Social Custom

Contrasting Realities in the Republic of the Congo: Lives of Scarcity, Displays of Opulence
In the Republic of the Congo, a striking paradox unfolds as many residents lead lives marked by poverty, yet present themselves with an air of affluence through their clothing. Despite facing economic hardships and struggling to meet basic needs, a significant portion of the population places great emphasis on dressing in an extravagant manner.
Cultural News
1 minute read
Niger: Meat is Affordable, but Vegetables are a Luxury
In Niger, a rather unusual dietary situation has emerged where meat is more accessible than vegetables for many of its citizens. Niger, a landlocked country in West Africa, faces significant challenges in its agricultural production, which has led to this curious phenomenon.
Cultural News
1 minute read
South Africa: A Land Abundant in Diamonds
South Africa, located at the southernmost tip of the African continent, is renowned for its rich diamond resources. The discovery of diamonds in South Africa dates back to 1866 when a young shepherd named Erasmus Jacobs picked up a unique stone along the banks of the Orange River. Later identified as a 21.25 - carat diamond, it was named the “Eureka” diamond, marking the first diamond discovery in the country.
Cultural News
1 minute read
Moose Sightings on the Rise: Canadian Roads Teeming with Wildlife
In recent weeks, Canadians have been treated to a rather unusual sight - moose roaming freely on the country's roads. The sightings, which have been reported across several provinces, have led to a mix of excitement and concern among locals and authorities alike.
Cultural News
1 minute read
Groundhog in US Predicts Early Spring
On February 2nd, the United States witnessed the annual Groundhog Day tradition, with groundhogs across the country playing the role of "weather forecasters". The most famous of them all, Punxsutawney Phil in Pennsylvania, emerged from its burrow in the morning. As the sunlight hit, Phil saw its shadow, indicating that winter would persist for another six weeks according to the long - standing legend.
Cultural News
1 minute read
Mexicans' Unusual Dietary Habit: Eating Cacti Daily
In Mexico, cacti are not just desert plants dotting the arid landscapes; they are an integral part of the local diet. It might sound astonishing, but Mexicans consume cacti on a daily basis. This unique culinary practice has deep roots in the country's culture and environment.
Cultural News
1 minute read
Cuba: Any Car on the Street Can Be a Taxi
In Cuba, a unique and vibrant transportation scene unfolds where almost any vehicle on the street can double as a taxi. This unusual practice is deeply ingrained in the daily life of Cubans and is a result of the country's specific historical and economic context.
Cultural News
1 minute read
In Colombia, Ants are Consumed as Snacks
In Colombia, an unusual culinary practice has been catching the attention of people both locally and abroad. Some Colombians have a unique taste for ants, which they consume as snacks.
Cultural News
1 minute read
Peru's Mysterious Geoglyphs Abound
In the vast and arid Nazca desert of southern Peru, a remarkable phenomenon has intrigued the world for decades - an abundance of strange and mysterious geoglyphs. These geoglyphs, known as the Nazca Lines, were created between 500 BC and 500 AD. The local people made them by making depressions or shallow incisions in the desert floor, removing pebbles and exposing different - colored dirt.
Cultural News
1 minute read
Unusual Tradition: Hiding Money in Food in Bolivia
In Bolivia, there exists an interesting and rather unique cultural practice of hiding money in food. This custom is deeply rooted in the local traditions and beliefs, adding a special touch to various occasions.
Cultural News
1 minute read
Australia: Eating Their National Treasure
In Australia, an unusual dining practice has long been a part of the local scene - the consumption of kangaroo meat. Despite being the country's national symbol, kangaroos are hunted and turned into food here.
Cultural News
1 minute read
Vanuatu: Home to Some of the World's Most Active Volcanoes
Vanuatu, an archipelago in the South Pacific, is not only renowned for its stunning natural beauty and unspoiled landscapes but also for being the host of some of the world's most active volcanoes. This unique nation lies on the Pacific Ring of Fire, a zone where tectonic plates collide, resulting in frequent seismic and volcanic activities.
Cultural News
2 minute read
In Thailand, Wearing Underwear Outside Is a Must
In Thailand, a country known for its vibrant culture and beautiful landscapes, there's an unusual yet strictly enforced law that might catch travelers off guard: leaving your residence without wearing underwear is illegal. This regulation, which may seem quirky to outsiders, is taken seriously by the local authorities.
Cultural News
1 minute read
German Economic Research Institute Warns of Severe Labour Shortages Over Next Decade
A new analysis published by a German economic institute in the Rheinische Post forecasts far more acute labour shortages across Germany in the coming decade. The labour gap is set to hit roughly 4.3 million workers by 2036
Cultural News
2 minute read
Bavaria’s Fairy Tale Castles, Including Neuschwanstein, Named UNESCO World Heritage Sites
On July 12, the UNESCO World Heritage Committee officially inscribed four iconic palaces built by Bavaria’s King Ludwig II onto the prestigious World Heritage List. The ensemble includes Neuschwanstein Castle, Herrenchiemsee Palace, Linderhof Palace, and the Schachen Royal Lodge, celebrated for their visionary architecture and cultural significance. Maria Böhmer, President of Germany’s UNESCO Commission, hailed them as “architectural masterpieces that reflect both the artistic imagination of the Fairy-Tale King and his unconventional genius”
Cultural News
2 minute read