A Literary Pilgrimage: Colombia with Gabriel García Márquez

A travel itinerary for bibliophiles, Gabo fans and adventurers alike

Author Gabriel García Márquez, affectionately nicknamed “Gabo,” put his native country of Colombia on the literary map through his novels and short stories. 

Critics lauded his novel Love in The Time of Cholera, a tale of romance between social classes, as one of the best love stories of the 20th century. His work One Hundred Years of Solitude, a multi-generational novel about a family from an isolated town, is considered the Bible of magical realism, a genre that describes fantastical events in an otherwise realistic tone. 

Adventurous travelers and bibliophiles alike can experience the magic and romance of Colombia through García Marquez's eyes with an itinerary based on his life and literature.

1. Cartagena

In an interview with actor and filmmaker Salvatore Basile, García Márquez said, “I would say that I completed my education as a writer in Cartagena.” With that in mind, Caribbean-flanked Cartagena is the ideal place to begin your Gabo-inspired tour of Colombia. 

García Márquez lived in Cartagena for a year as a young man and kept a winter house in the city as an older man. He sets much of Love in The Time of Cholera in Cartagena. During his time in Cartagena, he was known for lingering on the plazas, waiting for something interesting to happen. 

To experience the city from Gabo’s perspective, people watch at the lush, lively Plaza Fernandez de Madrid and historic, central Plaza Bolivar. Grab a drink at El Coro, the upscale cocktail bar in The Sofitel Santa Clara hotel, which García Márquez frequented. Visit Gabo’s marble-clad final resting place at La Merced monastery on the University of Cartagena’s campus. 

The orange-tinted cityscape of Barranquilla. Fernando Orozco. CC BY-NC-SA 2.0

2. Barranquilla

Following Gabo’s footsteps, travel from Cartagena to Barranquilla, a seaport known as Colombia’s “Golden Gate" because here the Caribbean meets the country’s major Magdalena River. Gabo lived here in the 1950s while he worked as a journalist.

While living in Barranquilla, García Márquez was a part of the Barranquilla Group, a collection of writers, journalists and philosophers who met Barranquilla in the mid-twentieth century. In addition to García Márquez, notable members include Álvaro Cepeda Samudio, Germán Vargas and Alfonso Fuenmayor. Allegedly, Gabo’s relationship with these men inspired the characters of the “four friends of Macondo” in One Hundred Years of Solitude.

Connect with Gabo and his Barranquilla Group friends at La Cueva, a bar where the Barranquilla Group of writers and journalists met. It continues to serve as a hub of cultural activity, serving traditional food like Butifarra ceviche and Cashew rice, as well as supporting Colombian literary magazines. Tour the peach-colored church, Iglesia Nuestra Senora del Perpetuo Socorro, where Gabo married his wife Mercedes Barcha.

3. Aracataca

After connecting with García Márquez’s early days as a writer in Barranquilla and Cartagena, go back to where it all began in Aracataca: Gabo’s steamy, sleepy and tropical hometown. Gabo’s success put Aracataca on the map, rejuvenating the town as small groups of literary tourists trickled in to see where a genius grew up. You can meander through the white house and its verdant garden where García Márquez lived until he was eight, Casa Museo Gabriel García Márquez. 

In addition to being the locale of Gabo’s childhood, Aracataca inspired Macondo, the setting for One Hundred Years of Solitude. Stop for a photo opportunity in front of Aracataca’s bright, multicolored welcome sign, which includes an equally vivid Macando welcome sign in smaller letters.

4. Bogota

Conclude your tour of Gabo’s Colombia in mountainous Bogota. While not Gabo’s favorite city in Colombia, he called it “a remote, lugubrious city where an insomniac rain had been falling since the beginning of the sixteenth century” in his autobiography—it played a crucial role in his education. 

García Márquez attended secondary school and earned a law degree in Bogota. He published his work in the city’s newspaper El Espectador. He also lived here temporarily with his wife later in his life, in the colonial neighborhood La Candelaria.

Learn more about his work and life at the Centro Cultural Gabriel García Márquez, a museum and hub of artistic activity in a circular building with its roof offering views of Bogota’s mountains and cityscape. Sip a coffee at Cafe Pasaje, an old-school coffee shop where Gabo allegedly had his java each day when he was a young journalist.

Annie O’Brien

Annie is a third-year student at George Washington University studying English, Creative Writing, and History. From Philadelphia, she is an avid reader, pop-culture enthusiast, and traveler. She’s always eager to talk about her adventures abroad and domestically, whether it's telling about the time she hitch-hiked in Bavaria or offering recommendations for the best bookstores in Key West. She hopes to become a published author one day. Enjoy more of her writing on her Substack.

Fairies and Folklore: The Magic of Scotland and England

From castles to coves, uncover destinations steeped in the mythological histories of Scotland and England.

Portree, Isle of Skye’s capital city. CC BY 3.0

Whether your knowledge of fairies comes from nostalgic childhood tales or the well-informed worldbuilding of Tolkein, much of the folklore that has made its way into the popular imagination is embedded deep within the rolling hills of Scotland and England.  

While each country has its variations of the myth, taking a tour through the whimsical high grassed countryside and rocky shores is a great way to take in some awe-inspiring views and understand the magic embedded in these countries.

Scotland

Located off of Scotland's northwest coast, the Isle of Skye is full of picturesque villages, cliffed shores and quaint fishing towns. But rather than only enjoying the colorful coastal houses on Portree, the island's capital, extend your adventure and visit various sights around the island boasting mythical pedigrees.

Fairy Pools

A waterfall at the Fairy Pools on the Isle of Skye. CC BY 3.0

A waterfall phenomenon in Glen Brittle, the falls are surrounded by sky-capped mountains and boast aqua-blue waters of astonishing clarity. Some claim if you’re lucky, you may spot a fae or two amongst the willowing grasses and purple flowers; if not, the red deer, sheep, and rabbits inhabiting the area will have to suffice.

The pool's name comes from the local legend that claims a Clan McLeod Chief married a fairy Princess. Additionally, the pools are said to attract selkies, a group of mythical creatures that spend the day on the coast as seals and then enjoy the pools at night after transitioning to human form. 

Despite their charm, the Fairy Pools feature some brutally cold water temperatures, although it may be worthwhile to take a dip; as locals say, holding your head underwater for seven seconds is enough to bless you with the gift of eternal youth.

From the capital city of Portree, the Fairy Pools are a 35-minute drive and can be accessed through various tours operating on the island or of your own volition. The Fairy Pools walk is a 1.5-mile, easy hike to the pools from the parking lot.

