North-East India’s Women-Only Market

Manipur’s Mothers’ Market is a world of resilience and resistance, where tradition, activism, and community converge in unexpected ways.

I decide on the Ima frying whiteish dough balls over a stand-alone stove and gas canister. ‘Aloo,’ she smiles and gestures to the wooden bench next to a young man slurping a leafy soup. Seconds later, this plump woman serves me a lunch of grilled fish, unidentifiable green veg, those fried potato balls, banana leaf, rice, and then, despite my protests, several second helpings.

The Imas are lined up behind their gas stoves, enticing the locals with their jokes and salty fish dishes. Sitting opposite, in front of stacked ceramic pots, are two more, warming their hands over the burning embers of a square metal pot. My host, Suporna Devi, is one of over 4000 women who congregate daily, in Ima Keithel, Manipur’s main market, selling everything from temple paraphernalia to locally-caught eels.

But, unlike the rest of India, here men are forbidden from trading. Passed down the generations, a stall at Ima Keithel, meaning ‘Mothers’ Market’, is highly coveted and provides the local Imas with an important source of income. Spilling out of the market buildings, encroaching on the roads, under the concrete flyovers, women are everywhere, selling produce. Some are eating, some reading, some sleeping. Many are chatting.

Believed to date back to the 16th century, the origins of Ima Keithel are unclear. Sandwiched between Myanmar and the Indian state of Assam, Manipur has long been forced to fight the Burmese and Chinese to retain its autonomy. A forced labour system, called Lallup Kaba, sent the men far from home to fight these wars, leaving the women at home to cultivate the land and sell the produce, possibly fostering this peculiar phenomenon.

For thousands of years Manipur remained an independent kingdom and a crossroads of trade and cultural exchange until it was conquered by the British in 1891. The golden, oval valley fringed by misty blue hills was famously called ‘the Jewel of India’ by India’s first prime minister. It is home to a diverse mix of tribes, who ethnically share more with groups in Burma than with the rest of India. Several hard day’s travel from Delhi, Manipur feels like a faraway land compared to India I’ve come to know; somewhat familiar, but yet not. A unique language and alphabet add to my disorientation.

The two large market buildings sit in the commercial heart of Imphal, a dusty, grey city, home to as many motorbikes as people. Mornings see the city enveloped in a heavy, December mist, which she usually manages to shed by lunchtime. Most ladies are sitting under bright shawls: many baring two pale vertical lines on their foreheads, meeting on the nose: the mark of local Hindus. I feel the weight of eyes as I circle the floor. But smiles are soon reciprocated with smiles, and many proudly remove their glasses to strike a poise for my camera. Before long, I fall foul of the sly sales pitch of an unassuming mother and daughter. Several tea-towels later, I note to myself this is still India.

When I reach Suporna Devi’s stall, I am thankful for the rest, and we are soon conversing, in a broken fashion, through Hindi, her third language. She has worked here for over 20 years, she tells me, inheriting the pitch from her aunt. Pointing to a poster, emblazoned with hammer and sickle, she exclaims, “this is not just a marketplace, but also a place of protest!”

The revolutionary slogans spray-painted to the outer walls point to a more complex story, and I have started to research Manipur’s matriarchal society. Since at least the early 20th century, the Manipuri women have been wielding a strong influence over political and social matters of the state, with Ima Keithal at the centre of the movement. The market developed as a place not only of trade, but as a centre for gathering, a source of the latest news, a place to discuss ideas. The mothers of Ima Keithel started credit unions, lending to women who wanted to started businesses, and mentored them in the process.

As she ladles yet more rice onto my plate, Suporna suggests I visit the Nupi Lal (Women’s War) monument in another part of central Imphal. This is a memorial to Imas who fought the British rulers in the 1930s over attempts to export local rice to British battalions in other territories. Locally rice became scarce, the price spiralled and the Manipuris began to suffer. The Imas protested, peacefully, but were met with attempts to sell the market buildings. They refused to relent and eventually military and police forces were unleashed against the unarmed females. Although the export policy was eventually repealed, many women lost their lives in the struggle.

During the Second World War, Manipur became a battleground for the war between the British and Japanese: this part of India is scarred with war graves. With the independence of India, a ravaged Manipur was absorbed into the new country, unleashing a seemingly indefinite cycle of violence and insurgency as anti-Indian and ethnic groups fought over differing visions for the state’s future. From 1980 until today, most of the state has been classified as a ‘disturbed region’ by the Indian government, a ruling designed to give the Indian Army additional powers to help them maintain public order. In practice, it has granted them immunity from prosecution for a range of heinous crimes.

Despite the departure of the British, for the Imas of Manipur, the oppression continues and their imaginative responses evolve. From torching liquor stores and fining drunk men, to protesting, naked, outside an Indian army base against a case of rape and murder by the armed forces, their actions are undoubtedly radical in a country where the majority of women have little say in domestic or societal affairs. Today, they are continuing to hold out against the talons of globalisation: recent attempts by the local government to replace the market with a modern supermarket were derailed by round-the-clock sit-ins by the Imas. Again they succeeded.

After a few days of loitering around Imphal, chatting and drinking chai, I decide it is time to leave the Imas. Several check where I am going, who with, and most importantly, have I eaten yet? I gesture to the fish section at the back of the market and they nod approvingly. After my last meal, I ask Suporna if she enjoys her work in the market. She smiles and says, “This is not just my work. This is my life.” I tell her I am leaving. “Vapis ana,” (come again) she says, and goes on frying her potato balls. I heave on my backpack and head for the bus.

How to get there: I took the bus from Guwahati, Assam. It was an uncomfortable, although beautiful journey that crossed through the hills of Nagaland on the way. There are also direct flights from Delhi, Calcutta and Guwahati. Imphal makes a convenient stop if travelling overland from North-East India into Myanmar through the recently opened Moreh-Tamu border crossing.

Where to stay: The Hotel Nirmala has decent rooms starting at 850 INR. Aheibam Homestay is a good budget option.

Where to eat: The stalls of Ima Keithel, of course. And the Luxmi Kitchen does a mean thali.

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Eileen McDougall

After a decade working in London, Eileen swapped flashy buildings for a notepad and camera and set off for Asia. She fell in love with India, and it was here she started to write about her travels and the culture she was becoming immersed in. She is at her happiest on a bus alone heading off to somewhere new but seems to spend most of her time near mountains, mainly the Himalayas.

Train Ride the Sahara: Mauritania’s Hidden Adventure

One of the world’s least-visited countries, Mauritania is home to a travel experience like none other, inviting daring travelers to embark on an unpredictable journey through the desert.

The desert nation of Mauritania attracts only around 30,000 visitors a year, making it one of the least visited countries in Africa and around the world. The country is not seen as a highly desirable travel destination due to the fact that it is only about 0.5% arable land and one of the least densely populated nations in the world. Mauritania is also one of the poorest countries worldwide, unable to provide the infrastructure required to accommodate more traditional forms of tourism.

However, Mauritania boasts a unique attraction that is rising in popularity among thrill-seeking travelers — a famous iron ore train. Its contents — the iron ore — account for half the country’s exports and are critical to its GDP. The train is known as “the Backbone of the Sahara,” due to its national and day-to-day significance in the lives of locals who rely on the train for personal transportation and its goods. The train is one of the longest in the world; the length of the car itself spans around 1.5 miles and the track stretches over 400 miles across the Sahara. Beginning in the mining town of Zouerat, the train stops again in Choum, where most travelers board. Then, across the next 17 hours, laden with iron ore, the train makes its way to the port city of Nouadhibou, where it empties and sets back to Zouerat. 

The train runs daily, but not on any sort of fixed schedule, requiring no bookings or tickets. It’s hardly a passenger vehicle, as only one of the three daily trains has a paid passenger car attached. Many climb aboard one of the cargo wagons and ride alongside the ore for free. 

The journey has been popularized in recent years by travel blogs and social media. The author of One Step 4Ward, Irish travel blogger Johnny Ward, has even begun to manage trips to Mauritania, leading groups on the train. Ward claims that he has completed the journey seven times, more than any foreigner on the planet. On his blog, he describes the expedition as difficult and cold but also as “one of the best travel experiences of your life.”

Another blogger, the author of Plug Me In Project, described the conditions of riding the train. They emphasize the importance of bringing goggles, gloves, a sleeping bag, a blanket and a face covering — necessary protections against the iron ore dust and frigid nightly temperatures. He wrote about the friendliness of the locals who showed him around the capital city upon arrival and guided him to the station. 

The blog Sophie’s World highlights the thrilling yet unpredictable nature of visiting Mauritania as a tourist.  She notes that it’s important not to make the journey alone, particularly as a female traveler. She also emphasizes the level of respect required for the locals in order to have an enjoyable experience. 

Mauritania is home to one of the most unique travel experiences that the world has to offer, for those who dare to embark on the journey of a lifetime.

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Zoe Lodge is a student at the University of California, Berkeley, where she is studying English and Politics, Philosophy, & Law. She combines her passion for writing with her love for travel, interest in combatting climate change, and concern for social justice issues.

6 Treasures of Tunisia, From 'Star Wars' to Desert Oases

Tunisia is a country in North Africa, a region known as the Maghreb, that is similar in culture, history and religion to Morocco and its neighbor, Algeria. Tunisia is one of the most visited countries in Africa – it is a popular vacation destination for Libyans, Algerians, the French, Germans and the British. The country’s official language is Arabic, but the local Tunisian Arabic dialect,darija,, and French are also commonly used. The majority of Tunisians are Muslim, though a small Jewish community lives on Djerba, North Africa’s largest island.

The tiny country offers a variety of landscapes – beaches, mountains, the desert, woods and salt pans – that are sure to appeal to all types of travelers. The museums and ancient Roman ruins are sure to appeal to history buffs, and die-hard “Star Wars” fans will be interested to know that many scenes on the planet Tatooine were filmed in Tunisia. Be ready to enjoy dishes flavored with harissa, a spicy red pepper paste that has recently become popular in the U.S., along with plenty of seafood and Maghrebi staples such as couscous and syrupy doughnut-like bambalouni and zlebia.

