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      <title>Tutorial Activity Chapter 2 Cross Culture L1 by Yuhanis Mohamed Noor</title>
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      <description>There are about 195 countries around the world with their own cultures. Choose ONE country, then please identify: 1) flag of the country; 2) population; 3) region; 4) main language; 5) main religion; 6) arts; 7) food; 8) festival; 9) neighbour countries; Please ensure your choice of country is different from others. </description>
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      <pubDate>2017-03-06 04:12:01 UTC</pubDate>
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         <pubDate>2017-03-07 04:33:08 UTC</pubDate>
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         <pubDate>2017-03-08 03:39:33 UTC</pubDate>
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         <title></title>
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         <pubDate>2017-03-09 06:21:19 UTC</pubDate>
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         <title>Malaysian culture</title>
         <author>yuhanis_mn</author>
         <link>https://padlet.com/yuhanis_mn/tutorialchapter2L1/wish/3167484616</link>
         <description><![CDATA[<p>1) The flag of Malaysia, known as "Jalur Gemilang" (Stripes of Glory), features 14 horizontal red and white stripes, representing the 13 states and the federal territory. In the canton, there is a blue rectangle with a yellow crescent and a 14-point star, symbolizing Islam and the unity of the states.</p><p>2) Malaysia has a diverse population of approximately 33 million people. The population is a mix of various ethnic groups, primarily Malay, Chinese, and Indian, each contributing to the country's rich cultural tapestry.</p><p>3) Malaysia is located in Southeast Asia, divided into two main regions: Peninsular Malaysia (West Malaysia) and East Malaysia, which is situated on the island of Borneo.</p><p>4) The official language of Malaysia is Malay (Bahasa Malaysia). English is also widely spoken and serves as a second language, especially in business and education.</p><p>5) Islam is the official religion of Malaysia, and the majority of Malaysians are Muslims. However, the country is also home to various other religions, including Buddhism, Christianity, and Hinduism, reflecting its multicultural society.</p><p>6) Malaysian arts are diverse, influenced by its various ethnic groups. Traditional forms include batik (textile art), wayang kulit (shadow puppetry), and silat (martial arts). Contemporary art is also thriving, with various galleries and art festivals promoting local talent.</p><p>7) Malaysian cuisine is a rich blend of flavors from Malay, Chinese, and Indian traditions. Popular dishes include nasi lemak (coconut rice), rendang (spicy meat dish), char kway teow (stir-fried noodles), and roti canai (flatbread). Street food is a significant part of the culinary culture.</p><p>8) Malaysia celebrates various festivals due to its multicultural society. Key festivals include Hari Raya Aidilfitri (celebrated by Muslims), Chinese New Year, Deepavali (Hindu festival of lights), and Gawai Dayak (celebrated by the Dayak people in Sarawak). Each festival showcases unique traditions and practices.</p><p>9) Malaysia shares land borders with Thailand to the north and Indonesia to the south. It is also close to Brunei on Borneo and has maritime borders with Vietnam and the Philippines.</p>]]></description>
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         <pubDate>2024-10-14 04:33:47 UTC</pubDate>
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         <title>Pakistan culture</title>
         <author></author>
         <link>https://padlet.com/yuhanis_mn/tutorialchapter2L1/wish/3171548266</link>
         <description><![CDATA[<p>1) The flag of Pakistan, known as the Flag of the Star and Crescent is made up of a green field with a stylized tilted white <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Star_and_crescent">crescent moon and five-pointed star</a> at its centre, and a vertical white stripe at its hoist-end. Though the specific shade of green on the flag is mandated only as 'dark green',<a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flag_of_Pakistan#cite_note-1">[1]</a> its official and most consistent representation is in <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shades_of_green#Pakistan_green">Pakistan green</a>, which is shaded distinctively darker.</p><p>2) Pakistan known as <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_countries_and_dependencies_by_population">fifth-most populous country</a>, with a population of over 241.5 million,<a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pakistan#cite_note-16">[g]</a> having the <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Islam_by_country#Countries">second-largest Muslim population</a> as of 2023.</p><p>3) Pakistan is divided into three major geographic areas : the northern highlands; the Indus River plain, with two major subdivisions corresponding roughly to the provinces of Punjab and Sindh; and the Balochistan Plateau.</p><p>4) The national language of Pakistan is Urdu, while English is used for official purposes. Punjabi is the most widely spoken native language, along with Sindhi, Pashto, and Balochi.</p><p>5) Islam is the largest and the state religion of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan. Pakistan has over 236 Million adherents of Islam (including the administrative territory of Azad Kashmir and Gilgit Baltistan ). As much as 90% of the population follows Sunni Islam.</p><p>6) Pakistani art has a long tradition and history. It consists of a variety of art forms, including <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Painting">painting</a>, <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sculpture">sculpture</a>, <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Islamic_calligraphy">calligraphy</a>, <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pottery">pottery</a>, and <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Textile_arts">textile arts</a> such as woven silk. It shares features with <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/History_of_Asian_art#South_Asian_art">Indian subcontinental art</a>.</p><p>7) Biryani is the most loved dish in Pakistani cuisine, and there's a never-ending debate whether biryani or nihari be given the status of the national dish of Pakistan. It's a meaty rice dish with alternate layers of buttery meat curry, fragrant saffron rice, crispy browned onions, parsley, and lemon wedges.</p><p>8) Eid-ul-Fitr is the biggest Muslim festival celebrated all over Pakistan. It is celebrated after one month of fasting during the month of Ramadan. Celebrated on the 1st of Shawwal, the 10th month of Islamic Calendar, The Eid day starts with the special Eid prayers.</p><p>9) Pakistan shares its borders with four neighboring countries—People's Republic of China, Afghanistan, India, and Iran while Tajikistan is separated by the thin Wakhan Corridor—adding up to about 7,307 km (4,540.4 mi) in length (excluding the coastal area).</p>]]></description>
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         <pubDate>2024-10-16 04:17:05 UTC</pubDate>
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         <title>DENMARK CULTURE </title>
         <author></author>
         <link>https://padlet.com/yuhanis_mn/tutorialchapter2L1/wish/3171614706</link>
         <description><![CDATA[<p>1)Denmark's national flag is the world's oldest and longest-running flag. The flag of Denmark is called Dannebrog, red with a white Nordic cross, which represents Christianity. 2) The current metro area population of Denmark in 2024 is 5.9 million people, which includes primarily Danish people, Turkish people and other ethnic groups such as Polish, Iraqi and Syrian. </p><p>3) Denmark is located in Northern Europe between the North Sea and the Baltic. In addition, Denmark is located on a peninsula, which means it is surrounded by the sea on its north, east and west. 4) The official language of Denmark is Danish but the majority of people in Danes ( Denmark people) speak English as a second language.5) Lutheranism (&nbsp;a branch of Christianity)  is the official religion of Denmark but most of the Danes still follow Christianity. 6) Denmark's arts are various such as Danish folk dance and folk arts. Their folk art has been mentioned by many artists because it often consists of utilitarian and ornamental media, including wood, metal, cloth, clay, paper, and more with deep meaning. 7) The national dish of Denmark is (stegt flæsk) which means pieces of pork, fried until crisp and then served with boiled potatoes and parsley sauce. Furthermore, traditional Denmark dishes often include potatoes on the side, such as Kartofler( caramelized potatoes), Frikadeller (savoury pork meatballs served with brown sauce, potatoes, and cabbage), Karbonader (breaded pork patties) and more.8) As everyone knows Denmark is also one of the countries which celebrate Christmas but other than the country's most of the festivals are based on music such as the Skanderborg festival, Copenhagen Distortion and more.9)  Denmark borders Sweden to the east and Germany to the south.</p>]]></description>
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         <pubDate>2024-10-16 05:06:08 UTC</pubDate>
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         <title>Chile Culture</title>
         <author>a24a3823</author>
         <link>https://padlet.com/yuhanis_mn/tutorialchapter2L1/wish/3171656820</link>
         <description><![CDATA[<p>1) The flag of Chile, there is horizontal white stripe over a red stripe, a dark blue canton with a large white star is in the upper hoist corner. The star is seen as a " guide on the path of progress and honour" , while the blue stands for the sky. The white stripe corresponds to the snow of the Andes Mountains and the red stripe below reminding citizens of the blood of those who sacrificed themselves for the fatherland.</p><p>2) Chile has population of approximately 19 million people. The vast majority of the Chilean population is white and Mestizo, a mix of white European ancestry and Amerindian ancestry. The main Chilean racial type was produced by a mixture of Spanish ancestry, principally Andalusians and Basques and the indigenous Mapuche.</p><p>3)  Chile is divided into 16 regions, which are the country's first-level administrative division. Each region is headed by directly elected regional governor  and regional board.</p><p>4) Native language of Chile consists of Mapudungun. The language is spoken mainly in south-central Chile. In addition, there are also other native languages such as Quechua, Rapa Nui, Huilliche, Aymaran, and Kawesqar.  German and English are the foreign languages spoken in Chile. Other than that, Spanish is the most widely spoken language in Chile.</p><p>5) The vast majority of Chileans are Christians, made up of around 70% Catholic and 17% Protestant. Minority religions include Islam, Judaism, Hinduism and Buddhism.</p><p>6)  Chilean art refers to all kinds of visual art developed in Chile, or by Chileans, from the arrival of the Spanish Conquerors to the modern day. On top of that, with the combination of European and Latin American influence, Chile Art has a very authentic vibe that can only be experienced in real life. Street art is the most talked about artform in Chile.</p><p>7) Chief on the menu is the seafood, including mussels, clams, scallops, oysters, urchins, sea bass, salmon and a long list of others.</p><p>8) Chileans and tourist from all over the world come to Chile to celebrate their Fiestas Patrias ( National Holidays ). These festivities are none other than the celebration of its independence and bring together religious, secular and popular celebrations.</p><p>9) Chile is a country in South America that borders the South Pacific Sea. Neighboring countries include Argentina, Bolivia and Peru.</p>]]></description>
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         <pubDate>2024-10-16 05:35:36 UTC</pubDate>
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         <title>Mongolia culture</title>
         <author></author>
         <link>https://padlet.com/yuhanis_mn/tutorialchapter2L1/wish/3171728184</link>
         <description><![CDATA[<p>1) The <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_flag">national flag</a> of <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mongolia">Mongolia</a> is a vertical <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Triband_(flag)">triband</a> with a red stripe at each side and a blue stripe in the middle, with the Mongolian <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Soyombo_symbol">Soyombo symbol</a> centering on the leftmost stripe. The blue stripe represents the <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tengri">eternal blue sky</a>, and the red stripes thrive for <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eternity">eternity</a>. The Soyombo symbol is a geometric abstraction that represents fire, sun, moon, earth, water, and a symbol representing two fish as in Mongol mythology fish never sleep thus symbolizing that the spirit of the Mongol people never sleeps.</p><p>2) The current population of Mongolia is 3,487,538 as of Tuesday, October 15, 2024, based on Worldometer's elaboration of the latest United Nations data<sup>1</sup>. Mongolia's 2024 population is estimated at 3,475,540<strong> </strong>people at mid-year. Mongolia's population is equivalent to 0.04% of the <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.worldometers.info/world-population/">total world population</a>. Mongolia ranks number 133<strong> </strong>in the list of <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.worldometers.info/world-population/population-by-country/">countries (and dependencies) by population</a>.</p><p>3) Mongolia<a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mongolia#cite_note-11"><sup> </sup></a>is a <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Landlocked_country">landlocked country</a> in <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/East_Asia">East Asia</a>, bordered by <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Russia">Russia</a> to the north and <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/China">China</a> to the south. It covers an area of 1,564,116 square kilometers (603,909 square miles), with a population of 3.5&nbsp;million, making it the world's <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_countries_and_dependencies_by_population_density">most sparsely populated sovereign state</a>. Mongolia is the world's largest landlocked country and does not border a closed sea. Much of its area is covered by grassy steppes, with mountains to the north and west and the <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gobi_Desert">Gobi Desert</a> to the south.</p><p>4) Mongolian is the Mongolic language family's principal language originating in the <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mongolian_Plateau">Mongolian Plateau</a>. It is spoken by ethnic <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mongols">Mongols</a> and other closely related <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mongolic_peoples">Mongolic peoples</a> native to modern <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mongolia">Mongolia</a> and surrounding parts of <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/East_Asia">East</a> and <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/North_Asia">North Asia</a>. Mongolian is the official language of <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mongolia">Mongolia</a> and <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Inner_Mongolia">Inner Mongolia</a> and a recognized language of <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Xinjiang">Xinjiang</a> and <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Qinghai">Qinghai.</a></p><p>5) Religion in <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mongolia">Mongolia</a> has been traditionally dominated by the schools of <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" class="mw-redirect" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mongolian_Buddhism">Mongolian Buddhism</a> and by <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mongolian_shamanism">Mongolian shamanism</a>, the <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ethnic_religion">ethnic religion</a> of the <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mongols">Mongols</a>. Historically, through their <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mongol_Empire">Mongol Empire,</a> the Mongols were <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Religion_in_the_Mongol_Empire">exposed to the influences</a> of <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Christianity">Christianity</a> (<a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nestorianism">Nestorianism</a> and <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" class="mw-redirect" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Catholicism">Catholicism</a>) and <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Islam">Islam</a>, although these religions never came to dominate. During the <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Communism">communist</a> period of the <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mongolian_People%27s_Republic">Mongolian People's Republic</a> (1924–1992), all religions were suppressed. Still, with the transition to the parliamentary republic in the 1990s, faiths have been generally revived.</p><p>6) Mongolian folk art includes various crafts and decorative arts, such as woodcarving, metalworking, embroidery, and weaving. These crafts are often passed down from generation to generation and are an important part of the country's cultural heritage.</p><p>7) Mongolian foods are simple and full of meat including mutton, beef, camel, horse, sheep, and even marmot. Some Mongolian cuisine accompanies meat with vegetables, noodles, kinds of rice, and pasta. People mainly eat sheep and goat meat but not much beef, camel, pork, and horse meat. Mongolian people consume a lot of milk tea, wild fruit juice, and home-made alcoholic drinks. Various dairy products are bread and butter for breakfast and snacks throughout the day. For breakfast and lunch, locals always have pastry and fried bread.</p><p>8) Naadam is a national festival celebrated every year from 11&nbsp;to 13&nbsp;July across Mongolia that focuses on three traditional games: horseracing, wrestling, and archery. Mongolian Naadam is inseparably connected to the nomadic civilization of the Mongols, who have long practiced pastoralism on Central Asia’s vast steppe.</p><p>9) Mongolia is landlocked between Russia and China and seeks cordial relations with both nations.</p>]]></description>
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         <pubDate>2024-10-16 06:25:12 UTC</pubDate>
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         <title>Saudi Arabia Culture</title>
         <author></author>
         <link>https://padlet.com/yuhanis_mn/tutorialchapter2L1/wish/3171756079</link>
         <description><![CDATA[<p>1) The national flag of Saudi Arabia is&nbsp;a green background with Arabic inscription and a sword in white. The inscription is the Islamic creed, or shahada: "There is no deity but God; Muhammad is the Messenger of God". The current design has been used by the government of Saudi Arabia since 15 March 1973.</p><p><br></p><p>2) The current population of Saudi Arabia is 34,136,506 as of Tuesday, October 15, 2024, based on Worldometer's elaboration of the latest United Nations data1 and ranks number 48 in the list of countries (and dependencies) by population.</p><p><br></p><p>3) Saudi Arabia is a country in&nbsp;the Middle East bordering the Persian Gulf and the Red Sea. Extensive coastlines provide leverage on shipping, especially crude oil, through the Persian Gulf and Suez Canal.</p><p>Saudi Arabia is divided into&nbsp;13 provinces.&nbsp;Each province has a governor, a deputy governor, and a provincial council.</p><p>In the country's geographic heartland is a region known as&nbsp;Najd (“Highland”), a vast arid zone that until recent times was populated by nomadic tribes. To the east, along the Persian Gulf, are the country's abundant oil fields that, since the 1960s, have made Saudi Arabia synonymous with petroleum wealth.</p><p><br></p><p>4) The official language of Saudi Arabia is&nbsp;Arabic. The three main regional variants spoken by Saudis are: Najdi Arabic (about 14.6 million speakers), Hejazi Arabic or Hijazi Arabic &amp; West Arabian Arabic (about 10.3 million speakers).</p><p><br></p><p>5) Islam is the state religion of Saudi Arabia. Boston University’s 2020 World Religions Database estimated that approximately 31.5 million Saudi Arabian residents are Muslims. Most non-Muslim foreigners attempting to acquire Saudi Arabian nationality must convert to Islam.</p><p><br></p><p>6) Saudi Arabian art is contextual to the country being the birthplace of Islam. It includes both the arts of Bedouin nomads and those of the sedentary peoples of regions such as the Hejaz, Tihamah, Asir and Najd. There are many portable art forms in Saudi Arabia. For example, there is metalware, jewelry, pottery and leatherwork.&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>7) Kabsa is traditional dish which is a wholesome combination of rice mixed with meat, vegetables, potatoes, flavoured with spices like black pepper, cloves, cardamom, saffron, black lime, bay leaves and nutmeg. Considered as the national dish of Saudi Arabia, Kabsa is an intrinsic part of the region's culinary heritage. There are also Thareed, Shawarma, Falafel, Jereesh and so fort that are famous in Saudi Arabia. </p><p><br></p><p>8) Janadriyah National Festival&nbsp;is considered to be one of the largest festivals that celebrates the country's heritage and culture. This folk festival takes place over a course of two weeks, the activities range from folklore art shows, poetry reciting to camel races, and other cultural events.</p><p><br></p><p>9) Saudi Arabia is bordered by the Red Sea to the west;&nbsp;Jordan, Iraq, and Kuwait to the north; the Persian Gulf, Bahrain, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates to the east; Oman to the southeast; and Yemen to the south.</p>]]></description>
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         <pubDate>2024-10-16 06:44:00 UTC</pubDate>
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         <title>IRELAND CULTURE</title>
         <author></author>
         <link>https://padlet.com/yuhanis_mn/tutorialchapter2L1/wish/3171758832</link>
         <description><![CDATA[<p>1) The national flag of Ireland frequently referred to in Ireland as the 'the tricolour' and elsewhere as the irish tricolour is a vertical tricolour of green at the hoist, white and orange. The tricolour was intended to symbolise the inclusion and hoped for union between Roman Catholics that was symbolised by the green and Protestants that was symbolised by the colour orange. </p><p><br></p><p>2) Ireland has population of approximately 5.2 million people. The population mostly 80-85% identifies as ethnically Irish. Other small precentage of group are mostly from other European country such as United Kingdom, Poland and other countries. There are also small communities from Africa and Asia contributing to more multicultural society.</p><p><br></p><p>3) Ireland is an island in the North Atlantic Ocean, in north-western Europe. It is separated from Great Britain to its east by the North Channel, the Irish Sea and St George's Channel. Ireland is the second largest island of the British Isles, the third largest in Europe and the twentieth largest in the world. Geopolitically, the island is divided between the Republic of Ireland, a sovereign state covering five-sixths of the island and Northern Ireland which is part of United Kingdom.</p><p><br></p><p>4) The official language of Ireland is English and Irish (Gaeilge) that was commonly use in the Republic of Ireland. English is however far more dominant. Outside of the rural area along the west coast of Ireland, there are very few who speak Irish as their first language. This is why almost all higher education courses are delivered entirely in English.</p><p><br></p><p>5) The main religion in Ireland is Christianity, with a significant majority identifying as Roman Catholic, which accounts for about 78% of the population. Protestant denominations, including the Church of Ireland (Anglican), Presbyterian, and Methodist churches, make up a smaller percentage, primarily concentrated in Northern Ireland. In recent years, there has been a noticeable increase in religious diversity, with growing numbers of people identifying as having no religion, as well as the presence of other faiths such as Islam, Buddhism, and Hinduism. The religious landscape reflects Ireland's evolving cultural identity, influenced by globalization and immigration.</p><p><br></p><p>6) Ireland has gained recognition for its contemporary visual art scene, including performance art, sculpture, and photography, often reflecting social and political themes. Irish music and dance, particularly traditional forms such as <em>sean-nós</em> singing and <em>céilí</em> dancing. Irish heritage of writers, poets and playwright having produced some of the world's literary greats like Joyce, Wilde and Beckett</p><p><br></p><p>7) The national dish of Ireland is Irish stew. It's a delicious dish made with lamb or beef, potatoes, onions, and carrots. It's hearty, comforting, and perfect for a cosy meal. Irish stew is a thick, hearty dish of mutton, potatoes, and onions and undisputedly the national dish of Ireland. Within the dish are many of the ingredients synonymous with the island, potatoes being one of the most recognized.</p><p><br></p><p>8) St Patrick's Day observed every March 17 is packed with parades, good luck charms, and all things green. St Patrick commemorates Saint Patrick and the arrival of Christianity in Ireland, and is arguably the most popular holiday in Ireland among both locals and tourists. The event started as a religious holiday, but over time it's become a celebration of Irish culture.</p><p><br></p><p>9) The United Kingdom is the only country that shares a border with Ireland. This border separates the Republic of Ireland from Northern Ireland (the latter being part of the United Kingdom).</p>]]></description>
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         <pubDate>2024-10-16 06:45:20 UTC</pubDate>
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      <item>
         <title>Germany Culture</title>
         <author></author>
         <link>https://padlet.com/yuhanis_mn/tutorialchapter2L1/wish/3171776508</link>
         <description><![CDATA[<p>1)The Flag Of Germany Represents 3 color which is Red, Gold and Black. The Black Represents The Dark past of Germany and Red represents courage, and the struggle for freedom and unity while Gold stands for freedom and wealthy.</p><p>2)The Population of the people in the country is Approximately 83 million people. 3)The Region of Germany is located at<strong> </strong>Central Europe. </p><p>4)The<strong> </strong>Official Language spoken is  German<strong>.</strong> </p><p>5)Based on the Religion, Christianity is the predominant religion while Protestantism are the largest religious group, especially in the northern and eastern parts. Meanwhile, Catholicism<strong> </strong>dominates in the southern and western regions.  Besides That, Islam is the second-largest religion, particularly due to migration, and there are also small Jewish and other religious communities. </p><p>6)Germany has a rich cultural history for its Arts. Known for its contributions to classical music such as  Beethoven, Meanwhile, Traditional<strong> </strong>folk art, woodwork, and ceramics also play an important role in regional cultures. Lastly, Bauhaus school of architecture and design originated in Germany and influenced modern design worldwide.</p><p>7) The Food Culture is hearty, with an emphasis on meat, potatoes, and bread. For example dishes named Wurst (sausage), Sauerbraten (pot roast), Beer and Cakes and pastries like Black Forest Cake. </p><p>8)German Celebrates various of festivals, </p><p>Oktoberfest in Munich known for  The world's largest beer festival, held annually in late September and early October.</p><p>Carnival knows as  Especially big in Cologne, Düsseldorf, and Mainz, with elaborate parades and costumes during the pre-Lenten season</p><p>Christmas Markets  Known as Weihnachtsmärkte, these festive markets appear across the country during Advent, offering local crafts, food, and mulled wine.</p><p>Berlin International Film Festival (Berlinale): One of the most prestigious film festivals in the world, held annually in Berlin.</p><p>Wagner Festival<strong> </strong>in Bayreuth: A major event for opera enthusiasts, celebrating the works of Richard Wagner. </p><p>9)Germany shares the Germany shares land borders with nine countries. Denmark to the north. Poland and Czechia (Czech Republic) to the east. It also has close to Austria and Switzerland to the south.</p><p>Meanwhile, France, Luxembourg, Belgium, and Netherlands to the west.</p><p><br/></p>]]></description>
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         <pubDate>2024-10-16 06:55:59 UTC</pubDate>
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         <title>Morocco culture</title>
         <author>a24a3223</author>
         <link>https://padlet.com/yuhanis_mn/tutorialchapter2L1/wish/3171884210</link>
         <description><![CDATA[<p>1) The flag of Morocco consists of a red field with a green star in the middle. The red backgrounds symbolizes bravery and strenght, while the green star represents Islam and hope. The flag was adopted in 1915 and shows Morocco's culture and rich history.</p><p>2) As a recent estimates, Morocco's population has about 37 million people. The population is diverse, with a mix of ethnic groups, including Arabs and Berbers. The biggest cities are Casablanca, Rabat and Marrakech. </p><p>3) Morocco is located in North Africa, bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the west, the Mediterranean Sea on the north, Algeria on the east, and Western Sahara to the south. The country has diverse regions, including the Rif Mountains in the north, the Atlas Mountains in the center, and the Sahara Desert in the south. Major cities like Casablanca, Marrakech and Fes are known for their rich history and culture.</p><p>4) The main languages in Morocco are Arabic and Amazigh (Berber). Both languages are recognized in the constitution. Arabic is used in government, media, and daily communication, while Amazigh is spoken by many people, especially in the countryside. French is also widely used, especially in business, education, and diplomacy.</p><p>5) The main religion in Morocco is Islam. About 99% of the population is Muslim, primarily following the Sunni branch. Islam plays a significant role in daily life, culture, and traditions in the country.</p><p>6) Moroccan arts are very rich and varies. Traditional music genres, such as Amazigh, Chaabi and Gnaoua, play vital role in celebrations and festivals, often accompanied by lively dance. Visual arts include beautiful tilework called zellige, calligraphy, and pottery. The country has stunning architecture, with detailed designs in mosques and palaces, </p><p>7) Moroccan cuisine is a vibrant blend of flavors and ingredients. One of the most iconic dishes is tagine, which is a stew mad with meat and vegetables. Moroccan food uses many spices, making it unique and delicious.</p><p>8) Morocco hosts a variety of colorful festivals that celebrate its rich culture and traditions. One of the most famous is the Marrakech Popular Arts Festival, held annually in Marrakech, showcasing music, dance, and crafts from across the county.</p><p>9) Morocco shares borders with two main neighbours, Algeria to the east and Western Sahara to the south. Algeria is the largest neighbouring country, with which Morocco has historical and cultural ties. Western Sahara is a disputed territory that Morocco claims, leading to ongoing conflict since Spain's withdrawal in the 1970s. To the north, across the Mediterranean Sea are the Spanish enclaves of Ceuta and Melila, which are situated on the Moroccan coast.</p><p><br/></p>]]></description>
