Christian Science Monitor: The Culture

To travel is to encounter the unfamiliar and strange. But not always.

It is surprisingly hard for English-speakers to describe the odors that occasion strong emotions. English possesses almost no abstract smell words that pick out links or themes among unrelated aromas.

When iconic frontmen (or frontwomen) are replaced, are they still the same bands? More important, will fans remain loyal and keep buying tickets?

When tested, most people can name only about 50 percent of even familiar aromas such as coffee, cinnamon, and garlic. But we do know when something stinks. For bad smells, we have a fairly rich, if nonspecific, vocabulary.

There has not historically been a landmark honoring the contributions of American Indians, Alaska Natives, and Native Hawaiians who have served in the military. That will change with the National Native American Veterans Memorial.

'Jurassic Park' returns to theaters, the hosts of the podcast 'Dis-Order' are reviewing every Disney animated film, and more top picks.

How have I learned Scottish phrases? Let’s say I soak up knowledge.

'Jurassic Park' returns to theaters, the hosts of the podcast 'Dis-Order' are reviewing every Disney animated film, and more top picks.

Topical documentaries and a fourth version of ‘A Star is Born’ stand out.

The hills will be alive when The Sound of Music returns to movie theaters on Sept. 12 through Fathom Events, the app Splitwise is great to have on a trip with friends or for shared expenses like rent or utilities, and more top picks.