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Asia Life
Sports, culture and the arts are a passion for billions in the Asia-Pacific, and offer unique insights into what makes countries here tick. From the latest cricket match to prize-winning novels and the latest art exhibitions, The Diplomat's bloggers cover it all, giving you a fresh perspective on the region.
Seeing Landlocked Laos' Sea
By Luc Forsyth and Gareth Bright.
The Nam Ngum dam was Laos’ first major hydropower project, and it resulted in the formation of an immense reservoir--the Laos Sea.
Meet the Chinese Superfans of American Football
By Benjamin Parkin
The NFL's plans to expand in China involve tapping into the existing American football subculture.
Bollywood: The Independent Women of Zoya Akhtar
By Deepti Singh Apte
Director Zoya Akhtar is leaving her mark on Bollywood, with fresh new portrayals of female characters.
A Chinese Town Gets Rich From an Unlikely Resource: Twins
By Patrick Scally
The annual Mojiang International Twins Festival brings visitors -- and money -- from across China.
Coffee, Kingdoms, and the Peace of Southern Laos
By Luc Forsyth and Gareth Bright
The area around Pakse, the largest city in southern Laos, is best known for its coffee production and the ruins of an ancient empire.
India: Storming the Temple of Saturn
By Krzysztof Iwanek
Forced to abandon its tradition, a famous Indian temple opened its gates to women.
Bangkok Noir: Crime Fiction in the City of Angels
By Jonathan DeHart
Thailand’s capital is home to a vibrant community of writers exploring the city’s vast underbelly.
Review: The Sympathizer
By Helen Clark
This year's winner of the Pulitzer Prize for fiction definitely breaks some new ground.
Making the Most of Fruits of the Khone Falls
By Luc Forsyth and Gareth Bright
Not all living from the waters around the Khone Falls demonstrate concern for the health of the water or its creatures.
The Dry Laws of India
By Krzysztof Iwanek
Alcohol prohibition is on the rise in India.
The Mighty Khone Falls of Laos
By Luc Forsyth and Gareth Bright
Near the Laos-Cambodia border, the falls stretch across the breadth of the Mekong.
Russian Hockey Comes to China
By Matt Lerner
The KHL -- like Russia -- is shifting its focus from Europe to China.