Minerals from Atlas Mountain runoff give Chott el Djerid its pink hue. Vinzenz Mühlstein. Public Domain. CC0

1. Chott el Djerid

The fictional planet Tatooine from the “Star Wars” saga was named after Tataouine, a desert city in Tunisia. Although no scenes were filmed in the real Tataouine, many of the first “Star Wars” film’s scenes were filmed in cities all over Tunisia. One of the most notable scenes of Tatooine is of Luke Skywalker’s home, the exterior of which was filmed in Chott el Djerid, the Sahara’s largest salt pan. A chott, or salt lake, stays dry for the majority of the year but fills intermittently from infrequent rainfall and during the spring thaw when water runoff from the Atlas Mountains floods the basin. The dissolved minerals from the Atlas Mountains give Chott el Djerid its otherworldly cotton candy pink color.

Remains of the Lars Homestead on one of the “Star Wars” movie sets in Chott el Djerid. Stefan Krasowski. CC BY 2.0.

Ancient Berber underground homes in Matmata, Tunisia. Tanya Dedyukhina. CC BY 3.0.

2. Matmata

When “Star Wars: A New Hope” was released in 1977, Matmata, a small Berber village in southern Tunisia, became famous for its underground cavelike homes where some of the local residents still live.  (The Berber, or Amazigh, are an ethnic group native to Northwest Africa, particularly the Maghreb.) The interior of Luke Skywalker’s home was filmed in the courtyard of Hotel Sidi Idriss, an underground hotel in Matmata. The hotel is open year-round, and is a must-visit for any die-hard “Star Wars” fan. For those who are not “Star Wars” fans but still want to visit the cave dwellings, the Musée Berbère de Tamezret (about six miles from Matmata) is a great alternative option.

The dome of the Great Mosque of Kairouan houses the mihrab, or structure that points out the direction in which Muslims pray. Colin Hepburn. CC BY-SA 2.0.

3. Kairouan

Kairouan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is considered by some to be the fourth holiest site in Islam, after Mecca, Medina and Jerusalem. The city, founded by the Umayyads in 670, is the most ancient Arab-Muslim center in the Maghreb. Kairouan began as a military camp, but soon became an important center for Islamic scholarship, religious sciences, and art. The city contains many mosques, but the most important is the Great Mosque of Kairouan, also known as the Great Mosque of Uqba. The mosque contains a courtyard and a prayer hall, as well as a 105-foot  minaret that bears resemblance to a Syrian bell tower or an ancient Roman lighthouse.

Another site that cannot be missed when visiting Kairouan are the Aghlabid Basins, a sophisticated feat of engineering and the largest hydraulic installation of the Middle Ages. Originally, there were 16 pools that provided water for Kairouan, but today only two reservoirs remain. Nearby, Kairouan’s souk has countless vendors who sell everything from snacks and jewelry to carpets and leather goods.

The Chebika oasis lies at the bottom of the Djebel el Negueb Mountains. Remi Jouan. CC BY-SA 3.0.

4. Chebika

Built on what was once a Roman military post, Chebika is a small village that sits right above a palm oasis at the foot of the Djebel el Negueb, which are part of the Atlas Mountains. At the top of the mountain, one can see the oasis, the village, and Chott el Gharsa, a salt lake that lies near the Algerian border (and served as a movie set for “Star Wars: The Phantom Menace” and “The English Patient”). Visitors can hike up the canyon to a small waterfall where they will be greeted by a beautiful view of bright green palm trees standing starkly against the mountainside.

Hôtel Bou Fares and storefront in Sidi Bou Said. Allain Muller. CC BY-SA 2.0.

5. Sidi Bou Said

Sidi Bou Said is known for its blue and white theme, common to other Mediterranean-region cities and towns. The beautiful cerulean doors, shutters, gates and decorative balconies against the whitewashed buildings mirror the bright sky and the Mediterranean Sea which lies below the cliffside town. Sidi Bou Said was established as a religious sanctuary in the 13th century by Abu Said al-Baji, after whom the town was named. The palace Ennejma Ezzahra, finished in 1921 by French painter and musicologist  Rodolphe d’Erlanger, is now a museum one can visit to see the beautiful architecture, view paintings by the baron, and see a treasure chest that was reportedly once owned by Suleiman I of the Ottoman Empire. Within the palace is the Centre des Musiques Arabes et Méditerranéennes (Center for Arab and Mediterranean Music), which houses a collection of musical instruments and art, and acts as a concert venue.

Traditional blue door in Sidi Bou Said surrounded by purple bougainvillea. Benrais. CC BY-SA 3.0.

Korbous was frequented by the ancient Romans of Carthage as a health resort. Patrick Giraud. CC BY 3.0.

6. Korbous

If you enjoy spas and natural hot springs, head for Korbous – a single street clinging to a cliff face on the west coast of Cap Bon. The mineral-rich hot springs of Korbous have been a popular spa and health resort since the time of the ancient Romans of Carthage, as evidenced by an inscription on display in the National Bardo Museum in Tunis. Korbous was not a popular spa destination until the 19th century, when Ahmed Bey, the last Ottoman leader of Constantine, had the hammam, or Turkish bath, built. In addition to the hot springs, mud from Aïn Kanassira, rich with minerals, is used to treat arthritis, various skin diseases and other health issues.

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Asiya Haouchine

Asiya is an Algerian-American writer who graduated from the University of Connecticut in May 2016, earning a BA in journalism and English. She was an editorial intern and contributing writer for Warscapes magazine and the online/blog editor for Long River Review. She is currently studying for her Master’s in Library and Information Science. @AsiyaHaou

7 Holiday Foods From Around the World — With Recipes

Spice up this holiday season by preparing one of these mouthwatering global cuisine dishes, recipes included!

Dongzhi (Winter Solstice) Festival Food, Tangyuan. Cats Coming. CC0.

Let’s face it: the holiday season can be stressful. Whether you’re preoccupied with finding the perfect gift for your mother-in-law or figuring out who is hosting your annual family holiday party, sometimes the warmth of this season of festivity gets lost. What won’t be stressful this year, however, is finding a new, unique recipe to try out. These seven holiday foods from around the world will keep everyone’s taste buds happy — even your in-laws! Whether your family prefers the coziness of a sweet treat or a savory dish that packs a punch, there is something on this list for everyone.

1. France — Buche de Noel

A Buche de Noel Cake with an intricate spiral. Mitantig. CC by 4.0.

Starting off strong with a chocolate lover’s dream, buche de Noel is a sugary confection that hails from France. Also known as a Yule Log, this confection is a rolled chocolate cake filled with rich cream. Both its shape and color are meant to resemble a—you guessed it—log. The dessert’s unconventional shape, however, is completely intentional. The history of the desert can be traced back to feudal taxes in medieval France, whereby peasants would bring logs to the homes of both feudal lords and their own families. Other accounts of the dessert’s history claim that families burned logs in their own home as a pagan rite to ensure a bountiful harvest for the coming year. In any case, Mon Petit Four provides a traditional recipe here.

2. Italy — Feast of the Seven Fishes

A seafood market in Genoa, Italy. Dade Rot. CC0.

A polar opposite of the sugary-sweet Buche de Noel Cake, Italy’s Feast of the Seven Fishes combines salty and savory flavors to create an elaborate selection of seafood dishes. On Christmas Eve, Italians and Italian-Americans gather around their kitchens and partake in this intergenerational tradition. Although the types of seafood dishes vary from family to family, the bonding and warmth that cooking this meal facilitates is universal. Whether plating more simple shellfish or an elaborate seafood pasta, however, the dishes hold a sense of significance. Both Italy’s long coastlines and large Roman Catholic population (many of whom either do not eat meat on Friday or on the eve of some holidays) have contributed to the beginnings of this tradition. A variety of seafood recipes featured in this iconic feast can be found here. 

3. India — Gulab Jamun

Gulab Jamun. Cabeza2000. CC by 4.0.

Although this dessert is eaten on a variety of celebratory occasions—including birthdays and marriages—it is also eaten during Hindu holidays such as Diwali. Although this year's Diwali has already passed, gulab jamun is still the perfect treat to make during the winter months. These sphere shaped sweets are made of deep fried flour and khoya (dried, thickened milk), and can be eaten both cold or hot. Often they are served swimming in a sugar mixture and have a semi-sticky consistency. This dessert is popular in India as well as Pakistan, Nepal and the Maldives. Moreover, the gulab jamun is similar to the Arabic dessert Luqmat-al-Qadi. A simple, yet thorough, recipe to make gulab jamun can be found here.

4. West Africa (Senegal) — Jollof Rice

Jollof Rice Served with Plantains. Bukky658. CC by 4.0.

Jollof Rice Served with Plantains. Bukky658. CC by 4.0.

Another versatile dish, jollof rice is eaten during a variety of occasions in many different countries. Although its origin is disputed, the dish is believed to have come from the Wolof people of Senegal in West Africa—the word jollof comes from the Wolof language and can be translated as “one pot.” Indeed, in this meal many vegetables, including bell peppers and tomatoes, are combined with rice and cooking oil in a pot. Jollof's orange tint comes from these vegetables as well as fragrant spices such as turmeric and paprika. During the holiday season, jollof rice is commonly served among families who celebrate Christmas or Kwanzaa. Moreover, the dish is common in many African countries, including (but not limited to) Nigeria and The Gambia. More detailed information about spices and vegetables to include can be found in this recipe here.

5. Mexico — Tamales

Tamales wrapped in corn husks. Richard Elzey. CC by 2.0.

Cooking tamales isn’t simply about creating food; it also involves forging a sense of togetherness. Many Mexican and Mexican-American families come together every December to make this corn-based dish. Tamales can be traced back to Indigenous people in Mesoamerica, who offered bundles of corn as sacrifices to the gods. Today, families make tamales throughout the month of December leading up to Christmas. Tamales can be stuffed with a variety of meats, such as chicken or beef, as well as vegetarian-friendly beans and cheese. Traditionally, tamales are wrapped and cooked in corn husks or banana leaves, but these wrappings are not eaten. An authentic pork tamale recipe can be found here.

6. Australia — Grilled Prawns

Prawns with a lime garnish. Rasheed Rasheed. CC by 4.0.

In some places around the world, the holiday months trade in snowflakes for seasides and warm temperatures. Down under in Australia, seafood fills festive dinner menus because many winter holidays for those living in the Northern Hemisphere fall during the Southern Hemisphere's summer months. To stay cool, Australians will grill prawns outside rather than using their ovens to cook a traditional, elaborate holiday meal. In fact, during the month of December Australians consume 40% of their yearly prawn intake. Most families like to keep it simple and dress their prawns in garlic, lemon juice or olive oil to keep their feast refreshing and light during sweltering heat. A delicious, garlicky prawn recipe can be found here.

