gift giving, history, holiday, love, valentine’s day

How Valentine’s Day Gifts Have Changed Over the Centuries

For Valentine’s Day, some couples only roll their eyes at each other in mutual cynicism. The capitalization of love in the modern world can undoubtedly seem banal. But Valentine’s Day gifts are hardly a contemporary invention. People have been celebrating the day and gifting love tokens for centuries. We should first turn to Geoffrey Chaucer, ...

Troy Oakes

Valentine's Day gifts.

Miyazaki’s Golden Globe Triumph: Celebrating Japanese Animation

In a moment of great importance for Japanese animation, the esteemed filmmaker Hayao Miyazaki has once again left an indelible mark on the global stage. He secured a Golden Globe for his latest masterpiece, The Boy and the Heron. This recognition commends Miyazaki’s exceptional storytelling and underscores the profound impact of Japanese animation, or anime, ...

Viena Abdon

From 'The Boy and the heron.'

Real-Life Origins: Disney’s Diverse Castle Inspirations Explored

Not only are Disney castles beautiful, but they often are essential to the story. But have you ever thought about the artists and even Walt Disney got their ideas? The castles in your favorite Disney movies are based on real castles, palaces, and even a well-known hotel. You can still visit the buildings and structures, ...

Viena Abdon

Neuschwanstein Castle.

Switzerland’s Safety Unveiled: A Journey Through Security and Serenity

Switzerland, often called the heart of Europe, is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, pristine lakes, and the majestic Swiss Alps. Yet, one feature of this nation distinctly shines – its unparalleled safety.  In this article, discover the blend of modern and historic attributes that have fortified the country’s reputation as a bastion of safety for ...

Viena Abdon

Beautiful panoramic view of rooftops in the old town of Zug, Switzerland, with the town hall tower, Lake Zug, and the Pilatus mountain in the background.

The Accuracy of Fortune-Telling: How Fate Can Be Altered by Good Deeds

Is fortune-telling accurate? This question has sparked different opinions for ages. Why do some fortune-tellers get their predictions right, while others miss the mark? What are the factors that determine the accuracy of fortune-telling? The following tale might just enlighten you. Xue Er’s fortune During the Qing Dynasty, there was a famous face reader in ...

Mikel Davis

A tree covered with spring blossoms next to West Lake in Hangzhou, China.

Uncanny Prognostications: Hong Kong’s Future Interpreted Through Horse Portents

In an unprecedented string of events, three racehorses died within six days in Hong Kong, sparking an uncanny wave of speculation. The horses, named “Light of Civilization,” “Everyone’s Joy,” and “Master Grade” have sparked discussions about their demise. Among these three, two dropped dead unexpectedly, while the other died from a broken leg. Could these ...

Mikel Davis

Jockeys and horses compete in the race at Sha Tin Racecourse in Hong Kong.

Berlin’s Gas Lamps to Be Replaced by LEDs

Berlin, a city known for its unique atmosphere for almost two centuries, is on the verge of a transformation. The city’s streets, romantically lit by the soft, flickering flames of gas lamps, are set to adopt a new glow — that of electric LEDs. A decision driven by cost and environmental concerns, this switch has ...

Nathan Machoka

Streetlamp in Berlin at Gendarmenmarkt square with Berlin Concert Hall in the background at twilight.

History: Why It’s Important

“History repeats itself” is a famous line that often shows itself to be true. There have been certain historical events that have yet to happen again in the present. If you’re wondering if it is still relevant today, this article was made to convince you why it’s still essential. Why do people study history? History ...

Mike West

History.

Chinese Copper Coins and the Ancient Way of Doing Business

Chinese copper coins have a long history. They contain the wisdom of the Chinese people and symbolize the way of doing business based on honesty and integrity. The meaning of copper coins Before the reign of Qin Shi Huang (259-210 B.C.), Chinese copper coins had many shapes due to the many warring states. After Qin ...

Mikel Davis

Three old Chinese coins with red cord tied through the square holes in the middle sit in front of a book on a wooden surface.