Dunvegan Castle and Gardens

The Dunvegan Castle. CC BY-NC-ND 2.0 DEED

Open from March 29 to October 15, the Dunvegan Castle and Gardens is a medieval fortress dating back to the 1200s. Occupied by the same family for the last 800 years, the Hebridean castle is home to a few pieces of myth. On the Dunvegan property, one can walk across Fairy Bridge while exploring the grounds and even see the Fairy Flag, which is housed in the Castle.

The Fairy Flag is the prized silk scarf woven in the 4th century AD, either in Syria or Rhodes, and is said to possess miraculous powers instrumental in MacLeod’s battle victories. While there are two points of origin, a fairy origin and a crusader origin, the Fairy Bridge and Tower versions give the flag roots in folklore.

The Fairy Tower myth tells the tale of a restless MacLeod chief’s baby who was comforted one night by a fairy. The Fairy Bridge myth relates to the previously mentioned story of the MacLeod Chief and Fairy Princess; the story goes that the two parted ways on Fairy Bridge at Dunvegan, and the banner was his gift.

An astounding horticultural destination, Dunvegan boasts multiple gardens and woodland trails. The landscape and fauna are a wonder unto themselves. The gardens also feature lily ponds, gazebos and rare artifacts, such as a 17th-century sundial.

Located a 30-minute drive from Portree, the castle makes for an excellent excursion when visiting Scotland. While the Dunvegan Castle and Gardens offers visitor tours daily and make for a great day trip, the property's five holiday cottages allow visitors to enjoy an enchanting multi-day stay on the secluded property.

Fairy Glen

The labyrinth and peak at Fairy Glen on the Isle of Skye. CC BY NC-2.0

Protruding from the surrounding farmlands, Fairy Glen is a geographical landscape formed by an ancient landslide. The craggy formations and valleys are blanketed by a lush layer of green and are rumored to be home to the fae.  

Climbing up Fairy Glen’s peak or walking beneath the cover of moss-engulfed trees will make anyone feel like they are walking amongst the faeries. Be sure to stop and make a wish at the stone labyrinth when you are making your way through.

Fairy Glen is about a 25-minute drive from Portree, and various tours include this location as a stop. From the destination's parking lot there is a one-mile walking circuit that showcases the grounds, but feel free to adventure on your own and enjoy this majestic landscape.

England

On the rugged Southwestern tip of England, Cornwall is home to many of the country's mythical and folktales. Cornwall has its own variety of fairies, the Piskeys, a lively and mischievous people who originated from tales of a Pygmy race in Cornwall during the Neolithic period. More than just fairies, Cornwall is rumored to be home to mermaids, giants, and various King Arthur myths.

Sennen Cove

The coastline and surrounding shore at Sennen Cove. CC BY-SA 4.0 DEED.

England’s most westerly beach, Sennen Cove, is a white sand beach renowned for its excellent surfing conditions. In the early 20th century, American Anthropologist Walter Evan Wentz published "The Fairy Faith In Celtic Countries", conducting some of his research at Sennen Cove by speaking to locals about the dancing fairies. A study published at a similar time in the Journal of the Society for Psychic Research tells the story of Grace Penrose as written by E. Westlake. She speaks of miniature people in white dancing in the moonlight before being frightened and disappearing into a rock face along the shore.

To get to Sennen Cove, visitors can take a bus that leaves every two hours from Penzance or make the 20-minute drive themselves. Once at the Cove, you can enjoy Whitesands Bay, the stretch of white sand beach on the Cove’s coast. Overlooking the cove, stop at the Old Success Inn, a pub dating back to the 17th century, for lunch and drink. The Inn has a rich history in Sennen Cove and is rumored to be a site for mermaid sightings.

Elusive in nature, when visiting Sennen Cove, you may not stumble upon any fairies in the moonlight or catch a glimpse of mermaid tales ducking under the blue waves, but the Cove is perfect for a beach getaway anyway.

St. Michael’s Mount

The castle and causeway leading up to St. Michael’s Mount. CC BY-SA 3.0 DEED

A tidal island in Cornwall’s Mount Bay, St. Michael’s Mount is home to one of England’s most famous legends. Rumors of mermaids luring sailors to the island’s shores date as far back as 495 AD, but even more prominent is the Cornish tale of Jack the Giant Killer. With the island as his home, the evil Cormoran was defeated by none other than Jack after a long reign of terror. Per the legend, when visiting, be sure to hike up the mountain and around the island in search of the giant's missing stone heart.

Outside of folklore, the site is also a religious destination. Archangel Michael was rumored to have guided sailors to safety at the current location of the castle’s entry. Named after that patron saint of fishermen, St. Michael’s causeway allows travelers and pilgrims alike to walk from the mainland to the island during low tide.

To reach the island, walking over the causeway is one option; however, if it happens to be high tide, from March 29 to October 31 there are boats running from Marazion Beach to the island. Riddled with history, the castle, church and surrounding gardens offer a fusion of folk and faith, making Mount St. Michael a beautiful, enchanting destination on a Celtic fairytale tour.

Nicola is studying English Literature at George Washington University, where she also reports for the student newspaper, The Hatchet. Nicola's passion for literature and writing has sparked an interest in exploring the broader context surrounding written texts. Researching and writing for Catalyst Planet allows her to investigate nuanced issues that intersect with her interests in art history, culinary practices, and cultural traditions.


Nicola is studying English Literature at George Washington University, where she also reports for the student newspaper, The Hatchet. Nicola's passion for literature and writing has sparked an interest in exploring the broader context surrounding written texts. Researching and writing for Catalyst Planet allows her to investigate nuanced issues that intersect with her interests in art history, culinary practices, and cultural traditions.


Nicola is studying English Literature at George Washington University, where she also reports for the student newspaper, The Hatchet. Nicola's passion for literature and writing has sparked an interest in exploring the broader context surrounding written texts. Researching and writing for Catalyst Planet allows her to investigate nuanced issues that intersect with her interests in art history, culinary practices, and cultural traditions. Nicola is studying English Literature at George Washington University, where she also reports for the student newspaper, The Hatchet. Nicola's passion for literature and writing has sparked an interest in exploring the broader context surrounding written texts. Researching and writing for Catalyst Planet allows her to investigate nuanced issues that intersect with her interests in art history, culinary practices, and cultural traditions.

Nicola Degregorio

Nicola is studying English Literature at George Washington University, where she also reports for the student newspaper, The Hatchet. Nicola's passion for literature and writing has sparked an interest in exploring the broader context surrounding written texts. Researching and writing for Catalyst Planet allows her to investigate nuanced issues that intersect with her interests in art history, culinary practices, and cultural traditions.

Graffiti Capitals: 9 of the World’s Best Cities for Street Art

From Argentina to Estonia, artists around the world commemorate and contribute to city culture through street art.

