Culture

If you’ve ever been to the UK during November, you may have noticed that for one night only, the nation celebrates Bonfire Night by getting together to watch a dummy called Guy Fawkes burn on a blazing bonfire. ...

When most non-UK people think of British accents, they often think of the posh ‘Queen’s English’....

If you’ve moved to an English-speaking country, you might notice that many locals will talk about rather mundane topics – such as the weather, current affairs or a recent social event – while waiting for the bus or waiting for a meeting to begin. This practice is known as ‘small talk’ and is an important social custom. ...

As booklovers across the world know, great works of fiction come from all different cities and continents. English is the international language of communication, and it is common for many popular writers to have their work translated into English....

Have you ever gone for a ‘cuff link’ at the local ‘bath tub’ and forgotten your ‘bees and honey’? How about taken the ‘London fog’ for a ‘ball of chalk’ but got totally ‘Kate Mossed’ in the ‘do me goods’?...

Whether it’s a tea party, New Year’s Eve, Glastonbury Festival or the Rio Carnival, everybody loves letting their hair down in one way or another. Partying is a tradition that goes back to the beginning of time, and many of the most fascinating stories throughout history end (or begin with!) celebrations. Here are some fascinating facts about some of the most interesting parties and party-goers in history: ...

Here at Kaplan we take St. Patrick's Day pretty seriously, especially at our English school in Dublin. So we're getting ready for our big St. Paddy's week-long event with lots of fun facts about green beer, shamrocks, and leprechauns!...

All humans eat to survive. They also eat to express appreciation, for a sense of belonging, as part of family customs, and for self-realization. For example, someone who is not hungry may eat a piece of cake that has been baked in his or her honor....

The Day of the Dead (Día de Muertos) is a Mexican holiday famous for its positive attitude towards death. Friends and family gather together to pray for and remember their loved ones who are no longer living. It is a festive and colorful celebration lasting three days, and remains a defining part of Mexican culture....

It’s Monday morning and you’ve hit the snooze alarm five times already. The thought of getting up and getting dressed fills you with dread and staying in your bed forever doesn’t seem such a bad idea. By the time you get into work, you’re already counting down the minutes to your break. ...