Thailand
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What is Ghost Month and the Hungry Ghost Festival?
Do you believe in ghosts? That’s always been the divisive question separating the non-believers from the sixth-sensers; the logical from the “open-minded”. In Taiwan, however, this question has a much more definitive answer. The sincere belief in ghosts and the spiritual world is so deeply rooted in Taiwanese culture that as many as 70-90% of Taiwanese citizens acknowledge at least acknowledge its cultural significance. Even those who might not consider themselves true “believers” still observe many customs and superstitions surrounding the idea. Though you may be picturing ghouls and goblins coming to haunt your dreams, it’s not quite as morbid as you might think. In fact, there’s an entire month…
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The Milk Tea Alliance: An Online War of Democracy
A few things are capable of bringing nations together. It may be a common heritage or sharing cultural similarities, yet history has shown that nothing brings two countries together more than a hatred of a common enemy. For Asian countries, this dreaded bogeyman has always been the same, China, and more importantly, the lack of democracy that they inspire. In the past year, countries across South-East Asia have joined hands as a sign of solidarity in the face of adversity from both home and abroad. This unique union is symbolically represented by a common love that these nations share, milk tea. Who knew a nice cup of Yorkshire could be…
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The Ultimate Travel Guide: Getting a Sak Yant in Thailand
Getting the obligatory tattoo has almost become a rite of passage for travellers in Thailand. Only a few countries are renowned for their skin-altering art form, and Thailand is the most famous of them all. The unique Buddhist form of tattooing known as Sak Yant has become a modern backpacker’s “I’ve been to Thailand” souvenir. Everyone wants to walk in the footsteps of Angelina Jolie and have their tattoos blessed by a Buddhist monk. So did I! Unlike a quick drunken trip to the tattoo parlours of Magaluf or Bali, Sak Yants have a much deeper meaning with their rich spiritual symbolism. It’s worth understanding a little more about the…