Street art by Cabaio Stencil in Bueno Aires, Argentina. Parisa. CC BY-NC-SA 2.0

1. Bogota, Colombia

Street art in Bogota, Columbia. McKay Savage. CC BY 2.0

Lying in the east Andes mountains, Colombia’s capital Bogota is home to blocks of mural-covered walls. While graffiti has been decriminalized since 2013, the road to get here was violent. In 2011, 16-year-old Diego Becerra was shot and killed by police for spray painting, causing an uproar among Bogota’s residents.

The following advocacy to decriminalize spray painting was successful. The government’s relationship with street art continued to evolve after Justin Bieber visited Bogota in 2013 and was allowed to spray paint with police protection. The hypocrisy of giving special license and support to the Canadian singer spurred further advocacy, and now Bogota’s government actively promotes spray painting and other forms of street art. 

Today, travelers can revel in Bogota’s street art throughout the city, from the airport to downtown. Some must-see destinations include Distrito Graffiti, an industrial area where two whole blocks are decorated with vibrant paint, and La Candelaria, Bogota’s historical quarter featuring murals strewn throughout storefronts and parks.

2. Buenos Aires, Argentina

Street art in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Wally Gobetz. CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

Home of the record-breaking mural spanning over 20,000 square feet, Buenos Aires boasts a flourishing street art scene thanks to minimal restrictions and generally supportive attitudes. 

Stimulating murals dot the Argentine capital from north to south. Here, artists use cityscapes as a canvas to pay homage to their history and culture through vibrant and satirical murals. 

Travelers have access to a variety of ways to take in these works of art, from strolling about to partaking in self-guided or private tours. For those with tight budgets yearning to experience some of these masterpieces, there are several online exhibits only a click away.

3. Cape Town, South Africa

Street art in Cape Town, South Africa. Tsn92. CC BY 2.0

Situated among mountains on the Atlantic Ocean, Cape Town has a history drenched in creativity in spite of longstanding adversity. Areas like District Six maintained vibrant cultural and artistic diversity throughout Apartheid, while some areas such as Woodstock have had a post-Apartheid revival. 

During the 1980s, Cape Town's graffiti culture materialized as a tool to resist apartheid, with artists like Falko One using their street art to address injustice. Despite 30 years having passed since the collapse of the Apartheid regime, segregation and inequity persist alongside the street art calling attention to them. 

In February 2024, the eighth International Public Arts Festival took place in Cape Town. Each year, the festival offers locals and explorers alike an opportunity to immerse themselves in Cape Town’s street art culture.

4. Lisbon, Portugal

Street art in Lisbon, Portugal. Pedro Ribeiro Simões. CC BY 2.0 DEED

The evolution of Lisbon’s street art is exceptional, transforming a city with predominantly white buildings into one renowned for its color-filled streets over the past three centuries. 

Color began to be incorporated into building designs during the 1750s, and street art as we know it today didn’t appear until the democratic revolution in 1974. Meanwhile, an even deeper past lies underneath the streets in the 2,000-year-old Roman Galleries, where visitors can find ancient inscriptions on the tunnel walls.

Now, buildings across the city serve as canvases for artists, with many spanning several stories. Lisbon street artists don’t limit themselves to spray paint. Artists such as Vhils and Bordalo II get creative with their methods, incorporating chiseling techniques and found objects into their work.

5. Lodz, Poland

Street art in Lodz, Poland. Aira. CC BY-NC-SA 2.0

Often referred to as the capital of Polish street art, Lodz is a city with a rich history in the arts, gaining recognition over the years for its audiovisual arts scene ranging from fashion to film.

Many organizations have taken initiatives to support and expand street art in Lodz. Since 2009 the Urban Forms Foundation has been at the forefront of Lodz's street art movement. This organization offers advice to urban artists while maintaining the Urban Forms Gallery, a collection of creatively coated walls intended to bring life and recognition to the community. 

Local street artists like M-City and the Etam Crew enhance the landscape with murals in styles ranging from futurism to realism. Lodz draws urban artists from around the world, with the Urban Forms Gallery project engaging artists from eight countries. 

6. Penang, Malaysia

Street art in Penang, Malaysia. Mohd Fazlin Mohd Effendy Ooi. CC BY 2.0

Hundreds of murals drape the skyline of Penang, Malaysia. The street art movement began in 2012 when the Penang Tourist Board commissioned Ukrainian street artist Ernest Zacharevic. 

Street art in Penang has since been a means of reflecting community culture and values. Zacharevic’s murals center on local communities and history, and can be seen throughout George Town. In the same city, travelers can also admire pieces like the 12-mural series of stray cats created by local organizations using street art to call attention to issues like animal welfare. 

7. Stavanger, Norway

Street art in Stavanger, Norway. Sílvia Darnís. CC BY-NC-SA 2.0 DEED

In Stavanger, Norway, explorers can gaze upon the paradox of traditional architecture contrasted with progressive street art. Here, travelers can find a plethora of urban masterpieces created by world-famous street artists like Banksy and local talent like Algebra.

The dynamic street art scene today can be traced back to the Nuart Street Art Festival. Since 2001, the Nuart Festival has gathered teams of street artists from around the world to collaborate on projects throughout Stavanger. Beyond the creation of new street art, the Nuart Festival contributes to Stavanger’s urban art culture by hosting events, tours and workshops around the city.

For those looking to take a step further into the world of street art, some street artists in Stavanger offer classes. 

8. Tallinn, Estonia

Street art in Tallinn, Estonia. Karen Bryan. CC BY-ND 2.0 DEED

Although the emergence of street art in Tallinn, Estonia, is fairly recent, this city has much to offer to travelers seeking masterful creations on city walls. In 2016, an official street art program began, initially centered around street dance, but some initial mural painting provided building blocks for a soon-to-be burgeoning street art movement.

The following year, the Mextonia Festival brought Estonian and international street art into the spotlight. This cross-cultural festival was a gift from Mexico to celebrate 100 years of independence for the Baltic nation. Today, visitors can see collaborative murals from this festival incorporating folk mythology and symbolism. Over 30 murals from the Mextonia Festival dot highways and cover walls throughout the city.

9. Valparaiso, Chile

Street art in Valparaiso, Chile. Gabriel White. CC BY-SA 2.0 DEED

Located on Central Chile’s Pacific Coast and often referred to as the Jewel of the Pacific, Valparaiso Chile is known to be among the most tagged cities in the world. Some murals in Valparaiso created by artists like Roberto Matta date back to the 1960s.

A couple of the best places to view Valparaiso’s breathtaking street art are Templeman Street and the open-air street art museum in Bellavista. Valparaiso’s hilly terrain provides numerous viewpoints for street art gazing. 

