Life by Katerina PapathanasiouApr 3, 202010:37 am

Lugu Lake: China’s Progressive ‘Kingdom of Women’

Nestled deep in the hidden valleys of Yunnan, China, east of the Himalayas and abutting the blue waters of Lugu Lake, sits a community of inhabitants known as the Mosuo people. And like most members of this community, they collectively share several similarities—traits, ideals, morals, beliefs. What sets this group apart from the rest of their mainland counterparts is their surprisingly modern approach to Chinese tradition. In this mysterious and unspoiled region, known as the “Kingdom of Women,” men take a backseat.

Life by Katerina PapathanasiouApr 1, 202011:28 am

Merry Cemetery Offers a Whimsical Backdrop for Mourners

In the quaint Romanian town of Săpânţa, the local Merry Cemetery features a colorful tableau of more than 800 grave markers that manage to elicit emotions that are uncharacteristic of traditional burial grounds. Somber slate and graphite mounds are replaced with colorful wooden crosses—each depicting, in almost playful detail, the life and death of each of the town’s former residents.

Life by Katerina PapathanasiouMar 30, 202011:47 am

The Flu Ward at Walter Reed Hospital, Washington, D.C., during the 1918–19 epidemic

Ten Interesting Facts About the 1918 Flu Pandemic

The Spanish Flu wreaked havoc on an unsuspecting audience between the years of 1918 and 1919. While flu viruses are common, this particular strain proved deadly—and was an eerie foreshadowing of things to come.

Life by Katerina PapathanasiouMar 27, 202010:48 am

California Company Provides Elevated Picnic Experiences

If you’re still picnicking the old fashioned way (flannel blanket, a bag of chips, and a lukewarm bottle of chardonnay), you are seriously missing out. Gone are the days of ants spoiling your fun. And forget about cramming store-bought snacks into that dusty wicker basket. Because one California-based company is doing for picnicking what glamping did for spending a night out in the woods.

Travel by Katerina PapathanasiouMar 25, 20201:25 pm

Stay Inside and See the Sights – Google Earth Can Help

Set out on a digital hike throughout the National Park of your choosing and take in the scenery via crystal-clear resolution for a truly immersive outdoor adventure—or as near as one can get to it.

Culture by Katerina PapathanasiouMar 23, 202012:35 pm

Browse the World’s Greatest Museums From Your Living Room

If you are currently self-contained as a courtesy to at-risk audiences, or if you yourself are recovering from a bout of the COVID-19 virus, there is no better way to while away the hours in isolation than to become swept up in the magic of Monet, Manet, Modigliani—and everything in between. Google Arts & Culture has gathered an impressive collection of over 1200+ museums on its platform—and anyone with access to an internet connection can take a virtual tour from anywhere they like.

Travel by Katerina PapathanasiouMar 20, 20201:53 pm

'Waiting on a Train,' the second sculpture in 'The Traveling Man' series, in Deep Ellum, Dallas

6 Things Not to Miss in Dallas, Texas

Dallas is an absolute gem of a city—and one of the largest, most populated in all the country. As such, you will never be short of a good time as ample opportunities to experience the southern charm, history, and hospitality of Texas are abounding. Get ready to giddy up and discover everything you need to see if you’ve got a few days to spend in this charming, cultural metropolis.

Travel by Katerina PapathanasiouMar 18, 20201:25 pm

Couple enjoying the sunrise from Ngala Treehouse

Ngala Treehouse: Your Next African Getaway

Asking if you have ever wanted to take in the soaring, natural sights of the African bush—from the safety of a treetop oasis, with stunning and precipitous views—would be a futile question. Because, of course, you would. Fortunately, the Ngala Treehouse accommodation is offering just such an opportunity.

Life by Katerina PapathanasiouMar 16, 202012:38 pm

A Swindler’s Folly: The Underwater Ballroom of Whitaker Wright

Near the English village of Witley, a sprawling, 9,000-acre estate plays host to one of Britain’s most unique structures. Hidden beneath one of the property’s three artificial lakes, lies an ornate underwater smoking room and parlor with an elaborate “ballroom” dome as its focal point. The only indication that something may rest below the surface is an ornate statue of Neptune that stands guard above the hidden structure.

Culture by Katerina PapathanasiouMar 13, 202011:04 am

Door #10E: Grant Park Tree Door, part of Tiny Doors ATL project

Tiny Doors ATL: Unlocking Big Charm Behind Tiny Closed Doors

Atlanta, Georgia, is a city steeped in history. One of the country’s most formidable cultural destinations, this state capital is home to nearly half a million citizens, as well as countless points of interest – including theaters, museums, galleries, and trails. One local artist knows all too well about the abundance of historical hotspots and the likelihood of becoming overwhelmed by all that the city has to offer tourists and residents alike. But Karen Anderson Singer isn’t your average tour guide.