On & Beyond Your Wanderlust

For all of us who cannot wait for the holiday season and the first snowfall, winter is the most magical season of the year. 

No matter how much of a Christmas lover you think you are, I bet you’re still going to be awed (or shocked) by this list of unusual customs. Chances are that you may have heard of a tradition from this list, but perhaps only if you’re a native of the country where it’s observed. 

It simply wouldn’t be Christmas in Europe without checking out at least one Christmas Market. Opening during the weeks leading up to the Advent, winter markets are filled with colorful stalls offering everything from Christmas ornaments to food and anything you can think of! 

Ah, Mexico; my beloved country full of colors, folklore and natural wonders. 

Hipsters. You either love us or roll your eyes at our artisanal… everything. But, there is no denying that we have the most unique insight into the quirkiest things to see, eat, drink, and do in any given destination. 

Everywhere you turn and at any given moment, people are celebrating something. And why shouldn’t they be? Life, beauty, heritage, family, love, even death, all deserve to be honored. 

When I was 30 years old, I took my first trip abroad that lasted longer than a day. It was particularly memorable because I found myself bursting in expletives all the way from Heathrow airport to my hotel in London. 

Dia de Los Muertos has always been a completely fascinating holiday and one with which I’ve been familiar with for a long time. Given my background in anthropology and my interest in life-and-death celebrations across cultures, it was only natural. 

With 35.4 million International tourists making their way to Thailand in 2017, it’s safe to say that  ‘The land of smiles’ is one of the world’s top bucket list destinations. If you have yet to visit this enchanting South East Asian country, you’re definitely missing out! 

Greece is known for its good food, friendly people, interesting archeological sites, vibrant nightlife, and relaxing beaches. It is one of the world’s most popular destinations, raking in the top 20 most-visited countries. In 2016 alone, it welcomed almost 25 million visitors! 

France is one of the most visited countries in the world, with a history, culture and food that are simply unparalleled. Add the incredibly varied geography and one lifetime would hardly be enough to explore all it has to offer.