A unique piece created in 2012 by Inti Castro spans three buildings and can only be viewed from Paseo de Atkinson in Concepcion Hill and Carcel Hill. Castro’s horizontal giant is far from the only street art you can see at Concepcion Hill, which is a great starting point for self-guided tours.

Madison Paulus

Madison is a student at George Washington University studying international affairs, journalism, mass communication, and Arabic. Born and raised in Seattle, Washington, Madison grew up in a creative, open-minded environment. With passions for human rights and social justice, Madison uses her writing skills to educate and advocate. In the future, Madison hopes to pursue a career in science communication or travel journalism.


Dive into Songkran: The Thai New Year Festival

Want to experience a month-long celebration featuring water battles in the streets and other amazing festivities? Discover the Thai Songkran Festival.

A water fight during the 2015 Songkran Festival in Thailand. Sano Rin. CC BY-NC 2.0

Thousands of international travelers are drawn to Thailand each year to celebrate the Songkran Festival, also known as Thai New Year. Songkran has been celebrated for thousands of years, but this year is special. In 2023, UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) added the festival to the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity list. In honor of this recognition, the Thai government plans to hold Songkran festivities for the entire month of April 2024, instead of the usual three-day period between April 13th and 15th. 

The Songkran Festival has evolved over the years. The first recorded reference to the holiday dates back to the 15th century, with some scholars theorizing that it was derived from the Indian Holi Festival. The Sanskrit word for “movement” is the root of the term “Songkran,” which refers to the movement of the sun from the astrological months of Pisces to Aries during April. 

Water is a focal point of many Songkran Festival traditions, symbolizing cleansing and good fortune for the coming year. Rod Nam Dam Hua is a tradition in which youngsters pour scented water on their elders' hands to express gratitude. Scented water is also sprinkled on Buddha statues to bring prosperity, and respect for ancestors is shown by bathing their urns. According to some scholars, the notorious water battles began to promote tourism during the 20th century. Other traditions include offering food to Buddhist monks and bringing sand pagodas to local temples to replenish the sand tracked out of the temples throughout the year. 

April is the hottest part of the year in Thailand. If you want to beat the heat by getting soaked during the water battles, check out streets like Khao San Road in Bangkok, or other popular walking streets in cities like Pattaya or Chiang Mai. As locals and tourists drench each other with buckets and colorful squirt guns, music and the aromas of street foods like Thai fried chicken (called Gai Tod) fill the air. 

If water fights aren’t your thing, April is still a great time to experience Thailand. Travelers can experience a variety of activities from Thai beauty pageants to boat races. Thailand's natural environments boast breathtaking destinations from white sand beaches featuring coral reefs to lush hiking trails. For those yearning to see some historical wonders, Thailand offers ancient destinations like the city of Ayutthaya and the Phanom Rung temple complex. You can then recover from a long day of fun with revitalizing Thai dishes such as beef curried noodles, called Christao Khao Soy Nuea, or Bangkok Glutton Som Tum, a Green Papaya salad. 

As Thais gear up for this year's Songkran Festival, it is important for travelers to stay up to date on Covid-related travel protocols and other ways to be respectful during the celebrations. For all the water-loving cultural fanatics, the 2024 Songkran Festival awaits you.

Madison Paulus

Madison is a student at George Washington University studying international affairs, journalism, mass communication, and Arabic. Born and raised in Seattle, Washington, Madison grew up in a creative, open-minded environment. With passions for human rights and social justice, Madison uses her writing skills to educate and advocate. In the future, Madison hopes to pursue a career in science communication or travel journalism.

The Rise of Cat Cafes: Popularity and Pitfalls

While they have a rich history and are fun for humans, cat cafes are a hot topic in animal rights ethics.

Cat in cafe window. Atahan Demir. CC0.

Scooping litter, carpets of cat hair, vet visits and medical bills: taking care of a cat—or any other animal, for that matter—can be both tedious and expensive. But on the other hand, cats are adorable, energetic and entertaining furballs. Previously, there was no in between—if you wanted a cat, it was either all in or nothing. Now there is an in-between solution: cat cafes. Cat cafes serve typical coffee shop beverages and pastries with the added bonus of being able to spend time with a variety of cats and kittens. Often cat cafes charge based on time spent at the cafe, with most cafes having set rates for either 30 minutes or one hour with the cats. 

Although cat cafes are currently immensely popular, at one point they weren’t the global phenomenon they are today. The first cat cafe, Cat Flower Garden, was founded in Taipei, Taiwan in 1998. Although there were other cafes to house cats prior to Cat Flower Garden, they were the first cafe to market themselves specifically as being a cat cafe. Now, people from both Taiwan and around the world not only come to play with their fifteen in-house cats, but also to ask for business advice. When Cat Flower Garden first opened its doors, however, business was slow. It took both time and media coverage for people to warm up to the idea of having cats pounce around hot drinks and food.

A cat sitting near a cup of coffee. Bulat Khamitov. CC0.

Tourists brought the idea back to Japan, and in 2004 a cafe in Osaka successfully opened. Multiple cafes opened in Tokyo in 2005 and soon the demand for cat cafes took off. People from around the world traveled to both the original location in Taiwan and the new business ventures in Japan’s metropolises. The cafes opened in Japan were a turning point in this phenomenon’s popularity because cities like Osaka and Tokyo are so densely populated that many people do not have the room or time to be able to take care of cats properly. Thus, people who did not own pets but were still cat lovers could have an opportunity to spend time with their favorite animal. 

As business boomed in Asia, many people in the United States also took note of the cafe's popularity. As the first cafe in the United States opened in Oakland, California in 2014, when pet food company Purina ONE sponsored a pop-up cafe in New York City that same year, the public became even more interested in this new, eccentric concept. But, as cat cafes began to pop up throughout the United States and on a global scale—with openings in Melbourne, Australia, Munich, Germany and London, for example—some began to question the ethics of cat cafes.

Lounging Cat. Pixabay. CC0.

One United Kingdom based animal welfare charity, the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA), made a statement that deemed cat cafes unethical due to the poor, unstable socialization of cats and the occasional unclean cafe. Moreover, many cafes do not properly vaccinate or neuter their cats, leading to diseases running rampant among their tenants. Also, while many cat cafes source their animals from rescues, some rely on breeders, giving no succor to the vast number of shelter cats that are left unadopted and, in turn, are euthanized.