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         <pubDate>2024-10-16 08:07:06 UTC</pubDate>
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         <title>Kiribati culture</title>
         <author></author>
         <link>https://padlet.com/yuhanis_mn/tutorialchapter2L1/wish/3171985302</link>
         <description><![CDATA[<p>1) The flag consists of a red upper half with a yellow frigate bird flying over a golden sun and three white wavy stripes on a blue lower half, <strong>symbolizing the Pacific Ocean and the islands.</strong></p><p><br/></p><p>2) As of 2024, Kiribati's population is estimated to be around <strong>120,000</strong> people.</p><p><br/></p><p>3) Kiribati is located in <strong>Oceania</strong>, specifically in the central Pacific Ocean. It spans across the equator and includes 32 atolls and reef islands and one raised coral island.</p><p><br/></p><p>4) The official languages are <strong>English</strong> and <strong>Gilbertese</strong> (also known as Kiribati).</p><p><br/></p><p>5) The dominant religion in Kiribati is <strong>Christianity</strong>, with the majority being <strong>Roman Catholic</strong> (about 55%), and a significant <strong>Protestant</strong> minority (about 35%).</p><p><br/></p><p>6) Kiribati’s traditional arts include <strong>weaving</strong> (mats, baskets, hats) from pandanus and coconut leaves. <strong>Dancing</strong> is central to cultural expression, especially <strong>te Kaimatoa</strong> and <strong>te Buki</strong>, which involve storytelling through body movements.</p><p><br/></p><p>7) The traditional diet in Kiribati includes <strong>fish</strong>, <strong>coconut</strong>, and <strong>root crops</strong> like taro. <strong>Breadfruit</strong>, <strong>pandanus</strong>, and <strong>seafood</strong> are staples, often complemented by rice and imported foods like canned meat.</p><p><br/></p><p>8) The <strong>Independence Day celebrations</strong> on <strong>July 12</strong> are a major national event. It includes cultural performances, sports events, and traditional dances. The Mwaneaba (meeting house) plays a central role in the community’s celebrations.</p><p><br/></p><p>9) Kiribati is isolated geographically, with its closest neighbors being <strong>Tuvalu</strong> to the south, <strong>Nauru</strong> to the west, and the <strong>Marshall Islands</strong> to the north. It's also relatively close to <strong>Fiji</strong> and <strong>Vanuatu</strong> to the southwest.</p>]]></description>
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         <pubDate>2024-10-16 09:16:35 UTC</pubDate>
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         <title>Portugal Culture</title>
         <author></author>
         <link>https://padlet.com/yuhanis_mn/tutorialchapter2L1/wish/3171990034</link>
         <description><![CDATA[<p>1) Portugal flag was created in 1911, most of the Portugal flag symbols stretch back hundreds of years. Like other flags from across the world, Portugal’s flag has a backstory and is the result of numerous suggestions and revisions. The primary colours on the flag are green and red, representing hope for the future and blood during the war, respectively. The flag’s hoist has a vertical green band, while the flag’s fly has a broader horizontal red band. The oldest symbol on the Portuguese flag is this. The tiny blue shields represent the five Moorish rulers killed by Afonso I, Portugal’s first monarch. The seven yellow castles represent Moorish fortifications that were defeated in combat.</p><p>2) As of 2023, Portugal had an estimated population of 10,639,726 inhabitants. More than nine-tenths of the country population are ethnic Portuguese, and there are also small numbers of Brazilians, Han Chinese, and people from Portugal’s former colonial possessions in Africa and Asia.</p><p>3) Portugal occupies one-sixth of the Iberian Peninsula at Europe's southwestern perimeter. To its north and east is Spain, which makes up the rest of the peninsula; to the south and the west is the Atlantic Ocean and to the west and southwest lie the Azores and the Maidera Islands, which are part of metropolitan Portugal. Portugal is not a large country but it offers a great diversity of physical geography, ranging from low-lying coasts and plains to the Estrela Mountains, which rise to nearly 6,500 feet (2,000 metres).</p><p>4) The official language for Portugal is Portuguese which is a Western Romance language of the Indo-European language originating from the Iberian Peninsula of Europe. It is the official language of Angola, Brazil Portugal and etc. Portuguese-speaking people or nations are known as Lusophone (<em>lusófono</em>).</p><p>5) Christianity is the predominant religion in Portuga<strong>l</strong>, with Catholicism being its largest denomination. Portugal is one of the most religious countries in Europe, most Portuguese believe with certainty in the existence God and religion is important in their lives.</p><p>6) Portugal also known for Manueline art, tiles and fado are unique expressions and genuine symbols of the Portuguese, but also a contribution to World Heritage. There are 26 such classifications by UNESCO in Portugal, including monuments, landscapes and intangible heritage. The Portuguese have a great tradition of art, music, dance and drama. An indication of how important the arts are to the Portuguese, is that following the death of Amalia Rodrigues “the Queen of Fado” (Portugal’s national music) in 1999, 3 days of national mourning were observed.</p><p>7) Bacalhau, which translates to cod in English, is Portugal's national dish, a symbol of the country's identity, and one of the most popular foods in restaurants across the country. Bacalhau is such a go-to staple in Portuguese cuisine that it even has an endearing nickname such as fiel amigo or faithful friend. Bacalhau à Brás is a delightful concoction of shredded salt cod, thinly chopped potatoes, and onions, mixed together with scrambled eggs and garnished with black olives and parsley.</p><p>8) On April until May, Portugal will celebrate Holy Week, Like many Christian countries across the world, Portugal celebrates the arrival of Easter with a week of festivities. Known as Semana Santa, across the country elaborate parades and processions take place in honour of this religious festival. The most famous festivities are held in Braga, in the north of the country.</p><p>9) Portugal officially the Portuguese Republic is a country located on the Iberian Peninsula in Southwestern Europe, whose territory also includes the Macaronesian archipelagos of the Azores and Madeira. It features the westernmost point in continental Europe, its mainland west and south border with the North Atlantic Ocean. For the north and east, the Portugal-Spain border, which constitutes the longest uninterrupted border line in the European Union.</p>]]></description>
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         <pubDate>2024-10-16 09:19:46 UTC</pubDate>
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         <title>China culture</title>
         <author></author>
         <link>https://padlet.com/yuhanis_mn/tutorialchapter2L1/wish/3172043185</link>
         <description><![CDATA[<p>1.The flag of China, officially called the Five-star Red Flag, is a prominent national symbol. The flag has a bright red background, symbolizing the Communist Revolution and representing the blood of those who fought for the country’s liberation. In the upper left corner, there are five yellow stars. The largest star is positioned near the hoist (left side) with the other four smaller stars arranged in a curve around it. The large star represents the Communist Party of China. The four smaller stars represent the four social classes that were part of the revolution such as the working class, the peasantry, the urban bourgeoisie, and the national bourgeoisie. The stars are yellow to contrast well with the red background and symbolize the unity of the people under the leadership of the Communist Party.</p><p>Bottom of Form</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://2.As">2.As</a> of 2023, the population of China is approximately 1.41 billion people, making it the most populous country in the world.</p><p>3.China is located in East Asia. It spans five geographical regions: North China, Northeast China, East China, South Central China, and Southwest China.</p><p>4.Mandarin Chinese (Putonghua) is the official and most widely spoken language. However, there are several regional dialects and languages spoken by ethnic minorities.</p><p>5.China is officially a secular country, with no state religion. However, the following religions and philosophies have a significant presence. For example, Buddhism , Taoism ,Confucianism (more of a philosophy than a religion) , Islam (practiced by a minority of the population) and Christianity (both Catholicism and Protestantism have followers)</p><p>6.China has a rich cultural heritage, with traditional arts including calligraphy, Chinese painting, paper cutting and Chinese opera, especially Peking opera, is one of the most famous forms of traditional performance. There’s also a strong tradition of martial arts (Kung Fu).</p><p>7.Chinese cuisine is diverse and varies greatly by region, but some well-known dishes and food styles include Dim Sum (Cantonese cuisine) , Peking Duck (Beijing) , Hot Pot (Sichuan cuisine) , Dumplings (jiaozi) , Noodles (various regional styles) and Rice is the main dish in southern China, while wheat-based foods (like noodles and buns) are more common in northern regions.</p><p>8.Chinese New Year (Spring Festival) is the most important traditional festival, usually celebrated in January or February, marking the start of the lunar new year. Moreover, Mid-Autumn Festival is a harvest festival celebrated with mooncakes and lanterns. Furthermore, dragon Boat Festival known for dragon boat races and eating zongzi (sticky rice dumplings). Lastly, Qingming Festival (Tomb-Sweeping Day): A day to honor ancestors by visiting their graves and cleaning the tombs.</p><p>9.China shares borders with 14 countries, making it one of the countries with the most land neighbors such as India ,Russia,Mongolia,Kazakhstan,Kyrgyzstan,Tajikistan,Afghanistan ,Pakistan,Nepal , Bhutan , Myanmar (Burma) , Laos , Vietnam and North Korea</p>]]></description>
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         <pubDate>2024-10-16 10:01:47 UTC</pubDate>
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         <title>United States culture</title>
         <author>a24a3249</author>
         <link>https://padlet.com/yuhanis_mn/tutorialchapter2L1/wish/3172127836</link>
         <description><![CDATA[<p>1) The flag of United States, known as "<strong>the Stars and Stripes" </strong>or <strong>"Old Glory", </strong>features 13 red and white stripes represent the 13 original colonies. Its 50 white stars on a blue background represent the 50 states. Each of the colors on the flag has its meaning, red means bravery;  white means purity; and blue means justice. A star is added to the flag when a new state joins the United States. The flag was last modified on July 4 1960, when Hawaii was incorporated as a state. 2) The population of United States is about 345 million people. The population is a mix of various ethnic groups, which is 65.88% are white, 12.47% are Black or African American, 0.84% are American Indian and Alaska Native, 5.77% are Asian, 0.19% are Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander, 6.05% are some other race and 8.80% are multiracial. 3) United States is divided into five regions. The Northeast region, the Southeast, the Midwest, the Southwest, and the West. Some of the major geographical features&nbsp;of the Northeast include the Atlantic Ocean, Great Lakes, and the Appalachian Mountains. 4) The official languages used in United States  are English language, Spanish language and Hawaiian language. 5) The main religion in United States is Christianity, with approximately 65% of adults identifying as Christian. However, the country is becoming increasingly diverse in terms of religious affiliation, with significant growth in non-Christian religions such as Islam, Hinduism, and Buddhism. 6) Visual art of the United States or American art is visual art made in the United States or by U.S. artists. Before colonization, there were many flourishing traditions of Native American art, and where the Spanish colonized Spanish Colonial architecture and the accompanying styles in other media were quickly in place. The earliest example is in the late 18th and early 19th centuries, artists primarily painted portraits, and some landscapes in a style based mainly on English painting. 7) United States food culture encompasses a wide variety of dishes. Some well-known examples include hamburgers, hot dogs, macaroni and cheese, fried chicken, barbecue, apple pie, and Thanksgiving turkey with all the trimmings. These dishes have become iconic representations of American cuisine. 8) The United States of America is an amalgamation of numerous different people from across the world. As such, it is no wonder that the USA celebrates a number of various occasions throughout the year – and families from every single community, no matter how far apart on the global map, come together in celebration. Such as Christmas, Independence Day, Easter, Thanksgiving, Halloween and Memorial Day. 9) The neighboring countries of United States are Canada to the north and Mexico to the South. </p>]]></description>
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         <pubDate>2024-10-16 11:11:21 UTC</pubDate>
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         <title>IRAN CULTURE ( SIVATHARANI ) A24B3001</title>
         <author></author>
         <link>https://padlet.com/yuhanis_mn/tutorialchapter2L1/wish/3172166002</link>
         <description><![CDATA[<p>1)  The flag of Iran consists of three horizontal stripes: green for Islam, white for peace, and red for bravery. It features a central emblem symbolizing martyrdom and includes the phrase "Allahu Akbar."</p><p>2) As of 2023, Iran's population is estimated to be around 86 million people. The country has a diverse demographic makeup, with various ethnic groups including Persians, Azeris, Kurds, and others. The population density varies, with most people living in urban areas.</p><p>3) Iran is divided into several regions: Northern Iran features lush landscapes and the Caspian coast; Western Iran includes the Zagros Mountains; Central Iran is desert-like with historical cities; Eastern Iran borders Afghanistan; and Southern Iran has a warm Persian Gulf coast.</p><p>4) The main language of Iran is Persian, also known as Farsi. It is the official language and is used in government, media, and education. Iran is also home to various ethnic groups, so other languages like Azerbaijani, Kurdish, and Arabic are spoken in different regions.</p><p>5) The main religion in Iran is Islam, specifically Shia Islam, which is practiced by the majority of the population. Iran is known for being a center of Shia theology and culture. There are also small communities of other religions, including Sunni Islam, Christianity, Judaism, Zoroastrianism, and Baha'i Faith.</p><p>6) Iranian art includes Persian calligraphy, intricate miniature paintings, vibrant tilework, and exquisite carpet weaving. Traditional music features unique instruments, while poetry is a significant cultural element. Contemporary cinema and theater, like Ta'zieh, also highlight Iran's rich artistic heritage.</p><p>7) Iranian cuisine is rich and diverse, featuring dishes like Chelo Kebab (grilled meat with saffron rice), Ghormeh Sabzi (herb stew with lamb), and Fesenjan (pomegranate-walnut stew). Other favorites include Tahdig (crispy rice), Dolmeh (stuffed vegetables), and sweet treats like Baklava and saffron ice cream, showcasing fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors.</p><p>8) Iran celebrates several vibrant festivals, including <strong>Nowruz</strong>, the Persian New Year marking spring's arrival with customs like the Haft-Seen table. <strong>Yalda Night</strong> honors the winter solstice, featuring poetry and fruits. <strong>Ashura</strong> commemorates Imam Hussein's martyrdom with mourning rituals. <strong>Sizdeh Bedar</strong> involves outdoor picnics on the 13th day of Nowruz, and <strong>Mehregan</strong> celebrates autumn and friendship with feasts.</p><p>9) Iran shares borders with seven countries: <strong>Turkey</strong> and <strong>Iraq</strong> to the west, <strong>Armenia</strong> and <strong>Azerbaijan</strong> to the northwest, <strong>Turkmenistan</strong> to the northeast, <strong>Afghanistan</strong> to the east, and <strong>Pakistan</strong> to the southeast. It also has maritime borders with the Persian Gulf to the south.</p>]]></description>
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         <pubDate>2024-10-16 11:42:36 UTC</pubDate>
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         <title>ARGENTINA CULTURE</title>
         <author></author>
         <link>https://padlet.com/yuhanis_mn/tutorialchapter2L1/wish/3172241152</link>
         <description><![CDATA[<p>1)The flag of Argentina features three horizontal stripes: light blue on the top and bottom, and white in the middle, with a sun emblem( the sun of may) in the center.        2)The current population of Argentina is 46 million people.</p><p>3)The region of Argentina is located in South America.</p><p>4)The primary language spoken in Argentina is Spanish. </p><p>5)The predominant religion in Argentina is Roman Catholicism, although there is a significant presence of other religions and secularism.</p><p>6)Argentina arts is known for its rich artistic heritage, including tango music and dance, literature with notable writers like Jorge Luis Borges, and vibrant visual arts. The country has a strong tradition in theater and cinema as well.</p><p>7)Argentina food. Argentina cuisine is famous for its beef, particularly asado(barbecue). Other popular dishes include empanades, milanesas, and dulce de leche.</p><p>8)Festival in Argentina, one of the most famous festival is Carnaval, celebrated with parades and music throughout the country, particularly in cities like Gualeguaychu. Another notabkle event is the Buenos Aires international Book Fair. </p><p>9)Argentina shares borders with five countries: Chile to the west, Bolivia to the northwest, Paraguay to the north, Brazil to the northeast, and Uruguay to the east across the rio de la Plata.</p><p><br/></p>]]></description>
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         <pubDate>2024-10-16 12:35:22 UTC</pubDate>
         <guid>https://padlet.com/yuhanis_mn/tutorialchapter2L1/wish/3172241152</guid>
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      <item>
         <title>Iran culture</title>
         <author></author>
         <link>https://padlet.com/yuhanis_mn/tutorialchapter2L1/wish/3172352366</link>
         <description><![CDATA[<p>1) The flag of Iran, known as three horizontal stripes of green, white, and red, with the national emblem in the center. The white band and the Takbir written in the Kufic script in white, repeated 11 times along the bottom edge of the green band and 11 times along the top edge of the red band, for a total of 22 times on the fringe of the bands reminiscent of 22 Bahman. 2) As of 2023, the population of Iran is approximately 86 million people. This number can fluctuate due to various factors, including birth rates and migration trends. 3) Iran is located in the region known as the <strong>Middle East</strong>, specifically in Western Asia. It is often considered a bridge between the eastern and western parts of Asia and plays a significant role in the geopolitics of the region. 4) The main language of Iran is <strong>Persian</strong>, also known as <strong>Farsi</strong>. It is the official language and is used in government, media, and education. There are also several regional languages and dialects spoken throughout the country, such as Azeri, Kurdish, and Luri. 5) The main religion in Iran is <strong>Islam</strong>, with the majority of the population identifying as <strong>Shia Muslims</strong>. Iran is known for being the largest Shia Muslim-majority country in the world. There are also minority religious communities in Iran, including Sunni Muslims, Christians, Jews, Zoroastrians, and Baha'is. 6) Iran boasts a rich and diverse artistic heritage that spans centuries. Iran has a rich cultural heritage, known for its poetry, miniature painting, carpet weaving, and calligraphy. Notable poets include Rumi and Hafez. 7) Iranian cuisine is diverse and flavorful, with popular dishes including kebabs, rice dishes like pilaf (polow), and stews (khoresh). Saffron, herbs, and nuts are commonly used. 8) Iranian cuisine is diverse and flavorful, with popular dishes including kebabs, rice dishes like pilaf (polow), and stews (khoresh). Saffron, herbs, and nuts are commonly used. It involves various traditions, including family gatherings and special meals. 9) Iran shares borders with several countries, including Iraq, Turkey, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Turkmenistan, Afghanistan, and Pakistan. These neighboring countries contribute to Iran's diverse cultural and geopolitical landscape.</p>]]></description>
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         <pubDate>2024-10-16 13:35:38 UTC</pubDate>
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         <title></title>
         <author></author>
         <link>https://padlet.com/yuhanis_mn/tutorialchapter2L1/wish/3172377930</link>
         <description><![CDATA[<p>1) The flag of Estonia, known as Sinimustvalge means blue, black and white in Estonia. The national flag of Estonia is a tricolour featuring three equal horizontal bands of blue at the top, black in the centre, and white at the bottom.</p><p>2) The current population of Estonia is 1.3 million with the land area of 45 000 km. </p><p>3) Estonia is a country in the Baltic region of Northern Europe bordered to the north by the Gulf of Finland to the west by the Baltic sea to the south by Latvia and to the east by Lake peipus and Russia.</p><p>4) The official language of Estonia is Estonian which is related to Finnish but percentage of people in Estonia can speak in Estonia, Finnish, Russia and English.</p><p>5) Estonia one of the least religious countries in the world in terms of declared attitudes with only 14 percent of the population declaring religion to be an important part of their daily life.</p><p>6) Estonia is well known for its modernist paintings and illustrations. Also Estonia have some tradisional crafts which is hand knit sweaters, hat and gloves were made by hand.</p><p>7) The national dish of Estonia is Verivorst typically a winter meal which literally means blood sausage comprises barley, onions, allspice, marjoram and blood.</p><p>8) One of the most popular festival in Estonia is Ollesummer. In july beer festival in Estonia and is held alongside many of the town's musical events. Local groups perform while beverages overflow on the Tallin Song Festival Grounds.</p><p>9) Estonia countries, bordered on the north by the golf course of Finland on the east with Russia and on the south with Latvia.</p>]]></description>
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         <pubDate>2024-10-16 13:45:38 UTC</pubDate>
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         <title>BRAZIL CULTURE </title>
         <author></author>
         <link>https://padlet.com/yuhanis_mn/tutorialchapter2L1/wish/3172379029</link>
         <description><![CDATA[<p>1) A green field with a large yellow rhombus in the center, bearing a blue disk which forms a celestial globe depicting twenty-seven small white five-pointed stars spanned by a white equatorial curved band with the National Motto <em>Ordem E Progresso</em> wich mean Order and Progress. The green color is a symbol of the flora and fauna of Brazil, the yellow represents gold, and the blue globe and stars symbolize the night sky filled with stars and constellations, a group of stars that form a pattern that also stands for the country's states.</p><p><br/></p><p>2)Brazil has an estimated population of around 213 million people, making it the largest country in South America and the sixth most populous in the world. The population is diverse, comprising a mix of ethnicities, including Indigenous peoples, descendants of Europeans, Africans, and immigrants from various countries.</p><p><br/></p><p>3)Brazil is divided into five major regions wich is North, Northeast, Central-West, Southeast, and South. The North is largely covered by the Amazon rainforest and is known for its rich biodiversity, but it has lower population density. The Northeast is culturally vibrant and faces economic challenges, with a significant portion of the population living in coastal cities. The Central-West region, which includes the capital, Brazil, is known for its agriculture and vast savannas. The Southeast is the country's most economically developed area, featuring major urban centers, while the South is characterized by its European-influenced culture and agricultural production. </p><p><br/></p><p>4)The main language spoken in Brazil is Portuguese, which is the only official language of the country. It was introduced during the colonial period when Brazil was a part of the Portuguese Empire. Over time, Brazilian Portuguese has developed its own unique characteristics, including variations in pronunciation and vocabulary influenced by Indigenous languages and immigrant communities. </p><p><br/></p><p>5) The main religion in Brazil is Christianity, with a significant majority identifying as Roman Catholic. Also have a smaller presence of other faiths, including Spiritism, Buddhism, and Indigenous spiritual beliefs. </p><p><br/></p><p>6) Brazilian traditions are diverse and reflect the country’s rich cultural tapestry, influenced by Indigenous, African, and European heritage. One of the most famous traditions is Carnaval, a vibrant festival featuring parades, samba music, and elaborate costumes, celebrated annually before Lent. Festa Junina is another important cultural event, honoring rural life with folk dances, traditional foods, and bonfires. Festival of Candomblé and <em>Umbanda</em> is a religious practices blend Catholicism with African and Indigenous beliefs.</p><p><br/></p><p>7) Brazilian food is a vibrant reflection of the country's diverse cultural heritage, blending Indigenous, African, and European influences. One of the most iconic dishes is feijoada, a rich black bean stew typically made with various cuts of pork and beef, served with rice and collard greens. Another popular staple is pão de queijo, delicious cheese bread balls that are enjoyed as snacks or breakfast. The northeastern region is known for <em>acarajé</em>, deep-fried fritters filled with shrimp and spicy sauce, while <em>moqueca</em>, a flavorful fish stew cooked in coconut milk and spices, highlights the coastal cuisine. </p><p><br/></p><p>8) Brazil is famous for its vibrant festivals, the most renowned being Carnaval, celebrated with parades, samba music, and elaborate costumes in cities like Rio de Janeiro and Salvador. This lively event occurs annually before Lent, drawing millions of participants and spectators. Another significant festival is Festa Junina, which honors rural traditions with folk dances, bonfires, and traditional foods like corn-based dishes. In Bahia, <em>Iemanjá</em> Festival celebrates the goddess of the sea, featuring offerings and lively celebrations along the coastline. Additionally, various regional festivals showcase local culture, music, and cuisine, reflecting Brazil's rich diversity and community spirit.</p><p><br/></p><p>9) To the north, it neighbors French Guiana, Suriname, and Guyana. On the western side, Brazil is bordered by Venezuela, Colombia, and Peru. To the south, it shares borders with Bolivia and Paraguay, while Argentina lies to the southwest. </p>]]></description>
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         <pubDate>2024-10-16 13:46:09 UTC</pubDate>
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         <title>Cultures of Armenia</title>
         <author></author>
         <link>https://padlet.com/yuhanis_mn/tutorialchapter2L1/wish/3172541612</link>