7. China — Tangyuan (Glutinous Rice Balls)

Tangyuan served  in syrup. Wu Xiao. CC0.

The Dongzhi, or Chinese Winter Solstice Festival, would not be complete with Tangyuan. These glutinous rice balls are often filled with sesame paste, and have a nutty and semi-sweet flavor. This food has been eaten for at least over 1,000 years, although its origin is disputed; one possible account is that Tangyuan was either created or popularized during the Song dynasty. And, to keep warm during the solstice, the rice balls are always served warm. Their texture is similar to and yet less dense than mochi. A simple, quick recipe can be found here.

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Carina Cole

Carina is a Media Studies student with a Correlate in Creative Writing at Vassar College. She is an avid journalist and occasional flash fiction writer. Her passion for writing overlaps with environmentalism, feminism, social justice, and a desire to travel beyond the United States. When she’s not writing, you can find her meticulously curating playlists or picking up a paintbrush. 

CATALYST PLANET’s Best Books of 2024

2024 was a fantastic year for both fiction and nonfiction, with thousands of new and diverse narratives exploding onto the scene from all sides. We’ve collected our top picks below, featuring stories from all across the globe that highlight the struggles and victories of the many cultures that make up our world.

Fiction

1. Wandering Stars

Revisiting one of the most tragic periods in American history, Tommy Orange’s “Wandering Stars” pulls from both past and future to staunchly indict the United States’ genocide against the Native American people. The novel follows both a young survivor of the Sand Creek Massacre forced to conform to white culture at the expense of his heritage and a family struggling to recover from a school shooting that nearly claimed their youngest son’s life in 2018. This brilliant sequel to Orange’s  “There There” expands on the previous novel’s grim reminder of the oppression that Native Americans have faced throughout history, showing how much has — and hasn’t — changed in the centuries since.

2. Martyr

Kaveh Akbar’s “Martyr!” provides readers with an enlightening reflection on the endless search for meaning. Protagonist Cyrus Shams, a displaced Iranian immigrant with an alcohol addiction and a talent for poetry, uncovers his family’s history through his obsession with historical martyrs. This search leads Cyrus to an ailing artist at the end of her life and a painting that seems to raise more questions than answers. Akbar’s humorous and profound debut novel is exactly the kind of explosive new voice the genre has been waiting for.

3. Forest of Noise

Palestinian poet Mosab Abu Toha provides readers with a shocking and brutally honest window into the ongoing siege on Gaza. After the obliteration of his home forced the author to flee with his family, Abu Toha continued to write, crafting poetry confronting the chaos of war. Memories of childhood joy and air raid survival instructions mingle in these incredibly charged poems, revealing the world inside of a battered, war-torn nation.

Forest of Noise: Poems a book by Mosab Abu Toha

4. Ghostroots: Stories

Collecting twelve short stories by Nigerian author ‘Pemi Aguda, “Ghostroots” is a terrifying and gripping horror anthology. In a supernatural Lagos, Nigeria, the living are in a constant battle to escape the vengeful history of the dead. The stories center on mundane everyday events, transforming them into menacing yet gripping narratives that open one’s eyes to Nigerian mythos, history, and culture from a wholly unexpected and refreshingly original angle.

  

5. Aednan: An Epic

After winning the most prestigious literary award in her home country of Sweden, Linnea Axelsson bursts onto the American scene with an epic novel that spans a century. The novel follows a multigenerational history of Sámi culture, traversing across 100 years. The title, “Aednan” ( Northern Sámi for “the land”, “the earth”, and “mother”), brilliantly encapsulates the flexibility and durability of language, and how the Sámi culture has survived in a world eager to brush it aside.

      

6. Playground

An eye-opening visualization of humanity’s destructive expansion, Richard Powers’ “Playground” is the story of four separate lives coming together at the precipice of change. As humanity aims to launch completely self-sustaining cities in the open ocean, only the small island of Makatea in French Polynesia can decide whether the project will move forward. Four individuals will be at the forefront of one of the most promising — and possibly destructive — innovations in the history of human colonization. Brilliantly interweaving environmental fears and the endless advance of technology, the Pulitzer Prize-winning author presents an exploration of humanity’s shared nature that no reader should ignore.

7. Someone Like Us

Protagonist Mamush, a former journalist seeking a new life in Paris, finds himself in a failing marriage. Returning to his home in Washington, DC, Mamush reenters the Ethiopian immigrant community of his childhood, discovering his mother and father at the helm. But just after his arrival, Mamush’s good-natured, charming father is found dead. This begins Mamush’s quest to confront the life and memory not only of his late father but of himself. Dinaw Mengestu’s “Someone Like Us” is a vibrantly commanding glimpse into the lives of Ethiopian Americans and how the nation in which they live has treated them.

9. Rakesfall

Sri Lankan author Vaira Chandrasekera crafts a brilliant science-fiction epic that spans infinite lifetimes, where two endlessly repeating souls seek to right the wrongs enacted on their worlds since the beginning of time. Annelid and Leveret met in the wake of a massive war; their souls are bound together and thrust through centuries, continuously reincarnating as they seek to overcome the tyrants that have taken control of reality behind the curtains. A dark and gritty narrative, “Rakesfall” is a shockingly groundbreaking work that has taken its place as one of the contemporary sci-fi greats.

 10. Praiseworthy

An epic story set in northern Australia, Alexis Wright’s “Praiseworthy” is a scathing criticism of the oppression and pain inflicted on Aboriginal peoples. In a village beset by the climate crisis, the members of a fractured family each seek to find solace at the expense of their own people. A father seeks to solve the Aboriginals’ dependency on donkeys. His wife scours the Internet in search of a way to emigrate her half-Chinese family to their other homeland. One son is fixated on ending his own life, while the other goads him on to pursue his own goal of becoming white. Wright’s novel is an impassioned cry of outrage against a world that has forgotten its people and a grim prediction for the end of all.

11. The Silence of the Choir

This expansive and emotional story from award-winning author Mohamed Mbougar Sarr follows the lives of 72 immigrants deposited in the middle of Sicily. Their arrival throws the small town into chaos, as the men are faced with an unfamiliar culture that is struggling to adapt to in turn. With absolutely no control over their new home, the men are forced to simply stand by while the community is thrown into turmoil. Sarr sweeps up a chaotic cacophony of voices and characters that must each reflect on their cultural conflicts and the underlying humanity that connects them all.

12. You Dreamed of Empires

Reinterpreting Aztec history, “You Dreamed of Empires” by Mexican author Alvaro Enrigue reimagines the fate of Tenochtitlan as a colonial revenge story. The invading Hernan Cortés and his army are welcomed into the Aztec capital by the emperor Moctezuma II, who is hopelessly addicted to hallucinogens and awaiting guidance from silent gods. As the time of conquest nears, Enrigue discards history in favor of a fiery, fantastical counter-attack that brilliantly portrays the anti-colonial resilience of the Aztec population.

13. Smoke Kings

Jahmal Mayfield’s “Smoke Kings” invites readers to imagine the consequences of reparations in a world without justice. After Nate Evers witnesses the murder of his cousin, his devasting grief transforms into a desire for vengeance. Evers and three friends embark on a journey of revenge, kidnapping the descendants of those who once committed hate crimes and forcing them to pay reparations. But when the four friends accidentally kidnap the wrong man, they are beset by a white supremacist organization, a corrupt lawyer, and the reality of a nation that still refuses to acknowledge its own mistakes. Mayfield’s work provides a glimpse into the injustice that perpetually faces Black Americans, while also inviting us to imagine what would happen if justice was taken into the hands of a few.

14. Godwin

A novel about a soccer agent seeking out the next Lionel Messi might be the last place one would expect to be confronted with colonialism and the history of transatlantic trade, but Joseph O’Neill’s “Godwin” masterfully combines modern-day sporting with hundreds of years of injustice. Mark Wolfe, a technical writer living in Pittsburgh, is dragged on a cross-continent adventure with his soccer agent half-brother Geoff in search of a well-hidden prospect by the name of Godwin. O’Neill simultaneously examines the history of colonialism, migration, and the ties of family in this masterpiece of global proportions.

15. Behind You is the Sea

Susan Muaddi Darraj’s debut novel presents the world of Palestinian immigrants through the lens of three families in Baltimore. The wealthy Ammar family employs the Baladis to clean up after their teens, as Marcus Salameh struggles to confront his father in his sister’s defense. Brilliantly encapsulating the struggle and conflict between these generations, Darraj confronts stereotypes and prejudices against Palestinian culture. Pulling together a tapestry of family narratives, Darraj reflects an overall sense of unity despite division. Funny, touching, and inspiring, “Behind You is the Sea” is one of the best debut novels of 2024.

Non-Fiction

1. Patriot: A Memoir

A stoic, outspoken, and shockingly resilient critic of Vladimir Putin, Alexei Navalny penned a gritty and enlightening memoir. Following his youth and early marriage to the many attempts on his life by a global superpower intent on silencing him, Navalny’s last words are a passionate reminder that the fight for individual freedoms is one of the most righteous causes in history. Recounting his own triumphs and tribulations for the world to see, Navalny calls for the next generation to pick up where he left off and continue in the fight for freedom.

2. The Message

A collection of three interconnected essays, Ta-Nehisi Coates’s brilliant novel examines the lasting effect of centuries of racism and division. Journeying from Senegal to South Carolina and finally to Palestine, Coates narrates his own journey through various stories surrounding the strained relationship between cultures. Penned at a charged period in global life, Coates’s “The Message” forces readers to confront the reality of history and the world’s resistance to the change.

3. Whiskey Tender: A Memoir

A descendant of the Quechan Nation and the Laguna Pueblo tribe, Deborah Jackson Taffa was born in a California reservation and raised among the Navajo in New Mexico. Her memoir chronicles the path by which she discovered her identity, shaking off her parents’ expectations for her to assimilate. She wrestles with ideas of individualism and assimilation, the dichotomy of belonging and resisting oppression, and the United States government’s endless enterprise to destroy Native culture. While lighthearted and humorous, Taffa’s memoirs are nonetheless a sharp analysis of how the US has treated Indigenous peoples and the struggles inflicted upon them .