At the same time, many cat cafes source their animals from rescues or shelters, which in turn helps them get adopted by cafe patrons. This is why if you want to reap the benefits of cat cafes—which have reportedly been linked to reducing anxiety in humans—you should know how to identify an ethical versus unethical cafe. An easy call ahead can help determine the status of the cafe. First, you can ask where the cats living in the cafe are sourced from, if they can be adopted, and if they have been both vaccinated and neutered. You can also plan a visit to the cafe before investing money in a session. If the cat cafe is dirty, the cats do not have proper spaces to retreat to if overwhelmed, or if the staff do not have proper knowledge of how to properly care for a cat, then it may be safe to deem the cafe unethical. Whether you intend to enjoy some delicious coffee and quick play time with cats or are considering adoption, here are ten popular cafes:

  1. Cat Cafe Calico Kichijoji (Park Exit), Tokyo, Japan

  2. The Witty Whisker, St. Augustine, Florida, United States.

  3. Cat Town, Oakland, California, United States.

  4. La Gatoteca, Madrid, Spain

  5. Whiskers and Cream, London, England

  6. Brooklyn Cat Cafe, Brooklyn, New York, United States

  7. Camulet, New Taipei City, Taiwan

  8. Crumbs and Whiskers, locations in both Los Angeles, California and Washington, DC, United States

  9. Beans Cat Cafe, locations in both Beacon and New Paltz, New York, United States

  10. Catfe, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada

Carina Cole

Carina Cole is a media studies student with a concentration 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.

5 Adventures in Borneo

Borneo, the third-largest island in the world, boasts an enriching culture and a variety of adventurous nature excursions.

Bohey Dulang—Borneo. JohnJoDeery. CC by 2.0.

Borneo, an island located in the southwestern portion of the Pacific Ocean, is the third-largest island in the world, and the only one that is shared by three countries—Malaysia, Indonesia, and Brunei. The Malaysian part of the island consists of the two states Sabah and Sarawak, with Indonesia holding sway over five provinces in what its citizens Kalimantan and Brunei possessing the smallest section of land named after the country itself. As a part of the Greater Sunda Islands group, Borneo is bordered by two other islands, Sulawesi to the east and Sumatra to the west. The island of Borneo has approximately 292,000 square miles of territory in total, and harbors a significant population of 21.26 million people. Even divided, Borneo is an intriguing and obscure place that most travelers are not aware of; its hot and humid climate makes for an ideal tropical destination. From the soaring heights of Mount Kinabalu to the mysterious depths of the Mulu Caves, the island provides many opportunities for adventurers.

Map of Borneo. Peter Fitzgerald. CC by 2.0.

Sea Diving in Sipadan Island

Scuba Diving in Sipadan Island. CC0.

Sipadan Island, located in the Celebes Sea and situated off the northeastern coast of Borneo, is renowned as one of the world's premier dive destinations, known especially for its marine biodiversity and pristine coral reefs. Diving in the waters surrounding Sipadan offers a scenic experience, where the coral gardens provide a backdrop to an incredible array of marine life. Schools of barracuda, jackfish and sea turtles are all present in these waters, so they’re easy to spot. The island's underwater landscape, featuring dramatic drop-offs and caverns, adds an element of excitement to the exploration. With its protected status as a national park under Sabah Parks, its limited dive permits and its no-fishing policy, Sipadan ensures a sustainable underwater environment, allowing divers to witness the beauty of the ocean.

Exploring the Ancient Mulu Caves

Caves of Mulu. Eric Lanning. CC by 2.0.

Exploring the Mulu Caves in Borneo involves a journey into the depths of one of the world's most fascinating landscapes. Situated in Gunung Mulu National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Mulu Caves system is a network of limestone caverns, tunnels and chambers, shaped over millions of years. The expansive caves are full of stalactites and stalagmites, creating an otherworldly environment that transports visitors into a space of natural wonder. The Deer Cave, one of the largest subterranean passages globally, impresses with its vast chambers. Adventure-seekers can also participate in guided tours, which include crossing rope bridges and navigating through passages, providing a sense of exhilaration.

The World's Largest Floating Village in Brunei

At Kampong Ayer. Watchsmart. CC by 2.0.

Kampong Ayer, often referred to as the "The World’s Largest Floating Village," is a water town situated in the heart of Bandar Seri Begawan, the capital of Brunei. This settlement is one of the largest global stilted communities, consisting of intricately connected houses, schools, mosques and markets that rise above the Brunei River on wooden supports. The village has a history dating back centuries, with traditional wooden architecture and a lifestyle deeply rooted in the water. Approximately 13,000 people still reside in their traditional houses, and instead of using roads or cars as methods of transportation, water taxis take residents from one place to another. The water village showcases a unique way of life that one doesn’t see often, and it has endured for generations in Brunei.

Outdoor Adventures in Kalimantan

Batang Kawah River, West Kalimantan. DN.Zrr. CC by-NC-SA 2.0.

Kalimantan, the Indonesian portion of Borneo, is a treasure trove for outdoor enthusiasts seeking thrilling adventures and nature. The region is renowned for its dense rainforests, winding rivers and diverse wildlife, creating the opportunity for a variety of outdoor activities. Adventure seekers can embark on multi-day treks through the rainforests, seeing tropical flora and fauna and perhaps even getting the chance to discover orangutans. The rivers of Kalimantan offer opportunities for exciting activities such as white-water rafting, with rapids making the excursion more fun. For those seeking a more serene activity, cruising along the territory's scenic rivers on wooden boats provides a tranquil way to take in the breathtaking surroundings.

Hiking at Mount Kinabalu

Mount Kinabalu, Borneo. Paul Williams. CC by-NC 2.0.

Hiking Mount Kinabalu is an experience that beckons adventurers to the landscapes of Borneo. It is a challenging hike and rigorous pace, and usually can last around two days. As Southeast Asia's highest peak, standing proudly at 4,095 meters (13,435 feet), Mount Kinabalu dominates the Malaysian state of Sabah. The ideal time period for completing this excursion is between March and April. The ascent begins in the foothills and takes hikers through the ecosystems, from rainforests to meadows. There are even different routes you can choose to partake in, including the Ranau and Kota Belud Trails. The journey reveals panoramic views and a variety of flora and fauna—including 5,000 types of plants, 326 different birds and over 100 mammal species all on this single mountain. Mount Kinabalu, because of its partially difficult trek, is a physical accomplishment that leaves a lasting impact, making it a must-see in Southeast Asia.

Riley Baker

Riley Baker is a first-year student at James Madison University majoring in Writing, Rhetoric, and Technical Communication.  She enjoys elements of storytelling and creative writing and likes listening to music. In addition, she is interested in journalistic-style writing and editing, and intends to focus on writing articles about lesser known travel locations and impactful world topics.

