
Travel Stories
How to Greet in Asia – A Guide to Respect and Cultural Nuance
Greeting customs in Asia are deeply tied to respect, culture, and spirituality. From the Thai wai and the Indian namaste to Japan’s bows and even Tibet’s tongue greeting, each gesture carries meaning beyond a simple hello. Knowing how to greet properly will help you connect with locals, show respect, and enrich your travel experience.
Best Places in Asia for Yoga and Meditation Retreats
Looking for a place to recharge, breathe deeply, and reconnect with yourself? Asia has long been the destination for seekers of peace, balance, and inner growth. From Himalayan meditation centers to tropical yoga retreats by the sea, the continent offers unique spots where body and mind can find rest.
Why Thai House Blessings Matter—and How They Work
Building a home in Thailand is not only about design and construction—it is also about tradition. For generations, Thai families have followed spiritual rituals to ensure their houses are filled with good fortune and protected from misfortune. One of the most significant is the Main and Secondary Pillar Ceremony, known as Piti Sao Ehk Sao Toe.
What is Bhutan’s Gross National Happiness?
If you’ve traveled enough, you’ve probably seen your fair share of national slogans. “Incredible India.” “Malaysia, Truly Asia.” “Amazing Thailand.” Bhutan, tucked between India and China in the Himalayas, takes a very different approach. Instead of chasing tourist numbers or GDP growth, the tiny kingdom decided to measure success by something far less conventional: happiness.
Trying Mad Honey in Nepal: “Little bit, you feel happy. Too much, you sleep on floor.”
I was in a dusty little shop in Thamel, Kathmandu, looking for snacks and toothpaste, when something strange caught my eye: “Mad Honey – Product of Nepal.” It looked like any regular jar of honey, but the label had a small warning symbol and one curious line: “Consume with care.”