4. Madness

Chronicling 93 years of missing history, award-winning journalist Antonia Hylton’s “Madness” offers a glimpse into the struggles of Black mental health patients during the Jim Crow era. Maryland’s Hospital for the Negro Insane has been uninvestigated for over a century; Hylton shines a light on the treatment that its patients endured during their time as essentially slaves to the system. Most importantly, Hylton not only brings to light an unjustly obfuscated history but also invites consideration into how society classifies health and who is and isn’t deserving of treatment.

5. Twenty Years: Hope, War, and the Betrayal of an Afghan Generation

Sune Engel Rasmussen, a correspondent with The Wall Street Journal, collects over a decade of reporting to chronicle the fallout of 9/11 from the view of Afghans growing up in the early 2000s. Freedom and safety were tangible concepts when they were born and disappeared before they had the chance to truly experience them. This novel chronicles the titular twenty years following the initial attack against the United States to the failed pullout of American troops that allowed the Taliban to retake Afghanistan. Rasmussen uses two narrators to tell the story in full: Zahra, who returned to Afghanistan just as the Taliban were regaining control, and Omari, who joins up with the Taliban and is confronted with the trauma of war. Through these characters and others like them, Rasmussen gives us a deep insight into a country betrayed, first by the United States and then by the Taliban.

6. The Sullivanians

In the 1950s, the Sullivan Institute for Research in Psychoanalysis opened in New York City. Seeking to destabilize the nuclear family and promote freedom from societal norms, the institute quickly became a hub of polyamory and creativity among patients. By the 1970s, however, it had devolved into a quasi-cult, with therapists exacting complete control over patients. The Sullivan Institute has long been notoriously secretive, but Alexander Stille’s novel has shone a light on its inner workings. Utilizing interviews and long-forgotten personal papers, “The Sullivanians” provides readers with the untold story of a perfect world’s complete collapse.

6. Private Revolutions

This enlightening glimpse behind China’s propaganda curtain reveals the impacts of the country’s industrial revolution. Massive advancement in the 1980s and ‘90s brought about a market vaguely similar to capitalism, generating tremendous gains for China’s economy. But the rapidly ascending market belied a world of mistreatment, authoritarianism, and financial injustice. Following the lives of four young women, author Yuan Yang compiles seven years’ worth of reporting to display the secret humanitarian cost behind China’s economic growth.

7. The Rebels’ Clinic

Frantz Fanon is one of the most renowned postcolonial activists, providing the framework for radical movements around the world. Adam Shatz’s biography examines Fanon’s shockingly novel-esque life, from his time in the French army during World War II to his work as a strategist and spokesman for the Algerian independence movement. An existentialist who practiced what he termed “dis-alienation,” Shatz’s ensuing works have gone on to influence Black radicalism worldwide. This biography contextualizes Fanon’s writings, informing today’s movement against white supremacy.

8. Everyone Who Is Gone Is Here

A massive, moving epic from New Yorker writer Jonathan Blitzer, “Everyone Who Is Gone Is Here” details the intense and ongoing humanitarian crisis at the United States border with Mexico. Combining stories of Central Americans driven from their homes by violence and those of the government officials directly involved in a hopelessly fraught immigration policy, Blitzer crafts a narrative of resilience in the face of oppression and ostracization. Driven from their homes in the search for freedom and safety, many have been met instead with turbulent and needlessly complex politics, as their stories are inextricably tied up in the future of the nation in which they seek asylum.

9. The Achilles Trap

Best-selling author and historian Steve Coll presents a comprehensive and heavily researched history of one of the most costly and least justified geopolitical conflicts in history. The 2003 invasion of Iraq was initially explained as a means to prevent Saddam Hussein from using weapons of mass destruction and from obtaining nuclear weaponry. After it was discovered that Iraq in fact had no such weapons, the operation was uncovered as an intelligence failure on a global scale. “The Achilles Trap” unravels the impossibly intricate web of power, personality, and persecution that surrounds the invasion and its consequences, striving to answer the one question that has lingered for decades: why did Hussein allow the world to believe he possessed nuclear weapons capability when none existed?

10. Our Kindred Creatures

Just after the Civil War, the United States experienced a massive shift in how it perceived animals. In “Our Kindred Creatures,” New York Times editorial director Bill Wasik and veterinarian Monica Murphy chronicle the rich history of the movement for animal rights. From circuses to meat processing plants, Wasik and Murphy investigate and examine the various stages on which this conflict took place. This moral war that began back in 1866 endures to this day, and never has there been a more comprehensive and enlightening history of the movement and the battles that it spawned for over a century.

11. The Survivors of the Clotilda

The Clotilda was the last slave ship that ever made landfall in the United States, long after the importation of slaves became illegal. Through intensive research by author and historian Dr. Hannah Durkin, readers are presented with the history of the last enslaved people in the United States. The novel documents Black American life during one of the most tumultuous periods in United States history, highlighting the small instances of hope in the face of overwhelming oppression. Dr. Durkin forces readers to look into a historical mirror, acknowledging and confronting the series of injustices that make up American history.

12. Soldiers and Kings

Jason De Leon provides readers with a never-before-seen glimpse into the current world of human smuggling in Latin America. Over seven years, De Leon embedded himself within a community of smugglers in Mexico, shuttling migrants across the country and connecting with the very human individuals at the heart of the market. “Soldiers and Kings” eschews the stereotypical image of smugglers as warlords and bounty hunters in favor of showing the lives of people simply trying to get by, highlighting their humanity. De Leon has created not only the first true examination of the human smuggling trade but also a masterpiece of narrative nonfiction.

13. Hiroshima: The Last Witnesses

A gripping, tense recounting of the events of August 6th, 1945 (the day on which the atomic bomb was dropped on Hiroshima), “Hiroshima: The Last Witnesses” collects the testimonies of the last living witnesses and survivors, known in Japan as hibakusha. Author M. G. Sheftall spent years interviewing hibakusha and collecting their stories to present this minute-by-minute retelling of the dawn of the nuclear age. With stories as personal as they are scarring, “Hiroshima: The Last Witnesses” is an intensely human version of an insurmountable tragedy.

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Ryan Livingston

Ryan is a senior at The College of New Jersey, majoring in English and minoring in marketing. Since a young age, Ryan has been passionate about human rights and environmental action and uses his writing to educate wherever he can. He hopes to pursue a career in professional writing and spread his message even further.

Wander Women: 6 of the Safest Destinations for Solo Female Travelers

Around the world, solo trips are becoming increasingly popular. Here are some of the safest places for women to explore on their own. 

Woman sightseeing alone. Ibrahim . CC-BY-2.0.

Solo travel offers opportunities for both self-discovery and world discovery, an enriching experience that satiates an inner wanderlust just as much as it does an outer one. However, given the high rates of gendered violence around the world, there are certain things that women have to take into heavier consideration — such as a destination’s night-walking safety and rates of sexual assault and abduction — before booking a solo trip. Based on their low crime rates and the unique, worthwhile adventures they have to offer, the places on this list highlight some of the safest destinations for solo female travelers.

1. Bali, Indonesia

Nusa Penida. Aaron Rentfrew. CC-BY-4.0.

Featuring thousands of temples and miles of beaches and forests, Bali offers the solo wanderer countless opportunities to reconnect with nature. Active adventurers can hike alongside numerous natural wonders across the island, sighting waterfalls at the Beji Guwang Hidden Canyon and monkeys at the Ubud Monkey Forest. If you’re drawn to Bali’s aquamarine coastlines instead, scenic beaches like the Tanah Lot and Nusa Penida are renowned swimming and snorkeling spots. There are also opportunities to tour some of the island’s many temples, including Pura Lempuyang and Gunang Kawi, and to take cooking classes on the Tegalalang rice fields. Bali is a popular destination among solo female travelers, especially after it was featured in Elizabeth Gilman’s best-selling memoir “Eat, Pray, Love.” Indeed, solo female travelers attest that Bali is safe for women, citing its low levels of street harassment and high flow of other tourists. It’s also common for solo female travelers to socialize and explore Bali in groups. Bali also has well-developed infrastructure and a ride-sharing app network that’s both popular and reliable, which makes navigating the island generally safe and manageable. 

2. Iceland

Gullfoss Waterfall. Patano. CC-BY-3.0. 

Iceland has emerged as an increasingly popular travel destination in recent years and for good reason. Travelers have flocked to Iceland to glimpse puffins amidst the fjords, soak in the country’s blue lagoons and tour its volcanoes (which, while more active than usual as of late, are still safe to visit). As for getting to these sites, “the Icelandic Road system is extensive and easy to navigate,” the official Visit Iceland website boasts. A car can get you almost anywhere, and the country’s drivability is a key part of its safety.  For solo women, renting a car and driving yourself minimizes the risk of abduction and taxi scams while increasing traveler independence and flexibility. Many tourists say renting a car is the best way to explore Iceland because it enables travel along the Ring Road, an 800-mile scenic route that circles the country and connects its most popular attractions (including Thingvellir National Park, the Geysir geothermal area and Gullfoss waterfall). The Ring Road, specifically, is safe for solo travel because the roads are well-maintained and well-populated with other travelers. In general, Iceland is one of the safest countries in the world. It’s recommended that travelers visit during the summer when daylight lasts longer and the roads are less icy.

3. Chiang Mai, Thailand

Downtown Chiang Mai. Uwe Arenas. CC-BY-4.0.

Thailand is a notably affordable travel destination due to the country’s low labor costs, making it a popular destination of choice for solo travelers. Within Chiang Mai — the largest city in northern Thailand — visitors can see countless sights, including waterfalls and pagodas. Temples like Wat Phan Tao have low admission prices, as do nature excursions like Doi Inthanon National Park. If travelers want to indulge in Thailand’s signature elephant tourism, they can do so ethically at Elephant Nature Park, an animal rescue and rehabilitation center. Thailand is generally safe, with a few exceptions due to civil unrest. But Chiang Mai, a tourist hub, is considered the safest city in Southeast Asia — especially within Chiang Mai’s walled core, the Old City. In fact, many say the most dangerous thing a traveler can do in Chiang Mai is simply cross the street. Driving in Chiang Mai can be chaotic, which is why ride-share apps (specifically a Southeast Asia-based one called Grab) are recommended. “Tuk tuk scams” — deceptively cheap taxi rides — can also be avoided with the use of a ride-share app. In general, it’s recommended that solo female travelers stick to the Old City, where the roads are safer for pedestrians and better-lit at night and visit from November to February to avoid poor air quality during Thailand’s “burning season.”   

