What is your country’s stereotype?

The most Googled products in every country in one crazy map. In popular culture, certain countries are stereotypically associated with certain products — beer in Germany, carpets in Turkey, electronics in Japan. But those things aren’t what people are really searching for. Earlier this month, the cost-estimating website Fixr.com put together a map of the world with… Read More

Love of reading

Reading is one of the best hobbies a person can have. But it’s saddening to know that majority of us aren’t introduced to the fabulous world of books. Reading is an active mental process: Unlike sitting in front of the idiot box (TV), reading makes you use your brain. While reading you would be forced… Read More

Adulthood does change your perpective on life

I am at the beginning of my 50’s, that’s half a century, and I know that I am aging. I also notice that along the way, my habits have changed, for better or worse. I believe in aging with dignity, and above all, with a sense of humour: “as long as you can laugh at… Read More

How Did These Fruits Get Their Names in English?

How Kiwifruits Got Their Name Kiwifruit were first found in the Chang Kiang Valley of China and as they spread to other parts of the world, they were called Chinese gooseberries. They were named ‘kiwifruit’ in the mid twentieth century. The new name refers to the furry covering that resembles the kiwi bird. Kiwifruits in… Read More

“Engrish” III: translation mistakes from across the globe, from menus to billboards, and mispelling