Asia is dominated by two great cultures – Indian and Chinese. A good way to divide up Asian countries in terms of the extent to which they are “Indianate” or ”Chinese.”
You see this division itself in Indo-China. It is even in the name of the region! You will see the influence of Indian culture in Laos and Cambodia. If for no other reason than the history of Hinduism and Buddhism. In contrast, Vietnam is influenced by Chinese culture.
You can see this disparate influence wherever you go in Asia. From the Indian influence in Bali and Fiji to the Chinese influence in Japan and Taiwan.
No other word describes Asia as well as what the Bengalis call “Hoi Choi.”
A great example of Hoi Choi is the Asian night market. The sounds of merchants bargaining. The smell of food from street food stalls. The taste of spices. The sight of buildings built before the birth of Christ. The feel of humidity hanging in the air. This is Asia.
In the blogs below you will experience Asia. Enjoy!
Laos is different. It is a country stuck in time. The rhythm of life is slower than in Vietnam and Cambodia. Which makes it easy to find some amazing experiences in Laos.
If there is a city in India which can be called a food capital, Kolkata (erstwhile Calcutta) will definitely win that competition hands down. The iconic restaurants of Kolkata solidify its rank as the food capital of India.
Bali is authentic. A deep tradition, going back millennia, of Hindu spirituality, eco-consciousness, and the simple pleasures. You’ve arrived.
It seems a bit odd. Christmas is celebrated in a big way in Kolkata, India. In this predominantly Hindu city, why would that be ? The answer is more interesting than one would think.
Calcutta is a city stuck in time. 8 timeless sights in Calcutta from vintage photos, from the 1800s to the 1960,s reminds us how time can stand still.