4. Prague, Czech Republic

View of Prague from the Old Town Hall. Alexander Savin. CC-BY-4.0. 

Known as the City of a Hundred Spires, Prague brims with storybook scenery. Beyond the many towers dotting the Czech Republic’s capital city, tourists can also visit the Prague Botanical Garden and the Prague Zoo or even take a brewery tour. If travelers want to take in the ornate architecture that Prague is famous for, Prague Castle, the Charles Bridge and the Old Town Square featuring the Prague astronomical clock are especially rich sites to experience the city’s baroque and gothic past. As a historic city, Prague is compact and walkable. However, that’s not to say that the city doesn’t also have modern amenities to offer, as Prague’s metro and tram are among some of the world’s safest and most reliable public transport systems. The city has plenty of safe hostels, street lighting and low levels of street harassment, making Prague especially safe for solo women. 

5. Antigua, Guatemala

Santa Catalina Arch. Chad Davis. CC-BY-2.0.

Although Guatemala as a whole may not be recommended for solo women travelers, the city of Antigua features a safe and vibrant environment. Antigua boasts numerous churches and archaeological ruins worth exploring, including the Cathedral de Santiago and the Santa Catalina Arch. Travelers also have the opportunity to shop for traditional artisan goods (such as custom boots), kayak at Lake Atitlan and even hike the Pacaya Volcano to roast marshmallows. Caffeine addicts will want to tour the De La Gente coffee farm to get a taste of Antigua’s famous coffee scene. Because it’s a travel hotspot, Antigua is safe compared to surrounding areas like Guatemala City. As such, it’s recommended that solo travelers stay within Antigua, which is walkable with well-lit cobblestone streets. However, if walking isn’t a sufficient mode of transportation, solo women are encouraged not to take the traditional “chicken buses” — eccentrically painted school buses — to get from place to place because their routes aren’t direct and can travel outside of Antigua. Rather, women should travel accompanied by a guide and use the reliable shuttle services offered by many hostels.

6. Taipei, Taiwan

Taipei skyline. Shengbo Wu. CC0.

Situated on the north side of the island, Taiwan’s capital city Taipei is a metropolitan hub of art, food and entertainment. Travelers can shop in the Xinyi District or take a trip to the top of Taipei 101 — once the tallest skyscraper in the world — for a panoramic view of the city. The National Palace Museum and the Presidential Palace, each displaying centuries-old artworks and artifacts, are also worth a visit for their valuable insights into the island’s storied history. Taipei is also famous for its night markets, where travelers can snack on traditional street foods like green onion pancakes and sweet rice cakes as they shop for trinkets beneath strings of red lanterns. The Shilin Market and the Raohe Street Market are particularly renowned. Taipei is very safe — violent crime against travelers is rare, and the streets are usually busy and well-lit. It is generally safe for women to get around solo, even at night. 

Overall, a destination can be considered safe for solo female travelers if it is walkable, well-developed in infrastructure well-lit at night and bustling with other like-minded travelers. Although they have to take these additional factors into greater consideration, it’s not impossible for women to also enjoy the benefits of solo travel without significant fear for their safety. But any solo adventurer, regardless of gender, should take normal precautions when traveling. It’s important to not act recklessly and to always use common sense, especially in a foreign environment; opportunistic crimes like pickpocketing and drink-spiking can happen anywhere and to anyone.

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Bella Liu

Bella is a student at UC Berkeley studying English, Media Studies and Journalism. When she’s not writing or working through the books on her nightstand, you can find her painting her nails red, taking digicam photos with her friends or yelling at the TV to make the Dodgers play better.

5 Stunning Temples in Cambodia

From Hindu to Buddhist, Cambodia is home to some of the most architecturally rustic and traditional temples in the world. 

Inside of Wat Phnom. Daniel Mennerich. CC BY-NC-ND 2.0. 

While Angkor Wat is on most traveler’s lists when they visit Cambodia, the country also has many other extraordinary and one-of-a-kind temples which each hold immense historical, cultural, religious and artistic significance. 

1. Banteay Srei 

Banteay Srei. Uwe Schwarzbach. CC BY-NC-SA 2.0.

The temple Banteay Srei, located in Angkor, Cambodia, is believed to have been built in the tenth century by and for some sort of spiritual guru to a royal, though not much is known about the person themselves. In addition to its fascinating origin, Banteay Srei’s architecture is unique for the area, built almost entirely out of a shining pink sandstone and surrounded by a moat. In terms of the architeccture’s cultural significance, the temple features a large and ornate statue of the Hindu God Shiva. Nowadays, Banteay Srei is primarily known for its meaning to women. Banteay Srei directly translates to “the women’s temple”, and the statue of Shiva is surrounded by other statues of women including Hindu gods and saints. 

2. Ta Prohm

Tree growing in Ta Prohm. Daniel Mennerich. CC BY-NC-ND 2.0. 

The temple Ta Prohm, located in Krong Siem Reap, Cambodia, is one of few historical sites to have been left untouched by archaeologists and society in general. It was built around the 12th to 13th century, and it was a temple of enormous scale surrounded by a village of an estimated 79,000 people who worked to maintain it.  Unlike Banteay Srei, Ta Prohm was built by a Khmer king. Today, only the ruins of Ta Prohm remain, and its beauty and intrigue have only increased with growing trees surrounding the temple. Visitors can see a tree whose roots have grown over the roof of a corridor, and another stands tall in the middle of a courtyard. While visitors can walk through Ta Prohm, they are no longer permitted to climb on the stone walls, as the temple’s foundation is so old and precarious that damage can easily be done. 

3. Wat Phnom

Staircase to Wat Phnom. Daniel Mennerich. CC BY-NC-SA 2.0. 

In contrast to Ta Prohm, which has maintained a rustic look, temple Wat Phnom is located in the major city Phnom Penh, at the top of the only hill in the city. Unlike many other ancient temples, historians know Wat Phnom was built in 1372. A large and ornate staircase lined with animal sculptures such as lions and five-headed snakes leads the way to the temple. The temple is a place of worship, as people go to make wishes, requests and prayers for themselves and their loved ones. Wat Phnom is known to be a bustling and busy center, with vendors selling cold drinks and birds flying through the temple. 

4. Sambor Prei Kuk

Sambor Prei Kuk temple. Plb06. CC BY-NC-ND 2.0.

The Sambor Prei Kuk temples are unique from the other temples on this list primarily because of their age and striking architecture. Sambor Prei Kuk is a collection of temples built in the 6th to 7th century CE, in the Pre-Angkorean architectural style which favored more natural looking octagonal temple structures that were less outwardly ornate than later temples. Sambor Prei Kuk was named an UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2017 due largely to its architecture, which represents a significant period in the history of Cambodia. The religious symbols inside the temple also reflect the significance of the relatively new cross-continental trade that was emerging at the time in Asia. The inscriptions and statues feature a mix of Buddhist and Hindu figures and messages, as well as displaying the “God-kings” who ruled the region at the time by claiming divine connections. 

5. Angkor Wat

Angkor Wat. Pigalle. CC BY-NC-SA 2.0.

A Cambodian temples list wouldn’t be complete without Angkor Wat. The temple, located in Angkor, was built in the 12th century and is one of the most famous temples in the world, as well as one of Cambodia’s most famous sites. The compound contains hundreds of buildings, and is the largest religious structure globally. Originally, Angkor Wat was a Hindu temple, but in 1177 after losing a battle and thus losing faith in Hinduism, the king at the time (King Jayavarman VII) converted Angkor Wat into a Buddhist temple. In 1992, Angkor Wat became a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and an estimated 500,000 people per year travel to see the historic temple. 

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Calliana Leff

Calliana is currently an undergraduate student at Boston University majoring in English and minoring in psychology. She is passionate about sustainability and traveling in an ethical and respectful way. She hopes to continue her writing career and see more of the world after she graduates. 

Unknown Specialties: 10 Little-Known Global Dishes

Uncovering some of the best lesser-known cultural foods from around the world.

Khachapuri served with nuts. Ekkatterrinna. CC BY-SA 4.0

From sushi to falafel to chicken tikka masala, most cultures are represented on the global food stage. But for every well-known cultural classic, hundreds of local delights have never quite made it out of their homeland. This list compiles ten of the best, most unique specialties that most of the world has yet to experience. Each dish will include links to recipes and can be made at home with relative ease.

1. Lahmacun

Turkey

A traditionally wrapped lahmacun. Garret Ziegler. CC BY-SA 4.0

Lahmacun is a traditional flatbread variety that incorporates minced meat (usually lamb or beef), tomatoes and red peppers, and a healthy amount of garlic and chili pepper. Despite being commonly referred to as “Turkish pizza”, lahmacun is never prepared with cheese.  Instead, the dish is often served rolled up around other vegetables like pickles or roast eggplant.

2. Kare-kare

The Philippines

A bowl of kare-kare. Maffeth.opiana. CC BY-SA 4.0

Kare-kare is a stew of thick peanut sauce. Typically made with oxtail and occasionally pigs’ or calves’ feet, kare-kare also features vegetables like eggplant and daikon.  Some varieties include seafood (like prawns and squid), while others are entirely vegetarian. This dish has been a part of Filipino culture for hundreds of years and is considered one of the island nation’s staple dishes.

3. Zeljanica

The Balkans

A tray of zeljanica. BiHVolim. CC BY-SA 4.0

Often referred to as “savory spinach pie,” zeljanica is a flaky pastry filled with chopped spinach, egg and white or feta cheese. This particular meal has several options for substitution; just about any white cheese (preferably salted) can be used for the filling, and a variety of pastries can be used to make the outer shell, including phyllo or horiatiko (both of which are specialties in their own right).

4. Pastitsio

Greece

A plate of pastitsio. Sam Bailey. CC BY-SA 4.0

While this dish is often referred to as “Greek lasagna,” it takes a few steps outside of the box that sets it apart from its Italian cousin. Pastitsio has evolved over the years, transforming from a phyllo-wrapped meat pasta to a layered dish. The bottom layer is composed of bucatini or similarly-shaped pasta, bound together with cheese or eggs. The second layer features ground beef or pork heavily seasoned with cinnamon and cloves, and the top is a mixture of bechamel and mornay sauce.