The Peranakan: A Unique Southeast Asian Fusion Culture Rooted in Region’s Traditions

The Peranakan culture is defined by its multicultural roots that have long-lasting influences on the Malay Peninsula. From food to fashion, the Peranakan occupy a unique role in the region’s extensive history.

Peranakans heavily influenced the region’s architecture—the iconic shophouse being one of those contributions. Gildardo Saánchez. CC BY-NC-SA 2.0. 

Along the Malacca Strait, an enduring and eclectic culture still survives. The Peranakan is a syncretic minority group mainly found on the Malay Peninsula. Peranakans are descendants of early multicultural unions; southern Chinese traders and settlers would marry local Malay, Thai and Javanese women. Though their origins go back over 600 years, Peranakan culture was at its most influential between the late 19th and 20th centuries. Out of this union came a unique fusion identity that birthed new languages like Baba Malay as well as terms like “babas” and “nyonyas” to describe Peranakan men and women.

The Peranakan have roots in Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Myanmar and even on the Thai island of Phuket. Jpatokal. CC SA 1.0. 

In a 2009 study, former National University of Malaysia professor Lee Su Kim chronicled the niche position that Peranakans inhabited in the region. As children of mixed cultures, the Peranakan were multilingual and acted as intermediaries between different ethnic groups. During the colonial era, these skills entrenched Peranakans as a hierarchical elite. They acquired material wealth, were educated in British schools, and occupied roles such as diplomats and record-keepers.  

A medley of iconic Peranakan foods including rendang and stir-fry kangkong leaves with dehydrated mini shrimp. Tammi Kwok. CC BY 2.0.

Baskets of desserts including the iconic nyonya kuih, coconut confections made from glutinous rice and pandan. Chotda. CC BY-NC-ND 2.0. 

Despite being a minority, Peranakan culture has also infused itself into nearly every plate in the region. From iconic dishes like asam laksa (a spicy seafood noodle soup served with mint and ginger) to chendol (a shaved ice dessert slathered in coconut milk, palm sugar syrup, and other sweet treats), Peranakan cuisine—or Nyonya cooking—has created a unique palette that is representative of the region’s multiethnic populace. Not only is the cuisine widespread within the region, but also proof of the prolific trade that once flourished in the past.

In 2016, the Journal of Ethnic Foods published a study on the historical perspectives of Nyonya cuisine in Malaysia, finding that Peranakan cooking was simply an extension of the “cultural borrowing and cultural innovation through contact with local ingredients.” As a trading hub, Peranakan cuisine evolved to include Thai, Indian, Dutch, Portuguese and English cooking techniques.

Despite these rich contributions, the knowledge of Peranakan culture is fading. In a personal blog, Peranakan descendant Shahan Cheong details how the destruction of World War II all but obliterated history and routine along the Malacca Strait. Although pieces of Peranakan culture survive through architecture, styles of dress, food and decor, few living descendants can actively recount the story behind each historical artifact and site.

Guo Pei’s creations were loosely inspired by Peranakan fashion; they were showcased at the summer 2019 Asian Civilizations Museum exhibition in Singapore. Courtesy of Rhiannon Koh.  

However, there have been efforts to revitalize Peranakan culture. In the summer of 2019, the Asian Civilizations Museum in Singapore housed pieces by renowned designer Guo Pei. Part of the exhibit showcased several dresses and wedding gowns emulating the beads and colors of Peranakan fashion. A few months later in November, Miss Malaysia-Universe donned a Peranakan-themed national costume to symbolize the beauty and multicultural heritage of Malaysia. In 2020, the New Straits Times ran a piece on the enduring legacy of Peranakan fashion; styles like the kebaya dress and the staple cotton sarong are still worn. Ultimately, historical records and other forms of art like cultural plays have been crucial in reviving dusty memories of the Peranakans’ grand past.

Rhiannon Koh

Rhiannon earned her B.A. in Urban Studies & Planning from UC San Diego. Her honors thesis was a speculative fiction piece exploring the aspects of surveillance technology, climate change, and the future of urbanized humanity. She is committed to expanding the stories we tell.

The Mountain Gorillas of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

Photographer Laura Grier adventures among gorillas and lions in Rwanda and Uganda.

There are few places in the world where wild animals are unafraid of humans, and you can view them in their own majesty in the wild without cages, tourist vehicles or controlling their environment. The Gorillas of the Bwindi Impenetrable forest of Rwanda and Uganda are on the top of my list as a place where I have been able to come face-to-face with animals and spend the day with them in their environment. Those moments have been life-changing for me.

I led a group of six women and one man to Rwanda and Uganda on a philanthropic adventure trip; all of the locals affectionately called our one token male “Silverback” since the male Silverbacks gorillas always travel with a harem of female gorillas in the forest.

We started our trip in Kigali, the capital of Rwanda, and had a meal in “Heaven”, the restaurant that was made famous by the book “A Thousand Hills to Heaven,” a memoir about one couple and how they healed a Rwandan village, raised a family near the old killing fields, and built this restaurant named Heaven. The authors, Josh and Alissa, newlyweds at the time, were at a party and received a challenge: “Do you think you can really make a difference here in Africa?”

This memoir inspired me to lead this trip and to see if through adventure, we too could all give back and make a positive impact here in Rwanda and Uganda. So it was only fitting to begin our journey right in this spot.

Our first stop was visiting the female artisan weaving collective, Handspun Hope, who are mostly widowed women from the horrific genocide that happened here in the 1990s. Many men were murdered in a two-week period of time, leaving women and children orphaned and widowed and with no way to provide for themselves. This non-profit created a gorgeous, safe oasis for these women to weave and gather together and purchasing these goods helps them to support their families and communities and help lift them out of poverty.

Due to the genocide, Rwanda has received a lot of aid and tourism help from around the world. We noticed a marked difference in infrastructure and wealth between Rwanda and Uganda; Uganda is by far the poorer neighbor. So we decided to stay in an eco-lodge on the Ugandan side of the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest to help support the country’s tourism, and also receive the benefits of the Ugandan side’s lower price tag. 

We spent two days hiking out to see the gorillas. Each morning, groups of trackers leave at sunrise to track the various families of gorillas in the forest, and then a couple hours later we leave in groups to follow their trail and hopefully intercept the great apes. Many of these trackers were once poachers, but now tourist dollars flowing in make the gorillas worth more alive than dead—many poachers have switched to the “good side,” helping to protect these giant creatures.

What I loved was learning about these gorilla groups and how they live. They all have names and very human personalities and soap opera-esque drama. They make nests every night on the ground to sleep in, and often you will find them hanging out in the trees above you. When you do finally spot a group of gorillas, they seem very nonchalant about your presence. It doesn’t matter how many hours it took hiking through thick jungle to find them, once discovered the clock starts ticking and you get only an hour to hang out with them before the rules dictate that you have to leave. You can always spend the next day hiking out to find them again, but you will never know how long that will take. They are always on the move.