         <description><![CDATA[<p>1) <strong>The Flag:</strong><br>The law 'On the State Flag of the Republic of Armenia" was adopted on August 24, 1990, by the Supreme Soviet of the Republic of Armenia.<br>Following the constitutional reform of November 27, 2005, a new RA law on the National Flag of the Republic of Armenia was adopted on June 15, 2006. The national flag of the Republic of Armenia is a national emblem of the Republic of Armenia. The national flag of the Republic of Armenia is of three colors in stripes of the same width - red, blue, orange respectively from top to bottom. The Red emblematizes the Armenian Highland, the Armenian people's continued struggle for survival, maintenance of the Christian faith, Armenia's independence and freedom. The Blue emblematizes the will of the people of Armenia to live beneath peaceful skies. The Orange emblematizes the creative talent and hard-working nature of the people of Armenia. The width-length ratio of the flag is 1/2. Smaller and larger pieces of cloth proportionate to the one described in this section may be used.</p><p>2) <strong>Population:</strong><br>As of January 1st 2023, Armenia has a population of 2976.8 thousand people, with 98.1% being Armenian and the other 1.9% consists of minorities of Russians, Yezidis, Kurds, Assyrians, Greeks, Ukrainians, Jews and others.</p><p>3) The territory of the Republic of Armenia is composed of ten marzes (regions) and Yerevan city which is governed by the law on local self-government in the city of Yerevan. Public administration in the marzes is governed by RA President’s decree “On public administration in the marzes of the Republic of Armenia” and other legal acts.</p><p>4) <strong>Main Language:</strong><br><strong>Armenian</strong> is the only official language. The main foreign languages that Armenians know are <strong>Russian</strong> and <strong>English</strong>. Other foreign languages common in Armenia include French, German, Italian, Spanish and Persian. Minority languages include Assyrian, Greek, and Northern Kurdish.</p><p>5) <strong>Main Religion:</strong><br>Armenia is one of the, if not, the earliest nation to adopt <strong>Christianity</strong>. The overwhelming majority of the population of Armenia is Christians of Armenian Apostolic Church which possesses the status of national church of Armenian people. There are also believers of Russian Orthodox Church, Muslims, Hebrews and representatives of other faiths including the so-called religious minorities in Armenia.</p><p>Islam is another religion in Armenia that was practiced mainly by Azerbaijanis and Kurds.</p><p>6) <strong>Arts:</strong></p><p>Arts in Armenia are quite unique and is said to have been dating back to antiquity. Many of the Armenian arts and cultures have been recorded in <strong>Armenian book miniatures</strong>. Several manuscripts that date back to the seventh century have been preserved. The miniature books plays an important role in the discovery and understanding of the history of Armenian music, theater, ethnography, crafts, etc., in addition to their artistic value. Armenians love to express their emotions through dancing. Some of the known Armenian dances are<strong> Kochari</strong>, <strong>Yarkhushta</strong> and <strong>Berd</strong>.</p><p>7) <strong>Food</strong></p><p>For millennia, Armenian food traditions were shaped by geographical and climatic conditions, local lifestyle, and different types of mountain vegetation. These recipes are still in use today and are essential to local food practices. Some of the famous local food in Armenian cuisine are <strong>Khorovats</strong> (the Armenian take on a kebab), <strong>Dolma</strong> (a mix of minced meat, onion, rice, and various spices, all wrapped up in a vine leaf), <strong>Manti</strong> (baked dumplings served in tomato sauce with a garlicky yoghurt on the side) and <strong>Ghapama</strong> (a butternut pumpkin, scooped out and stuffed with rice and dried fruits).</p><p>8) <strong>Festival</strong></p><p>Armenia boasts some of the most insightful and thrilling festivals that not only attracts and excites people from around the world but also Armenians themselves. <strong>Taraz Fest</strong>, named after Armenia’s traditional dress, is a festival divided into two fairs: one celebrates heritage designs, while the other sees contemporary designers reinterpret elements of the Taraz. Lattice lace stitched in traditional patterns is what you can expect every August at Taraz Fest. This festival not only celebrates Armenian cultural heritage but also the creativity and talents of the people of Armenia. In early July, representatives from more than 25 restaurants gather in Dilijan for <strong>Gastrofest</strong>, showcasing local recipes, competing in culinary face-offs and giving visitors the chance to become food critics for a weekend. High-octane events are on offer all over Armenia, making the most of the mountains, gorges and rivers the country has. In May, adventurers take part in <strong>Slack Life Fest</strong> to rock climb, tip-toe along slacklines and camp in the depths of <strong>Armenia’s Hell's Canyon</strong>.</p><p>9) <strong>Neighbouring Countries</strong></p><p>Armenia, landlocked country of Transcaucasia, lying just south of the great mountain range of the Caucasus and fronting the northwestern extremity of Asia. To the north and east Armenia is bounded by <strong>Georgia</strong> and <strong>Azerbaijan</strong>, while its neighbours to the southeast and west are, respectively, <strong>Iran</strong> and <strong>Turkey</strong>. <strong>Naxçıvan</strong>, an exclave of Azerbaijan, borders Armenia to the southwest.</p><p><br/></p>]]></description>
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         <pubDate>2024-10-16 15:14:02 UTC</pubDate>
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         <title>GREECE CULTURE</title>
         <author></author>
         <link>https://padlet.com/yuhanis_mn/tutorialchapter2L1/wish/3172681933</link>
         <description><![CDATA[<p>1. "Galanolefki," which translates to "blue and white," is the name of the Greece flag. It had a white diagonal cross on a blue background at first. The cross, which represents Christianity, is currently located in the upper left corner. The First National Assembly of Epidaurus, which met in 1822, established the current Greek flag.</p><p>2. There are 10.3 million people living in Greece as of October 2024. There have been 39 thousand fewer residents in the past year, which is a 0.37% decrease. From 42 years old in 2014 to 45.8 years old in 2024, the population's median age has risen recently.</p><p>3. Greece is divided into several regions, each with unique landscapes and cultural significance. Central Greece is known for sites like Delphi, while Attica is home to Athens, blending ancient landmarks with modern life. The Peloponnese holds historic cities like Sparta and Olympia, and Thessaly is famous for Mount Olympus. Macedonia features Thessaloniki and Mount Athos, and Epirus offers rugged mountains and gorges. In the northeast, Thrace is known for its cultural diversity. Crete, the largest island, has the ancient palace of Knossos.</p><p>4. The main language spoken in Greece is Greek . It is the official language and is used in government, education, media, and daily communication. Most people speak Greek, especially in urban areas and tourist regions, also speak English as a second language.</p><p>5. The main religion in Greece is Eastern Orthodoxy, specifically the Greek Orthodox Church, which plays a significant role in the country's cultural and national identity. Around 90% of the population identifies as Orthodox Christians. The Greek Orthodox Church is an autocephalous (self-governing) part of the larger Eastern Orthodox communion, with deep roots in Byzantine traditions. Religious practices, holidays like Easter, and ceremonies such as baptisms and weddings are important aspects of Greek life. While Greece guarantees religious freedom, other religions, including Islam, Roman Catholicism, and Judaism, are also present, especially in minority communities.</p><p>6. Greek art has profoundly influenced Western culture, evolving through several periods. The Geometric and Archaic periods featured patterned pottery and early sculptures like kouroi. The Classical Period focused on idealized human forms, with masterpieces such as the Parthenon and lifelike statues by Phidias. The Hellenistic Period introduced more emotional and dynamic art, seen in works like the Venus de Milo. Later, Byzantine art emphasized religious icons and mosaics. Greek art’s legacy continues to inspire modern architecture, sculpture, and visual arts.</p><p>7. Greek cuisine is known for its fresh ingredients, Mediterranean flavors, and healthy dishes. Staples include olive oil, vegetables, grains, fish, and meat like lamb and pork. Popular dishes are moussaka (a baked casserole with eggplant, minced meat, and béchamel sauce), souvlaki (grilled meat skewers), and gyros (pita-wrapped meat with tomatoes, onions, and tzatziki). Spanakopita (spinach pie) and dolmades (stuffed grape leaves) are also widely enjoyed. Greek salads with feta cheese and olives are common, and baklava (a sweet pastry with nuts and honey) is a popular dessert. Meals are often accompanied by wine or ouzo, a traditional anise-flavored spirit. Greek cuisine reflects its cultural heritage, emphasizing simplicity and flavor</p><p>8.Greece celebrates many vibrant festivals, often tied to religious traditions and historical events. The most important is Easter, marked with church services, feasts, and the symbolic cracking of red-dyed eggs. The Athens Epidaurus Festival (summer) showcases theater, music, and dance in ancient venues like the Epidaurus theater. Carnival (Apokries), held before Lent, features parades, costumes, and lively celebrations across the country, especially in Patras. Ohi Day (October 28) commemorates Greece’s resistance during World War II with parades and ceremonies. In August, the Assumption of the Virgin Mary is celebrated nationwide with church services and feasts. Many islands also host local festivals, such as the Panagia Festival in Tinos, blending faith, music, and dance. These festivals reflect Greece’s deep cultural and religious roots.</p><p>9. Greece shares its borders with several countries. To the north, it borders Albania, North<strong> </strong>Macedonia, and Bulgaria. To the northeast, it shares a land border with Turkey. Greece is also surrounded by seas: the Aegean Sea to the east (separating it from Turkey), the Ionian Sea to the west (with maritime connections to Italy), and the Mediterranean Sea to the south. These geographical connections have played a significant role in Greece’s history, trade, and cultural exchanges.</p>]]></description>
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         <pubDate>2024-10-16 16:37:10 UTC</pubDate>
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         <title>NORWAY CULTURE</title>
         <author></author>
         <link>https://padlet.com/yuhanis_mn/tutorialchapter2L1/wish/3173422680</link>
         <description><![CDATA[<p>1) The flag of Norway features a red field with a blue cross outlined in white. The cross is shifted towards the hoist side, following the Scandinavian design tradition. The red represents the country's history and struggle for independence, while the blue symbolizes freedom and the white signifies purity and peace.</p><p>2) As of 2023, Norway's population is approximately 5.5 million people. The country has a relatively low population density, given its large land area. The population is characterized by a mix of ethnic groups, with a significant number of immigrants contributing to its cultural diversity.</p><p>3) Norway, country of northern Europe that occupies the western half of the Scandinavian peninsula. Nearly half of the inhabitants of the country live in the far south, in the region around Oslo, the capital. About two-thirds of Norway is mountainous, and off its much-indented coastline lie, carved by deep glacial fjords, some 50,000 islands.</p><p>4) The main language of Norway is Norwegian, which has two official written forms: Bokmål and Nynorsk. Bokmål is more widely used, particularly in urban areas, while Nynorsk is based on rural dialects. Both forms are taught in schools and used in government. Additionally, Sámi languages are spoken by the indigenous Sámi people in northern Norway.</p><p>5) The main religion in Norway is Christianity, with the majority of the population belonging to the Church of Norway, which is a Lutheran denomination. While most Norwegians identify as members of the church, attendance and active participation in religious services are relatively low. There are also small communities of other religions, including Islam, Buddhism, and Hinduism.</p><p>6) Norway has a rich artistic heritage, spanning various forms, including literature, music, visual arts, and traditional crafts. Notable figures include playwright Henrik Ibsen and painter Edvard Munch. The country celebrates its folk traditions through music and dance, particularly in rural areas. Contemporary art is also vibrant, with numerous galleries and art festivals, reflecting both modern themes and Norway's stunning natural landscapes.</p><p>7) Norwegian cuisine features a variety of traditional dishes, heavily influenced by the country's geography and climate. Key elements include:</p><p>-Seafood: Cod, salmon, and herring are staples, often enjoyed smoked or cured.</p><p>-Game: Reindeer and elk are commonly used in stews and roasts. </p><p>-Dairy: Brown cheese (brunost) is a unique Norwegian delicacy.</p><p>-Root Vegetables: Potatoes, carrots, and turnips are frequently included in meals.</p><p>-Flatbrød: A traditional flatbread, often served with soups and stews.</p><p>Norwegians also enjoy traditional dishes like klippfisk (dried and salted fish) and lutefisk (dried fish treated with lye).</p><p>8) Norway hosts a variety of festivals celebrating culture, music, and traditions. Notable festivals include:</p><p>-17th of May (Constitution Day): A national celebration with parades, traditional costumes, and festivities across the country.</p><p>-Oslo Jazz Festival: Showcases local and international jazz musicians, featuring concerts and workshops.</p><p>-Bergen Fest: A popular music festival in Bergen featuring diverse genres and performances from various artists.</p><p>-Norwegian Wood: An annual music festival held in Oslo, focusing on rock and pop music.</p><p>-The Sami National Day: Celebrated on February 6th, it honors the indigenous Sami culture with events highlighting their traditions, music, and art.</p><p>These festivals reflect Norway's rich cultural heritage and vibrant community spirit.</p><p>9) Norway shares borders with two neighboring countries which are Sweden to the east and Finland to the northeast. Additionally, Norway shares a maritime border with Russia to the far northeast. These neighboring countries influence Norway's culture and economy.</p><p><br/></p>]]></description>
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         <pubDate>2024-10-17 02:31:46 UTC</pubDate>
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         <title>Ethiopia culture</title>
         <author></author>
         <link>https://padlet.com/yuhanis_mn/tutorialchapter2L1/wish/3173456743</link>
         <description><![CDATA[<p>1)Ethiopia's flag is a combination of green, yellow, and red with the country's emblem—a golden pentagram on a blue disc—placed in the middle. Although the combination of green, yellow, and red has had symbolic meaning since at least the early 17th century, Menelik II was the first to adopt the modern combination of colour on October 11, 1897, and the current flag on October 31, 1996.</p><p><br/></p><p>2)With almost 132 million people living there as of 2024, it is the most populated landlocked nation on Earth, the second most populous in Africa after Nigeria, and the tenth most populous nation worldwide.</p><p><br/></p><p>3)The East African Rift, which divides the nation into the African and Somali tectonic plates, is located a few kilometers west of Addis Ababa, the capital and largest city of the country.</p><p><br/></p><p>4)The majority of the population speaks Afroasiatic languages belonging to the Cushitic or Semitic group. The former contains the Oromo language, spoken by the Oromo, and Somali, spoken by the Somalis, while the latter includes Amharic, spoken by the Amhara, and Tigrinya, spoken by Tigrayans. Together, these four groups account for almost three-quarters of Ethiopia's population.</p><p><br/></p><p>5)According to the 2007 National Census, Christians make up 62.8% of the population, Muslims 33.9%, practitioners of traditional faiths 2.6%, and other religions 0.6%. When compared to earlier censuses done decades ago, the Christian-Muslim population ratio has remained relatively steady.</p><p><br/></p><p>6)Throughout Ethiopia's history, Christian imagery has had a significant effect on the arts. This included illuminated texts, paintings, crosses, icons, and other metals, like crowns. The Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church, which was the national church for millennia, commissioned the majority of historical artwork. The older Aksumite period artworks were stone sculptures, as demonstrated by their stelae, but no Christian art survives from this era. </p><p><br/></p><p>7)The most well-known Ethiopian cuisine consists of several varieties of thick meat stews, known as wat in Ethiopian culture, and vegetable side dishes served on top of injera, a big sourdough flatbread made from teff flour. This is not eaten with cutlery, but the injera is used to scoop up the entrées and side dishes.</p><p><br/></p><p>8)The first public holiday on the calendar is Adwa triumph Day on March 2nd, which commemorates Emperor Menelik II's triumph over Italy's attempted but failed colonization ambitions in 1896. Ethiopian Patriots' Victory Day, which commemorates the restoration of Emperor Haile Selassie I and therefore the freedom of fascist Italian rule on May 5th and the downfall of the Derg on May 28th, is a recent holiday pushed to public status by the ruling government after 1991. And the most notable of public holidays is Enkutatash, which is the largest, marking the Ethiopian new year on September 11 or 12</p><p><br/></p><p>9)Ethiopia, formally known as the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, is a landlocked nation in East Africa's Horn of Africa. It borders Somalia to the east, Kenya to the south, South Sudan to the west, Sudan to the northwest, Eritrea to the north, and Djibouti to the northeast.</p>]]></description>
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         <pubDate>2024-10-17 02:51:33 UTC</pubDate>
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         <title>United Kingdom Culture</title>
         <author></author>
         <link>https://padlet.com/yuhanis_mn/tutorialchapter2L1/wish/3173526267</link>
         <description><![CDATA[<p>1) The flag of the United Kingdom is known as the United Jack or the United Union. It is called the United Jack because it combines three countries united under one sovereign: Scotland, England, and Northern Ireland. The flag also consists of three heraldic crosses. 2) The current population of the United Kingdom as of 2024 is 69,258,945 people. The United Kingdom also ranks 21 in the population list of countries. 3) The United Kingdom is located off the northwestern coast of mainland Europe. It also consists of 12 regions in total. 4) The official main language in the United Kingdom is English but there are also some native languages such as Welsh, Gaelic, and Scots which are widely spoken in Scotland. 5) The main religion in the United Kingdom is Christianity followed by atheism and other religions such as Islam, Hindu and Buddhist. 6) The arts culture in the United Kingdom is rich and diverse. The United Kingdom is also known for its classical work which is the orchestra and the royal ballet. 7) The food scene in the United Kingdom has evolved significantly over the years. There is lots of traditional food in the United Kingdom which consists of Fish and Chips, Full English Breakfast, and Sunday Roast. As for the beverages, the United Kingdom is famous for its tea given of its long history of tea making. 8) The United Kingdom hosts a bunch of festivals too. For example, the Brighton Festival is a multi-arts festival that consists of theatre, music, literature, and visual arts that is held annually in May. There are also heritage festivals such as Heritage Open Days which allow visitors to visit historical sites and landmarks that are not usually open to the public. 9) The neighbouring country is the Republic of Ireland which shares the border with Northern Ireland. There are also nearby countries across the sea which is France, Belgium, and The Netherlands. </p>]]></description>
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         <pubDate>2024-10-17 03:30:58 UTC</pubDate>
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         <title>FINLAND CULTURE</title>
         <author>ainnazween2004</author>
         <link>https://padlet.com/yuhanis_mn/tutorialchapter2L1/wish/3173644774</link>
         <description><![CDATA[<p>1)The national flag of Finland, also known in Finnish as "The Siniristilippu" (Blue Cross Flag), <strong>dates from the beginning of the 20th century</strong>. On a white background, it features a blue Nordic cross, which represents Christianity. Sea-blue Nordic cross on white field.</p><p><br/></p><p>2)According to Statistics Finland's preliminary data, Finland's population was 5,625,011 at the end of August 2024. In that country population increased by 21,160 persons during January–August.</p><p><br/></p><p>3)Finland is divided into 19 regions, and the population distribution varies significantly across these regions. The most populous region is Uusimaa, which is the capital region and home to almost 1.8 million inhabitants, accounting for nearly one-third of Finland's total population. The second-largest region in terms of population is Pirkanmaa, with approximately 539,309 people.</p><p><br/></p><p>4)The two main official languages of Finland are Finnish and Swedish, but there are also some lesser-spoken languages too, including variants of the Sami language of the indigenous people of Lapland. Finnish is part of the Finno-Ugric language group with Estonian and Hungarian and there are more similarities between these three languages than Finnish has with its geographical neighbouring languages of Swedish and Norwegian. Many indigenous Sami people from Lapland now speak Finnish as their first language, but some keep their language alive. There are some Finnish dialects around the country and Swedish speakers are mostly settled in the west and south. English is widely practiced, so visitors should have no problem communicating while travelling.</p><p><br/></p><p>5)The main religion in Finland is <strong>Christianity</strong>, with the majority of the population belonging to the <strong>Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland</strong>. As of recent statistics, approximately <strong>65.2%</strong> of Finns are members of this church, making it the largest religious group in the country</p><p><br/></p><p>6)From the time that the <em>Kalevala</em> inspired the paintings of <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" class="md-crosslink " href="https://www.britannica.com/topic/Die-Brucke">Die Brücke</a> Expressionist Akseli Gallen-Kallela, there has been a distinctive school of Finnish painters, but the Finnish artistic genius has been continually drawn to three-dimensional work. Sculpture is important, highly abstract, and experimental; Eila Hiltanen’s monument to Sibelius in Helsinki is composed of chrome, metal, and steel tubes.</p><p><br/></p><p>7)Fi<strong>nnish cuisine</strong> is notable for generally combining traditional country fare and <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Haute_cuisine"><em>haute cuisine</em></a> with contemporary continental-style cooking. <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" class="mw-redirect" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fish_(food)">Fish</a> and <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Meat">meat</a> (usually pork, beef or reindeer) play a prominent role in traditional <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Finland">Finnish</a> dishes in some parts of the country, while the dishes elsewhere have traditionally included various <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vegetable">vegetables</a> and <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Edible_mushroom">mushrooms</a>. <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Evacuation_of_Finnish_Karelia">Evacuees from Karelia</a> contributed to foods in other parts of Finland in the aftermath of the <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Continuation_War">Continuation War</a>. Finnish foods often use <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" class="mw-redirect" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wholemeal">wholemeal</a> products (<a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rye">rye</a>, <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Barley">barley</a>, <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oat">oats</a>) and berries (such as <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bilberry">bilberries</a>, <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" class="mw-redirect" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lingonberry">lingonberries</a>, <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" class="mw-redirect" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cloudberry">cloudberries</a>, and <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" class="mw-redirect" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sea_buckthorn">sea buckthorn</a>). <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Milk">Milk</a> and its derivatives like <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Buttermilk">buttermilk</a> are commonly used as food, drink or in various recipes. Various <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Turnip">turnips</a> were common in traditional cooking, but were replaced with the <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Potato">potato</a> after its introduction in the 18th century.</p><p><br/></p><p>8)The <strong>Tangomarkkinat</strong> is the world's oldest <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Finnish_tango">tango</a> festival. It is held early every July in <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sein%C3%A4joki">Seinäjoki</a>, <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Finland">Finland</a>. As well as competitions to find the country's best tango singers, composers, and dancers, the festival features public dancing to live music provided by the best Finnish entertainers. Music for public dancing is not restricted to tango: it includes all the dance rhythms popular in Finland: but tango content must, according to the rules, be at least 40%.</p><p><br/></p><p>9)Finland shares a border with its three neighbours, Norway, Sweden, and Russia.<br>The 736-kilometre-long <strong>Norwegian border</strong> is the northernmost border. Almost half of it follows the Tenojoki River or its tributary the Inarijoki River. Much of the border runs through unpopulated wilderness. There are six road border crossings with Kilpisjärvi the farthest west, Utsjoki the farthest north, and Näätämö the farthest east.<br>Most of Finland and <strong>Sweden </strong>are separated by the Gulf of Bothnia with a narrow channel of international waters in between. The border zigzags across one tiny lighthouse island called Märket in the Åland Archipelago. The land border starts in the north near Kilpisjärvi where the borders of Finland, Sweden and Norway meet. Most of the Finland-Sweden border is a river border along the Könkämäeno, Muonionjoki, and Tornionjoki Rivers, a total of 555 kilometres.</p>]]></description>
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         <pubDate>2024-10-17 04:57:22 UTC</pubDate>
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         <title>HONG KONG CULTURE❤️</title>
         <author></author>
         <link>https://padlet.com/yuhanis_mn/tutorialchapter2L1/wish/3173739617</link>
         <description><![CDATA[<p>1) The Regional Flag of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People's Republic of China depicts a white five-petalled Hong Kong orchid (Bauhinia × blakeana) in the middle of a Chinese red field. The original design was unveiled on April 4, 1990 at the Third Session of the Seventh National People's Congress.</p><p>2) Hong Kong is one of the most densely populated areas in the world. The current population of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People's Republic of China was 7,409,433 on Tuesday, October 15, 2024, based on the latest United Nations data Worldometer breakdown. The population of China, Hong Kong SAR 2024 is estimated to be 7,414,909 people in the middle of the year. Residents represent a variety of racial and religious backgrounds.</p><p>3) ﻿﻿﻿Hong Kong (China), officially the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (China), is a region in the People's Republic of China, facing Guangdong to the north and the South China Sea to the east, west and south.</p><p>4)The official language of Hong Kong Chinese. English is also widely used and serves as a second language to establish business relations with foreign countries. While the regional language is Cantonese.</p><p>5)The official religion of Hong Kong is Buddhism. Other religions that grow and develop in Hong Kong are Taoism (Taoism), Kong Hu Cu (Confucianism), Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, Sikhism, and Judaism. Around 700,000 Hongkongers follow Buddhism and</p><p>320,000 Taoists, 243,000 Protestant Christians, 90,000 Roman Catholics, 8,000 Hindus, Sikhs and 4,000 Jews.</p><p>6) There are many kinds of art in Hong Kong. For example, martial arts in Hong Kong are taekwondo, Tai-chi, Kungfu and Karate. Hong Kong art may include pottery and stone art from prehistoric Hong Kong; calligraphy, Chinese ink paintings, and pottery from its time under Imperial China.</p><p>7)Hong Kong cuisine is mainly influenced by Cantonese cuisine, European cuisine (mainly British cuisine) and non-Cantonese Chinese cuisine (mainly Hakka, Teochew, Hokkien and Shanghainese), as well as Japanese, Korean and Southeast Asian cuisine, The combination of complex and international gourmet expertise has given Hong Kong labels "Gourmet Paradise" and "World's Fair of Food". Many other traditional foods in Hongkong such as Dim Sum, Chat siu, Wonton Noodles and many more.</p><p>8) There are many different types of festivals in Hong Kong. For example, the Hong Kong Festival is not just an event; it is a celebration of identity, heritage and community. Cheung Chau Bun Festival, Mid-Autumn Festival, Hungry Ghost Festival, Chinese New Year, Spring Lantern Festival, Tin Hau Festival, Dragon Boat Festival, Qingming Festival, Chung Yeung Festival, and more. But the main celebration in Hong Kong is Chinese New Year. This vibrant festival is Hong Kong's most celebrated event, sweeping across the city. Red lanterns are hung across the city, lion dances are performed in the streets, and people head to their local temples to pray for good luck.</p><p>9) Hong Kong has no other land borders. The countries closest to Hong Kong are Vietnam to its west, Taiwan to its northeast, and the Philippines to its southeast.</p>]]></description>
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         <pubDate>2024-10-17 06:00:22 UTC</pubDate>
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         <title>POLAND CULTURE</title>
         <author></author>
         <link>https://padlet.com/yuhanis_mn/tutorialchapter2L1/wish/3173776984</link>
         <description><![CDATA[<p>1) Poland's flag is a horizontal bicolor with two equal bars of red and white. The white stands for the Polish Eagle, a representation of the nation's sovereignty and independence. The red represents the blood that Poles have spilled in their struggle for independence and freedom. When Poland earned its independence after World War 1, the flag was formally established in 1919. It represents Polish identity and pride in the country. </p><p>2) The population in Poland as of 2023 is about 37.8 million people. </p><p>3) Poland is situated in the Central European region. Its boundaries are shared by Slovakia to the southeast, Germany to the west, Belarus and Lithuania to the north, and the Czech Republic to the south. </p><p>4) The official language of Poland is Polish.</p><p>5) With over 97% of the population identifying as Catholic, Roman Catholicism is the most common religion in Poland.</p><p>6) Music, literature, painting, sculpture, and other creative endeavors have a long history in Poland. Famous Polish artists include the composer Frédéric Chopin, the poet Adam Mickiewicz and the painter Jan Matejko. </p><p>7) German, Ukrainian, and Russian traditions are reflected in the robust and rich Polish food. Pierogi (dumplings), bigos (hunter's stew), and zurek (sour rye soup) are a few classic Polish meals. </p><p>8) The Kraków Live Festival, a significant music gathering held yearly in Kraków, is one of the most well-known Polish festivals. The Poznan International Fair and the Warsaw Film Festival are two other noteworthy festivals.</p><p>9) Poland's neighboring countries include Germany, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Belarus, Ukraine, and Lithuania.</p><p><br></p><p>Thank you!!!</p>]]></description>
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         <pubDate>2024-10-17 06:24:38 UTC</pubDate>
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         <title>PHILIPPINES</title>
         <author>a24b3691</author>
         <link>https://padlet.com/yuhanis_mn/tutorialchapter2L1/wish/3173822314</link>
