Zaz always puts you in a good mood – performing Édith Piaf songs in Siberia or singing for free in Colombian salt mines. The celebrated French singer-songwriter will be playing open-air festivals in Germany in July and August.
Is this a Russian version of the Burning Man? Almost. Artists here create giant outdoor art for the Archstoyanie Festival every year, but as very little of it is burned, the meadow has become a veritable sculpture park.
Hey, what’s wrong with volunteering in traditional vacation spots? Many voluntourism projects may be controversial, but these three projects are ethically just fine.
Helping people who are sick or working with children requires certain qualifications, but living and working on an organic farm does not. The WWOOF network can help you find your ideal farm.
Protecting elephants is a great idea, but many places keep their animals in miserable conditions. One very good act to follow is the Elephant Nature Park near Chiang Mai, Thailand.
If you’re interested in saving coral reefs, lionfish or turtles, check out Blue Venture, which organizes sustainable projects and offers volunteering programs complete with daily dives.
Culture clash
Why mourn the end of summer when you can look forward to fall – and these three festivals in China, Mexico and Korea.
Korea first
In the U.S., Thanksgiving isn’t celebrated until November, but in South Korea, the Chuseok harvest festival, which includes 5000-year-old competitions and dancing, takes place September 23 to 25.
Light play
Astronomically speaking, fall begins September 23, when day and night are the same length. In Mexico, people flock to Chichen Itza to see the giant shadow play created by Kukulcán pyramid.
Family giving
Ahead of the game: In China, September 24 marks not fall’s arrival, but the Mid-Autumn Festival with lots of lanterns and the traditional mooncakes that people present to their loved ones as a gift.
Who’s going to win the Concha de Oro, the Golden Shell, at the 66th San Sebastián Film Festival that begins September 21? Nominations include High Life by Claire Denis, starring Robert Pattinson and Juliette Binoche.