CultureReady

How Senegal’s Ataya Tea Ceremony Fosters Friendship

Colleen Brown
Regional Expertise
Tea plays an integral role in daily life around the world. The Senegalese tea ceremony, known as ataya or attaya, is no exception. The ceremony, which can take place at any time of the day and last up to three hours, provides people in Senegal with an opportunity to connect with friends and relatives.  

Museum Highlights Germany’s History of Clockmaking

Natalie Halpern
Regional Expertise
As one year ends and a new one begins, it’s common for people to reflect on the passage of time. In the Black Forest in Germany — well known for its cuckoo clocks — the concept of timekeeping has been a part of the culture and local economy for centuries.

The Cultural Connection to Street Art in Kyiv

Colleen Brown
Regional Expertise
Since 2014, local and international artists have painted more than 170 murals on aging Soviet-era buildings throughout Kyiv, Ukraine. The murals have established the city as a global center of public street art and encouraged people to explore parts of Kyiv they may not otherwise visit.

New Year’s Traditions from Around the World

Colleen Brown
Regional Expertise
If you plan to visit Brazil on December 31, make sure to pack a white outfit! Wearing white on New Year’s Eve symbolizes good luck and peace, and although this tradition has roots in Afro-Brazilian religions, the Catholic Church has also adopted it.

Christmas and New Year's Traditions in Japan

Colleen Brown
Regional Expertise
Although Japan is not a primarily Christian country, people take part in many traditional Christmas activities like visiting holiday markets, admiring light displays, and decorating Christmas trees. Some traditions, however, are uniquely Japanese.

Eight Popular Brazilian Street Foods You Have to Try

Natalie Halpern
Regional Expertise

Brazil’s great diversity is reflected in its music, architecture, traditions, art and, not surprisingly, in its delicious cuisine. Some of the country’s most popular regional dishes are flavorful street foods like pão de queijo and aipim frito.