         <description><![CDATA[<p>1. The national flag of the Philippines is a horizontal bicolor flag with equal bands of royal blue and crimson red, with a white, equilateral chevron at the hoist. In the center of the triangle is a golden-yellow sun with eight primary rays, to represent the original eight provinces that rebelled against the Spanish during the 1896 Philippine Revolution. At each vertex of the triangle is a five-pointed, golden-yellow star, each of which represents one of the country's three main island groups—Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. The white triangle at the hoist represents liberty, equality, and fraternity. A unique feature of this flag is its usage to indicate a state of war if it is displayed with the red side on top, which is effectively achieved by flipping the flag upside-down.</p><p><br/></p><p>2. The current population of the&nbsp;Philippines in 2024 is 119,106,224, a 1.51% increase from 2023.</p><p><br/></p><p>3. The Philippines is subdivided into seventeen (17) regions, which are eight (8) in Luzon, three (3) in the Visayas, and six (6) in Mindanao. These regions are not local government units, but their existence is primarily for administrative purposes. Thus, in each region, a city is designated as the center where each of the national government agencies has a regional office.</p><p><br/></p><p>4. The national language is Filipino, which is based on the language of Tagalog, although there are at least one or two dialects spoken in every region. There are more than 87 languages and dialects in the country. English is considered an official language as it is both spoken and understood throughout the Philippines and used in business, government, and schools.</p><p><br/></p><p>5.The Philippines proudly boasts to be the only Christian nation in Asia. More than 86 percent of the population is Roman Catholic, 6 percent belong to various nationalized Christian cults, and another 2 percent belong to well over 100 Protestant denominations.</p><p><br/></p><p>6.Traditional arts in the Philippines include folk architecture, maritime transport, weaving, carving, folk performing arts, folk (oral) literature, folk graphic and plastic arts, ornaments, textile or fiber art, pottery, and other artistic expressions of traditional culture.</p><p><br/></p><p>7.The national dishes in the&nbsp;Philippines include adobo, lumpia, sinigang, bistek, and lechon among others.</p><p><br/></p><p>8.There are various festivals celebrated by the Philippine people. The best-known festival in the Philippines is the Sinulog Festival. It is religious and is mainly celebrated in the city of Cebu. It honors the baby Jesus, the patron of this town and who the Filipinos call the Holy Child. On this day there are parades, drumming, and processions with figures of the Holy Child.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>9.Philippines shares maritime borders with Taiwan to the north, Japan to the northeast, Palau to the east and southeast, Indonesia to the south, Malaysia to the southwest, Vietnam to the west, and China to the northwest. It is the world's twelfth-most-populous country, with diverse ethnicities and cultures.</p><p>&nbsp;</p>]]></description>
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         <pubDate>2024-10-17 06:53:39 UTC</pubDate>
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         <title>Brunei Darussalam culture </title>
         <author></author>
         <link>https://padlet.com/yuhanis_mn/tutorialchapter2L1/wish/3173932009</link>
         <description><![CDATA[<p>1) The flag of Brunei Darussalam has centered emblem of Brunei on a yellow field cut by black and white diagonal stripes. The yellow field represents the sultan of Brunei while the black and white stripes represent Brunei's cheif ministers. At the center of the flag, there is a red crest consists of a crescent facing upwards, joined with a parasol with hands on the sides. The crescent symbolizes Islam, the parasol symbolizes monarchy and the hands at the side symbolize the benevolence of the government. </p><p>2) In 2024, Brunei Darussalam had a population of 462,721 and it has  increased 0.82% compared to the year of 2023.</p><p>3) Brunei Darussalam is located in Southeast Asia and situated on the northern coast of the island of Borneo. It is also surrounded by the Malaysian state of Sarawak. Brunei is divided into four districts, namely Brunei-Muara, Belait, Tutong and Temburong.</p><p>4) The main language of Brunei Darussalam is Standard Malay, which is the Latin alphabet (Rumi) and the Arabic alphabet (Jawi) are used. The principal spoken language is Melayu Brunei. English, Chinese and Arabic are also widely spoken in business and education.</p><p>5) The main religion of Brunei Darussalam is Islam and the majority of Bruneian Malays and Kedayans identify as Muslims. Other than that, there are also Christianity, Buddhism and Freethinkers in Brunei Darussalam.</p><p>6) One of the most impressive handicraft made in Brunei Darussalam is the textiles crafts such as jong sarat (gold and sliver-threaded textiles) and kain tenunan (collectable antique textiles). The other traditional arts is the jipin dance, aduk-aduk, benari dance and so on.</p><p>7) Dishes from Brunei Darussalam are often spicy and are commonly eaten with rice or noodles. Nasi katok (knock rice), Beef rendang, Nasi lemak, and Ambuyat are the popular foods in Brunei Darussalam.</p><p>8) Brunei Darussalam have festivals such as Hari Raya Aidilfitri, Chinese New Year, The Royal Brunei Regatta, The Royal Brunei Multicultural Festival and Pesta Gadong. Every festival is a unique traditional and it can deepen the understanding of the culture.</p><p>9) Brunei Darussalam is the only sovereign state entirely on borneo, the remainder of the island is divided between its multi-landmass neighbours of Malaysia and Indonesia.</p><p><br/></p>]]></description>
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         <pubDate>2024-10-17 08:09:22 UTC</pubDate>
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         <title>LAOS</title>
         <author></author>
         <link>https://padlet.com/yuhanis_mn/tutorialchapter2L1/wish/3173958942</link>
         <description><![CDATA[<p>1)&nbsp;The flag is&nbsp;a red-blue-red horizontal triband with a white circle in the center. The white disc represents the power of the people, the red represents the bloodshed, and&nbsp;the blue represents prosperity.</p><p>2) Laos is a country in Southeast Asia. Its population was estimated at&nbsp;7.43 million&nbsp;in 2021&nbsp;and&nbsp;dispersed unevenly across the country.</p><p>3) Laos, a&nbsp;landlocked country of&nbsp;northeast-central mainland Southeast Asia. It consists of an irregularly round portion in the north that narrows into a peninsula-like region stretching to the southeast. The country extends about 650 miles (1,050 km) from northwest to southeast.</p><p>4) Lao, sometimes referred to as Laotian, is the official language of Laos and a significant language in the Isan region of northeastern Thailand, where it is usually referred to as the Isan language.</p><p>5)&nbsp;The predominant religion of Laos is&nbsp;Theravada&nbsp;Buddhism. Buddhism was the state religion of the republic kingdom of Laos, and the organization of the community of monks and novices, the clergy (sangha), paralleled the political hierarchy.</p><p>6) The Laotians have a variety of regional and rural art forms, including&nbsp;weaving, basketmaking, wood and ivory carving, silverwork, and goldwork. There are several musical instruments that are characteristic of the rural Lao as well as the midland and upland minority communities.</p><p>7)&nbsp;The staple food of the Lao is&nbsp;sticky rice. Laos has the highest sticky rice consumption per capita in the world with an average of 171 kilograms (377 lb) of sticky rice consumed annually per person.</p><p>8) The&nbsp;Lao New Year&nbsp;Festival is annually celebrated in mid-April, officially three days long (around 13-15 April), but it usually lasts a full week. This festival is an important celebration for Lao people when houses are cleaned, and Buddha images are washed with holy water.</p><p>9)&nbsp;Laos is bounded&nbsp;to the north by China, to the northeast and east by Vietnam, to the south by Cambodia, to the west by Thailand, and to the northwest by Myanmar (Burma).</p><p><br/></p><p><br/></p><p><br/></p><p><br/></p><p><br/></p><p><br/></p><p><br/></p><p><br/></p><p><br/></p>]]></description>
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         <pubDate>2024-10-17 08:29:23 UTC</pubDate>
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         <title>Vietnam culture</title>
         <author></author>
         <link>https://padlet.com/yuhanis_mn/tutorialchapter2L1/wish/3173989633</link>
         <description><![CDATA[<p>1) The national flag of Vietnam, formally the National Flag of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam and locally recognized as the Gold-Starred Red Flag or the National Flag, was designed in 1940 and used during an uprising against the French and Japanese in Southern Vietnam that year. The red background symbolizes revolution and bloodshed. The golden star symbolizes the soul of the nation, and the five points of the star represents the five main classes in Vietnamese society (intellectuals, farmers, workers, entrepreneurs, and soldiers).</p><p>2) Vietnam has 5 cities with populations over one million, the largest of which is Ho Chi Minh City with a population of 8,636,899. The city of Ha Noi is a close second with 7,781,631 people residing there. The remaining 3 cities with substantial populations are Hai Phong, Da Nang, and Can Tho.</p><p>3) Vietnam is divided into three main regions which is Northern Vietnam, Central Vietnam<strong>, </strong>Southern Vietnam<strong>. </strong>These regions can be further subdivided into eight subregions: Northeast Vietnam, Northwest Vietnam, the Red River Delta, the North Central Coast, the South Central Coast, the Central Highlands, Southeast Vietnam, and the Mekong River Delta.</p><p>4) The main language of Vietnam is Vietnamese. It's the official language and is spoken by the majority of the population. Vietnamese is part of the Austroasiatic language family and has several dialects, with the Northern dialect often considered the standard.</p><p>5) The main religion in Vietnam is Buddhism, specifically a blend of Mahayana Buddhism and folk practices. Other significant religions include Catholicism, Cao Dai, and Hoa Hao Buddhism. Many Vietnamese people also practice ancestor worship, which is a central aspect of their cultural and spiritual life.</p><p>6) Vietnamese art is visual art that, whether ancient or modern, originated in or is practiced in Vietnam or by Vietnamese artists. Vietnam has a rich and diverse artistic heritage that encompasses various forms, including Traditional Music, Visual Arts, Ceramics, Sculpture, Literature, Theater and Performance Arts Water puppetry and Fashion.</p><p>7) Vietnamese cuisine is known for its fresh ingredients, vibrant flavors, and balance of herbs and spices. Here are some key elements: Pho: A famous noodle soup, Banh Mi: A delicious sandwich that combines French and Vietnamese influences, Spring Rolls, Rice Dishes, Noodle Dishes, Seafood and Desserts.</p><p>Vietnamese cuisine emphasizes balance and harmony, often featuring sweet, salty, sour, and spicy flavors in a single meal.</p><p>8) Vietnam has a rich tapestry of festivals celebrated throughout the year, reflecting its culture, traditions, and agricultural practices. Here are some of the most notable festivals: Tet Nguyen Dan (Lunar New Year), Mid-Autumn Festival (Tet Trung Thu), Hung Kings' Festival (Gio To Hung Vuong), Perfume Pagoda Festival, Lim Festival, Danang International Fireworks Festival, Buddha's Birthday. These festivals are characterized by vibrant ceremonies, traditional music and dance, delicious food, and a strong sense of community.</p><p>9) Vietnam shares borders with three countries which is China to the north, Laos to the northwest, Cambodia to the southwest. Additionally, Vietnam has a long coastline along the South China Sea to the east.</p>]]></description>
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         <pubDate>2024-10-17 08:51:31 UTC</pubDate>
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         <title>Turkey Culture</title>
         <author></author>
         <link>https://padlet.com/yuhanis_mn/tutorialchapter2L1/wish/3174008879</link>
         <description><![CDATA[<p>1)&nbsp;The Turkish flag is known as the Ay-yildizli bayrak in Turkish, which translates to “Flag with the moon and Star.” The flag is a red flag with a white crescent moon and a white star. The red color is said to represent the blood shed for Turkish independence, the white crescent moon and star symbolize Islam and the country's connection to its Ottoman heritage. The flag was officially adopted on October 29, 1936, and has been used as the national flag of Turkey ever since.</p><p>2)&nbsp;Turkey's population ranks around the 17th largest in the world<strong>.</strong> As of 2023, it is estimated to be around 85 million people.<strong> </strong>Istanbul is the city with the highest population in Turkey which is around 15 million people.</p><p>3)&nbsp;&nbsp;Turkey is a predominantly Muslim country<strong>.</strong> Islam is the official religion of the state, and the majority of the population identifies as Muslim. However, there is also a small Christian minority, primarily consisting of Greek Orthodox and Armenian Apostolic Christians. Its important to note that while Islam is the official religion, Turkey is a secular state. This means that the government is separate from religion, and individuals have freedom of religion.</p><p>4)&nbsp;Turkish is the main language spoken in Turkey. It is the official language of the country and is spoken by the vast majority of the population. There are also some regional dialects and minority languages spoken in certain areas, such as Kurdish and Arabic.</p><p>5)&nbsp;The main religion in Turkey is Islam. Around 95-98% of the population identifies as Muslim in Turkey which makes it as largest Muslim-majority countries in the world.</p><p>6)&nbsp;Turkey has a rich and diverse artistic heritage, with a long history of producing exceptional works in various fields.Such as Architecture, Music, Visual arts, Theater and Dance. These are just a few examples of the many artistic expressions that have flourished in Turkey throughout its history. The country's rich cultural heritage and diverse influences have contributed to the development of a vibrant and dynamic arts scene.</p><p>7)Turkey offers a diverse and delicious cuisine, influenced by its rich history and cultural heritage. Kebab is often considered the main food in Turkey. It comes in various forms, such as döner kebab, iskander kebab, and adana kebab. Other popular Turkish dishes include kofte (meatballs), baklava (sweet pastry), borek (savory pastry), and dolma (stuffed vegetables). Turkish cuisine is known for its bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and emphasis on hospitality.</p><p>8) Ramazan Bayramı (Eid al-Fitr)<strong> </strong>is considered the main festival in Turkey. It is a religious festival that celebrates the end of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan. During this time, families gather together to enjoy traditional meals, exchange gifts, and attend prayers.Other significant festivals in Turkey include Kurban Bayramı (Eid al-Adha), a religious festival commemorating the sacrifice of Ibrahim (Abraham), and İzmir International Fair, one of the largest fairs in Europe</p><p>9)&nbsp;Turkey shares borders with eight country such as Greece, Bulgaria, Georgia, Armenia, Azerbajian, Iran, Iraq and Syria.</p>]]></description>
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         <pubDate>2024-10-17 09:06:08 UTC</pubDate>
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         <title>MALDIVES</title>
         <author></author>
         <link>https://padlet.com/yuhanis_mn/tutorialchapter2L1/wish/3174103910</link>
         <description><![CDATA[<p>1) The <strong>Maldivian flag</strong> features three key colors: red, green, and white. In the Maldives, the <strong>flag</strong> is referred to as <strong>"ދިވެހި ފުޓާ"</strong> (pronounced <strong>Dhivehi Futhaa</strong>), which translates to "Maldivian Flag" in the Dhivehi language. The center bears a vertical <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/White">white</a> <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Crescent">crescent</a>; the closed side of the crescent is on the raising side of the flag. The <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Red">red</a> rectangle represents the blood of the nation's heroes, and their willingness to sacrifice their every drop of <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Blood">blood</a> in defense of their country. The green rectangle in the center symbolizes peace and prosperity. The white <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" class="mw-redirect" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hilal_(crescent_moon)">crescent moon</a> symbolizes the <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Islam">Islamic</a> faith of the state and authorities.</p><p><br/></p><p>2)  The current population of <strong>Maldives</strong> is <strong>528,353</strong> as of Thursday, October 17, 2024, based on Worldometer's elaboration of the latest United Nations data.  As of 2024, the population of the Maldives is approximately <strong>527,799</strong> people at mid year. This represents a gradual increase, reflecting a growth rate of about <strong>0.34%</strong> from the previous year​. In the Maldives, the predominant religion is <strong>Islam</strong>, specifically <strong>Sunni Islam</strong>, which is practiced by nearly the entire population.</p><p><br/></p><p>3) The Maldives is located in the <strong>Indian Ocean</strong>, southwest of Sri Lanka and India. It is an archipelago made up of around 1,200 coral islands grouped into 26 atolls, spanning over 90,000 square kilometers. Its strategic position makes it a key hub between Southeast Asia and Africa.</p><p><br/></p><p>4) The official language of the Maldives is <strong>Dhivehi</strong> (also called Maldivian), an Indo-Aryan language closely related to the Sinhala language of Sri Lanka. The script used for Dhivehi is <strong>Thaana</strong>, which is written from right to left. <strong>English</strong> is widely spoken, especially in the tourism sector, and is often used for official and business purposes.</p><p><br/></p><p>5) Islam is the state religion of the Maldives, and <strong>Sunni Islam</strong> is practiced by nearly the entire population. <strong>Islamic law (Sharia)</strong> is integrated into the country’s legal system. Religious festivals such as <strong>Eid al-Fitr</strong> (celebrated at the end of Ramadan) and <strong>Eid al-Adha</strong> (celebrated during the Hajj) are national holidays. The constitution of the Maldives mandates that all citizens must be Muslims, and practicing any other religion is prohibited.</p><p><br/></p><p>6) The Maldives has a rich tradition of <strong>arts and crafts</strong>. Some notable forms include which is <strong>Lacquer work</strong>[Maldivians create intricate designs on wooden items, often used for decorations and traditional utensils]. <strong>Mat weaving</strong>[Handwoven mats made from dried reeds, dyed in vibrant colors, are a popular craft in the Maldives]. <strong>Stone carving</strong> [Historically, Maldivians were skilled in carving intricate designs into coral stone, seen in ancient mosques]. <strong>Boduberu</strong>[A form of <strong>traditional music and dance</strong> with strong African influences. Boduberu performances are energetic, with drums (beru), clapping, and singing in groups. The performance builds in intensity, often leading to a lively dance].</p><p><br/></p><p>7) Maldivian cuisine is a reflection of its geographical location, relying heavily on <strong>fish</strong>, particularly <strong>tuna</strong>, and coconut-based dishes. firstly, <strong>Garudhiya</strong>[A fragrant fish soup typically served with rice, lime, chili, and onions]. <strong>Mas Huni</strong>[One of the most common breakfast dishes, made of finely shredded smoked fish, coconut, and onions, usually eaten with <strong>roshi</strong> (flatbread)]. <strong>Rihaakuru</strong>[ A thick paste made from slow-cooking fish for hours, eaten with rice or roshi]. <strong>Fihunu mas</strong>[ Grilled fish, often marinated in a spicy mix of chilies, garlic, and lime].  <strong>Bis keemiya</strong>[Similar to samosas, these are pastry shells filled with tuna, hardboiled eggs, and onions]. Lastly, coconut is a significant ingredient, used in curries, sweets, and as a flavoring.</p><p><br/></p><p>8) The Maldives’ culture is deeply intertwined with Islam, and most festivals are Islamic religious celebrations which is <strong>Eid al-Fitr</strong>[Celebrated at the end of Ramadan with feasts, family gatherings, and prayers]. <strong>Eid al-Adha</strong>[Marks the end of the Hajj pilgrimage and involves community prayers and animal sacrifices, with meat distributed to the needy]. <strong>National Day</strong>[This celebrates the victory of Maldivian forces led by <strong>Muhammad Thakurufaanu</strong> against the Portuguese in the 16th century, who had occupied the Maldives for 15 years. Parades and public events are held to commemorate this occasion]. <strong>Independence Day</strong> (July 26)[Marks the day the Maldives gained independence from British rule in 1965. Celebrations include flag hoisting ceremonies, parades, and cultural performances].</p><p><br/></p><p>9) The Maldives is an island nation, so it does not have any land borders with other countries. However, it is surrounded by important maritime neighbors which is <strong>Sri Lanka</strong> is located to the northeast of the Maldives, across the Indian Ocean, and one of its closest neighbors. Secondly, <strong>India</strong> is located to the north, specifically the Lakshadweep Islands are nearby. India and the Maldives share strong cultural, historical, and diplomatic ties. Furthermore, While not a direct neighbor, the Maldives has maritime connections and strategic importance within the broader Indian Ocean region, including relations with countries like <strong>Bangladesh</strong> and <strong>Pakistan</strong>.The Maldives' unique geographic setup, comprising mostly sea and islands, makes it reliant on sea routes for trade and connections with neighboring countries.</p>]]></description>
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         <pubDate>2024-10-17 10:22:47 UTC</pubDate>
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         <title>THAILAND CULTURE</title>
         <author></author>
         <link>https://padlet.com/yuhanis_mn/tutorialchapter2L1/wish/3174208118</link>
         <description><![CDATA[<p>1) The flag of Thailand ,knows as t is rectangular in shape, and the ratio of length to width is 3:2. It consists of five horizontal rectangles arranged in parallel in red, white, and blue. The top and bottom are red, the blue is centered, and the top and bottom of the blue are white. The width of blue is equal to the width of two red or two white rectangles. Red represents the nation and symbolizes the strength and dedication of the people of all ethnic groups, and white represents religion and symbolizes the purity of religion. Blue represents the royal family. The blue center symbolizes the royal family among the peoples and the pure religion.The design was adopted on 28 September 1917, according to the royal decree issued by Rama VI. Since 2016, that day is a national day of importance in Thailand celebrating the flag.</p><p>2)Thailand Population 2024 (Live) <strong>71,657,090</strong> According to current projections, Thailand ’s population will reach its peak in 2028 at 70.4 million people. The current annual population growth rate is 0.25%.</p><p>3) The major regions in Thailand included Bangkok, Central Region, Northern Region,</p><p>Eastern Region, Northeastern Region, Western Region, Southern Region and Bangkok.</p><p>4）The official language spoken in Thailand is Thai, which is also known as Siamese or Central Thai. Thai is a tonal language, meaning that the tone in which a word is spoken can change its meaning. There are five tones in the Thai language: low, mid, high, rising, and falling. Thai is a unique language with its own script, which is derived from Khmer script. The written form of Thai is composed of 44 consonants, 15 vowel symbols, and four tone marks. The script is written from left to right, with no spaces between words.</p><p>5）Thailand is a multi-ethnic country composed of more than 30 ethnic groups, of which 40% of the population is Thai, 35% is Lao, 3.5% is Malay, and 2% is Khmer. In addition, there are Miao, Yao, Gui, Wen, Karen, Shan and other mountain peoples. Thai is the Chinese language. Buddhism is the state religion of Thailand, with more than 90% of the population practicing Buddhism, the Malays practicing Islam, and a few Protestant, Catholic, Indian and Sikh Christians. For hundreds of years, Thailand's customs, literature, art and architecture have almost all been closely related to Buddhism.</p><p>6）When  travel to Thailand,  can see monks in yellow robes and magnificent temples. Therefore, Thailand is also known as the "Yellow Robe Buddha Country". Buddhism has shaped the moral standards of Thailand and led them to a spirit of tolerance, tranquility and peace-loving.</p><p>7）As a traditional agricultural country, agricultural products are one of the main sources of foreign exchange earnings for Thailand, mainly producing rice, corn, cassava, rubber, sugar cane, mung beans, hemp, tobacco, coffee beans, cotton, palm oil, coconut fruit, etc. The cultivated land area of the country is 20.7 million hectares, accounting for 38% of the country's land area. Thailand is a world-renowned rice producer and exporter, and rice exports are one of the main sources of Thailand's foreign exchange earnings, accounting for about one-third of the world's rice transactions. Thailand is rich in durian and mangosteen, which are known as the "king of fruits" and "the queen of fruits". Tropical fruits such as lychee, longan, and rambutan are also famous all over the world. The proportion of manufacturing in Thailand's national economy has been increasing day by day, and it has become the largest industry and one of the major export industries.</p><p>8)Some of the most popular traditional festivals celebrated in Thailand include</p><p>Songkran Festival, Loi Krathong Festival, Yi Peng Lantern Festival, Loy Krathong Yipeng, Chak Phra, Rocket Festival, Phi Ta Khon (Ghost Festival), Lopburi Monkey Banquet (Food Festival), Boon Bang Fai (Rocket Festival), Wing Kwai (Buffalo Racing Festival) and Surin Elephant Festival.</p><p>9)Neighbouring countries of Thailand is Cambodia, Laos, Malaysia and Myanmar.</p>]]></description>
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         <pubDate>2024-10-17 11:50:55 UTC</pubDate>
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         <title>Qatar culture</title>
         <author></author>
         <link>https://padlet.com/yuhanis_mn/tutorialchapter2L1/wish/3174219336</link>
         <description><![CDATA[<p>1)Qatar's flag features a maroon field with a white serrated band on the hoist side. The maroon color symbolizes the blood shed by those who fought for the nation, while the white represents peace.</p><p>2)As of recent estimates, Qatar's population is around 2.8 million people, with a significant expatriate community.</p><p>3)Qatar is located in the Middle East, specifically on the northeastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula.</p><p>4)The official language is Arabic, with English widely spoken as a second language, especially in business and education.</p><p>5)Islam is the predominant religion, with the majority of the population being Sunni Muslims.</p><p>6)Qatar has a rich cultural scene that includes traditional music, dance, and modern art. The country invests heavily in the arts, with institutions like the Museum of Islamic Art and the Qatar National Museum.</p><p>7)Qatari cuisine features dishes such as machbous (a spiced rice dish with meat), harees (a wheat and meat dish), and various grilled meats. Dates and Arabic coffee are also traditional staples.</p><p>8)One of the most important festivals is Eid al-Fitr, marking the end of Ramadan. The Qatar International Food Festival and the Doha Film Institute's events are also notable cultural highlights.</p><p>9)Qatar shares a border with Saudi Arabia to the south and is surrounded by the Persian Gulf on the other sides. Its proximity to the UAE and Bahrain also makes these countries significant regional partners.</p><p><br></p>]]></description>
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         <pubDate>2024-10-17 11:59:20 UTC</pubDate>
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         <title>AUSTRALIA CULTURE</title>
         <author></author>
         <link>https://padlet.com/yuhanis_mn/tutorialchapter2L1/wish/3174252878</link>
         <description><![CDATA[<p>1)Australia's flag features a blue field with the Union Jack in the canton and a large white star below it, along with the Southern Cross constellation represented by four smaller stars.</p><p>2)As of 2023, Australia's population is approximately 26 million people, with major urban centers like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane.</p><p>3)Australia is located in the Oceania region, surrounded by the Indian and Pacific Oceans.</p><p>4)The official language is English, although there are many Indigenous languages spoken across the country.</p><p>5)Christianity is the predominant religion, but Australia is a multicultural society with a variety of beliefs and faiths practiced.</p><p>6)Australia has a vibrant arts scene, including Indigenous art, contemporary visual arts, music, theater, and film. Major events like the Sydney Festival showcase this diversity.</p><p>7)Australian cuisine is influenced by its multicultural population, featuring barbecued meats, seafood, and iconic dishes like meat pies and pavlova. Indigenous ingredients are increasingly recognized in contemporary cooking.</p><p>8)Notable festivals include the Sydney Festival, Melbourne International Comedy Festival, and the Adelaide Festival of Arts, celebrating various cultural expressions.</p><p>9)Australia's closest neighbors include New Zealand to the southeast, Papua New Guinea to the north, and several Pacific Island nations.</p>]]></description>
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         <pubDate>2024-10-17 12:20:07 UTC</pubDate>
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         <title>MEXICO CULTURE</title>
         <author></author>
         <link>https://padlet.com/yuhanis_mn/tutorialchapter2L1/wish/3174451600</link>
