Deep pockets

2010-02-09 09:41:27

A charming Chinese tradition associated with the Spring Festival is turning into one-upmanship.

Homemade outfits, special deals at Venice carnival

2010-02-09 09:26:26

Using plastic piping from a furniture store, and sandals and garments bought on Ebay, Briton Hayden Nash made her own Roman female warrior costume for this year's Venice carnival.

Study shows why it is so scary to lose money

2010-02-09 09:05:27

People are afraid to lose money and an unusual study released on Monday explains why -- the brain's fear center controls the response to a gamble.

Broadcaster fined over killing a rat on TV show

2010-02-09 08:49:02

British broadcaster ITV pleaded guilty to animal cruelty and was fined by an Australian court on Monday after a rat was killed and eaten on the reality TV show "I'm a Celebrity ... Get Me Out of Here."

Fifth of adults choose pet over partner on V'Day

2010-02-08 13:32:12

Rather than spending Valentine's Day with their partner, one-fifth of adults would prefer to be with their pet, although the French still came top for romance.

Literary fest boasts change

2010-02-08 10:45:07

"We've got a stellar line-up this year," said Jenny Niven, director of the Bookworm's International Literary Festival.

Masters of curious culture showcase skills

2010-02-08 10:38:53

Looking for something out-of-the-ordinary to give someone this Spring Festival? Well, look no further than Wangfujing.

When will the capital's cabs stop asking passengers to cover fuel surcharges?

2010-02-08 10:01:10

Recently while in a cab, I asked the driver about the No 93 gasoline price and he told me it was 6.20 yuan per liter. Then I asked other taxi drivers about the gasoline price.

Is fighting for a life in the city really worth it?

2010-02-08 09:59:42

One of my best friends and a graduate of Peking University recently quit her job and started a language training school in her hometown. She has refused to be forced to work extra hours every day.

A panda's life

2010-02-08 09:50:57

Tai Shan, a beloved giant panda, has grown up from a cute cub to a strong adolescent.

Sanity departs with the train

2010-02-08 09:50:40

It's that time of the year again, a time that I loathe. Many times I awake in the middle of the night in a cold sweat, my hands trembling, my heart racing.

Beijing Bites:Traffic control closures

2010-02-08 09:41:35

Traffic control closures