Public Spaces in Brunei, Indonesia and Malaysia

Social News

1 minute read

Caution: The "V" Sign in the UK - Palm Direction Matters

Social News

1 minute read

France's Surprising Ban: Kissing Forbidden at Train Stations

Social News

1 minute read

What You Only Realize About Italian Etiquette and Dress Code After Visiting Italy
Question: What are some aspects of Italian etiquette and dress code that one might only become aware of after going to Italy?
Social News
1 minute read
Caution: Avoid Complimenting Iranian Babies' Eyes
When traveling to Iran, visitors may encounter a unique cultural taboo that revolves around the seemingly innocent act of complimenting a baby's eyes. In Iranian culture, remarks about a baby's eyes are regarded with extreme sensitivity, as they are believed to invite misfortune.
Social News
1 minute read
Cutting Cacti in Arizona: A Serious Offense with Severe Penalties
In the state of Arizona, USA, there is a rather unique and strict law regarding the protection of cacti. Unlawfully cutting cacti can lead to significant legal consequences.
Social News
1 minute read
In Egypt, Adding Salt to Your Food Is a No - No
Traveling to Egypt offers a rich tapestry of cultural experiences, but among the many customs to keep in mind, one particular dining etiquette rule stands out: refrain from adding salt to your food. In Egyptian culture, sprinkling salt into your bowl is considered a direct insult to the chef. This tradition is deeply ingrained in the local way of life, reflecting the importance Egyptians place on culinary craftsmanship and hospitality.
Social News
1 minute read
In Cambodia, Finishing Your Plate Isn't a Sign of Appreciation
When visiting Cambodia, travelers may encounter a surprising cultural difference at the dining table. Unlike in many other parts of the world where "clean - plate campaigns" are encouraged as a sign of appreciation for the food served, in Cambodia, finishing everything on your plate can send the wrong message.
Social News
1 minute read
Greece’s “Men - Only” Island: A World Apart
Nestled in Greece, the secluded island of Mount Athos, also known as “Agion Oros,” stands as a unique enclave with an extraordinary rule: it strictly prohibits women from setting foot on its shores. This ancient regulation has created a distinct society that has remained untouched by the presence of females for centuries.
Social News
1 minute read
Switzerland's Unusual Rule: No Flushing Toilets After 10 PM
In Switzerland, visitors and residents alike are often surprised to learn about a rather peculiar regulation: flushing toilets after 10 PM is strictly prohibited in many areas. This unusual law reflects the local government's prioritization of noise pollution control over concerns about olfactory discomfort, showcasing a unique approach to maintaining public well - being.
Social News
1 minute read
USA: Times Square Ball Drop Ceremony
Every New Year's Eve, millions gather in Times Square for the iconic Ball Drop, a spellbinding spectacle that transforms the area into a pulsating hub of celebration. As the final minute before midnight ticks away, the crowd erupts in a thunderous countdown, and a massive crystal ball descends 43 meters down a mast. At the stroke of midnight, a ton of colorful confetti blankets the square, while strangers and loved ones alike share kisses to welcome the new year.
Social News
1 minute read
Brazil: Mountain Climbing for Happiness and Ear-Tugging Blessings
In Brazil, where New Year’s coincides with the height of summer, the celebrations blend natural joy with unique traditions. As the southern hemisphere welcomes the new year in sweltering heat, cities across the country light up with spectacular fireworks at midnight, painting the tropical sky in vibrant hues. But the most iconic ritual unfolds in the hills and mountains.
Social News
1 minute read
France: Eiffel Tower Light Shows and Champagne Toasts
Paris ushers in the new year with characteristic chic, combining iconic landmarks, culinary traditions, and superstitious rituals. As midnight approaches, the Eiffel Tower becomes the centerpiece, dazzling crowds with a spectacular light show and fireworks that paint the Parisian sky—an annual spectacle that draws millions to the Champ de Mars and televisions worldwide.
Social News
2 minute read
Spain: The 12 Grapes Tradition
In Spain, New Year’s Eve revolves around a quirky yet cherished ritual: consuming 12 grapes at the stroke of midnight. As the clock ticks toward the new year, families and friends gather, often in central squares like Madrid’s Puerta del Sol, clutching small bunches of grapes—their eyes fixed on the clock tower and hands ready to pop each fruit into their mouths with every chime.
Social News
2 minute read
Denmark: Table-Jumping and Plate-Smashing Traditions
In Denmark, ringing in the new year is a literal leap into the future—quite literally. As the clock strikes midnight, Danes gather around tables and chairs, then spring off them with a cheer, symbolically "jumping into the new year." This energetic ritual is followed by fireworks lighting up the winter sky, blending playfulness with deep-rooted belief.
Social News
2 minute read
Canada: Snow Walls and Polar Bear Plunges
In Canada, where winter dominates the New Year’s landscape, snow isn’t just a backdrop—it’s a symbol of prosperity. As the new year approaches, Canadians build towering snow walls around their homes and craft elaborate snowmen, believing these icy fortifications ward off negative energies. This tradition harks back to indigenous beliefs that snow possesses cleansing properties, while the act of shaping it into barriers reflects a practical wintertime resilience.
Social News
1 minute read
The Philippines: Round Fruits and Polka-Dot Attire
On New Year’s Eve, Filipino families adhere to a vibrant tradition centered on circular symbolism. A mandatory display of 12 round fruits—such as apples, grapes, and plums—takes center stage, each representing a month of the year. Shaped like coins, these fruits are believed to summon prosperity, with their roundness symbolizing the cyclical nature of good fortune and the hope for financial abundance.
Social News
1 minute read
Switzerland's Generous Parental Leave Policies Unveiled
Switzerland offers a comprehensive set of parental leave policies that aim to support new parents. According to the Swiss government's official website, expectant mothers are entitled to a maternity leave of 98 days, equivalent to 14 weeks. During this period, they receive 80% of their regular salary. This leave typically commences from the day the child is born.
Social News
1 minute read
Finland's Family Leave Policies Offer Generous Support for Parents
Finland has comprehensive family leave policies to support parents. According to the data from the Finnish Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment, expectant mothers can enjoy a maximum of 40 working days of allowance. It usually starts 30 working days before the expected due date of the child, but no later than 14 working days before the due date.
Social News
1 minute read
Norway's Generous Parental Leave Policies
Norway offers highly favorable parental leave policies for working parents. According to information from the European Commission, parents in Norway can choose between 49 weeks of full - pay parental benefits or 59 weeks of benefits at 80% of their salary. A certain proportion of the benefits is reserved for each parent.
Social News
1 minute read
Sweden's Renowned Parental Leave and Early Childhood Education System
Sweden continues to set a global benchmark for family-friendly policies, with its expansive parental leave and robust early childhood education framework. As outlined on sweden.se, operated by the Swedish Institute, parents in Sweden are entitled to 480 days of paid leave when a child is born or adopted. In two-parent households, this leave is split equally, with each parent eligible for 240 days of paid time off to care for their child. This policy emphasizes gender equality, encouraging both parents to actively participate in early childcare while maintaining financial security.
Social News
1 minute read
Denmark's Parental Leave and Childcare Policies
Denmark has a comprehensive set of family - friendly policies. According to the Nordic Cooperation website, for co - habiting parents, each is entitled to 24 weeks of paid parental leave after the birth of a child. If the mother takes leave before the due date, she can enjoy an additional 4 weeks of paid leave. Moreover, salaried employees can transfer up to 13 weeks of leave to their partners.
Social News
1 minute read