         <description><![CDATA[<p>1)The flag of Mexico features three vertical stripes of green, white, and red. The green represents hope and prosperity, the white symbolizes peace and unity, and the red signifies the blood of those who fought for independence. At the center, the national coat of arms depicts an eagle perched on a cactus, holding a snake in its beak and talons. This imagery is rooted in Aztec mythology and symbolizes strength and resilience. The flag was officially adopted in its current form in 1968, but its design has historical roots dating back to the early 19th century. The flag is a powerful symbol of national pride and identity, often displayed during celebrations and important events.</p><p>2) With a population of about 131 milion, Mexico ranks number 11 in the list of countries ( dependencies) by population. The median age in Mexico is 29.3 years.</p><p>3) Mexico can be divided into nine major physiographic regions: Baja California, the Pacific Coastal Lowlands, the Mexican Plateau, the Sierra Madre Oriental, the Sierra Madre Occidental, the Cordillera Neo-Volcánica, the Gulf Coastal Plain, the Southern Highlands, and the Yucatán Peninsula.</p><p>4) The official language of Mexico is Spanish, which is spoken by 90 percent of the people. Indian languages of the Aztecs, Mayans, and other tribes are still spoken throughout the country. Originally there may have been more than 200 roots of native languages.</p><p>5) According to the 2020 Mexican government census (the most recent), approximately 78 percent of the population identifies as Roman Catholic (compared with 83 percent in 2010), 10 percent as Protestant or evangelical Protestant and 1.5 percent as other religious groups, including Judaism, Jehovah’s Witnesses, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Church of Jesus Christ), and Islam.</p><p>6) Mexican art is a diverse and vibrant expression of the country’s rich history and cultural heritage. It encompasses ancient indigenous traditions, colonial influences, and modern movements. Notable styles include folk art, characterized by colorful crafts and textiles, and Mexican Muralism, with artists like Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo addressing social issues and national identity through powerful visual narratives.</p><p>7) Mexican cuisine is known for its vibrant flavours and colourful presentations. From tacos and tamales to enchiladas and chiles rellenos, there’s no shortage of delicious and satisfying dishes to choose from. For example Tamales(steamed corn dough dumplings are filled with meat or cheese), Enchiladas(rolled tortillas are filled with meat or cheese), Pozole(This traditional soup is made with hominy, meat and spices), Sopaipillas(fried pastries are often served as a dessert) and many more.</p><p>8) Most of Mexico's holidays are associated with Christian feast days, including the pre-Lenten Carnaval, Easter, and the Christmas holidays but the so many famous festivals in Mexico such as Día de Muertos (The Day of the Dead), Dia de la Independencia. It was independence day's festival that marks the start of Mexico’s decade-long war of independence against colonial Spain.</p><p>9) Mexico borders the United States to the north and Belize and Guatemala to the south. The border line with the United States is one of the longest in the world, while Belize and Guatemala offer interesting cultural and historical connections.</p>]]></description>
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         <pubDate>2024-10-17 14:10:32 UTC</pubDate>
         <guid>https://padlet.com/yuhanis_mn/tutorialchapter2L1/wish/3174451600</guid>
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         <title>NEW ZEALAND</title>
         <author></author>
         <link>https://padlet.com/yuhanis_mn/tutorialchapter2L1/wish/3174476702</link>
         <description><![CDATA[<p>1)New Zealand's flag, known as the New Zealand Ensign. The flag of New Zealand uses two prominent symbols The Union Jack or Union Flag and the Southern Cross or Crux. In its original usage as the flag of United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland, the Union Jack combined three heraldic crosses which represent the countries of the United Kingdom that is the red St George's Cross of England, the white diagonal St Andrew's Cross of Scotland and the red diagonal St Patrick's Cross of Ireland. The flag also features a blue field with four red stars centred within four white stars in the canton representing the Southern Cross constellation and it represents its location in the Southern Hemisphere.</p><p> 2) New Zealand&nbsp;population is equivalent to&nbsp;0.06%&nbsp;of the&nbsp;<a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.worldometers.info/world-population/">total world population</a>. New Zealand&nbsp;ranks number&nbsp;125&nbsp;in the list of&nbsp;<a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.worldometers.info/world-population/population-by-country/">countries (and dependencies) by population</a>. The population in New Zealand is estimated at&nbsp;5,213,944&nbsp;people at mid year. </p><p>3) New Zealand is located near the centre of the&nbsp;<a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Water_hemisphere">water hemisphere</a>&nbsp;and is made up of two main islands and more than 700&nbsp;<a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_islands_of_New_Zealand">smaller islands</a>. New Zealand, together with Australia, is part of a wider region known as&nbsp;<a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Australasia">Australasia</a>.&nbsp;It also forms the southwestern extremity of the geographic and ethnographic region called&nbsp;<a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Polynesia">Polynesia</a>.</p><p>4) New Zealand has three official languages that is English, <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/M%C4%81ori_language">Māori</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/New_Zealand_Sign_Language">New Zealand Sign Language</a>. Nevertheless, English is the most widely spoken language in the country, with over 95% of the population using it in their everyday lives, compared with Māori (4.1%) and New Zealand Sign Language (0.5%). </p><p>5) There is no state religion in New Zealand, but the principal religion is Christianity, with 38% of the population identifying themselves as Christians. In addition, around 8% of the population are affiliated with other religions including Islam, Buddhism and Hinduism and almost 49% of the population don’t identify as belonging to any religion. </p><p>6) New&nbsp;Zealand has a thriving arts scene with galleries and studios around the country, a strong performing arts community, and traditional Māori arts and crafts on offer too.&nbsp;Māori carvers work in wood, bone and pounamu greenstone and you can get a special insight into their process at the New&nbsp;Zealand Māori Arts and Crafts Institute at Te Puia in Rotorua. </p><p>7) The cuisine of&nbsp;New Zealand&nbsp;is largely driven by local ingredients and seasonal variations. As an island nation with a primarily agricultural economy, New Zealand yields produce from land and sea. Similar to the&nbsp;<a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Australian_cuisine">cuisine of Australia</a>, the&nbsp;<a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cuisine">cuisine</a>&nbsp;of New Zealand is a diverse&nbsp;<a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/British_cuisine">British-based cuisine</a>, with Mediterranean and&nbsp;<a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pacific_Rim">Pacific Rim</a>&nbsp;influences as the country has become more cosmopolitan. </p><p>8) New Zealand is known all over the world for being a leading tourism destination. March is festival month in New Zealand with over 80 festivals around the country, in total there are over 300 festivals. </p><p>9)New Zealand shares maritime borders with&nbsp;<a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.nationsonline.org/oneworld/american_samoa.htm">American Samoa</a>&nbsp;(<a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.nationsonline.org/oneworld/united_states.htm">United States</a>),&nbsp;<a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.nationsonline.org/oneworld/australia.htm">Australia</a>,&nbsp;<a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.nationsonline.org/oneworld/fiji.htm">Fiji</a>,<a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.nationsonline.org/oneworld/french_polynesia.htm">&nbsp;French Polynesia</a>&nbsp;(<a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.nationsonline.org/oneworld/france.htm">France</a>),&nbsp;<a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.nationsonline.org/oneworld/kiribati.htm">Kiribati</a>,&nbsp;<a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.nationsonline.org/oneworld/samoa.htm">Samoa</a>, and&nbsp;<a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.nationsonline.org/oneworld/tonga.htm">Tonga</a>. The islands of New Zealand lie along the collision lines of the Pacific and the Australian tectonic plates.&nbsp;</p>]]></description>
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         <pubDate>2024-10-17 14:23:54 UTC</pubDate>
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         <title>Indonesia</title>
         <author></author>
         <link>https://padlet.com/yuhanis_mn/tutorialchapter2L1/wish/3174594964</link>
         <description><![CDATA[<p>INDONESIA</p><p>1)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Flag of the country known as a Sang Saka Merah-Putih. The national flag of the Indonesia is a simple color with two horizontal bands, red (top) and white (bottom) with an overall ratio of 2:3. It was introduced and hoisted in public during the proclamation of independence on 17 August 1945 at 56 Proklamasi Street (formerly Pegangsaan Timur Street) in Jakarta, and again when the Dutch formally transferred sovereignty on 27 December 1949. The design of the flag has remained unchanged since.</p><p>2)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Population: The current population of Indonesia is 284,146,162 million as of Thursday, October 17 2024, based on Worldometer’s elaboration of the latest united Nations data. Indonesia is the fourth most populous country in the world. The population density is about 156 people per square kilometer. Around 59% of the population of Indonesia are live in urban areas. The population growth rate of Indonesia is about 1.07% per year, which translates to an increase of around 2.73 million people annually.</p><p>3)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Region: Indonesia is a country in Southeast Asia crossed by the equator and is located between 2 continents of Asia and Australia, as well as between the Pacific and Indian Oceans. Indonesia is an archipelago with 7 major islands. Such as, Kalimantan Island, Java , Sumantra Island, Maluku Islands, New Guinea, Sulawesi Island and Nusa Tenggara Islands. Also, Indonesia has thousands of medium islands to other small islands.</p><p>4)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The official language of Indonesia is Indonesian ( locally known as Bahasa Indonesia). There are many different languages native to Indonesia. According to Ethnologue, there are currently 737 living languages spoken in Indonesia. The most widely spoken are Javanese, Sundanese, and Balinese in Indonesia. Each of these languages has its own unique script and cultural significance.</p><p>5)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The main religion of Indonesia is Islam. Indonesia is known as the world’s most populous Muslim-majority nation. Based on civil registration data in 2023 from the&nbsp;Ministry of Home Affairs, 87.06% of Indonesians are Muslims. Other than Islam, several religions are practiced in Indonesia, like Hinduism, Buddhism, and Roman Catholicism.</p><p>6)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Indonesia has a&nbsp;rich and diverse artistic heritage that reflects its cultural diversity and history. For example, traditional crafts like batik and wood crafting, as well as performing arts like dance, drama, and wayang, musical and martial arts.</p><p>7)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Indonesian cuisine is a collection of various regional culinary traditions that formed in the archipelagic nation of Indonesia. There is a wide variety of recipes and cuisines in part because Indonesia is composed of approximately 6,000 populated islands of the total of&nbsp;17,508 in the world's largest archipelago, with more than 1,300 ethnic groups. Indonesian cuisine varies greatly by region and has many different influences. For example, Sumatran cuisine often has Middle Eastern and Indian influences, featuring curried meat and vegetables such as gulai and curry, while Javanese cuisine is mostly indigenous with some hint of Chinese influence. The cuisines of Eastern Indonesia are similar to Polynesian and Melanesian cuisine. Elements of Chinese cuisine can be seen in Indonesian cuisine: foods such as noodles, meatballs, spring rolls, and wontons have been completely assimilated.</p><p>8)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Indonesia is a multicultural country that is rich in tradition. So throughout the year, a variety of festivals in Indonesia are celebrated. Such as, Rambu Solo ( sending the dead to the after-life), Eid-UI-Fitr (Islam’s Prime Festival), Cap Goh Meh (Chinese New Year), Waisak(Vesak), Galungan (Indonesian Festival celebrating Good Over Evil), Lampung Krakatau Festival ( celebrating Mount Krakatau) and a lot more.</p><p>9)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Indonesia shared its land borders with Malaysia (1,255miles), Papua New Guinea, (512 miles), and East Timor (157miles) as well as shared maritime boundaries with Australia, India, Plau, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam.</p>]]></description>
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         <pubDate>2024-10-17 15:27:07 UTC</pubDate>
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         <title>INDIA CULTURE</title>
         <author></author>
         <link>https://padlet.com/yuhanis_mn/tutorialchapter2L1/wish/3175537890</link>
         <description><![CDATA[<p>1) The flag of India, know as the "Tiranga" (Tricolor), consists of three horizintal stripes. Firstly, Saffron (top) represents courage and sacrifice. Secondly, White (middle) symbolizes peace and truth. At the center of this white band is a navy blue Ashoka Chakra (wheel), which has 24 spokes, symbolizing the eternal wheel of law. Thirdly, Green (bottom) stands for faith and fertility. The flag was adopted on July 22 1947, just before India's independence from British rule.</p><p><br/></p><p>2)As of 2023, India's population is estimated to be over 1.4 billion people, making it the most populous country in the world, surpassing China. The country has a diverse population in terms of ethnicity, language, and religion. India’s population is primarily concentrated in states such as Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Bihar, and West Bengal. India also has a relatively young population, with a significant proportion under the age of 25, contributing to its demographic advantage for economic growth. However, rapid urbanization and population growth also pose challenges in areas like infrastructure, healthcare, and employment.</p><p><br/></p><p>3) India is divided into several regions based on geography, culture, and administrative boundaries. The primary regions of India include Northern India.  This region includes the Himalayas and the Indo-Gangetic Plain. Major states include Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and the Union Territories of Delhi and Jammu &amp; Kashmir. The region is known for its historical cities like Delhi and religious centers like Varanasi. Secondly, Southern India also known for its Dravidian culture, this region includes the states of Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana. It's known for its temples, diverse cuisine, and technology hubs like Bengaluru. Thirdly, Western India. This region includes the states of Maharashtra, Gujarat, Rajasthan, and Goa. Mumbai, India's financial capital, is located here, as well as the Thar Desert and culturally rich cities like Jaipur. Eastern India includes West Bengal, Odisha, Bihar, and Jharkhand. It’s known for its historical significance, literary traditions, and diverse landscapes, including the Sundarbans and the coastal areas of Odisha. Fifthly, Northeastern India known for its scenic beauty and unique cultures, this region includes the seven states known as the "Seven Sisters" (Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, Meghalaya, and Tripura) along with Sikkim. Lastly, Central India includes the states of Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh, characterized by forests, wildlife reserves, and historical monuments.</p><p><br/></p><p>4) India does not have a single "main" language, but it recognizes Hindi and English as its official languages at the national level. Hindi is the most widely spoken language in India, written in the Devanagari script, is one of the 22 scheduled languages and is the primary language of about 43% of the population, mainly in the northern and central parts of the country. English also acts as an associate official language and is used extensively in government, legal proceedings, education, and business.</p><p>Apart from these, India recognizes 22 official languages under the Eighth Schedule of the Indian Constitution, including Bengali, Telugu, Marathi, Tamil, Urdu, Gujarati, Malayalam, Punjabi, Kannada, and many others. Linguistic diversity is vast, with thousands of dialects spoken across the country.</p><p><br/></p><p>5) The main religion in India is Hinduism, practiced by about 79.8% of the population, making India the birthplace and home to the majority of the world’s Hindus. Other major religions in India is</p><p>Islam. This is the second-largest religion, followed by about 14.2% of the population.</p><p>Christianity: About 2.3% of Indians are Christians. Sikhism is roughly 1.7% of the population. Buddhism and Jainism are both of which originated in India, have smaller but significant followings. India is known for its religious diversity and tolerance, with communities practicing a wide range of beliefs and traditions.</p><p><br/></p><p>6) India has a rich and diverse artistic heritage that spans centuries and includes a variety of forms.</p><p>1.Visual Arts</p><p>India has a long history of painting, from ancient cave paintings (like those in Ajanta and Ellora) to more recent traditional styles like Madhubani (from Bihar), Warli (from Maharashtra). Miniature painting (from Rajasthan, Mughal courts) marked by detailed depictions of royal life, mythology, and nature. Secondly, India's sculptural tradition is ancient, dating back to the Indus Valley Civilization. Temples across India, like the ones in Khajuraho, Konark, and Ellora, are famous for their intricate stone carvings. Metal sculptures, especially of deities, are also prominent in southern India. Thirdly, Textiles and Handicrafts is famous for its traditional textiles and crafts, such as silk weaving (Banarasi, Kanchipuram), block printing, embroidery (Zardozi, Phulkari), and pottery (like blue pottery from Rajasthan).</p><p>2. Performing Arts</p><p>It's a classical dance forms, each with a rich tradition and distinct style such as Bharatanatyam (Tamil Nadu), Kathak (Northern India), Odissi (Odisha), Kathakali and, Mohiniyattam (Kerala), Kuchipudi (Andhra Pradesh), Manipuri (Manipur), Sattriya (Assam) Future more, Indian classical music is divided into two major traditions such as Hindustani Classical Music (North India) and Carnatic Classical Music (South India)</p><p>3. Literature</p><p>Sanskrit Literature is India’s classical texts like the Vedas, Mahabharata, and Ramayana are central to Indian literary tradition. Modern Indian Literature is writers like Rabindranath Tagore, R.K. Narayan, and Salman Rushdie have contributed to contemporary Indian literature in languages like Hindi, English, Bengali, and many others.</p><p>4. Architecture</p><p>India's architecture reflects its diverse history such as Ancient Temples which is Dravidian-style temples in the south, Nagara-style temples in the north. Islamic Architecture also Mughal monuments like the Taj Mahal and Qutub Minar.</p><p>Colonial Architecture seen in cities like Mumbai and Kolkata, with Victorian and Gothic influences.</p><p><br/></p><p>7) Indian cuisine is incredibly diverse, reflecting the country's varied regions, cultures, climates, and historical influences. The food in India ranges from mild to very spicy, with a rich use of spices, herbs, and flavors. Some key aspects of Indian food include Regional Cuisines and Street Food.</p><p>In Reginal Cuisines, North Indian Cuisine food such as Staples (roti, naan, paratha), rice, lentils (dal). The popular dishes such as Butter Chicken, Chole Bhature, Rogan Josh, Paneer Tikka and Tandoori. </p><p>In South Indian Cuisine th popular dishes are Dosa, Idli, Sambar and Rasam, Chettinad Chicken.</p><p>The most popular dishes in East Indian Cuisine is Machher Jhol, Pakhala Bhata, and Momos. </p><p>In West Indian Cuisine the popular dishes are such as Dhokla, Vada Pav, and Dal Baati Churma.</p><p>2. Street Food</p><p>Indian street food is vibrant and varied. Some popular items are </p><p>Pani Puri, Bhel Puri, and Samosas.</p><p>3. Desserts</p><p>Indian desserts are often milk-based such as Gulab Jamun, Rasgulla and Kheer.</p><p>Indian cuisine is a reflection of its cultural diversity, using locally available ingredients and traditional cooking techniques passed down through generations. Each dish tells a story of the region and its history.</p><p><br/></p><p>8) India is known for its vibrant festivals, celebrated with great enthusiasm and reflecting the country’s diverse cultures, religions, and traditions. Such as ;</p><p>1. Diwali (Festival of Lights)</p><p>It's usually in October or November. People decorate their homes with oil lamps (diyas), candles, and colorful rangoli patterns. Fireworks, feasting, and exchanging gifts are also important parts of the celebration.</p><p>2. Holi (Festival of Colors)</p><p>This will celebrate around March. People throw colored powders and water at each other, dance to music, and enjoy festive foods like gujiya (a sweet pastry). It’s a time of joy, breaking social barriers, and celebrating togetherness.</p><p>3. Eid al-Fitr</p><p>At the end of Ramadan (the Islamic holy month of fasting) people will celebrate  depending on the lunar calendar. Muslims gather for communal prayers at mosques, visit friends and family, exchange gifts, and enjoy feasts that include traditional foods like biryani and sweets such as sheer khurma.</p><p>4. Pongal</p><p>This festival will celebrate around January (harvest festival). People boil fresh rice with milk and jaggery in a pot until it overflows (symbolizing abundance), and this dish, called Pongal, is shared with family and neighbors. Cows are also worshipped, and traditional Kolam designs are drawn at doorsteps.</p><p><br/></p><p>9) India shares its borders with several neighboring countries such as Pakistan, China, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Myanmar (Burma), and Afghanistan</p><p>In addition to these land borders, India is also close to Sri Lanka, and Maldives.</p><p>India has historically shared strong cultural, economic, and political ties with many of these neighbors.</p>]]></description>
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         <pubDate>2024-10-18 04:16:04 UTC</pubDate>
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         <title>SPAIN CULTURE</title>
         <author></author>
         <link>https://padlet.com/yuhanis_mn/tutorialchapter2L1/wish/3175638605</link>
         <description><![CDATA[<p>1) The flag of Spain features three horizontal stripes: a red stripe at the top, a yellow stripe in the middle, and a red stripe at the bottom. The yellow stripe is wider than the red ones.The colours are frequently understood to represent the prosperity of the land (yellow) and the blood of the Spanish people (red).</p><p><br></p><p>2) Spain's population is projected to be approximately 47 million in 2023. Because of the potential for fluctuations in this figure due to factors such as migration and birth rates.</p><p><br></p><p>3) Spain occupies the majority of the Iberian Peninsula and is situated in Southern Europe. It shares borders with Portugal and France to the northwest and north, respectively, and the Mediterranean Sea to the east and south. Furthermore, Spain is made up of a number of islands, including the Canary Islands off the northwest coast of Africa and the Balearic Islands in the Mediterranean.</p><p><br></p><p>4) Spanish, sometimes referred to as Castilian (Castellano), is the primary language of Spain. Several regional languages, such as Catalan in Catalonia, Galician in Galicia, and Basque in the Basque Country, are spoken in several autonomous communities in addition to Spanish. In their respective jurisdictions, these regional languages coexist with Spanish as an official language.</p><p><br></p><p>5)Spain's primary religion is Roman Catholicism, which has historically influenced the nation's customs and culture. To reflect its diverse civilisation, Spain is also home to a multitude of other religious beliefs, such as Judaism, Islam, and Protestantism. The population's identification as nonreligious and secular has increased noticeably in recent years.</p><p><br></p><p>6) Spain is renowned for its painters, such as Diego Velázquez, Francisco Goya, Pablo Picasso, and Salvador Dalí. Spain is renowned for its painters such as Diego Velázquez, Francisco Goya, Pablo Picasso, and Salvador Dalí. Spanish literature has produced great writers such as Miguel de Cervantes, Federico García Lorca, and modern authors such as Javier Marías. ''Don Quixote'' from Spain is considered  as one of the greatest works of world literature.</p><p><br></p><p>7) Spain is famous for its diverse and flavorful cuisine, with regional specialties that reflect the country's rich cultural heritage. Paella is a rich dish originally from the Valencian community and it is one of the best-known dishes in Spanish cuisine. It is traditionally made with saffron, vegetables, and a variety of proteins, including seafood, chicken, or rabbit. The Spain also has Churros which is a fried dough pastries, typically served with hot chocolate for dipping, popular for breakfast or snacks.</p><p><br></p><p>8) Spain is known for its vibrant festivals, each reflecting local culture and traditions. Spain celebrate Fallas festival. This festival features the creation and burning of large puppets (ninots) in celebration of Saint Joseph. The event culminates in a spectacular fireworks display. Spain also celebrate a festival called Carnival. It is celebrated in various cities, especially Cádiz and Santa Cruz de Tenerife and features parades, costumes, music, and dancing.</p><p><br></p><p>9) Spain shares its borders with two countries which Portugal and France. Located to the west, Portugal shares a long land border with Spain, which is the longest border within the European Union.</p><p>To the northeast, Spain shares a shorter border with France, which includes the Pyrenees mountain range.</p>]]></description>
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         <pubDate>2024-10-18 05:30:51 UTC</pubDate>
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         <title>ITALY CULTURE</title>
         <author></author>
         <link>https://padlet.com/yuhanis_mn/tutorialchapter2L1/wish/3175673374</link>
         <description><![CDATA[<p>1.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The flag of Italy know as Bandiera d'Italia. In Italy flag have three colour that call as The Tricolour. This is because the tricolour featuring three equally sized panel of green, white and red, with the green at the hoist side, as defined by Article 12 of the Constitution on Italian Republic.</p><p>2.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The current population of Italy is 59,284,597 as of October 17,2024. Italy rank number 25 in the list of countries dependencies. However, the most biggest population areas are the Po Valley. They almost half the population are settle down in Italy. There also have the metropolitan areas of Rome and Naples, while vast region such as the Alps and Apennie highlands, the plateaus of Basilicata, the island of Sardinia and as well as much of sicily are spaesly populated.</p><p>3.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The republic is divided into region, province and commune. There are 15 ordinary region and have 5 additional as special autonomy. The ordinary regions are Piedmont, Lombardy, Veneto, Liguria, Emilia-Romagna, Tuscany, Umbria, Marche, Lazio, Abruzzo, Molise, Campania, Puglia, Basilicata, and Calabria. Italy can thus be considered a regional state. The modern regions correspond to the traditional territorial divisions. The powers of the five special regions—which are Sicily, Sardinia, Trentino–Alto Adige, Friuli–Venezia Giulia, and Valle d’Aosta—derive from special statutes adopted through constitutional laws.</p><p>4.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; In Italy, the using Italian as official language of Italy and the most population are native Italian speakers. Half of the population speak a regional dialect as mother tongue. There are many dialect are mutual unintelligible and thus considered by linguists as separate languages.</p><p>5.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Catholicism is the most largest religion in Italy. They also have another religion such as Islam, Eastern Orthodoxy and Oriental Orthodoxy, Protestantism, other Christianity and other religion. In iltay also have a few people had no religion.</p><p>6.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Italy the place are rich with painting art. Italy was at the forefront of artistic and intellectual developments iof the renaissance. In Italy there have artists and scholars in Italy were especially well placed to take the lead in such a revival, since they were surrounded by the material remains of antiquity. The most famous art in Italy is Mona Lisa, oil on wood panel by Leonardo da Vinci.</p><p>7.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; In Italy are famous with food based of flour such as pizza and pasta. There also have the most popular tradiosional Italian dishes. For example pasta, pizza, lasagna and tiramisu. Italian cuisine dishes are versatile. They include many ingredients ranging from vegetables and grains to fruits, cheese, fish, and meats.</p><p>8.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; In Italy are many festival that they celebrate such as Carnevale ( masquerade festival), Festa Della Repubblica ( Republic Day) on 2 June they will creating public mosaic mural out of petal. Other than that they have Verona Opera Festival to celebrate the world’s oldest opera.</p><p>9.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Italy shares its boarder with France, Switzweland, Austri, Slovenia and another two enclaves is Vatican City and San Marino.</p>]]></description>
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         <pubDate>2024-10-18 05:58:13 UTC</pubDate>
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         <title>JAPAN CULTURE</title>
         <author></author>
         <link>https://padlet.com/yuhanis_mn/tutorialchapter2L1/wish/3175745899</link>
