The future of VR? US researchers may hold the answer

MINNEAPOLIS, Minnesota - At the Mall of US' arenasized Smaaash amusement arcade, people wait in line to slip on headsets that resemble blacked-out ski goggles and spend a couple of minutes feeling transported.

Treasured island

The historical international settlement of pedestrianonly Gulangyu Island, in the bay of Xiamen, was made a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site at the 41st United Nations World Heritage Committee meeting in Krakow, Poland on July 8.

Art lovers' Providence: From WaterFire to street murals

PROVIDENCE, Rhode Island - With a plethora of street art and a world-famous design school, Providence provides plenty to do for art-loving travelers.

What it's like to date a beijing dude

In commemoration of our one-year anniversary, it seemed fitting to reflect on the journey of dating a local Beijinger.

China-inspired Nigerian potter sees future in his craft

For Joseph Gajere, a Nigerian ceramist for more than two decades, a trip to China has redefined the craft from being a "walk of life" to a "way of life."

Updating A Classic

Its Augmented Paper shows the luxury brand Montblanc is keeping up with the times, while its new heritage collection takes inspiration from the past. Chen Jie reports.

Myanmar designers put twist on local fashion

With Myanmar emerging as a manufacturing hub for mass-produced clothes, a crop of young designers are using home-grown fashion to preserve the country's sartorial heritage.

IN BRIEF (Page 18)

Seeking Lost Libraries Along The Silk Road

A British artist embarked on a unique six-month journey by motorbike to visit sites in China, Uzbekistan, Turkey, Egypt, Italy and Iran. Bo Leung in London reports.

Exploring how cities create a sense of belonging

"Because of its rapid urbanization, in China, cities are emerging as a very important part of a person's identity," says Daniel Bell, sitting comfortably in a chair, legs crossed, wearing an oversize suit jacket.

House Of Clouds

In Lost Horizon, the late British author James Hilton described "Shangri-La" as a mysterious valley in the Himalayan region where the 1933 novel's main character, Hugh Conway, a diplomat from his country, hopes to find peace from the conflicts of the world.

Traditional attire helps Miao women earn a living

Ma Meiying learned the skills needed to make traditional Miao ethnic attire, which is decorated with elaborate and colorful embroidery, from her mother when she was a child.