BEIJING — Passersby in Beijing during winter or early spring might happen upon groups of residents playing fetch with birds. The players blow plastic beads into the air through carbon tubes for the birds — often from the migratory wutong species — to catch and return, in exchange for a treat. It’s a Beijing tradition … Read more
KATHMANDU, Nepal — As a child, Shanti Chaudhari was scolded by her parents for standing too close to a group of musicians playing the naumati baja, Nepal’s nine traditional instruments, because they were identified with the Damai, part of the lowest caste that was formerly known as “untouchables.” Chaudhari, now 41, eventually overcame her family’s … Read more
ISLAMABAD, Pakistan — The actions taken against former prime minister Imran Khan’s political party in recent months followed a familiar playbook for a disgraced political movement in Pakistan. Khan was jailed on charges that his supporters say were politically motivated, party offices were raided, and its election efforts were ignored by TV networks. But the … Read more
BETHLEHEM, West Bank — Bethlehem is gearing up for a subdued Christmas, without the festive lights and customary Christmas tree towering over Manger Square, after officials in Jesus’ traditional birthplace decided to forgo celebrations due to the Israel-Hamas war. The cancellation of Christmas festivities, which typically draw thousands of visitors, is a severe blow to … Read more
A Norland trainee nanny in formal uniform. Graduates are not expected to wear their uniform once they start working for a family, unless requested for a special occasion. Norland College A small college in the historic city of Bath, U.K., is the place Britain’s royal family calls when they need child care. Norland, which was … Read more
These days, it can feel impossible to put a unique spin on the Western. Everyone is familiar with the classic tropes, and with the revisionist subgenre becoming its default mode of storytelling, you’d be forgiven for thinking that even subversive Westerns have run their course. When combined with the genre’s diminished profile, it makes for … Read more
Paris Fury challenges traditional perceptions of traveller women’s education Paris Fury has challenged the prevailing stereotypes associated with the traveller community, In her candid interview with The Sun. The spouse of the undefeated heavyweight champion, Tyson Fury, shared insights into the unconventional life skills passed down through generations to women in her community. At the … Read more