Nothing really can describe sitting next to a gorilla in the wild and staring into their faces. They are gentle yet powerful creatures, and more akin to us than different. Their forests are  protected through tourism dollars, one of the few times I feel like tourism is truly benefiting wildlife, since the Ugandans and Rwandans have a deep respect for these gorilla groups. 

After two days of trekking through thick jungles in the cool, misty mountains looking for gorillas, we drove down into the arid savannas of Uganda to visit the Hanging Lions of Queen Elizabeth National Park. This is the only place on Earth where you will find prides of Ishasha lions just hanging out in the high limbs of Sycamore Fig trees. This is a very rare sight, because this unique group of only about 35 lions is endangered due to threats of human-wildlife conflict and retaliatory snaring and poisoning. We drove around in safari vehicles and witnessed gorgeous wildlife, including herds of elephants and hippos and, of course, very full, very happy lions in the trees.

Laura Grier

Laura is a dynamic Adventure Photographer, Photo Anthropologist, Travel Writer, and Social Impact Entrepreneur. With a remarkable journey spanning 87 countries and 7 continents, Laura's lens captures both the breathtaking landscapes and the intricate stories of the people she encounters. As a National Geographic artisan catalog photographer, Huffington Post columnist, and founder of Andeana Hats, Laura fuses her love for photography, travel, and social change, leaving an impact on the world.

Unraveling the Mysteries of Rapa Nui (Easter Island)

Uncover Rapa Nui's mysteries, sustainable allure, and colossal moai on Easter Island.

Some of Rapa Nui’s stone statues (moai) watch as the sun sets behind the island. Antonio Sánchez. Unsplash.

Rapa Nui is a remote Polynesian island located 2,200 miles off the coast of Chile that spans only 63 square miles. The island is also known as Easter Island, a name that comes from Dutch explorers who arrived there on Easter Sunday in 1722. Rapa Nui gets its distinct triangular shape from the lava beds of three extinct volcanoes and is home to just a few thousand permanent residents. Despite this small population, the island has managed to land itself on many travelers’ must-see destination lists. The island is home to hundreds of imperious humanoid statues whose mysterious past have captured the attention of more than 100,000 visitors a year.

Travel Highlights

Like many other island destinations, Rapa Nui has beaches to enjoy in addition to a broad range of places to spend the night. Given the island’s many environmental concerns such as rock erosion and rising sea levels, there has been considerable focus on working toward a sustainable tourist industry. As such, Rapa Nui has several ecolodges that are popular with travelers. There is an abundance of fresh seafood, places to snorkel and opportunities to hike (Rapa Nui is a UNESCO-designated national park, making up 42% of the island). While walking around, visitors may be able to spot some of the wild horses that roam freely across the island; there are remarkably few indigenous plants, however, with only 31 wild flowering plants. The island’s three extinct volcanoes (Rano Kau, Poike, and Terevaka) also offer a chance for a unique exploration experience. 

The biggest draw of Rapa Nui is its moai. Most understand these statues as being representations of the ancestors of the Polynesian islanders who discovered the island over 1,000 years ago. Some moai have pukao, which are red ornaments that rest on some statues’ heads, and some moai sit on platforms. An ahu, where a number of these platforms can be found, was the traditional center for ceremonies on Rapa Nui. For visitors, the two most popular locations to see moai are at the Rano Raraku quarry and at the Ahu Tongariki. Although the average height of moai is 13 feet, these impressive sculptures can get as large as 80 tons and 33 feet tall. Archaeologists have determined that moai were originally made of basalt, trachyte and red scoria, but eventually moved to volcanic rock. The method of transportation for these especially large moai has sparked numerous theories and debates, with no plausible way for the statues to be moved from their place of creation to their final resting places with the resources available at the time. 

A close-up photo of a giant moai set against the Rapa Nui hillside. Thomas Griggs. Unsplash.

The Mysteries of the Island

Nearly every part of Rapa Nui’s early history has been met with some dispute; even the date of the Polynesians’ arrival has major discrepancies. One archaeological dig determined that humans first made contact with the island around 1200 A.D. This date is contested, however, with others believing that Polynesians found the island as much as 400 years earlier. The inconsistencies in archaeological data and lack of concrete evidence has led to numerous excavations being run and an abundance of people hypothesizing about the island, especially in regards to the Rapa Nui people’s process of moving the moai and how the population declined so quickly. Most of the speculation is about the time before the Dutch first arrived on the island in 1722. While there are nuances to each historian’s hypothesis, there are a few major trends. There are those who believe that the Indigenous Rapa Nui were victims of circumstance and those who believe they were inadvertently the main cause of their own suffering. While the exact truth of the early Rapa Nui history remains unknown, here are some common beliefs: 

For those who believe the Rapa Nui people were primarily victims of misfortune, there are mentions of a relatively sizable amount of wood being cut down, mostly to provide for the people and to transport the moai. Once the statues were in place, evidence suggests that additional changes were made in order to ensure they stayed upright. The complete destruction of large trees and foliage, however, can be mostly credited to invasive rats that feasted on the palm trees which once populated the island. As a dwindling Indigenous population continued to live on Rapa Nui, they were eventually confronted by a series of hostile visitors, all of whom contributed to their population becoming decimated. In 1722, the European explorers, beginning with a daylong visit from the Dutch, brought disease and strife to the Rapa Nui people. The continued arrival of European traders, explorers and other foreigners over the following decades contributed to the decline of the Rapa Nui people. 

Others adhere more to a story of ecocide. In order to move the moai, the Rapa Nui cut an excessive amount of trees down. Given that there is a considerable amount of charcoal in the island’s soil, some archaeologists have considered the possibility that the Rapa Nui people set fire to grass once they ran out of wood, another potential contributor to ecocide. Without the trees to anchor the soil, the fertile ground got washed away, ultimately leading to a shortage of crops and eventual starvation. Some have speculated about cannibalism, but this theory is less popular. In terms of outside contact, the Rapa Nui people may have had a war with another Polynesian group in 1680 which would have contributed to a population decline as well. Foreign arrivals then brought an additional, crippling blow of disease and violence.

Rapa Nui, from 1722-Present

Once Rapa Nui became known to foreigners, it suffered a similar fate to many other islands in Polynesia. At times, the Europeans destroyed property and forced many natives off of Rapa Nui. There were other hostile visitors as well. Peruvian slave traders came to the island during the 19th century and took many Rapa Nui people away as slaves. Despite the native Rapa Nui population having about 3,000 people in 1860, by 1877 so many people had been taken or killed that their numbers dwindled to just 111 individuals. 