         <description><![CDATA[<p>1) The national flag of Japan features a white rectangular field with a central crimson disc. Officially named Nisshoki('sun flag'), it is more popularly referred to as Hinomaru('sun circle') in Japan. This flag represents Japan's nickname as the 'Land of the Rising Sun'.</p><p>2)Japan's population stands at approximately 123,563,673, with an annual growth rate of -0.514%. This indicates a slight yearly decrease in Japan's population. Furthermore, Japan's population constitutes roughly 1.527% of the global population.</p><p>3)Japan is divided into eight regions including Hokkaido, Tohoku, Kanto, Chubu, Kansai, Chugoku, Shikoku, and Kyushu.</p><p>4)The main language in Japan is Japanese, an interesting language characterized by its unique combination of Kanji, Hiragana, and Katakana. Each character and phrase offers a glimpse into the country's rich history and culture.</p><p>5)Shinto and Buddhism are the main religions in Japan. Shinto, Japan's indigenous religion, focuses on the worship of spirits or gods. Buddhism that was introduced from China and Korea in the 6th century also had a significant impact. According to a 2020 survey by the Agency for Cultural Affairs, 70.4% of Japanese people follow Shinto and Buddhism.</p><p>6)Japanese art encompasses a diverse array of art styles and media, including ancient pottery, sculpture, ink painting and calligraphy on silk and paper, ukiyo-e paintings and woodblock prints, ceramics, origami, bonsai, as well as the more contemporary manga and anime.</p><p>7)Japanese cuisine encompasses regional and traditional foods of Japan, which have developed over centuries of political, economic, and social changes. Traditional Japanese cuisine, known as washoku, centers around rice with miso soup and other dishes that highlight seasonal ingredients. Accompaniments typically include fish, pickled vegetables, and vegetables simmered in broth. Seafood, a common component, is usually grilled, but it is also frequently enjoyed raw as sashimi or in sushi.</p><p>8)Japan is known for its vibrant and varied festivals, each with its own unique cultural appeal and value. For example, the Hanami Festival (Sakura Blossom) which is celebrated during the spring. In addition, the Gion Matsuri in Kyoto is one of the most famous festivals in Japan, taking place every year in July. And don't forget, the Kawagoe Festival held every October.</p><p>9)Japan is surrounded by neighboring countries such as China, Russia, South Korea, Taiwan, the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Singapore, and Indonesia. These countries are in close geographic proximity to Japan and have intertwined histories and cultural ties.</p><p><br></p>]]></description>
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         <pubDate>2024-10-18 06:59:01 UTC</pubDate>
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         <title>South Korea Culture</title>
         <author></author>
         <link>https://padlet.com/yuhanis_mn/tutorialchapter2L1/wish/3175911147</link>
         <description><![CDATA[<p>1. The South Korea national flag known as Taegeukgi. It consists a white background that represents brightness, purity, peace and qualities that are highly valued by the people. The circle in the middle (yin and yang) has red (positive) and blue (negative) colour which represent the balance of the universe. &nbsp;The four black trigrams (geongongamri) which was one in each corner of the flag represent of the movement and harmony of these forces. In detail, the geon symbolizes the sky, the gam symbolizes water, the gon symbolizes earth and the ri symbolizes fire. Together, they create harmony around the Taegeukgi mark.</p><p><br/></p><p>2. South Korea population is estimated around 51,717,590 people in the middle of 2024. South Korea rank number 29 in the list of countries in the world by population in 2024 base on the latest United Nations Poupulation Division estimates.</p><p><br/></p><p>3. South Korea is divided into 17 administrative divisions, which include 8 provinces (do), 6 metropolitan cities (gwangyeoksi), and 1 special city. In South Korea Provinces include Gyeonggi-do, Gangwon-do, Chungcheongbuk-do, Chungcheongnam-do, Jeollabuk-do, Jeollanam-do, Gyeongsangbuk-do, and Gyeongsangnam-do. Furthermore, Metropolitan Cities include Seoul, Busan, Incheon, Daegu, Daejeon, and Gwangju. Special City is a Seoul that designated as a special city, which gives it a unique status within the country.</p><p><br/></p><p>4. South Korea has one official language which is Korean.&nbsp;However, Japanese, English and Mandarin are also spoken and understood by a few Koreans. Korean has its own grammar system, vocabulary and alphabet which is Hangul script.</p><p><br/></p><p>5. Most South Korea people are non-religious which is 50% while 32% follow by Christianity, 16% are Buddhist and 2% follow some other form of religion.</p><p><br/></p><p>6. South Korea has a vibrant and diverse arts scene that encompasses traditional and contemporary forms. Traditional Arts include painting, ceramic and calligraphy. Korean traditional painting features vibrant colours and themes from nature and folklore such as manhwa. Ceramics is a notable for its celadon and porcelain, traditional pottery is highly regarded. Calligraphy are Hangul and Hanja calligraphy that is important for cultural expressions that often seen in various artworks. Furthermore, there are also Performing Arts that include music, dance and theater. Music is a traditional music which is gugak that includes instruments like the gayageum and janggu, while contemporary K-pop has gained global popularity. Traditional dances like talchum (mask dance) and fan dance are significant, alongside modern dance styles. Theater is a both traditional forms like pansori and contemporary theater thrive that often address social issues. Moreover, visual arts include contemporary art, exhibitions and galleries, film and media, cinema, and television. Contemporary art is a South Korea home to a thriving contemporary art scene, with renowned artists like Nam June Paik and Lee Ufan. Exhibitions and Galleries are major events like the Busan Biennale and numerous galleries in Seoul showcase both local and international artists. Other than that, Korean literature was both classical and contemporary that explores themes of identity, history, and modern life, with authors like Han Kang who are gaining international recognition.</p><p><br/></p><p>7. Rice and kimchi are staples food in South Korea. Kimchi is a vegetables like cabbage or radish that are seasoned with spices. There are some popular dishes in South Korea such as bulgogi, bibimbap, tteokbokki and sundubu-jjigae. South Korea also famous for their street food which is hotteok and gimbap. There are also desserts like bingsu or tteok and beverages like soju or makgeolli to enjoy with or after meals.</p><p><br/></p><p>8. South Korea has a lot of festivals which is traditional festivals like Chuseok (korean thanksgiving), Cultural Festivals such as Boryeong Mud Festival (mud wrestling, mudslides, and promoting the health benefits of Boryeong's mud), Seasonal festivals like Cherry Blossom Festivals (picnics and cultural performances), Food Festivals like Gwangju Kimchi Festival (dedicated to Korea's iconic dish), Art and Music Festivals like Seoul Lantern Festival (lantern displays along the Cheonggyecheon Stream, and celebrating various themes), and Cultural Heritage Festivals like Andong Mask Dance Festival (traditional mask dances and performances, this festival highlights Korean folk culture and history).</p><p><br/></p><p>9. South Korea shares borders with one neighbour which is North Korea. The two countries are separated by the Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), a buffer zone established after the Korean War in 1953. While not a land neighbour, Japan is a significant maritime neighbour that located to the southeast across the Korea Strait. China also neighbour to South Korea by the northwest that across the Yellow Sea, China.</p>]]></description>
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         <pubDate>2024-10-18 09:18:13 UTC</pubDate>
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         <title>SINGAPURE CULTURE</title>
         <author></author>
         <link>https://padlet.com/yuhanis_mn/tutorialchapter2L1/wish/3175915617</link>
         <description><![CDATA[<p>1) The national flag of Singapore features a striking design that symbolizes the nation's identity and values. It consists of two horizontal bands a red upper half and a white lower half. In the upper left corner, there is a white crescent moon and five white stars arranged in a circle. Red Coor mean represents universal brotherhood and equality, White color stand for purity and virtue. The white crescent symbolizes a young nation on the rise. The five white stars represent Singapore's ideals of democracy, peace, progress, justice, and equality.</p><p>2) As of June 2023, Singapore's population is approximately&nbsp;5.92 million. The population is a mix of various ethnic groups, with the largest being Chinese, followed by Malays, Indians, and others.</p><p>3) Singapore is a small island city-state located in Southeast Asia, at the southern tip of the Malay Peninsula. It is bordered by the Strait of Johor to the north, which separates it from Malaysia, and the Singapore Strait to the south, which opens to the South China Sea.</p><p>4) Singapore is a multilingual nation with four official languages English, Mandarin, Malay, and Tamil.</p><p>5) Singapore is a multi-religious society, with a diverse range of beliefs coexisting peacefully. 31.1 percent are Buddhist, 20 percent identify as having no religion, 18.9 percent Christian, 15.6 percent Muslim, 8.8 percent Taoist, and 5 percent Hindu.</p><p>6) Singaporean art includes the sculptural, textile, and decorative art traditions of the Malay world. portraiture, landscapes, sculpture, printmaking, and natural history drawings from the country's British colonial period; along with Nanyang style paintings, social realist art.</p><p>7) The cuisine is a delicious blend of influences from Chinese, Malay, Indian, and Peranakan (Straits Chinese) cultures. For example, Hainanese chicken rice, chili crab, laksa, char kway teow, satay, roti prata, nasi lemak. These dishes reflect the multicultural influences of Singapore.</p><p>8) Singapore is known for its rich cultural diversity and this is reflected in its vibrant festivals. Here are some notable festivals celebrated. Chinese New Year, Hari Raya Puasa, Deepavali, Vesak Day, and &nbsp;National day.</p><p>9) Singapore is located in Southeast Asia and shares borders with two primary neighbour countries, Malaysia and Indonesia. Singapore is connected to Malaysia by a causeway and a bridge. Indonesia is located to the south and east of Singapore, with the Riau Archipelago and Batam Island being the closest Indonesian territories.</p>]]></description>
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         <pubDate>2024-10-18 09:22:22 UTC</pubDate>
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         <title>CANADA</title>
         <author></author>
         <link>https://padlet.com/yuhanis_mn/tutorialchapter2L1/wish/3176029587</link>
         <description><![CDATA[<p>1) The National Flag of Canada is a red flag, twice as long as it is wide. In its centre is a white square the width of the flag, with a single stylized 11-point red maple leaf in the centre. The flag is horizontally symmetric. The original design for the maple leaf on the National Flag of Canada had 13 points. This design was hard to recognize as a maple leaf when seen from a distance or floating in windy conditions, so it was changed to its current 11-point design to improve the clarity of the symbol. Canada choose red and white as their official colour on the national flag because they were proclaimed Canada’s official colours in the proclamation of the Royal Arms of Canada in 1921 by King George V.</p><p><br/></p><p>2) The latest number of population of Canada reached an estimated 41,288,599&nbsp;on July&nbsp;1,&nbsp;2024. In&nbsp;2020, population growth was almost halted following border restrictions during the COVID-19&nbsp;pandemic. </p><p><br/></p><p>3) Canada includes many different geographical areas and five distinct regions which is The Atlantic Provinces, Central Canada, The Prairie Provinces, The West Coast and The Northern Territories. While the majority live in cities, Canadians also live in small towns, rural areas and everywhere in between.</p><p><br/></p><p>4) Since the establishment of the Canadian <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/State_(polity)">state</a>, <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Canadian_English">English</a> and <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Canadian_French">French</a> have been the co-official languages but the majority of people in Canada spoke in English. The French language is used in the province of Quebec and in some areas of Ontario, those in the east that border precisely with Quebec but also in part of New Brunswick.</p><p><br/></p><p>5) <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Christianity_in_Canada">Christianity</a> is the largest religion in Canada with Catholics representing 29.9&nbsp;percent of the population having the most adherents. Other faiths include <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Islam_in_Canada">Islam</a>, <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hinduism_in_Canada">Hinduism</a>, <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sikhism_in_Canada">Sikhism</a>, <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Buddhism_in_Canada">Buddhism</a>, <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" class="mw-redirect" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Judaism_in_Canada">Judaism</a>, and <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" class="mw-redirect" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mythologies_of_the_indigenous_peoples_of_the_Americas">Indigenous spirituality</a>.  Canada has the <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sikhism_by_country">second-largest national Sikh population</a> beside <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sikhism_in_India">India</a>.</p><p><br/></p><p>6) Visual arts is a art that a Canada known for.<strong> </strong>Sculpture and handicrafts have existed since Canada's earliest history though it was only in the 20th century that museums and scholars began to take note of important works of art such as the stone carvings of the Inuit and the totem-pole carvings of the Northwest Coast Indigenous peoples. They also have National Gallery of Canada to collect all Canadian arts which comprises a broad range of work representing artistic practices.</p><p><br/></p><p>7) Canadian food culture is an eclectic mix of Indigenous, British, French and recent immigrant influences. If there's a national food of Canada, then poutine is it. It is one of the famous food in the Canada. Originating in Quebec, it elevates the humble french fry to legendary status with a salty topping of cheese curds and brown gravy. </p><p><br/></p><p>8) Popular festivals in Canada makes the  people enjoy the celebrations. Canadians are friendly and outgoing bunch and hold and participate in festivals in the country almost all year round. There are top 3 festivals that will be celebrated at Canada. The first one is The Montreal Jazz Festival which is located at Montreal, Canada. It is perhaps the biggest Canadian music week that the city of Montreal stands witness to every month. The second festival is the Celebration of Light which located at Vancouver. It is a sensory overload of rhythmic music, bright lights, and surreal fireworks, all working in tandem to create a core memory. This is one of the most well-known Canadian festivals and attracts thousands from all over the world to witness its beauty. The last one is Canadian Tulip Festival. It is one of the prettiest Canadian festivals, the Canadian Tulip Festival is annually hosted at the Commissioners Park in Ottawa. The vision of the Tulip Festival is to remind Canadians about the crucial role their troops played in the liberation of the Netherlands in 1945.</p><p><br/></p><p>9) Canada is located in the northern part of North America. Canada is the world’s second-largest country by land area. The country is bordered by Alaska (USA) in west and by 12 US states of the continental United States in south. Canada also shares maritime borders with Greenland (an autonomous territory of Denmark) and Saint Pierre and Miquelon, an island which belongs to France.</p>]]></description>
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         <pubDate>2024-10-18 11:17:02 UTC</pubDate>
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         <title>Thailand</title>
         <author></author>
         <link>https://padlet.com/yuhanis_mn/tutorialchapter2L1/wish/3176196925</link>
         <description><![CDATA[<p>1) The flag of Thailand shows five horizontal stripes in the colours red, white, blue, white and red, with the central blue stripe being twice as wide as each of the other four. The colours are said to stand for nation-religion-king, an unofficial motto of Thailand,red for the land and people, white for religions and blue for the monarchy, the last having been the auspicious colour of Rama.</p><p><br/></p><p>2) The current population of Thailand is 71,653,760, based on Worldometer's elaboration of the latest United Nations data1. Thailand 2024 population is estimated at 71,668,011 people at mid year. Thailand population is equivalent to 0.88% of the total world population.</p><p><br/></p><p>3) Today for various reasons Thailand is divided into 6 regions, or more precisely 6 regional groups of Thai provinces. The regions are: Central Thailand, including the Thai capital of Bangkok, Eastern Thailand, Northern Thailand, Northeast (Isan), Southern Thailand and Western Thailand.</p><p><br/></p><p>4) The national language of Thailand is Thai, spoken by about 53% of the population. Many more speak it as a second language. Lao is spoken by about 27%, and Chinese 12%. Malay is spoken by 4% and Khmer 3%.</p><p><br/></p><p>5) Buddhism is the predominant religion in Thailand. It is practised by between roughly 90 and 94% of the total population and is deeply influenced by Hinduism. The Thai Constitution does not indicate any state religion, but promotes Buddhism, while guaranteeing religious freedom for all Thai citizens. Many other people, especially among the Isan ethnic group, practise Tai folk religions. A significant minority Muslim population, mostly constituted by Thai Malays, is present especially in the southern regions. According to an Ipsos survey, Christians might be a similarly significant religious minority population (4%). It's also reported that 1% prefer not to say and another 1% has no religion. Thai law officially recognizes five religions: Buddhism, Islam, Christianity, Hinduism, and Sikhism.</p><p><br/></p><p>6) Thai art refers to a diverse range of art forms created in Thailand from prehistoric times to the present day, including architecture, sculpture, painting, textiles, decorative arts, crafts, ceramics, and more. While Buddhism has played a significant role in Thai art, with many sculptures and paintings depicting Buddha images and religious themes, nature, including flora and fauna, as well as mythical creatures, has been a major inspiration for Thai art, with colorful motifs appearing in various types of art forms. In contemporary Thai art, traditional works remain significant and continue to influence artists' concepts.</p><p><br/></p><p>7) Thai cooking places emphasis on lightly prepared dishes with aromatics and spicy heat. The Australian chef David Thompson, an expert on Thai food, observes that unlike many other cuisines, Thai cooking is about the juggling of disparate elements to create a harmonious finish. Like a complex musical chord it's got to have a smooth surface but it doesn't matter what's happening underneath. Simplicity isn't the dictum here, at all. Traditional Thai cuisine loosely falls into four categories: tom (boiled dishes), yam (spicy salads), tam (pounded foods), and kaeng (curries). Deep-frying, stir-frying and steaming are methods introduced from Chinese cuisine.</p><p><br/></p><p>8) Since Thai people are living among the diversity of ethnic, cultural, and religious backgrounds, there are many traditional Thai events and festivals from the past to experience today and will be carried on into the future. The biggest and renowned festivals in Thailand are Loi Krathong, and Songkran which is observed as the New Year Day for Thailand where thousands of tourists come to join in the fun. Thai festivals are usually related to religions such as the Candle Festival on Khao Phansa Day (Buddhist Lent Day), the Tak Bat Thewo Festival on Awk Phansa Day (End of Buddhist Lent Day), the Flower Alms Offering Festival, the Kathina or Annual Buddhist Robe Offering Ceremony, and the Buddhist Forest Robe Offering Ceremony. Some other festivals originated from traditional beliefs and folklore such as the Boon Bang Fai Rocket Festival to ask for favors from the God of Rain. The Loi Krathong Festival is also intended to ask for forgiveness from the Mother of River. There are also festive events about daily living such as the Rice Blessing Ceremony, the Buffalo Racing Festival, and the Long Boat Racing Festival.</p><p><br/></p><p>9) Thailand is a Kingdom in Southeast Asia. It is bordered in west and northwest by Myanmar (Burma), in south west by the Andaman Sea, in east and north east by Lao PDR, in south east by Cambodia, in south by the Gulf of Thailand (an inlet of the South China Sea), and by Malaysia. In south the country occupies a part of the Malay Peninsula. Thailand shares also maritime borders with India, Indonesia and Vietnam. With an area of 513,120 km², the country is slightly larger than Spain or slightly more than twice the size of the U.S. state Wyoming. Until 1939 the country was known as Siam.</p>]]></description>
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         <pubDate>2024-10-18 13:28:38 UTC</pubDate>
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         <title>Greenland culture</title>
         <author></author>
         <link>https://padlet.com/yuhanis_mn/tutorialchapter2L1/wish/3176378189</link>
         <description><![CDATA[<p>1) The Greenland flag, known as "Erfalasorput" (meaning "our flag" in Greenlandic), has a simple yet striking design. It consists of two horizontal stripes: the top half is white, and the bottom half is red. In the middle, slightly off-center toward the hoist (left side), there is a circle split in half. The top half of the circle is red, and the bottom half is white. The design symbolizes the sun setting over the horizon and reflects Greenland's natural landscape, with the white representing the ice and the red representing the ocean.</p><p><br/></p><p>The flag was designed by Greenlandic artist Thue Christiansen and was adopted on June 21, 1985, Greenland's National Day.</p><p><br/></p><p>2) As of 2023, Greenland has a population of approximately 56,000 people. The population is concentrated mainly in coastal areas, with the largest town, Nuuk (the capital), housing about 19,000 residents. Greenland is sparsely populated due to its vast, harsh terrain and icy climate, with over 80% of its land covered by ice. Most of the population is Inuit or of mixed Inuit and Danish descent.</p><p><br/></p><p>3) Greenland is the world’s largest island, located between the Arctic and Atlantic Oceans, east of the Canadian Arctic Archipelago. Although geographically part of North America, Greenland is politically and historically associated with Europe, specifically Denmark, which governs it as an autonomous territory</p><p><br/></p><p>4) The main language of Greenland is Greenlandic (Kalaallisut), an Inuit language that belongs to the Eskimo-Aleut language family. It is the official language of Greenland and is spoken by the majority of the population. In addition to Greenlandic, Danish is also widely spoken, especially in government, education, and business, due to Greenland's political ties to Denmark. English is also commonly taught as a foreign language and is understood by many, particularly in larger towns.</p><p><br/></p><p>5) The main religion in Greenland is <strong>Christianity</strong>, with the vast majority of the population being members of the <strong>Evangelical Lutheran Church of Denmark</strong>, also known as the Church of Denmark. This denomination is the state church of both Denmark and Greenland.</p><p>Although Christianity is the dominant religion, traditional Inuit spiritual beliefs and practices, such as animism and shamanism, also remain part of Greenland's cultural heritage, though they are less commonly practiced today.</p><p><br/></p><p>6) Greenlandic arts are rooted in Inuit culture, featuring intricate carvings from bone, tusk, and soapstone, often depicting animals and spirits. Traditional drum dancing, storytelling, and music also play a key role, while modern artists blend contemporary styles with indigenous themes, showcasing Greenland's unique natural environment and heritage.</p><p><br/></p><p>7) Greenlandic food features seafood like halibut, Arctic char, and shrimp, along with game meats such as seal, whale, muskox, and reindeer, reflecting the Arctic environment and reliance on hunting and fishing.</p><p><br/></p><p>8) Greenland hosts several festivals that celebrate its culture and traditions, including National Day on June 21, which marks self-rule with parades and cultural events; the Winter Festival, featuring sports and traditional activities; the Nuuk Snow Festival, which focuses on winter sports and snow sculpting; and various Cultural Festivals that showcase music, dance, and arts in different towns. These events highlight Greenland's rich heritage and community spirit.</p><p><br/></p><p>9) Greenland is bordered by the Arctic Ocean to the north and east, the Atlantic Ocean to the south and west, and has maritime boundaries with several countries. Its closest neighbors include Canada to the west, separated by the Nares Strait and Baffin Bay; Iceland to the southeast, across the Greenland Sea; and Norway to the northeast, near the Svalbard archipelago. These countries are the main geographical neighbors of Greenland, primarily accessible by sea and air.</p>]]></description>
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         <pubDate>2024-10-18 15:31:40 UTC</pubDate>
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         <title>KAZAKHSTAN CULTURE</title>
         <author></author>
         <link>https://padlet.com/yuhanis_mn/tutorialchapter2L1/wish/3176774107</link>
         <description><![CDATA[<p>1) The flag of Kazakhstan features a sky blue field, symbolizing peace and unity. In the center is a golden sun with 32 rays, representing prosperity and abundance. Below the sun is a golden steppe eagle, which symbolizes freedom and the power of the nation. The flag also has a vertical stripe on the left side adorned with traditional Kazakh patterns in gold. This design reflects the country’s heritage and aspirations.</p><p><br></p><p>2) As of 2024, Kazakhstan's population is approximately 19.4 million people. The country is ethnically diverse, with about 67% identifying as Kazak, 20% as Russian, and the remainder comprising Uzbeks, Ukrainians, and other ethnic groups. A significant portion of the population resides in urban areas, particularly in major cities like Almaty and Nur-Sultan. Kazakh is the official language, though Russian is commonly used in daily life. The median age in Kazakhstan is around 30 years, reflecting a relatively young population, which contributes to the country's rich cultural landscape and traditions.</p><p><br></p><p>3) Kazakhstan is located in Central Asia and is the world's largest landlocked country. It is bordered by Russia to the north, China to the east, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan to the south, and the Caspian Sea to the west. The country is divided into 14 regions, each with its own unique geography and cultural characteristics. The terrain ranges from vast steppes and plains to mountainous areas in the east and south. The Caspian Sea coast features both deserts and fertile land, making the region diverse in natural resources and ecosystems. Major cities like Almaty, the largest city, and Nur-Sultan, the capital, serve as cultural and economic hubs. Kazakhstan's strategic location has made it a key player in trade and diplomacy within the region.</p><p><br></p><p>4) The main language of Kazakhstan is Kazakh, which is a Turkic language and serves as the official state language. It is used in government, education, and media. Russian is also widely spoken and holds official status alongside Kazakh, especially in urban areas and for interethnic communication. Kazakh is characterized by its unique phonetics and vocabulary, influenced by historical interactions with other cultures. The language is written in the Latin script since 2017, transitioning from Cyrillic to promote a modern identity. Many Kazakhs are bilingual, fluent in both Kazakh and Russian, reflecting the country’s diverse ethnic composition. This linguistic diversity contributes to Kazakhstan's rich cultural heritage and fosters communication among its various ethnic groups.</p><p><br></p><p>5) Islam is the largest religion practiced in Kazakhstan, with estimates of about 74% of the country's population being Muslim. Ethnic Kazakhs are predominantly Sunni Muslims of the Hanafi school. There are also small numbers of Shias.<a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Islam_in_Kazakhstan#cite_note-3"><sup> </sup></a>Geographically speaking, Kazakhstan is the northernmost Muslim-majority country in the world, and the largest in terms of land area. Kazakhs make up over half of the total population, and other ethnic groups of Muslim background include Uzbeks, Uyghurs and Tatars. Islam first arrived on the southern edges of the region in the 8th century from Arabs. According to the Constitution, The Republic of Kazakhstan proclaims itself as a democratic, secular, legal and social state whose highest values are a person, his life, rights, and freedoms.</p><p><br></p><p>6) Kazakh art is a blend of tradition and modern influences. It has roots in the nomadic lifestyle, with crafts like felt making, leatherwork, and yurt decorations. Geometric patterns and symbols, like ram’s horns, are common in their designs, often for protection and good luck. Jewelry, especially silver pieces with stones like turquoise, is detailed and holds cultural meaning. During the Soviet era, Kazakh artists mixed local traditions with Soviet-style art, known as socialist realism. Abylkhan Kasteev, a famous Kazakh painter, created works showing both traditional life and modern themes.</p><p>After independence, Kazakh art became more experimental. Artists like Erlan Turgunbayev and Saule Suleimenova now explore new ideas and techniques, mixing old and new. Events like the Astana Art Fest showcase both modern and traditional art. Kazakh culture also includes crafts like embroidered textiles, woodcarving, and pottery. Musical traditions, using instruments like the dombra and kobyz, are a big part of their folklore, with epic stories passed down through songs. Kazakhstan's art reflects its nomadic history, Soviet past, and modern creativity.</p><p><br></p><p>7) Traditional Kazakh cuisine is the traditional food of the Kazakh people. It is focused on mutton and horse meat, as well as various milk products. For hundreds of years, Kazakhs were herders who raised fat-tailed sheep, Bactrian camels, and horses, relying on these animals for transportation, clothing, and food.</p><p><br></p><p>8) Kazakhstan celebrates several important festivals that reflect its culture and history.<strong> </strong>Nauryz<strong> </strong>(Nowruz)<strong> </strong>on March 21, marks the spring equinox and Kazakh New Year, with people gathering for music, dances, and a special dish called Nauryz Kozhe. Independence Day, on December 16, celebrates Kazakhstan’s independence from the Soviet Union with parades, concerts, and fireworks. Victory Day, on May 9, honors the victory over Nazi Germany in World War II, featuring parades and memorials to honor veterans.</p><p>Republic Day, on October 25, commemorates Kazakhstan's first steps toward independence in 1990, celebrated with cultural events and national pride. Kurban Ait (Eid al-Adha) is a major Islamic holiday, where people pray, sacrifice an animal, and share food with those in need. Constitution Day, on August 30, marks the adoption of Kazakhstan's constitution with official ceremonies and public events.</p><p>On Unity Day, celebrated on May 1, people come together to promote harmony among Kazakhstan's different ethnic groups with parades and cultural performances. Almaty City Day<strong>,</strong> celebrated in late September, honors the city of Almaty with concerts and public events, celebrating its history and growth. These festivals bring people together to honor Kazakhstan’s traditions, diversity, and national identity.</p><p><br></p><p>9) Kazakhstan shares borders with five neighboring countries. To the north, it borders Russia, with the longest shared border of over 7,600 km. To the east, Kazakhstan borders China, with a border of about 1,780 km. Kyrgyzstan lies to the southeast, with a border of approximately 1,240 km, while Uzbekistan is to the south, with a border stretching about 2,330 km. In the southwest, Kazakhstan shares a shorter border with Turkmenistan, which is around 380 km long. Kazakhstan also has a coastline along the Caspian Sea in the southwest.</p>]]></description>
