Category: Life Abroad

If you’ve spent time in Taiwan, Korea, the Philippines, or Malaysia, you’ve probably noticed something curious: a sweet, tapioca‑filled bubble tea can cost less than a 500 ml bottle of plain water, and shops selling it are on practically every corner. How does a drink as elaborate as bubble tea end up cheaper than mere hydration?…

There’s one stationery item nearly every Asian student seems to possess: the Muji gel pen. Simple, capless or capped, clear barrel and slim tip. But behind this everyday tool lies a cultural phenomenon: owning a Muji pen has become more than just practical, it’s a point of pride, a strategy for studying, and a quiet…

Step into a karaoke room anywhere in Asia and what looks like simple entertainment is actually a deeply rooted social ritual. Beyond the flashy lights and booming speakers, karaoke serves as a bridge, connecting friends, coworkers, and families in a way that spans generations and cultures. The Birth of a Social Tradition Karaoke began in…

Everyday Devotion: Not Just a Weekend Affair Taiwan’s temples are not just weekend destinations – they’re integral to daily life. It’s common to see locals stopping by to “bai-bai” (拜拜, offer incense and prayers) even on an ordinary weekday. In fact, travelers on sites like TripAdvisor often note that even weekday afternoons can be “heavily…

If you’ve ever been in an elevator in Japan, China, or South Korea and noticed that the fourth floor button is missing, you’re not imagining things. This isn’t a manufacturing error or a design shortcut—it’s an intentional choice deeply rooted in cultural beliefs. In many parts of Asia, the number four is more than just…