With the theater release of the quasi-operatic Les Misérables last Christmas, the classic story of redemption by VIctor Hugo receives yet another incarnation, this time based on the successful stage musical. Continue reading
Monthly Archives: February 2013
The Tradition of Weddings in France
Weddings in France are celebrated in much the same way as the western world. First of all, French law requires that there be a mariage civil (civil marriage) before any religious ceremony. Though there exists now as many religious weddings as there are religions in France, traditionally the weddings are Catholic. Continue reading
Random Acts of Kindness
Did you know February 17th is Random Acts of Kindness Day? Make someone smile by using some of these phrases in the language your learning. Continue reading
Chinese Hot Pot: The Perfect Comfort Food
When the weather is cold, Chinese people like to have hot pot 火锅 （huǒ guō). A hot pot is a metal pot that is placed in the center of the table and contains broth. The broth continuously simmers while different ingredients are added and cooked. Continue reading
Valentine’s Day in Italy
Possibly because Italy is believed to be the land of romance, San Valentino is not as big of an event as in the USA. Continue reading
Valentine’s Day in Japan and China
Valentine’s Day （バレンタインデー barentain dee) in Japan is celebrated quite differently from the U.S; women give chocolates to men. Continue reading
San Valentín in Spain
Valentine's Day in Spain is much like in many other parts of the world. It is a day to exchange regalos o detalles (small gifts) with your loved one, have a nice cita (date) in a restaurant and share a bottle of wine in un lugar romántico (a romantic spot.) Continue reading
‘L’Amour, toujours’ - Valentine’s Day in France
Quel est ton Valentin/Valentine ? Who is your Valentine? (m/f.) Fêter la saint Valentin (to celebrate St Valentine's Day) often means offering des petits cadeaux (small gifts) in the form of flowers, a romantic diner, wine and chocolates. Continue reading
Marriage: The Arabic Way
Marriage traditions in the Middle East vary from one country to the other, yet there are some customs that permeate all of the cultures of the region. Continue reading
Mardi Gras in France
Mardi Gras was the last day Christians could eat des mets gras (fatty foods) before spending 40 days of prayer and meat abstinence, until Easter. This day announced the beginning of Carême (Lent). It marks in a climactic fashion the end … Continue reading