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         <pubDate>2024-10-19 00:24:57 UTC</pubDate>
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         <title>Switzerland Culture</title>
         <author></author>
         <link>https://padlet.com/yuhanis_mn/tutorialchapter2L1/wish/3176894207</link>
         <description><![CDATA[<p>1)The flag of Switzerland has a red background with a thick white cross in the middle. The cross is centered and has equal arms. This design is distinctive and symbolizes the country's neutrality and humanitarian tradition. The colors and design of the flag have been used since the 13th century, and it is one of the few square national flags in the world. The flag of Switzerland, with its striking red field and white cross, has a rich history dating back to the Middle Ages.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;2) Switzerland has a population of about 8.7 million people. The country is known for its cultural diversity, with four national languages: German, French, Italian and Romansh. This diversity reflects the various regions and communities within Switzerland. The population is concentrated in urban areas, especially in cities such as Zurich, Geneva, and Basel. Other than that, &nbsp;Part of the population is 5.5 percent Muslims in Switzerland.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>3) The physical condition of Switzerland can be described in many ways. Firstly, the country is divided into 3 main geographical regions: the Swiss Alps, the Central Plateau and the Jura, each with a different geological setup. The country is landlocked and surrounded by Germany, France, Italy, Austria and Liechtenstein.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>4) The four national languages ​​of Switzerland are German, French, Italian, and Romansh. German, French, and Italian retain equal status as official languages ​​at the national level in the Federal Administration of the Swiss Confederation, while Romansh is used in dealings with the people who speak it. Latin is sometimes used in some formal contexts, especially to denote a country (Confoederatio Helvetica).</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;5) The majority of Switzerland's population identifies as Christian. The largest religious group are Catholics, followed by Protestants.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;6) Folk art in Switzerland includes music, poetry (usually songs), dance, woodcarving, and embroidery. In the cattle-raising north, there are many forms of traditional song and music, involving, for example, yodeling, a type of singing in which high falsetto and low chest notes alternate rapidly.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;7)Some traditional Swiss dishes, such as fondue and raclette, are usually eaten in winter. Others, such as muesli – also known in Switzerland as Birchermüesli – and rösti are popular all year round and come in many variations. This rosti is thinly sliced ​​potatoes, fried until crisp and golden, rosti is one of Switzerland's iconic national dishes. Rosti would traditionally eat it for breakfast.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>8) Grindelwald World Snow Festival. This is probably the most famous festival in Switzerland due to its international status. Every year, in January, international artists from different parts of the world gather in the village of Grindelwald to create a meter-high snow sculpture. The festival has been around for decades.</p><p><br/></p><p>9) Switzerland, officially the Swiss Confederation, is a landlocked country located in west-central Europe. It borders Italy to the south, France to the west, Germany to the north, and Austria and Liechtenstein to the east.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p>]]></description>
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         <pubDate>2024-10-19 04:34:26 UTC</pubDate>
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         <title>Sri Lanka Culture</title>
         <author></author>
         <link>https://padlet.com/yuhanis_mn/tutorialchapter2L1/wish/3176951758</link>
         <description><![CDATA[<p>1) The flag of Sri Lanka features a golden lion holding sword in its right paw, symbolizing bravery. It has a maroon field with a vertical orange and green stripe on the left, representing the Tamil and Muslim minorities, respectively. The four corners of the flag have gold bo leaves, symbolizing Buddhism. This design reflect the country's heritage and unity among different ethnic groups.</p><p>2) As of 2023, the population of Sri Lanka is estimated to be around 22 million people. For the most current and precise figures, it's advisable to check official sources or recent census data.</p><p>3) Sri Lanka is divided into nine provinces, each with its unique characteristics. The Western Province is home to the capital, Colombo, while the Central Province is known for its mountainous landscapes. The Southern Province features beautiful beaches and is popular with tourists. the Northern Province is rich in history and cultural diversity, and the Eastern Province is recognized for its beaches and agriculture. The North Province offers a mix of coastal and inland areas, while the North Central Province is famous for ancient ruins. The Uva Province is known for its tea plantation, and sabaragamuwa Province has rich mineral resources and agricultural land. Each province contributes to the country's diverse heritage.</p><p>4) The main languages spoken in Sri Lanka are Sinhala and Tamil. Sinhala is predominantly spoken by the Sinhalese majority, while Tamil is primarily used by the Tamil ethnic group. English is also widely used, especially in business and education.</p><p>5) The main religion in Sri Lanka is Buddhism, which is practiced by the majority of the population, particualrly among the Sinhalese people. Hinduism is also significant, primarily among the Tamil community. Other religions, such as Islam and Christianity, are also present, contributing to the country's diverse religious landscape.</p><p>6) Sri Lanka have a lot of artistic heritage includes traditional dance, sculpture and handicrafts. Traditional dance, like Kandyan and Low Country, is important in cultural performances and features vibrant costumes and music, telling stories and rituals. Sculpture is significant too, with stone and wood cravings of Buddhist figures often found in temple. Additionally, Sri Lanka is known for its handicrafts, such as pottery  and weaving, where artisans create beautiful items that reflect local culture. Together, these art forms showcase the richness of Sri Lankan culture.</p><p>7) Sri Lanka features several traditional foods with three key examples being rice and curry, hoppers and kottu roti. Rice and Curry is staple meal, served with various vegetable, meat or fish curries along with spicy symbols. Hoppers are bowl-shaped pancakes made from rice flour and coconut milk, often enjoyed with an egg in the center or with curries. Kottu roti is popular street food made by stir-frying chopped roti with vegetables and meat, creating a tasty and filling dish. These foods highlight the rich culinary traditions of Sri Lanka.</p><p>8) Sri Lanka celebrates a variety of festivals that reflect its diverse culture and religions. The Sinhala and Tamil New Year (AVURUDU), celebrated in April, marks the solar new year with traditional rituals and feasting. Vesak, an important Buddhist festival in May, honors the birth, enlightenment, and death of the Buddha with lanterns and religious observances. Diwali, the Festival of Lights, is celebrated by Hindus in October or November, featuring oil lamps and fireworks. These festivals highlight the vibrant cultural heritage of Sri Lanka.</p><p>9) Sri Lanka's nearest neighbor is India, located to the north across the Palk Strait. Additionally, it is close to the Maldives, situated to the south of Sri Lanka in the Indian Ocean. These are the primary neighboring countries.</p>]]></description>
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         <pubDate>2024-10-19 06:58:48 UTC</pubDate>
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         <title>Croatia Culture</title>
         <author></author>
         <link>https://padlet.com/yuhanis_mn/tutorialchapter2L1/wish/3177085197</link>
         <description><![CDATA[<p>1)The national flag of the Republic of Croatia, also known in Croatian as the Tricolour (Trobojnica), is one of the state symbols of Croatia. It consists of three equal size, horizontal stripes in colours red, white and blue. In the middle is the coat of arms of Croatia.</p><p><br/></p><p>2)As the last update, Croatia's population is approximately 3.8 million people. However, for the most current statistics, it's always a good idea to check official sources like the Croatian Bureau of Statistics or the latest data from the United Nations.</p><p><br/></p><p>3)Croatia is a diverse nation with many different areas, each with its own special qualities and attractions. Known for its breathtaking Adriatic Sea coastline, Dalmatia is home to several magnificent islands as well as ancient cities like Split and Dubrovnik. Istria is a gorgeous peninsula in the northwest that is well-known for its hilltop villages, Mediterranean food, and strong Italian influence. Slavonia's eastern section is known for its rich cultural history and its lush agricultural terrain. With an emphasis on industry and business, central Croatia, which contains the nation's capital city of Zagreb, is a combination of urban and rural districts. Known for national parks like Plitvice Lakes, Lika-Senj is a picturesque mountainous region. Lastly, the region of Zadar has historical value.</p><p><br/></p><p>4)Nearly 90% of the population speaks Croatian, but there are also a few speakers of Bosnian, Italian, Hungarian, and Albanian, with approximately 4.5% of the population speaking Serbian.</p><p><br/></p><p>5)Data from the Croatian government's 2021 census, which was made public on September 22, shows that 1.3 percent of people are Muslims, 3.3 percent are Serbian Orthodox, and 79% of people are Catholic. Approximately 5% describe themselves as atheists or nonreligious.</p><p><br/></p><p>6)Art created by Croatian artists from prehistoric times to the present is referred to as Croatian art. Southeast European art and architecture were centred in Croatia during the early Middle Ages. Throughout the Middle Ages, Croatia produced a large number of artists, and the Renaissance saw a boom in the arts. Rococo and Baroque were two later styles in Croatia.</p><p><br/></p><p>7)Croatian food is a delicious fusion of Central European and Mediterranean flavours. Fresh seafood is available in coastal regions like Dalmatia and Istria, where people love to eat grilled fish and octopus salad. Common ingredients include veggies, herbs, and olive oil. Hearty, frequently paprika-flavored foods like sarma (cabbage rolls) and fiš paprikaš (spicy fish stew) are popular in inland regions like Slavonia. Countrywide, people love traditional sweets like fritule (little doughnuts) and strukli (cheese-filled pastry). Along with a wide range of cheeses, Croatia is renowned for its top-notch wines from areas like Dalmatia and Istria. In general, Croatian cuisine reflects the culture and history of the nation by emphasising regional ingredients and customs.</p><p><br/></p><p>8)Croatia celebrates various festivals spanning every season. Holy Week, Split Summer Festival, Full Moon Festival, Spancirfest, Korcula Sword Dance festival and Visualia Festival. These festivals are bound to have you wholeheartedly immersed. These celebrations will undoubtedly engross you completely.</p><p><br/></p><p>9)Europe's&nbsp;southeast and centre are home to the Republic of Croatia. The state shares borders with five countries which is Serbia and Bosnia and Herzegovina to the east, Slovenia to the west, Hungary to the north, and Montenegro to the south.<br></p>]]></description>
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         <pubDate>2024-10-19 11:32:59 UTC</pubDate>
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         <title>Uruguay culture</title>
         <author></author>
         <link>https://padlet.com/yuhanis_mn/tutorialchapter2L1/wish/3177098253</link>
         <description><![CDATA[<ol><li><p>As part of the United Provinces of the Río de la Plata (formed in 1816), the Banda Oriental which would eventually become the country known as Uruguay was originally under the blue-white-blue horizontally striped flag raised by General Manuel Belgrano in 1812. However, like many other Argentine provinces, Uruguay developed a flag of its own. The earliest example, dating from January 13, 1815, had a red horizontal stripe added in the centre of each blue stripe. On August 25 of that year, the flag was changed to equal horizontal stripes of blue-white-red.</p></li><li><p>The estimated population of Uruguay in 2024 is 3,459,000. Uruguay has a population density of 46.3 people per square mile, which is less dense compared to its neighboring countries, Argentina and Brazil. The demographic trends in Uruguay show lower birth and population growth rates compared to other Latin American countries. Approximately one-fifth of the population is under 15 years old, and nearly another one-fifth is aged 60 and older.</p></li><li><p>Uruguay is a country in the southeastern region of South America, bordering the Atlantic Ocean, between Argentina and Brazil. It is located in the Southern Hemisphere on the Atlantic seaboard of South America between 53 and 58 west longitude and 30 and 35 south latitude to the south, it fronts the Río de la Plata, a broad estuary that opens out into the South Atlantic. Montevideo, the capital and major port, sits on the banks of the Río de la Plata and is on approximately the same latitude as Cape Town and Sydney.</p></li><li><p>Spanish is the official language of Uruguay. It is spoken by almost 99% of the population. You may be surprised to learn that Portuguese, Italian and English are also spoken in Uruguay. Also, Uruguay has a Spanish dialect called Rioplatense Spanish. If we count Spanish along with Rioplatense, Italian, Portuguese, Portuñol, and English, there are six major languages spoken in Uruguay.</p></li><li><p>Nearly half of the people are at least nominally Roman Catholic. About one-third of the population adhere to other Christian faiths or are nondenominational Christians. About one-sixth of Uruguayans are agnostics or atheists. Jews, mostly in Montevideo, make up a small minority, which is nevertheless one of the larger Jewish communities in South America.</p></li><li><p>Uruguay's arts scene is rich and diverse, reflecting its cultural heritage. Visual arts are highlighted by Joaquín Torres García and a vibrant contemporary community, with notable institutions like the Museum of Visual Arts in Montevideo. The music landscape features traditional genres such as candombe and murga, particularly during Carnival, alongside a strong tango presence. Notable literary figures like Mario Benedetti explore themes of love and social issues, while the theatre scene offers a mix of classic and modern performances. Various cultural festivals, especially Carnival, celebrate the country's artistic expressions, making Uruguay a vibrant hub for art enthusiasts.</p></li><li><p>Uruguayan cuisine is undeniably meaty; beef, chicken, pork and lamb are widely consumed, often barbecued as a traditional asado. Uruguayans have a sweet tooth, too, and you’ll find all manner of sugary snacks sold as street food, the creamy dulce de leche sauce or spread as an accompaniment to pretty well anything. But in recent years, a sophisticated and much more eclectic foodie scene has sprung up in Montevideo and beyond. You’ll find craft beers, artisanal gins using locally foraged botanicals, subtly flavored cheeses, and hand-roasted coffee.</p></li><li><p>Uruguay is known for its vibrant cultural festivals, with Carnival being the most significant celebration. Carnival in Uruguay is celebrated during the week preceding Lent and is a major cultural event that showcases the country's rich traditions and diverse heritage. The festival features parades, music, and dance, with the candombe being a prominent folk dance performed mainly by Uruguayans of African ancestry. This dance is a key highlight of the Carnival festivities. Uruguay's festivals are a reflection of its European influences, particularly Spanish and Italian, and are characterized by a strong sense of community and cultural pride.</p></li><li><p>South America's second smallest country, Uruguay is bordered by Brazil and Argentina and lies along the Atlantic Ocean.</p><p><br/></p></li></ol>]]></description>
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         <pubDate>2024-10-19 11:57:51 UTC</pubDate>
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         <title>Belgium culture</title>
         <author></author>
         <link>https://padlet.com/yuhanis_mn/tutorialchapter2L1/wish/3177549212</link>
         <description><![CDATA[<p>1) The Belgium flag's has tri-color yellow, red and black colors each represent the lion seals of several of the country's founding regions. The colours was taken from the coat of arms of the Dutchy of Brabant, base on the flag of France.</p><p><br/></p><p>2 The current population of Belgium is 11,744,737 people. This population was based on Worldometer's elaboration of the latest United Nations Data. Belgium ranks number 83 in the list of countries by population. The population density in Belgium is 388 per km2. The total land arae is 30,280 km2. This mean Belgium is a small country and the median age in Belgium is 41.7 years.</p><p><br/></p><p>3) In the Belgium there are divided three main regions. The names of the three regional instituation ara borrowed from the name of the territory they represent. The first regions is Flemish Region (Flanders) was located in the northen part, it primarily speaks Dutch and includes cities like Antwerp, Ghent, and Bruges. Second regions is Walloon Region (Wallonia). In the southern part, predominantly French-speaking with major cities like Lie'ge, Namur, and Charleroi. Last regions is Brussels-Capital Region. A bilingual area that serves as the capital, with a mix of French and Dutch speakers. Each region has its own government and distinct cultural characteristic.</p><p><br/></p><p>4) Belgium has three official languanges that are widely used in different regions like Dutch, French and German. The languages that mostly Belgium use was Dutch. Around 60% of the population are native Dutch speakers, accounting for 6.5 million people in Belgium. The Dutch-speaking community resides in the northen region of Flanders. It is also the official languages of French living in Brussels. Dutch is the most common language spoken in Belgium.</p><p><br/></p><p>5) Belgium's religious tradition is Catholic, although Protestant churches, mosques, synagogues and temples are found in most cities. About 65% of the population is Christian, of which 58% are Catholic. Members of Protestant, Eastern Orthodox churches and other Christian denominations make up 7%. Muslim account for about 5%. About 27% are agnostic or atheist. Practisioners of Judaism, Buddism and Hinduism have small presence.</p><p><br/></p><p>6) Belgium has produced many influential and famous artist, especially in the fields of painting, sculpture and comics. Some of the most reowned Belgian painters are Jan van Eyck, Pieter Bruegel, Peter Paul Rubens, Rene' Magritte, and James Ensor. They created works that ranged from realistic to surreal, from religous to political, from classical to modern. Celebrated Belgian sculptor inside Claus Sluter, Constantin Meunier and George Minne. And let's not forget the creators of popular Belgian comics such as Tintin,The Smurfs and Lucky Luke !</p><p><br/></p><p>7) Belgian cuisine is widely varied among regions, while also reflecting the cuisines of neighbouring France, Germany anf the Netherlands. It is combination of French cuisine with the more hearty Flemish fare. Outside the country, Belgium is best known for its chocolate, waffles and fries. </p><p>Though Belgium has many distinctive national dishes, many internationality popular foods like hamburgers, spaghetti bolognese ara also famous in Belgium.</p><p>Belgian cuisine traditionally prizes regional and seasonal ingredients. Ingredients typical in Belgian dishes include potatoes, leeks, grey shrimp, white asparagus, Belgian dishes, horse meat, in addition to common European staples including meat, cheese and butter. Belgians typically eat four meas a day, with light breakfast, medium lunch, a snack and a large dinner.</p><p><br/></p><p>8) In Belgium they have a lot of festival. For example, Ghent Festival, Tomorrowland and The Battle of Waterloo Re-enactment. Every July, the city og Ghent organizes a large-scale urban festival all over the town. This cultural festival lasts for 10 days and includes cost-free concerts on Ghent's squares, animation for children, indoor and outdoor activities, fairs, parades, perfomances of national and international artists and much more ! </p><p>Tomorrowland is the largest electronics music event and the most well-known festival in Belgium. This is why getting the tickets can be quite challenging. Tomorrowland takes place in Boom, a town situated thirty minutes from Brussels. The festival features top international DJs and numerous international artist.</p><p><br/></p><p>9) Belgium is one the smallest counties in Europe, Belgium is bordered by France, Luxembourgh, the Netherlands, and Germany. The country also has a narrow coastline along the North Sea. Belgium primarily lies close to sea level, though the country does reach 2,277 feet (694 meters) at a point known as Botrange, which lies within the Ardennes plateau.</p>]]></description>
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         <pubDate>2024-10-20 03:00:07 UTC</pubDate>
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         <title>Bhutan Culture</title>
         <author></author>
         <link>https://padlet.com/yuhanis_mn/tutorialchapter2L1/wish/3177563734</link>
         <description><![CDATA[<p>1) The flag of Bhutan has a white dragon holding jewels in its claws on a background of yellow and orange. The colors of the flag are divided diagonally on the flag with yellow in the top left corner and orange in the bottom right corner. The Dragon, which is known as <strong>Druk</strong>, is a central part of Bhutanese culture and history. Bhutan is known as the <em>Land of the Thunder Dragon</em>. </p><p><br/></p><p>2)The current population of Bhutan in 2024 is <strong>792,382</strong>, a 0.63% increase from 2023.</p><p><br/></p><p>3) Bhutan is  a landlocked country in South Asia situated in the Eastern Himalayas between China in the north and India in the south.</p><p><br/></p><p>4) Dzongkha is a Tibeto-Burman language that is the official and national language of Bhutan.</p><p><br/></p><p>5) The official religion in Bhutan is <strong>Buddhism</strong>. The rest of it is Hindu. </p><p><br/></p><p>6) Art has always remained an essential part of the daily life of a Bhutanese because it represents internal and external spirituality. Each art piece that they create connects them to something beyond the self and enlightens them with a religious experience like nothing else. Shingzo (Carpentry) One of the most outstanding things you will notice about Bhutan is its distinctive architecture. Other than that, Lhazo (Painting), Lugzo (Bronze Casting), Garzo (Blacksmithing) and Tsharzo (Cane And Bamboo Weaving).</p><p><br/></p><p>7) Ema Datshi is the most popular dish in Bhutan as well as being the national dish of the country. Other than that, momos  (dumplings), Puta (Japanese Soba noodles), kewa datshi (potatoes and Bhutanese cheese).</p><p><br/></p><p>8) Festivals in Bhutan are a spectacle of dance, music, and religious rituals that celebrate the teachings of Buddhism. There are some of the best festivals in Bhutan that we shouldn’t miss which is like Punakha Drubchen, Sakteng Festival (offers a glimpse into the unique culture and traditions of the Brokpa community), Haa Summer Festival (celebration of traditional Bhutanese culture and the nomadic lifestyle of the Haa people),Merak Tshechu (the festival features masked dances, traditional songs) and Domkhar Tshechu celebrated in December, is a vibrant festival held in the remote village of Domkhar in Bhutan. Locals perform traditional masked dances depicting religious stories and legends, accompanied by enchanting music and colourful costumes. The masked dancers, believed to be manifestations of deities, bless the onlookers and ward off evil spirits.</p><p><br/></p><p>9) Bhutan shares its borders with only two countries which is <strong>India and China</strong>. Bhutan, being a landlocked country does not maintain any maritime boundaries.</p>]]></description>
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         <pubDate>2024-10-20 03:36:38 UTC</pubDate>
         <guid>https://padlet.com/yuhanis_mn/tutorialchapter2L1/wish/3177563734</guid>
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         <title>JORDANIAN CULTURE</title>
         <author></author>
         <link>https://padlet.com/yuhanis_mn/tutorialchapter2L1/wish/3177589670</link>
         <description><![CDATA[<p>JORDANIAN CULTURE</p><p><br/></p><p>1. The Jordan's flag is known as <em>Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan</em> have horizontally striped black-white-green as national flag also with a red hoist triangle bearing a white star. Prior to World War I, young Arabs in Istanbul created a flag to symbolize their aspirations within the Turkish-dominated Ottoman Empire.The Arab Revolt Flag was hoisted in Jerusalem in December 1917. One of Ḥusayn’s sons, was recognized by the British as a ruler in what was then known as Transjordan. His flag modified the original Arab Revolt Flag by the addition of a white seven-pointed star on the triangle. It was recognized under the Transjordan constitution of April 16, 1928, and no change was made in the flag when Jordan gained its independence on March 22, 1946.</p><p><br/></p><p>2. More than half of Jordan’s population are Palestinians. The current population of Jordan is 11,543,426.</p><p><br/></p><p>3. Jordan have three major physiographic regions (from east to west) which is the desert, the uplands east of the Jordan River, and the Jordan Valley. The desert region is mostly within the Syrian Desert—an extension of the Arabian Desert—and occupies the eastern and southern parts of the country. The desert’s northern part is composed of volcanic lava and basalt and its southern part of outcrops of sandstone and granite. The uplands east of the Jordan River, an escarpment overlooking the rift valley, have an average elevation of 600–900 meters and rise to about 1,754 meters at Mount Ramm, Jordan’s highest point, in the south.</p><p> </p><p>4. Jordanian mostly speak Arabic, their main language but there are some various dialects spoken, with local inflections and accents. For instance, mutually intelligible and similar to the type of Levantine Arabic spoken in parts of Palestine, Lebanon, and Syria.</p><p><br/></p><p>5. As we know, mostly Jordanian are Muslim country but virtually the population are Sunni Muslim. Sunni is member of one of the two major branches of Islam, the branch that consists of the majority of that religion’s adherents. Other religion also practise at Jordan like Christian include the Greek Catholics and Armenians.</p><p><br/></p><p>6. Traditional visual arts survive in works of tapestry, embroidery, leather, pottery, and ceramics, and in the manufacture of wool and goat-hair rugs with varicolored stripes; singing is also important, as is storytelling. Villagers have special songs for births, circumcisions, weddings, funerals, and harvesting. Several types of dabkah (group dances characterized by pounding feet on the floor to mark the rhythm) are danced on festive occasions, while the sahjah is a well-known Bedouin dance. The Circassian minority has a sword dance and several other Cossack dances. </p><p><br/></p><p>7. The local popular Jordanian food tends to consist of rice, yogurt, lamb, olives, and a range of herbs and spices. Baked pastries are also very popular in Jordan especially sweet dishes such as baklava. Baklava is one of the most popular sweet foods in Jordan and it has also become very popular internationally. It's have filo based pasty with a layer of nuts and a pistachio and honey center.</p><p><br/></p><p>8. Festivals in Jordan are a large part of the culture and community. There are some of the annual festivals in Jordan. For example, Aqaba Traditional Arts Festival will celebrate every year in February, an annual celebration takes place in the seaport city of Aqaba. This festival promotes and preserves the culture of the Bedouin people and community in the region. Besides, another festival is Jordan Rally. The Jordan Rally is a thrill-seeking event that occurs annually creating a motorcar race and rallying competition. An entire race car set is created attracting large crowds who come from all over Jordan and surrounding areas to witness this exciting and adrenaline pumping car event and festival.</p><p><br/></p><p>9. Jordan, Arab country of Southwest Asia, in the rocky desert of the northern Arabian Peninsula. This country slightly smaller in area than the country of Portugal, Jordan is bounded to the north by Syria, to the east by Iraq, to the southeast and south by Saudi Arabia, and to the west by Israel and the West Bank.</p><p><br/></p><p><br/></p><p><br/></p>]]></description>
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         <pubDate>2024-10-20 04:49:06 UTC</pubDate>
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         <title>Colombia culture</title>
         <author></author>
         <link>https://padlet.com/yuhanis_mn/tutorialchapter2L1/wish/3177593146</link>
