The Netherlands, known for its picturesque canals and windmills, also boasts a rich culinary heritage shaped by seafaring , agricultural heritage , and colonial history. The delightful Dutch cuisine may not always make global headlines, but it's a delightful blend of fresh ingredients, simple preparation methods, age-old traditions , and modern influences. From comforting street snacks like stroopwafels and bitterballen to rustic staples such as stamppot and erwtensoep, Dutch food reflects simplicity, warmth, and a love for dairy and bread. Whether you’re walking through a busy market in Amsterdam or ...
I never thought I’d find peace sitting on an old wooden bench beneath a banyan tree. But life, I’ve learned, has a quiet way of surprising you when you stop looking for surprises. Last Sunday, I left my phone at home. Not by choice—it was dead and I was too lazy to charge it. I decided to step out for a walk anyway, something I hadn’t done in months. I usually have excuses. Too hot. Too tired. Too busy scrolling. But that day, I just walked. There’s a small park five minutes from my apartment. I’d passed it a hundred times but never actually entered. A rusted green gate creaked open like it hadn’t seen visitors in years. Maybe it hadn’t. Inside, there were overgrown bushes, a few wildflowers, and one magnificent banyan tree that stood tall like it had been watching the world change for decades. I sat on the bench under it, half expecting someone to come shoo me away. But no one did. At first, my mind was noisy. I kept reaching into my pocket, forgetting there was no...