Travel and Cultural Connection: At the Sharjah International Book Fair, travel creators said genuine curiosity—not chasing online trends—makes travel stories meaningful, recalling encounters from Afghanistan to Tanzania that challenged assumptions and connected them with local people. Heritage Restitution: Togo and Germany are discussing the possible return of Togolese artifacts held in German collections, with provenance research needed before any repatriation deal. Food and Exchange: Kagoshima’s governor promoted Japanese regional specialties, including wagyu, yellowtail, tea and shochu, as Japan and Malaysia look to deepen cultural and economic ties. Living Traditions: Día de Muertos celebrations in Arkansas brought together altars, music and fashion, with organizers highlighting the distinct traditions of communities across Latin America. History Unearthed: Archaeologists at Kabul’s Bala Hissar fortress found remains spanning more than 2,000 years, including a Mughal-era palace and evidence of Buddhist sites. A Museum on a Grand Scale: India approved a $340 million museum in New Delhi dedicated to the country’s history and civilization, with its first gallery expected to open by the end of 2027.