         <description><![CDATA[<p>1)The National Flag of Colombia was officially adopted on November 26, 1861. The flag was designed by Francisco de Miranda – a Venezuelan General. The National Flag of Colombia features three horizontal bands of yellow (top, double-width), blue, and red. On the Colombian flag, the yellow stripe represents the gold abundant in Colombia, the blue the country’s seas and the red, the blood spilled fighting for Colombian independence.</p><p>2) The total population of Colombia amounted to over 52 million. The number of women who lived in Colombia exceeded the number of men in approximately 747,000. </p><p>3) The Caribbean, Pacific, Orinoco, Amazon, Andean and Insular regions are Colombia’s six natural regions, each with its own characteristics and its own customs, gastronomy, and music.</p><p>4) The official language in Colombia is Spanish, although the accent varies from region to region. There are very few Amerindian languages, Creole languages, the Portuguese language and the Romani language are also spoken in the country.</p><p>5) Colombia does not have an official religion. However, Roman Catholicism is the dominant faith and deeply culturally pervasive. 95% of Colombians are Catholic.</p><p>6) Colombian art has 3500 years of history and covers a wide range of media and styles ranging from Spanish. The arts in Colombia are fostered and developed by conservatories and schools in several cities either in connection with the universities or independently and by the growing number of concert halls and galleries.</p><p>7) Colombian cuisine&nbsp;is a diverse display of the vibrant flavors from&nbsp;Latin America&nbsp;and&nbsp;South America. It known for its use of fresh herbs, spices, and vegetables, as well as an emphasis on stews and soups. It is also known for its&nbsp;street food, which include&nbsp;empanadas,&nbsp;chorizo,&nbsp;fried plantains,&nbsp;arepas,&nbsp;chicharrons,&nbsp;tamales, and more.</p><p>8) Colombia’s festivals often involve dancing and partying until dawn, so it’s worth exploring the Colombian countryside and wildlife. One of the main events in Colombia is the Barranquilla Carnival, which is the second largest carnival in the world and only surpassed by the carnivals in Brazil. Each year, it begins on the Saturday before Ash Wednesday.</p><p>9) Colombia is a country in northwestern South America that borders the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. Neighboring countries include Brazil, Ecuador, Panama, Peru, and Venezuela. The geography of Colombia is diverse with flat lowlands and the high Andes Mountains.</p>]]></description>
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         <pubDate>2024-10-20 04:58:39 UTC</pubDate>
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         <title>KUWAIT CULTURE</title>
         <author></author>
         <link>https://padlet.com/yuhanis_mn/tutorialchapter2L1/wish/3177805722</link>
         <description><![CDATA[<p>1) The flag of Kuwait, features as Pan-Arab colors. Red symbolizes the blood of the war, white represents purity and noble action, green is for Arabia's fertile land and black shows the defeat of enemies in the war. The present emblem of Kuwait is a falcon with outspread wings a dhow sailing on blue and white waves.</p><p>2) The population of Kuwait is 4961603 based on Worldmeter's elaboration of the latest United Nations data. However, an estimated 3.3 million foreigners are expected to reside in the nation in 2024, accounting for roughly 67% of the overall population. The bulk of foreign residents are from Bangladesh, Egypt, the Philippines, and India.</p><p>3) Kuwait is a nation at the northwest corner of the Persian Gulf on the Arabian Peninsula. It borders Saudi Arabia to the south and Iraq to the north. Kuwait is renowned for both its state-of-the-art infrastructure and its huge oil reserves. It is a well-liked vacation spot that combines contemporary convenience with traditional Arabic culture. </p><p>4) The main language in Kuwait is Arabic. It is the official language of the country and is spoken by the majority of the population.</p><p>5) Kuwait's primary and official religion is Islam. The primary origins of Kuwaiti laws and legislation are Islam and Islamic Sharia, or Islamic law. The majority of Kuwaitis are Muslims. The majority of Muslims in Kuwait are Sunnis, with the remainder being Shia'a.</p><p>6) The Arabian Peninsula's oldest modern arts movement is in Kuwait. Kuwait was the first Gulf nation to offer arts scholarships, starting in 1936. The first known visual artist in the Gulf was Mojeb al-Dousari, a Kuwaiti artist. In the area, he is recognized as the originator of portraiture.</p><p>7) Eastern Arabian cuisine includes Kuwaiti food. Machboos, a rice-based dish typically made with basmati rice seasoned with spices and chicken or mutton, is a popular dish in Kuwaiti cuisine. The Kuwaiti diet has a large amount of seafood, particularly fish. Kuwait's national dish is mutabbaq samak.</p><p>8) There are two main national festivals in Kuwait. The first festival is Kuwait National Day which celebrated on February 25th to commemorate the country's independence from Great Britain in 1961. Second festival is named as Kuwait Liberation Day. The festival celebrated on February 26th to commemorate the liberation of Kuwait from Iraqi occupation in 1991. As usual both festivals are marked by parades, fireworks, and other festivities.</p><p>9) Kuwait shares borders with Iraq to the north and Saudi Arabia to the south. It is also located in the Persian Gulf, and shares a maritime border with Iran.</p>]]></description>
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         <pubDate>2024-10-20 12:16:10 UTC</pubDate>
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         <title>SRI LANKA CULTURE</title>
         <author></author>
         <link>https://padlet.com/yuhanis_mn/tutorialchapter2L1/wish/3177827835</link>
         <description><![CDATA[<p>1) The flag of Sri Lanka also called the Sinha Flag or Lion Flag consists of a gloden lion holding a kastane sword in its right fore-paw in a maroon background with four gold bo leaves, one in each corner.</p><p>2) According by 20 October 2024, the current population of Sri Lanka is 23,141,750 based on Worldometer's elaboration of the latest United Nations data. Sri Lanka 2024 population is estimated at 23,103,565 people at mid year.</p><p>3)Sri Lanka, island country lying in the Indian Ocean and separated from peninsular India by the Palk Strait. It is located between latitudes 5°55′ and 9°51′ N and longitudes 79°41′ and 81°53′ E and has a maximum length of 268 miles (432 km) and a maximum width of 139 miles (224 km).</p><p>4)The main languages spoken in Sri Lanka is Sinhala and Tamil.</p><p>5)Main religion in Sri Lanka is Buddhist. Over 70% of the population identify as Buddhist, nearly 13% identify as Hindu, 10% are Muslim, and the remaining 7% are predominantly Christian, with less than one percent practicing other religions, or no religion.</p><p>6)Unsurprising, most of Sri Lankan arts originated religious beliefs, represented in many artistic forms such as <strong>painting, sculpture, architecture</strong>, and so on. Indian culture has also made a big impact in the Arts &amp; Crafts in Sri Lanka.</p><p>7)Sri Lanka have a lot of food like fish ambul thiyal (sour fish curry), kottu, kukul mas curry (chicken curry), Parippu (dhal curry), Lamprais, Hoppers (like pancake), Polos (green jackfruit curry), Wambatu moju (eggplant), Gotu kola sambol (pennywort salad), Kiribath with lunu miris (special rice), Pol Sambol (coconut relish), Wood apple.</p><p>8)<strong>Kandy Esala Perahara</strong> is Sri Lanka's Biggest and most colorful Festival watched by millions of people every year. The procession of the sacred Tooth Relic conducted annually during the month of July (Asala) constitutes the grandest festive ritual of the Temple of the Tooth Relic, Kandy or "Dalada Maligawa".</p><p>9)Sri Lanka shares a maritime border with <strong>India and the Maldives</strong>. Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte is its legislative capital, and Colombo is its largest city and financial centre.</p>]]></description>
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         <pubDate>2024-10-20 12:50:03 UTC</pubDate>
         <guid>https://padlet.com/yuhanis_mn/tutorialchapter2L1/wish/3177827835</guid>
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         <title>Russia&#39;s Culture</title>
         <author></author>
         <link>https://padlet.com/yuhanis_mn/tutorialchapter2L1/wish/3177944273</link>
         <description><![CDATA[<p>1) The flag of Russia, a horizontally striped white-blue-red national flag. These colours are sometimes given traditional Russian symbolism—one such interpretation recalls the red shield of the Grand Principality of Moscow, with its representation of St. George cloaked in blue and mounted on a white horse. Reference was also made to the quartered flag of white and red with a blue cross that had been flown on the 1667 Oryol, the first Russian warship.</p><p>2) With the latest estimation, there's about 145,165,000 people currently living in Russia. The inhabitants of Russia are quite diverse. Most are ethnic Russians, but there also are more than 120 other ethnic groups present, speaking many languages and following disparate religious and cultural traditions. Most of the Russian population is concentrated in the European portion of the country, especially in the fertile region surrounding Moscow, the capital.</p><p>3) Extending nearly halfway around the Northern Hemisphere and covering much of eastern and northeastern Europe and all of northern Asia, Russia has a maximum east-west extent of some 5,600 miles (9,000 km) and a north-south width of 1,500 to 2,500 miles (2,500 to 4,000 km).On the basis of geologic structure and relief, Russia can be divided into two main parts—western and eastern—roughly along the line of the Yenisey River. In the western section, which occupies some two-fifths of Russia’s total area, lowland plains predominate over vast areas broken only by low hills and plateaus. In the eastern section the bulk of the terrain is mountainous, although there are some extensive lowlands.</p><p>4) Russian language, principal state and cultural language of Russia. Together with Ukrainian and Belarusian, the Russian language makes up the eastern branch of the Slavic family of languages. Russian is the primary language of the overwhelming majority of people in Russia and is also used as a second language in other former republics of the Soviet Union. Russian was also taught extensively in those countries lying within the Soviet sphere of influence, especially in eastern Europe, in the second half of the 20th century.</p><p>5) The majority of religious Russians are Christians approximately 1,300,000 Catholics in the country. Majority of believers belong to the Orthodox Christian. The nineteen million Muslims are the second largest religious community in Russia. Jewish and Buddhism are also widespread among Russia.</p><p>6) Russia has had a vast impact on the world’s literature, theatre, ballet and music movements.The works of Russian writers have been translated into many languages. Performances of "Swan Lake" or "The Nutcracker" are successfully staged on the stages of various theatres. It is this characteristic feature that makes Russian culture attractive to foreigners who have been trying to comprehend the mysterious “Russian soul” for centuries.</p><p>7) Vodka, the national drink of Russia, accompanies many family meals, especially on special occasions. The basic vodkas have no additional flavouring, but they are sometimes infused with cranberries, lemon peel, pepper, or herbs. Vodka is traditionally consumed straight and is chased by a fatty salt herring, a sour cucumber, a pickled mushroom, or a piece of rye bread with butter. It is considered bad manners and a sign of weak character to become visibly intoxicated from vodka. Although a wide array of imported packaged products are now found in Russian cities, traditional foods and ingredients remain popular, including cabbage, potatoes, carrots, sour cream, and apples—the principal ingredients of borsch, the famous Russian soup made with beets. Normally, Russians prefer to finish their daily meals with a cup of tea or coffee (the latter more common in the larger cities). Also popular is kvass, a traditional beverage that can be made at home from stale black bread. On a hot summer day, chilled kvass is used to make okroshka, a traditional cold soup laced with cucumbers, boiled eggs, sausages, and salamis</p><p>8) Maslyanitsa, the oldest Russian folk holiday, marks the end of winter; a purely Russian holiday, it originated during pagan times. During Maslyanitsa (“butter”), pancakes—symbolizing the sun—are served with caviar, various fish, nuts, honey pies, and other garnishes and side dishes. The Red Hill holiday is observed on the first Sunday after Easter and is considered the best day for wedding ceremonies. In summer the Russian celebration of Ivan Kupalo (St. John the Baptist) centres on water, and celebrants commonly picnic or watch fireworks from riverbanks. Russia also has several official holidays, including the Russian Orthodox Christmas (January 7), Victory Day in World War II (May 9), Independence Day (June 12), and Constitution Day (December 12). Women’s Day (March 8), formerly known as International Women’s Day. Festivities generally include street carnivals that feature entertainers and children in traditional Russian dress. Boys usually wear a long-sleeved red or blue shirt with a round, embroidered collar, while girls wear a three-piece ensemble consisting of a red or green sarafan (jumper), a long-sleeved peasant blouse, and an ornate kokoshnik (headdress).</p><p>9) Russia is bounded to the north and east by the Arctic and Pacific oceans, and it has small frontages in the northwest on the Baltic Sea at St. Petersburg and at the detached Russian oblast (region) of Kaliningrad (a part of what was once East Prussia annexed in 1945), which also abuts Poland and Lithuania. To the south Russia borders North Korea, China, Mongolia, and Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, and Georgia. To the southwest and west it borders Ukraine, Belarus, Latvia, and Estonia, as well as Finland and Norway.</p>]]></description>
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         <pubDate>2024-10-20 15:17:59 UTC</pubDate>
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         <title>THE CULTURE OF ENGLAND</title>
         <author></author>
         <link>https://padlet.com/yuhanis_mn/tutorialchapter2L1/wish/3177971299</link>
         <description><![CDATA[<p><strong>England</strong> has a rich and diverse cultural heritage, influenced by its history, geography, and the various communities that have settled there. Here are some key aspects of English culture:</p><p><br/></p><ol><li><p><strong>England's flag and its origin</strong></p><p>England's flag is also known as the St George's Cross. It features a red cross on a white background. The cross is associated with St. George, the patron saint of England, who is often depicted slaying a dragon. The flag has its origins in the Middle Ages and has been a symbol of English identity for centuries. The cross is associated with St. George, the patron saint of England, who is often depicted slaying a dragon. The flag has its origins in the Middle Ages and has been a symbol of English identity for centuries.</p></li><li><p><strong>Population of England</strong></p><p>As of the latest estimates in 2023, England has a population of approximately 56 million people. It is the largest country in the United Kingdom, accounting for around 84% of the UK's total population. England's population is diverse, with a mix of ethnicities and cultures, particularly in urban areas like London, Birmingham, and Manchester. Population growth is influenced by factors such as migration, birth rates, and demographic trends. If you need more specific details or trends, feel free to ask!</p></li><li><p><strong>Region</strong> <strong>in</strong> <strong>England</strong></p><p>England is divided into several regions, each with its own unique characteristics, culture and geography. There are 9 main regions in England which is North East, North West, Yorkshire and the Humber, East Midlands, West Midlands, East of England, London, South East and South West.</p></li><li><p><strong>Language</strong> </p><p>English, as a global language, is central to the culture, with numerous dialects and regional variations that reflect local identities</p></li><li><p><strong>Main</strong> <strong>religion</strong></p><p>The main religion in England is Christianity, with the Church of England (Anglicanism) being the largest denomination. The Church of England is the established church and has a significant influence on British culture and traditions.</p></li><li><p><strong>Architecture</strong></p><p>The architectural landscape ranges from ancient structures like Stonehenge and Canterbury Cathedral to modern designs like the Shard and the London Eye.</p><p>a) <strong>Roman Architecture</strong>: Remnants of Roman structures, such as Hadrian's Wall and baths, can still be seen, showcasing their engineering skills.</p><p>b) <strong>Medieval Architecture</strong>: Gothic cathedrals, like Canterbury Cathedral and York Minster, are iconic examples of medieval architecture, featuring pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and flying buttresses.</p><p>c)<strong>Tudor Style</strong>: Characterized by timber-framed houses, this style is exemplified by buildings like Hampton Court Palace and many cottages in the countryside.</p><p>d)<strong>Georgian Architecture</strong>: Known for its symmetry and proportion, Georgian buildings include the elegant townhouses of Bath and the grand squares of London, like Bloomsbury.</p><p>e)<strong>Victorian Architecture</strong>: This era saw a mix of styles, including Gothic Revival, Italianate, and Queen Anne. Notable examples are the Houses of Parliament and many railway stations.</p><p>f)<strong>Modern Architecture</strong>: The 20th and 21st centuries introduced innovative designs, with structures like the Shard, the London Eye, and the Tate Modern showcasing contemporary architectural styles.</p></li><li><p><strong>England</strong> <strong>Cuisine</strong></p><p>Traditional dishes include fish and chips, shepherd's pie and roast dinners. There's also a growing influence of global cuisine, especially in urban areas.</p></li><li><p><strong>Festival</strong></p><p>England celebrates a variety of festivals, such as Guy Fawkes Night, St. George's Day, and Harvest Festivals. Traditional sports like cricket and football (soccer) are also integral to the culture.</p></li><li><p><strong>Neighbouring</strong> <strong>country</strong> </p><p>England shares land borders with Scotland to the north and Wales to the west. While England is part of the United Kingdom, it is not bordered by any other countries directly, as it is surrounded by water on its other sides:</p><ul><li><p><strong>Scotland</strong>: The border between England and Scotland is marked by the River Tweed and various hills and valleys. Scotland has its own distinct culture and legal system.</p></li><li><p><strong>Wales</strong>: The England-Wales border runs along the River Wye and includes several towns and cities that showcase both English and Welsh cultures.</p></li></ul><p><br/></p><p><br/></p></li></ol><p><br/></p>]]></description>
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         <pubDate>2024-10-20 15:51:51 UTC</pubDate>
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         <title>Kenyan Culture</title>
         <author></author>
         <link>https://padlet.com/yuhanis_mn/tutorialchapter2L1/wish/3178322554</link>
         <description><![CDATA[<ol><li><p>The <strong>flag of Kenya</strong> (<em>Bendera ya Kenya</em>) is a <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Triband_(flag)">tricolour</a> of black, red, and green with two white edges imposed with a red, white and black <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maasai_people">Maasai</a> <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shield">shield</a> and two crossed <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spear">spears</a>. The flag is mainly based on that of <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kenya_African_National_Union">Kenya African National Union</a> and was officially adopted on 12 December 1963 after <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kenya">Kenya</a>'s independence. In the years following World War II, the <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kenya_African_Union">Kenya African Union</a> was created and introduced a flag on September 3, 1951, which was a black and red <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" class="mw-redirect" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bicolour_(flag)">bicolour</a> with a shield and arrow at its center. The next year it was altered into a black, red and the additional green tricolor with a shield crossed with a spear and arrow coupled with the initials "KAU" at its center. The black stood for the native people, red for the common blood of all humanity and green for the nation's fertile land. The weapons were a reminder for the organized struggle that was the basis for independence.</p></li></ol><p><br/></p><ol start="2"><li><p>The current population of Kenya is <strong>56,761,137 as of Saturday, October 19, 2024</strong>, based on Worldometer's elaboration of the latest United Nations data<sup>1</sup>. Kenya 2024 population is estimated at 56,432,944 people at mid year. Kenya population is equivalent to 0.69% of the total world population.</p></li></ol><p><br/></p><ol start="3"><li><p>Kenya is a country in East Africa with coastline on the Indian Ocean. It encompasses savannah, lakelands, the dramatic Great Rift Valley and mountain highlands. It's also home to wildlife like lions, elephants and rhinos. From Nairobi, the capital, safaris visit the Maasai Mara Reserve, known for its annual wildebeest migrations, and Amboseli National Park, offering views of Tanzania's 5,895m Mt.</p></li></ol><p><br/></p><ol start="4"><li><p><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kenya">Kenya</a> is a <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Multilingualism">multilingual</a> country. The two official languages of Kenya, <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Swahili_language">Swahili</a> and <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/English_language">English</a>, are widely spoken as <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" class="mw-redirect" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lingua_francas">lingua francas</a>; however, including second-language speakers, Swahili is more widely spoken than English.<a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Languages_of_Kenya#cite_note-1"><sup>[1]</sup></a> Swahili is a <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" class="mw-redirect" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bantu_language">Bantu language</a> native to East Africa and English is inherited from <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" class="mw-redirect" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/British_Kenya">British colonial rule</a>.</p></li></ol><p><br/></p><ol start="5"><li><p>Approximately 70% of Kenyans are <strong>Christians</strong> (38% Protestant, 28% Catholic); about 25% are adherents of indigenous religions; 6% are Muslim.</p></li></ol><p><br/></p><ol start="6"><li><p>The people of Kenya have a long history of artistic expression, which can be seen in the various <a rel="noopener ugc nofollow" class="af ne" href="https://www.tuzmo.com/arts-crafts-and-artisans-of-kenya/"><strong>arts of Kenya</strong></a> that are still produced today. Some of the most popular Kenyan crafts include beadwork, woodcarving, pottery, and textiles. In this blog post, we will take a closer look at each of these crafts and explore the different techniques used to create them.</p></li></ol><p><br/></p><ol start="7"><li><p>Kenyan cuisine includes <strong>ugali, chapati, githeri, goat, Nyama Choma, stews, samosas and sukuma</strong> wiki. Ugali is a maize meal, similar to American grits, which is simply cooked in boiling water until it has the same consistency and texture as bread dough.</p></li></ol><p><br/></p><ol start="8"><li><p><strong>Maralal International Camel Derby</strong><br><br>It is one of the most popular events in Kenya. The festival features camel racing as the main event whereby both amateurs and professional camel racers show their ability to control the camels to the finish line. Other sporting activities include donkey and bicycle races among others</p></li></ol><p><br/></p><ol start="9"><li><p>Kenya shares common borders with five countries namely: <strong>Tanzania in the South, Uganda in the West, South Sudan in the North West, Ethiopia in the North and Somalia in the East.</strong></p></li></ol>]]></description>
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         <pubDate>2024-10-21 00:22:15 UTC</pubDate>
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         <title>CZECHIA</title>
         <author></author>
         <link>https://padlet.com/yuhanis_mn/tutorialchapter2L1/wish/3178871527</link>
         <description><![CDATA[<p>1) The symbol of the Czech state, a white-red-and-blue flag in a simple geometric pattern, was created in 1920, shortly after the founding of the first independent Czechoslovak state. The white, red, and blue colors are both symbolic and historic. White (or silver) is the traditional color of Bohemia and represents the sky. Moravia is symbolized by the color red which also represents the blood shed for the freedom of the state. Blue is the traditional colour of Slovakia. It is also symbolic of impartiality and sovereignty. When Czechoslovakia split into two independent states in January 1993, the Czech Republic kept this flag as its own. While the blue triangle no longer represents Slovakia, it does remain a symbol of impartiality and sovereignty.</p><p>2) The current population of Czechia (Czech Republic) is 10,697,124 based on Worldometer's elaboration of the latest United Nations data1.</p><p>3)The Czech Republic, also known as Czechia, and historically known as Bohemia, is a landlocked country in Central Europe. The country is bordered by Austria to the south, Germany to the west, Poland to the northeast, and Slovakia to the southeast. The Czech Republic has a hilly landscape that covers an area of 78,871 square kilometers (30,452 sq mi) with a mostly temperate continental and oceanic climate. The capital and largest city is Prague; other major cities and urban areas include Brno, Ostrava, Plzeň and Liberec.</p><p>4) The official language of the Czech Republic is Czech. Spoken by nearly 11 million native speakers, Czech is classified as part of the Slavic branch of Indo-European languages. Although many people in the Czech Republic have a base knowledge of the English language, knowing a few key phrases in Czech will take you far.</p><p>5) In the Czech Republic, 47.8% of population is irreligious, while 21.3% of the population are believers. The religious identity of the country has changed drastically since the first half of the 20th century, when more than 90% of Czechs were Christians. As of 2021, 11.7% of the population identified with Christianity whilst 10.8% identified with other religious identities or beliefs.</p><p>6) Czech art is the visual and plastic arts that have been created in the Czech Republic and the various states that formed the Czech lands in the preceding centuries. The Czech lands have produced artists that have gained recognition throughout the world, including Alfons Mucha, widely regarded as one of the key exponents of the Art Nouveau style, and František Kupka, a pioneer of abstract art.</p><p>7) Many Czech traditional dishes feature soups, sauces, dumplings, and local ingredients. In fact, one of the big reasons it can be difficult to find Czech food elsewhere is the ingredients. The flour for dumplings, for example, is milled differently in Czech Republic. Similarly, one traditional Czech dish with dumpling, cranberry and cream is made with celery root, an uncommon vegetable to find in the U.S.</p><p>8) The first weekend in October marks the Oklahoma Czech Festival, a Yukon tradition celebrating the town’s rich Czech heritage. Festivities begin Friday evening with a carnival in downtown Yukon.</p><p>9) The country is bordered by Austria to the south, Germany to the west, Poland to the northeast, and Slovakia to the southeast.</p>]]></description>
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         <pubDate>2024-10-21 06:07:10 UTC</pubDate>
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         <title>EGYPT</title>
         <author></author>
         <link>https://padlet.com/yuhanis_mn/tutorialchapter2L1/wish/3179841099</link>
         <description><![CDATA[<ol><li><p>The current flag of the Arab Republic of Egypt consists of red, white and black horizontol stripes. Red represents the sacrifices and blood of Egyptian martyrs, white symbolizes peace, blaack stands for the dark period of occupation and the eagle represents strength and power.</p></li></ol><ol start="2"><li><p>The current population of Egypt is 117,087,788. The population is currently growing at a rate of 1.94% a rate that adds about 2 million people to the population every year. Egypt's fertility rate is about 3.3 births per woman, well above the population replacement rate of 2.1 births per woman. Egypt has a relatively young population is under 30 years old. The rapidly increasing population poses a threat to the Egyptian economy where one third of people live below the poverty line and the unemployment rate is around 10%.</p></li><li><p>Egypt is usually divided into four major regions: the Nile valley and delta, The Eastern Desert, The Western Desert and The Sinai Peninsula.</p></li><li><p>The main language of Egypt is Arabic and most Egyptians speak one of several vernacular dialect of that language. As is the casein other Arab countries the spoken vernacular differs greatly from the literary language.</p></li><li><p>Approximately 94.9% of the population of Egypt is Muslim. The majority of these individuals follow Sunni Islam and minority is madeup of Mu'tazila, Shia Twelvers and followers of Ismailism. The christians is thought to be represented by 5.1% of the population although some estimates the percentage from as low as 3% to as high as 20%. The vast majority 95% of christians in Egypt belong to the Coptic Orthodox Church of Alexandria.</p></li><li><p>The arts of Egypt are papyrus, drawings, faience, architecture, sculptures, paintings. Most of this art was highly stylized and symbolic. Much of the surviving forms come from tombs and monuments and thus have a focus on life after death and preservation of knowledge. Painting were often done on stone and potrayed pleasant scenes of the afterlife in tombs. Architects carefully planned buildings, aligning them with astronomically significant events such as solstices,and equinoxes. They used mainly sun-baked mud brick, limestone, sandstone and granite.</p></li><li><p>Egypt traditional foods are Ful Medamas: a breakfast dish of fave beans stewed with tahini and seasoned with garlic, cumin and lemon. Aish Baladi: flatbread, Ta'amiyya: falafels made with fava beans and Fetter: layers and layers of soft flaky pastry with lashings of melted butter.</p></li><li><p>The festivals in Egypt are Moulid Al-Nabi, Wafaa Al Nil: the oldest festival in Egypt such as scenario, painting contest, poetry session, seminars and music concerts are held which are the highlight of this festival during September, Moulid of El-Hussein: the most popular street festival held throughout the year, Abu Simbel festival: the ancient traditional rituals of Egypt this festival is celebrated in February.</p></li><li><p>Neighbour country of Egypt are Libya to the west, Sudan to the south. In the west and south, it shares borders with countries on the African continet while bordering the Medditerranean Sea in the north and the red sea in the east. Almost 97% of Egypt is covered by desert. The Nile River flows through th ecountry from north to south.</p></li></ol>]]></description>
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         <pubDate>2024-10-21 16:31:38 UTC</pubDate>
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