CULTURE, EVENTS & EXPERIENCES What Makes German Etiquette So Unique: Lessons from Our First Day Posted on December 18, 2015November 15, 2025 Every country has its quirks, peculiarities, social etiquette that contributes to its overall culture. Some are reasonable, some from an outsider’s perspective, can seem odd. But it’s adopting these habits into daily life, even if only temporarily, that make living abroad fun, rewarding and unpredictable. Some, like eating pizza with a fork, is just eating like a local. Read more
CULTURE, EVENTS & EXPERIENCES Daegu Opera House: The Best Cultural Night Out for Travelers Posted on October 11, 2015December 27, 2025 Opera in Daegu, you say? Heck yes. I put on my favorite little black dress and had a blast. Since 2004, the Daegu Opera House Foundation has offered a full schedule of local and well-known popular operas, concerts, musicals, and ballets like Aida and Figaro. We paid 30,000 Won each… Read more
CULTURE, EVENTS & EXPERIENCES Why Peking Duck at Quanjude Is the Best Way to End a Trip to China Posted on September 9, 2015May 3, 2026 This blog explores the iconic Peking Duck experience in Beijing, from the legendary Quanjude Roast Duck Restaurant to the art of preparing and eating the dish. It reveals why cooking it at home is nearly impossible and shares the rich cultural tradition behind every crispy bite of this beloved Chinese delicacy. Read more
CULTURE, EVENTS & EXPERIENCES How to Taste Wine for Beginners: Sip, Savor, or Spit? Posted on June 17, 2014December 26, 2025 Wine tasting notes may seem complicated. But it’s not– go for what you like. Ultimately, it will help you to select wines you’ll actually drink and enjoy at home. If not, you can always buy wines with a pretty label. Or just stick to bottles labeled red or white, sweet or dry. Read more
CULTURE, EVENTS & EXPERIENCES Wine by the Case: The Story of My European Wine Obsession Posted on April 25, 2014May 13, 2026 I noticed a bottle of Riesling from my stomping ground– Mosel Valley It cost $70. I couldn’t believe my eyes. This was something I drank for less than $10 when I lived in Germany. I dusted it off and put it back on the shelf where it belonged. I love wine, but I ain’t crazy. Read more