5. Cou Cou

Barbados

An example of Cou Cou. KINGBROBLOXZZZ. CC BY-SA 4.0

Cou-cou is widely regarded as the best example of Barbados’ national food: the flying fish. While cou-cou is actually a mixture of cornmeal and okra, it is typically served alongside steamed or fried flying fish. Today, this meal is traditionally served on Friday in Barbados and has spread to Antigua and the Virgin Islands.

6. Khachapuri

Georgia

A variety of khachapuri including egg yolk. Rorschach11. CC 2.0

There are many varieties of Georgia’s khachapuri, but the most common (and most popular) is Imeretian khachapuri. This variation is made with yeast dough and filled with salted white cheese. Other varieties incorporate egg yolks, potatoes and a variety of seasonings.

7. Nacatamales

Nicaragua

A finished nacatamal. MiguelRamirez77. CC BY-SA 4.0

Nacatamales were historically made by Nicarao hunters who would wrap and steam herbs, deer and turkey meat in corn husks. Rapidly evolving into a cultural staple after the Spanish conquest of Nicaragua, nacatamales have continued to change throughout the centuries. Today, the dish is commonly wrapped in banana leaf and tinfoil and steamed for up to five hours.

8. Nam Khao

Laos

A pre-wrapped nam khao. Takeaway. CC BY-SA 3.0

Nam khao is a common dish throughout Laos, appearing everywhere from street stalls and potlucks to high-brow restaurants. The meal’s main ingredients include fried rice balls, classic Vietnamese pork sausage, chopped peanuts and other seasonings. Nam khao is unique from traditional salads as ingredients are used to fill a singular lettuce leaf before being topped with chili peppers and herbs.

9. Lo Mai Gai

Southern China

A variety of lo mai gai made with abalone. Peachyeung316. CC BY-SA 4.0

A gluten-rich rice stuffed with chicken, sausage, mushrooms and scallions, the most unique aspect of this variation on the classic dim sum is the method of cooking. Before being steamed, lo mai gai is wrapped in dried lotus leaves — in areas where lotus is not available, banana and grape leaves are frequently substituted.

10. Jollof Rice

West Africa

A variety of jollof including vegetables. Segun Famisa. CC BY-SA 4.0

Last but certainly not least is the ever-changing meal known as jollof rice, or jollof for short. This dish has a general ingredient list, but just about every nation in West Africa has its own regional variety, which has led to friendly rivalries between different regions. Typically, jollof is made with long rice grains, incorporating tomatoes, chili peppers, and a variety of spices together into one pot. Variations of the dish can range from different spices to the inclusion of additional vegetables or cuts of meat.

Few of the dishes on this list are available outside of their home country. However, the ingredients for each dish are relatively easy to obtain, so international foodies can find all the materials they need to cook some of these specialties at home.

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Ryan Livingston

Ryan is a senior at The College of New Jersey, majoring in English and minoring in marketing. Since a young age, Ryan has been passionate about human rights and environmental action and uses his writing to educate wherever he can. He hopes to pursue a career in professional writing and spread his message even further.

The Northern Lights: The 6 Best Viewing Destinations

Exploring the top locations around the world for an unforgettable aurora experience.

Arctic scenery featuring the northern lights. Stein Egil Liland. CC0.

The aurora borealis, commonly known as the northern lights, is a captivating natural phenomenon many people aspire to witness. These lights occur when charged particles from solar wind clash with oxygen atoms and nitrogen molecules in Earth’s atmosphere. The collisions result in a transfer of energy released in flashes of light. 

Currently, the Arctic Circle is experiencing a solar maximum. Characterized by heightened and more frequent solar activity, a solar maximum occurs when the sun’s magnetic activity increases. This happens because of an increased flare-up of sunspots, which can cause solar flares and eruptions. Solar cycles typically average about 11 years, with the next solar maximum anticipated in 2035. 

The strongest activity period for the northern lights occurs between September and April, while the southern lights’ strongest activity falls between March and September. The combination of these time periods and the solar maximum is the reason people in both Michigan and Wales have been able to witness unexpected glimpses of the northern lights all year. Only two months into the 2024-2025 solar maximum, there is still plenty of time to explore one of the following six travel destinations. 

Tromsø, Norway

Travelers in a remote spot viewing the northern lights in Tromsø. Tobias Bjørkli. CC0.

Tromsø is Norway's largest northern city. Approximately 400K from the Arctic Circle, this tourism hub is often referred to as the “gateway to the arctic.” The city is located on the island of Tromsøya, lying in the Tromsøysundet strait. Although surrounded by fjords and mountains, arctic scenery is not the only thing Tromsø is famous for. When visiting, travelers can get a taste of Norway’s rich cultural life that values education and climate change activism. 

Throughout northern Tromsø, there are many northern lights tours available to the public. From $93 bus rides to thousand-dollar personalized tours, there are many different ways to experience this natural light show.

Vatnajökull National Park, Iceland

Vestrahorn Mountains at Vatnajökull National Park. Francisco Diez. CC-BY 1.0. 

Vatnajökull National Park is home to many glaciers, including the largest glacier in Iceland. Covering 8% of Iceland’s landmass, this glacier is up to 3,120 feet thick at its deepest point. The park’s many glaciers have created intriguing natural landscapes, such as blue ice caves that visitors can explore. Close to the country’s capital, Reykjavik, there are plenty of excursions available. The park offers tours that can be as simple as a day trip or as involved as a ten-day trek. Both give travelers the opportunity to hike throughout the national park, traverse the ice caves, visit the thermal baths and travel to hidden getaways to get the best view of the northern lights. There are also boat tours from Reyjkavick that travel around the South Coast. These trips offer distance from any light pollution, allowing for some of the best views of the northern lights.

Options for low-cost hotels include the Reykjavik Lights for $101 a night and the Center Hotels Plaza for $138 a night.

Laugarvatn, Iceland

Northern lights dazzling above a field in Laugarvatn. Marek Piwnicki. CC0.

Laugarvatn is near both Reyjkavick and Vatnajökull National Park, but location is where the similarities end. Laugarvatn is famous for its geothermal activity, hot springs and active, swimmable lake. The remarkable geothermal activity not only warms the lake but also supplies hot water to the town. Throughout the lake, natural hot springs create an exceptional swimming experience all year round. This geothermal feature contributes to the lake's rich biodiversity, making it a prime destination for both boating and fishing enthusiasts.

Due to the geothermal properties of the area, many of the northern lights experiences in Laugarvatn involve baths and hot springs. The Laugarvatn Fontana Spa is a world-class facility that provides access to the best therapeutic properties of the region and a back-country vantage point for viewing the northern lights. Prices at the Laugarvatn Hotel are around $118 per night. 

Rovaniemi, Finland

Green northern lights seen in Rovaniemi’s snowy landscape. Gu Bra. CC0.

Rovaniemi is another Arctic town, known for its natural beauty and winter activities. There is ample ice and snow architecture throughout the city, where winter activities such as snowmobiling, cross-country skiing and husky sledding flourish. Praised as the culinary capital of the north, Rovaniemi is also the hometown of Santa Claus. Before it gets dark, travelers can head to a Santa Claus village where they can meet Santa, write letters and see where Mr. Claus works. 

Rovaniemi is home to many unique tours that offer a new twist when viewing the aurora borealis. Float the Northern Lights is a tour where participants dip themselves into freezing water. This guided tour is completely safe, as participants wear protective suits while they float through an arctic lake. If swimming through frigid water doesn’t sound inviting, there are reindeer sleigh rides that offer a quiet and serene way to take in the arctic nature. During this guided tour, travelers are pulled by actual reindeer while hunting for aurora borealis. 

The most famous place to stay is the Aito Igloo and Spa Resort. While they have standard hotel rooms, they also offer intriguing options for rooms such as glass igloos and treehouses. These luxury rooms provide panoramic views of the nature surrounding you.

Fairbanks, Alaska, USA

Northern lights glistening above the Alaska Range Mountains. Noel Bauza. CC0.

Located in the auroral oval, Fairbanks is known for its consistent and reliable northern lights from August to April (an extra month of viewing compared to other places around the world). Uniquely situated within Alaska’s interior, Fairbanks provides access to the Arctic Circle via the remarkable views along the Dalton Highway. During the daytime, travelers can choose from several museums that exhibit the history of Alaska’s natural preserves, many of which host cultural programs about Native Alaskans. The Aurora Ice Museum has year-round displays that include more than 1,000 tons of ice and snow sculptures. 

Favorite tours in Fairbanks include flying adventures, ice fishing and hot springs. The Arctic Circle Aurora Fly and Drive Adventures takes travelers on an inspiring adventure into the northern lights via plane or countryside driving. For fishing fanatics, Rod’s Alaskan Guide Service is the perfect tour. With provided shanties at remote fishing spots, travelers can indulge in the best of both worlds as they look upon the sky while casting their lines. Fairbanks is also known for their Chena Hot Springs; a tour from Alaska Wildlife Guide offers visitors a dip in these springs while taking in the northern lights.

Yellowknife, Canada

 Tepee under the night sky. Rachel. CC0.

Yellowknife is built along the shores of the enormous Great Slave Lake. The city is relatively isolated and surrounded by rock, tundra and water. Yellowknife is an isolated town, and there is almost no light pollution, creating an outstanding view of the northern lights. The majority of the tours in this town revolve around hiking to reach the most remote spots. While travelers can indulge in multi-night wilderness stays, there are also shorter tours that involve driving to serene locations by minivan or snowmobile. 

Nearby places to stay include modern accommodations such as the Quality Inn and Suites for $165 a night or an opportunity to stay in a traditional tepee under the northern lights.

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Paige Geiser

Paige is currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in English with a minor in Criminal Justice at the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse. She grew up in West Bloomfield, MI, and has been fortunate enough to travel all throughout the country. She is an active member of the university’s volleyball team and works as the sports reporter for The Racquet Press, UWL’s campus newspaper. Paige is dedicated to using her writing skills to amplify the voices of underrepresented individuals and aspires to foster connections with people globally.

Travel Through Time in the Canadian Rockies

Explore millions of years of natural history from ghost towns to Indigenous communities.

