“I want you to discover the joy of creations by your own hand…The possibility of creation from paper is infinite.” —Akira Yoshizawa This wise man was the grandmaster of origami. He developed the current standards for diagramming instructions and designed countless patterns. For the fourth month of my year-long Culture Trip I learned the Japanese

The Lunar New Year is Sunday, January 22nd. The holiday is determined by a traditional Chinese calendar, which is based on the moon’s cycle and the Earth’s course around the sun. It falls on the second new moon after winter solstice. Each Lunar New Year is associated with an animal; 2023 is the year of

Traveling doesn’t have to be expensive. Whether you explore solo, with girlfriends, or family, budget travel destinations can be found.  Flights tend to be the biggest expense of a trip. So, planning ahead is imperative. Keeping an eye on travel websites and apps will cut both airline and accommodation costs. Furthermore, check airlines’ low fare

“Konichiwa,” the slight, kimono-clad woman behind the hotel lobby counter said softly. In broken English, she added, “Welcome to the Ryokan Shigetsu.” Jet-black hair was coiffed perfectly atop her head; her small feet, in white socks, perched on wooden getas — sandals. She bowed; her simple elegance was an introduction into the Asian culture and