Slavers and traders were not the only ones to come to Rapa Nui, and this heightened attention on the island eventually resulted in its current legal connection to Chile. Numerous missionaries came to the island as early as 1864, resulting in a shift toward Christianity for those who remained on Rapa Nui. This change made the island more welcoming in the eyes of many people from the mainland and prompted more interest from outsiders. The island’s annexation to Chile occurred in 1888, but the island was mostly left alone until 1903 when it was leased as a sheep farm for 50 years. During that time, the Chilean government applied an increasing amount of pressure on the Indigenous population such as confining them to one part of the island, Hanga Roa, and considering them the property of the state. By 1965 a governor was appointed to the island by the Chilean government, thus allowing the Rapa Nui people to become Chilean citizens. 

In 2010, Rapa Nui’s Indigenous clans began a major push back against the Chilean government, citing many injustices from the past decades including poverty, forced ghettos and land ownership discrepancies. This resulted in extensive discussion, violence and standoffs between the Chilean government and Rapa Nui’s Indigenous clans. In August of 2010, several Rapa Nui natives occupied a resort on the island, saying that their land had been taken unwittingly from them and was becoming developed by the Chilean government. Chilean police then forcibly evicted them from the premises, an action which received backlash from the Indigenous community. While the relationship between the two groups has since de-escalated, the situation is not truly resolved.

Seeing the Mystery for Yourself

Visiting Rapa Nui can be done by booking a 5 ½-hour flight out of Santiago, Chile. About half of the island’s current population considers themselves to be native Rapa Nui, and although some of the original Polynesian language is still present, residents speak Spanish predominantly. Rapa Nui is an island steeped in mystery and isolation, making it an intriguing and far-off destination for travelers looking to learn about Polynesian culture, explore volcanoes, and above all, meet the 887 moai that are scattered across the island. 

Phoebe Jacoby

Phoebe is a Media Studies major and Studio Art minor at Vassar College who believes in the importance of sharing stories with others. Phoebe likes to spend her free time reading, drawing, and writing letters. She hopes to continue developing her skills as a writer and create work that will have a positive outward effect.

The Extensive Cuisine of Chinese Muslims

From pita bread to lamb, halal Chinese food’s influences stretch from the Mediterranean to Russia and from China to the Middle East.

Street vendors feed crowds with a doughy treat in Urumqi, the capital of China’s Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region. People’s Development Bank. CC BY-NC-ND 2.0.

China has around 23 million Muslims, predominantly made up of the Hui and the Uyghur ethnic groups. Chinese Islam began in 651 A.D., when Islam was first introduced to the country by Arab traders under the Tang dynasty. A diverse array of religions and cultures were brought to Tang China, including Islam, Judaism and Zoroastrianism. However, Islam was the only religion of these to make a lasting impression on the Chinese population. Chinese Islam expanded to different regions and soon developed its own local traditions and foods. The culinary wealth that sprang from Chinese Islamic heritage progressed into popular street foods and dishes still consumed by Chinese people today.

Hui Cuisine

Hui Muslims mostly occupy areas in the Ningxia autonomous region in China’s northwest. Their cuisine is called “qingzhen cai,” loosely meaning “pure truth” in Mandarin. This reflects the widely associated cleanliness of qingzhen restaurants due to their prohibition on smoking and drinking alcohol. Hui cuisine quickly spread across China due to its unique and much-loved flavors. 

Close-up shot of aiwowo. Dozen Dessert. CC BY 2.0.

A decadent Hui dessert that remains popular among street vendors is aiwowo, or “love drops.” These small round buns are made of sweet glutinous rice flour and are dusted with a blend of sesame seeds, sugar and walnut kernel chips. Though aiwowo’s inspiration is from Hui cuisine, the snack has become a popular roadside treat in Beijing.

Lanzhou beef noodles in a hot and earthy broth. Language Teaching. CC BY 2.0.

Another seminal dish of the qingzhen cai tradition is Lanzhou beef noodle soup. Many consider this soup to be the most famous noodle dish in all of China. The base of this hearty dish is an aromatic beef broth boiled with cumin seeds, Sichuan peppercorns, onions, ginger, star anise and cinnamon. The fresh, chewy hand-pulled noodles are placed in the broth on a bed of beef slices and chili oil.

Uyghur Food

Uyghurs first came to China around the 3rd century A.D., and ruled over their own kingdom in the 8th century in present-day northern Mongolia. Today, Uyghur populations are concentrated in the Xinjiang Autonomous Region in far northwest China. The Chinese government has recently gained notoriety for setting up large-scale prison camps in Xinjiang, with critics calling it a “genocide” and an attempt to entirely wipe out the Uyghur populace.

Uyghurs tend to draw flavors from Central Asian, Middle Eastern and Chinese cuisines. Both the Hui and the Uyghurs base their dining experience around beef and lamb, avoiding pork due to religious purposes. 

However, Uyghur foods draw far more on their Turkish influence: baked goods such as girda naan, similar to bagels, are central to their cuisine.

A vendor prepares lamb kebabs on a coal-fired barbecue for a busy night in Xinjiang. S. Tsui. CC BY-NC-ND 2.0.

In Xinjiang’s capital of Urumqi, visitors can find local vendors selling mutton kebabs, which are pieces of sheep flavored with cumin, paprika, salt and pepper, placed on a skewer and seared over smoky charcoal.

Roasted lamb from a halal restaurant in Beijing. Ulterior Epicure. CC BY-NC-ND 2.0.

Perhaps the most famous Uyghur-inspired dish is roasted whole lamb. Rubbed with a spicy menagerie of cumin, salt, ginger and pepper, the lamb is coated with a flour and yolk batter and baked in a special oven for an hour. This dish is considered a luxury that deserves only the highest-quality meat. 

Pile of nang in Xinjiang. Umami. CC BY 2.0.

Another famous Uyghur staple is nang, which is reminiscent of naan bread: a flat pancake-like bread made of corn flour, wheat flour or sorghum flour. This is a building block of Uyghur cuisine, as it comes in a multitude of flavors and seasonings, from a savory sesame coating to a buttery sweet glaze.

Chinese halal food is embraced all over China today, as it continues to combine influences from around the world into culinary treats. With the expansion of Hui and Uyghur influences into Chinese food culture, the intermingling of various flavors will only broaden the appeal of this special cuisine.

Heather Lim

recently earned her B.A. in Literatures in English from University of California, San Diego. She was editor of the Arts and Culture section of The Triton, a student-run newspaper. She plans on working in art criticism, which combines her love of visual art with her passion for journalism.