Morning in Banff National Park. Sergey Pesterev. CC BY-SA 4.0

Canada is home to a wide variety of beautiful landscapes, natural vistas and a rich history of human habitation. From cowboy ghost towns to Indigenous communities, people have been living in the great snowy mountains of Canada for centuries. And there’s nowhere better to experience the best of both worlds than in Canada’s iconic  Rocky Mountains.

Hundreds of years ago, the Rockies were home to several First Nations tribes, including the Ojibwe, Cree and Mohawk peoples. But their history goes back even further; the oldest archaeological record of human inhabitants in these mountains dates back 13,000 years. Due to European colonization, Indigenous tribes lost their territory, but the memory of their traditions is still being carried on today thanks to companies like Painted Warriors. From horseback riding and archery lessons to natural navigation and animal tracking — the ranch provides visitors with an experience inspired by the heritage and traditions of local Indigenous communities. During the warmer months, visitors can enjoy guided or independent hikes through the mountains. In wintertime, the ranch provides snowshoe tours of the surrounding area. An excellent camping and glamping location, Painted Warriors Ranch is also dedicated to providing a historically accurate and informative experience by respecting and carrying on the traditions of the First Nations tribes.

In the heart of a 1920s ghost town rests a different piece of history —  the one-of-a-kind Last Chance Saloon. Initially built as a coal mining operation, Bankhead, Alberta eventually grew into a full-fledged community. However, when the mine stopped producing, the town was left more or less abandoned. The Last Chance Saloon is particularly emblematic of the whole experience. Filled with antique mining equipment and absolutely covered in bullet holes, this classic bar now features themed hotel rooms and a functioning smokehouse.

The remains of Bankhead’s lamphouse, where miners would store their equipment. Dietmar Rabich. CC BY-SA 4.0

Human history is not the only era present in the Rocky Mountains — our ancient predecessors can also be found hiding among the rocks. Dinosaur Provincial Park, one of the best locations to find dinosaur fossils (as recognized by UNESCO), offers visitors a one-of-a-kind experience. Walking the same lands as giant reptiles did millions of years ago, visitors may find the remains of these massive creatures hidden away in the mountainside. The park hosts both family tours and slightly more challenging guided hikes (the park strongly recommends registering for these events in advance, as they frequently sell out).

The unique landscape of Dinosaur Provincial Park. XeresNelro. CC BY-SA 4.0

Human and animal history is only one part of a trip to the Canadian Rockies; sprawling Banff National Park is the real heart of these mountains. Featuring countless scenic hikes, brilliant lakes and nature preserves, this park is home to innumerable incredible experiences. From the Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary (home to several packs of unique wolf-dog hybrid animals) to the legendary Cave and Basin (a beautiful thermal spring oasis), this massive national park offers a diverse range of natural splendor.

Banff National Park is dotted with scenic hiking trails of all varieties. Dietmar Rabich. CC BY-SA 4.0

Charting millions of years of history in some of the most beautiful environments on Earth, there is no shortage of fantastic experiences in the Canadian Rockies. And with plenty of sights and activities available year-round, the Rockies are the perfect destination regardless of the season.

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Ryan Livingston

Ryan is a senior at The College of New Jersey, majoring in English and minoring in marketing. Since a young age, Ryan has been passionate about human rights and environmental action and uses his writing to educate wherever he can. He hopes to pursue a career in professional writing and spread his message even further.

Just Keep Swimming: 7 Exotic Snorkeling Sites

There are a million places to get a taste of the most beautiful underwater ecosystems on Earth—here are some of the most fascinating.

One of the best ways to see the sea. John Brooks. CC 0

There are few environments more captivating than the ocean. Featuring millions of species of life, hundreds of different biomes, and almost infinite ways to experience it, there’s nothing quite like the sea. With a mask, fins and little to no training, snorkeling is the perfect way to see it all.

Of all of the places to snorkel, some are simply unlike any other. This list documents seven of the most mind-blowing experiences you could have underwater and why you should definitely add them to your bucket list.

1. Jellyfish Lake, Palau

The 250-island nation of Palau is dotted with saltwater lakes linked together by a series of underground channels and tunnels. Only one of these lakes can be visited, fittingly named Jellyfish Lake, home to a dizzying number of moon and golden jellyfish. They float around aimlessly in the 1,500-foot lake, bumping and bouncing up against snorkelers like living ping-pong balls. These creatures have evolved in a much different way from their ocean-dwelling cousins— they pose no risk to snorkelers. Unlike most species, they are non-poisonous and have no stinging cells.

Jellyfish Lake provides visitors with the once-in-a-lifetime experience of swimming through an entire world of these unique and fascinating creatures. It is more than worthy of a spot on every ocean lover’s bucket list. Places to stay nearby include the Palau Pacific Resort, priced at around $250 a night. Cheaper options include the Hotel Piccada at $110 a night and LH Porto Rafael Altura Resort at $80 a night.

A diver in Jellyfish Lake in Palau. Aquaimages. CC SA 2.5

2. Silfra Fissure, Iceland

Created by an earthquake in 1789, the Silfra Fissure is a massive gap between the North American and Eurasian continental plates filled with glacier meltwater. Snorkelers and divers can simultaneously touch two continents while swimming through gorgeously clear waters, where visibility can reach a mindblowing 393 feet.

This unique ravine is almost totally devoid of fish. Instead, the rock walls are lined with vibrant green algae known as “troll hair.” Between these leafy green plants and the almost impossibly clear blue water, Silfra Fissure is one of the most incredibly colorful and exotic dive sites on Earth. Silfra Fissure’s water is extremely cold, sitting at a chilling 35-39 degrees Fahrenheit. To combat this temperature, snorkelers wear a drysuit, a full-body neoprene suit complete with gloves, boots and a hood.

Nearby places to stay include the Bru Country Estate at around $110 a night, as well as several rentable cottages at around $90 per night.

An underwater view at the Silfra Fissure. Josephyoon4. CC BY-SA 4.0

3. Mamanuca Islands, Fiji

Called the soft coral capital of the world, Fiji is an absolutely beautiful diving location. Its Mamanuca Islands are home to almost 400 unique species of coral, most of which are still alive despite the ravages of ocean acidification. Many of the islands themselves are also covered up by water when the tide comes in, combining the surface world and the sea in an incredible panorama. Snorkelers can visit these gorgeous reefs from any of the 13 inhabited islands, each lined with fantastic beaches and surrounded by crystal-clear water.

The island’s  amount of healthy and colorful coral can’t be found anywhere else in the world. As climate change worsens, there’s no guarantee it’ll be around forever. Mamanuca is definitely one for the bucket list. Local hotels include First Landing Beach Resort at around $119 a night and Bluewater Lodge at around $60 a night.

An aerial view of the Mamanuca Islands. American. CC BY-SA 3.0

4. Whitsunday Islands, Australia

The Whitsundays, as they are locally known, are a series of 74 islands off the coast of Queensland, Australia. The most fascinating part of snorkeling in the Whitsunday Islands snorkeling is the Stepping Stones, a unique series of flat rock cylinders jutting up from almost 80 feet underwater. Swarming with batfish, wrasses and a wide variety of eels, these rocky structures are absolutely covered in coral.

The Stepping Stones are unlike anything else in the world. Of all the beautiful diving locations on the colossal Great Barrier Reef, there are few quite as unique as this. Local hotels include the Mantra Club Croc at $106 a night and the Kipara Tropical Rainforest Retreat at around $105 a night.

The Whitsunday Islands. eyeintim. CC 2.0

5. Isla Mujeres, Mexico

The biggest shark on Earth and completely harmless to humans, the whale shark swims docilely around feeding on tiny animals filtered through their colossal mouths. There are very few places on Earth where one can swim with these gentle giants, and Isla Mujeres is the best place to do so. Tours of the island are regulated by the government, allowing only a limited number of snorkelers in the water in order to avoid disturbing the creatures.

Isla Mujeres also features the world’s largest underwater museum, with more than 500 sculptures scattered across the ocean floor . From spectral human figures to huge stone grenades and mines, the legendary MUSA Museum provides snorkelers with a once-in-a-lifetime experience that has not been replicated anywhere else on Earth.

Whale sharks are incredible creatures, and Isla Mujeres offers one of the only ways to see them in their natural habitat. Hotels in the area include Hotel La Joya Isla Mujeres at $99 a night and the Ixchel Beach Hotel at around $165 a night.

A whale shark off the coast of Isla Mujeres. MarAlliance2018. CC BY-SA 4.0

6. Crystal River, Florida

Offering another first-hand experience with marine life, the Crystal River in Florida is the only place in the U.S. where snorkelers can come face-to-face with the endangered manatee. Lucky visitors can swim through hundreds of the bulky mammals as they make their way towards warmer waters for the winter. Many of the animals even choose to remain in parts of the river year-round.

Manatees are one of the most protected aquatic species in the world given how endangered they have become. Tours must be booked in advance through organizations that hold special permits, and snorkelers are strictly forbidden from touching the manatees. However, these animals are as curious as they are goofy— there is every chance that they’ll wind up bumping into you themselves.

There aren’t many manatees left on Earth. Crystal River does its utmost to protect the population that returns to its warm springs every year, and is gracious enough to provide visitors with the chance to meet these amazing creatures. This is a can’t-miss experience for anyone who loves the sea. Local hotels include the Plantation Resort on Crystal River from $113 a night and the Port Hotel and Marina at $105 a night.

A herd of manatees in Crystal River. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Headquarters. CC 2.0

7. Baa Atoll, Maldives

Dubbed a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve, Baa Atoll is a nearly perfectly preserved reef. Famed for its unbelievably rich ecosystem, the atoll is home to manta rays, whale sharks and several other endangered species which remain safe and secure in this heavily protected environment.

Coral reefs—and the animals that make their homes there—have been hit hard by climate change. Fortunately, humanity has stepped up to protect what we still can. Baa Atoll is a spectacular example of how we can still save our world and is well worth a visit to inspire others to help where they can as well. Local hotels are around $200/night and up.

The spectacular reefs of Baa Atoll. Ahmed Abdul Rahman. CC BY-SA 4.0

Largely still unexplored, the ocean is an entirely different world from the one we live in. The sheer amount of environments, animals and experiences that can be found are unparalleled in variety and beauty. Thanks to snorkeling, you can see some of the most gorgeous sights on Earth up close. In a world that’s constantly turning up new and unbelievable discoveries, there’s no telling what you’ll find on any given snorkeling session, no matter where you are.

