Slang was something cool, when I was a kid. It was the way the older kids spoke – their special, cool, grown up, mysterious way of communicating. As I learned a new slang word – usually from my only older cousin – I was trying to plug my new acquisition into every phrase imaginable – …
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Sufism is one of the four main branches of Islam and what sets it apart the most is its mysticism. I learned about it when I studied Islam after my trip to Egypt. I was fascinated by how the Egyptian culture was laced with religion, much more so than I’ve seen in the western world.…
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For most people, travel equates with vacation – getting away from something, like work or the cold winter of Montreal. However, for me, it’s about seeking a powerful yet fleeting feeling, loss of bearings, a place where all my sense are reset. I am forced to disengage from the autopilot that is daily life: going…
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Have you ever visited a place that gave you nightmares for months? That was Pompeii for me. I was six years old, and we visited the historical site with my parents on our way from Hungary to Algeria. I have no regrets, and it remains one of the most fascinating places I’ve seen. Nowhere else…
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I was very excited on the eve of my first-ever airplane flight – probably like any four year old on a sugar high. I imagined how it would be, exciting sounds, big airplane, flashing lights, but most of all, I imagined whom I would meet – and I’m not talking about the other passengers. I…
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Palo alto has two downtowns, they each have their gems. Here are some favorite restaurants and cafés. Let us know how you like them. University Avenue Evvia – http://www.evvia.net/home/ Greek restaurant, know for their grilling, especially for Lamb Shank. You either have an entré or have a number of appetizers. Their galaktoburito is out of…
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The summer is here, while if you consider places like Montreal, Canada, it has never left. The weather is nevertheless more pleasant throughout the Bay Area and even San Francisco gets some unusually sunny days. We continue our weekly dinners in the South Bay. In addition to those, check out these cultural events: San Jose…
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These beautiful photographs of Afghanistan in the 50s remind me of Beirut in the 70s. I look at them both with fascination and sadness. I’ve visited Beirut after the civil war, in the summer of 2001. I had the privilege of making many Lebanese friends and live among them for over a month. They are…
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Start putting together your green outfit! Saint Patrick’s is coming! This plan based on the awesome fun we had last year. Part 1 – Watch the Parade Part 2 – Head over to the Soma Streak Food Park and Party in Soma (428 11th St) Part 3 – Swing by the City Beer Store (1168…
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