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Ryan Livingston

Ryan is a senior at The College of New Jersey, majoring in English and minoring in marketing. Since a young age, Ryan has been passionate about human rights and environmental action and uses his writing to educate wherever he can. He hopes to pursue a career in professional writing and spread his message even further.

Before Disney: 5 of the Most Elegant Castles in the World

Majestic castles have been a staple of medieval imagery for centuries. Here are some of the most fantastical to ever have been built.

Neuschwanstein Castle in Germany. Thomas Wolf. CC BY-SA 3.0

Throughout history, numerous cultures have dedicated abundant money and resources to building castles. From soaring towers on scenic cliffs to utilitarian structures, these majestic buildings mark an astonishing amount of land around the world.

But out of all of these castles, there are a few that stand out for their uniqueness — whether it be for their history, architecture, location or one-in-a-million beauty. This list highlights five of the most incredible castles in the world, all of which should be on every traveler’s bucket list.

1. Himeji Castle, Japan

The main structure of Himeji Castle. Gorgo. CC0

Also known as “White Heron Castle,” Himeji Castle is lauded as Japan’s best-preserved and most beautiful palace. Throughout history, wars, sieges and natural disasters have laid waste to almost every castle in Japan. Himeji is one of only twelve castles that have never been destroyed. Its immense, 80-building structure has remained completely intact since its construction in 1609. The main palace, a colossal wooden building of six stories, provides visitors with an incredible view of the sprawling grounds, a labyrinthine maze of winding paths and defensive barracks.

The city of Himeji, which lies at the foot of the castle, is also a popular spot for viewing Japan’s world-famous cherry blossoms. During Golden Week and the summer holiday, wait times to enter Himeji Castle can rise astronomically. Nonetheless, the view from the top is undoubtedly worth the wait during the seasons when these gorgeous trees are in full bloom.

2. Mont Saint-Michel, France

Mont Saint-Michel and its reflection in the bay. Lynx1211. CC BY-SA 4.0

Sitting atop an island in the middle of an idyllic bay, Mont Saint-Michel is a destination straight out of a fairy tale. The site was originally built as an abbey, constructed over several centuries with the funds of various French kings and dukes of Normandy. Over time, Mont Saint-Michel attracted monks from all across Europe and continues to remain a major Catholic pilgrimage site. The walls around the base of the island were added in an effort to keep the English out and provide reinforcement against centuries of conflict across the English Channel.

Today, the abbey is open to the public, with its gorgeous architecture and rich history on display. Visitors can explore the monks’ promenade, the refectory in which they took their meals and the glorious central church.

3. Peles Castle, Romania

A snapshot of Peles Castle. Marcin Szala. CC BY-SA 3.0

In 1872, the king of Romania purchased roughly two square miles to transform into a royal hunting ground. The next year, the king decided to construct what would become one of the world’s most beautiful castles. Situated in a fairy-tale mountain range, Peles Castle was initially used as a summer home for royalty but is now a museum open to the public.

Peles Castle has received many foreign dignitaries to Romania — including several US presidents — and has been featured in a handful of Hollywood movies. Many of the palace’s 170 rooms are dedicated to different cultures and art styles from over the centuries. Whether you’re interested in the architecture, the artistry or the celebrity guest list, Peles Castle is an unmissable sight that deserves a spot on the bucket list.

4. Prague Castle, Czech Republic

The massive Prague Castle. Diego Delso. CC BY-SA 4.0

By far the largest ancient castle in the world (a vast 18 square acres), Prague Castle is also one of the most popular tourist destinations in Prague. Construction on the site began back in 870 when the central Church of the Virgin Mary was built. In the 14th century, the grounds were expanded into a fully functional fortress, after which the castle was reconstructed several times. When the nation was divided into the Czech Republic and Slovakia, Communist influence was driven out of the region, and the castle became both the seat of the Head of State and a public museum.

Although visitors can view the grounds on their own, guided tours are the best way to experience Prague Castle. After making a tour reservation well in advance, guests will be taken into the Royal Crypt, the Saint Wenceslas Chapel and a variety of other locations that are normally off-limits.

5. Neuschwanstein Castle, Germany

Neuschwanstein in the heart of the German winter. Diego Delso. CC BY-SA 4.0

Neuschwanstein Castle, situated just miles from the border between Germany and Austria, is perhaps one of Europe’s most scenic and beautiful castles. Literally translated to “New Swan Stone” in English, Neuschwanstein was initially built both as a summer home and as a tribute to Richard Wagner and his classic opera “Knight of the Swan.” Although the king who commissioned the castle would not live to see its completion, construction continued after his death, and Neuschwanstein became one of the most storied palaces on Earth.

The castle’s biggest claim to fame is its status as the primary inspiration behind Disneyland’s Sleeping Beauty Castle. Due to security reasons, Neuschwanstein can only be accessed through guided tours, and photography of the interior is strictly prohibited. However (speaking from experience), the magnificent beauty of this mountain palace is unforgettable, even without pictures to look back on.

Castles are some of the greatest architectural feats that humanity has ever designed. They retain a majesty and presence that no other architecture can claim, and their status as icons of an entire era of history is unrivaled. If you’ve ever wanted to explore the past or experience the wildest fancies of the royal ruling class, look no further than these incredible destinations.

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Ryan Livingston

Ryan is a senior at The College of New Jersey, majoring in English and minoring in marketing. Since a young age, Ryan has been passionate about human rights and environmental action and uses his writing to educate wherever he can. He hopes to pursue a career in professional writing and spread his message even further.

Go Snorkeling Amongst Archaeological Ruins

At Gaiola Underwater Park in Naples, ancient Roman ruins meet vibrant marine ecosystems. Explore this treasure trove beloved by locals. 

Gaiola Island. Gianfranco Vitolo. CC BY 2.0

At the foot of Posillipo Hill in Naples, Italy, is a protected marine area stretching over 103 acres. Gaiola Underwater Park was founded in 2002 by Interministerial Decree and is managed by the Gaiola Onlus Interdisciplinary Study Center. Extending from the village of Marechiaro to the Bay of Trentaremi, the park is a treasure trove of biological, historical, and archaeological wonders in one of the most evocative coastal landscapes in the Gulf of Naples.

Renowned for its rich marine biodiversity, the park's waters are home to a range of species, some of which are unique to the Mediterranean. The landscape of the seabed and the favorable circulation of marine currents has allowed the settlement of ​​a rich and varied biological community. It provides a habitat for various fish, crustaceans, and algae, contributing to the overall health of the Mediterranean. Octopuses, white breams, damselfish and moray eels swim amongst ancient ruins, polychrome sponges, and beautiful walls of sea daisies. The park's protection ensures that these species can thrive without the pressures of commercial fishing and pollution.

Beyond marine life, the underwater park is also home to archaeological remains dating back to ancient Roman times. Inspired by Posillipo’s beauty, the Roman aristocracy settled along the coast in 100 BCE. The most significant structure was the Villa of Pausilypon, built by the Imperial official Publio Vedio Pollio. The Villa occupied much of the coastal stretch of the current Park. Remains of the Villa’s maritime structures, such as majestic tuff quarries, landings, mosaic floors, nymphaeums, and fish ponds, are still visible along the coast and below the sea surface, thanks to a local volcano-tectonic phenomenon of slow lifting and lowering of the earth's crust known as “bradyseism.”

The Gaiola Underwater Park is a center for scientific research and environmental education. The park plays a vital role in marine conservation efforts, offering a space for researchers to study marine life and ecosystems. Educational programs and workshops are regularly conducted to raise awareness about marine conservation and the importance of preserving the Bay of Naples’ natural and cultural heritage.

Posillipo Naples. Fiore Silvestro Barbato. CC BY-SA 2.0

Once, Gaiola was considered a cursed island. According to local legend, the lives of the island’s previous owners ended in suicide, financial disaster or shipwreck. In 1911, a shipskipper, Captain Gaspare Albenga, crashed his boat into the rocks of the island and drowned while he was examining it for potential purchase, although locals say neither body nor ship was ever found. 

In the 1920s, a Swiss businessman, Hans Braun took possession of the island and was subsequently found murdered and wrapped in a rug. Not long after, his wife drowned at sea. ​​The island was then purchased by Otto Grunback, a German perfume dealer. He suffered a heart attack and instantly died at the Villa. These are only a few examples of the many stories that exist about the misfortune that befalls those who attempt to purchase the island.

Bay of Trentaremi. Giuseppe Guida. CC BY-SA 4.0

After these tragedies, more legends about the area were born. One of the most famous is that the ghost of a faceless woman haunts the area. According to local fishermen, it is the spirit of a woman who died during the San Giorgio cruiser's shipwreck in 1911. Others believe the specter to be the ghost of Hans Braun's late wife.

The origin of the name “Gaiola” is debated. Officially, the namesake derives from two small islands located in the park off the coast of Posillipo. Some think that the name Gaiola comes from the Latin cavea, meaning cave, corral or grotto. In Neapolitan, the word gajola means cage, recalling the cage-like shape of the archipelago. Cavea can also mean amphitheater. Gaiola hosts its own amphitheater in the ancient Villa. 

Archaeological Park of Pausilypon. Armando Mancini. CC BY-SA 2.0

Visitors can participate in guided tours that offer exciting activities and insight into the park's ecological and historical significance. To visit the Gaiola Underwater Park, it is essential to make a reservation in advance due to the park's commitment to preserving its delicate ecosystems by maintaining a controlled number of visitors. You can enter the park any day with an online reservation, although hours and restrictions vary depending on the season. Aside from guided tours, there are many activities for visitors to take part in, such as glass-bottomed boats, snorkeling, scientific diving, and kayaking.

GETTING THERE

The park is accessible from Naples’ city center by metro, car or bus. The park’s website features detailed information on activities, visitor guides, and the park’s history.

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Rebecca Pitcairn

Rebecca studies Italian Language and Literature, Classical Civilizations, and English Writing at the University of Pittsburgh. She hopes to one day attain a PhD in Classical Archeology. She is passionate about feminism and climate justice. She enjoys reading, playing the lyre, and longboarding in her free time.