Lifestyle

While the world churned, many of us kept busy finding new obsessions to keep us happy.

BANGKOK — When Thai football wanted to update its image for the new year, it turned to an urban hipster with a rural heart to come up with something a little country, a little rock 'n roll.

BANGKOK — Go on a romp through philosophy and religion next year with an absurd-existential play about a dead man the afterlife isn’t sure what to do with.

BANGKOK — Taking in the beauty and charm of Tibet no longer requires an arduous journey thanks to technology, which makes it possible to sample in comfort from a world away.

BANGKOK — Unicorns with rainbow manes, a giant sugar skull, and even a smiling penis are among the Maneeporn Puangla’s piñata creations.

BANGKOK — The Russian Federation had a headline-grabbing year, from military operations in Syria to accusations it sought to influence the U.S. election. But as it projects an image of strength onto the world stage, its oil-dependent economy remains wrecked by a double blow of historically low oil prices and crippling Western sanctions.

BANGKOK — Of all his alleged glorious talents, filmmaking held a special place in the heart of late North Korean leader Kim Jong-il. Problem was, his isolated nation made terrible films, so he concocted a simple plan.

BANGKOK — Indulge in the world’s sounds at a hostel-arts venue in the Pinklao area.

BANGKOK — Have a holly jolly Christmas eating German sausages, watching holiday classics, partying with fabulous drag queens and more this year in Bangkok.

BANGKOK — What promises to be a special three-day vintage flea market will take place Friday through Sunday at Bangkok’s ACMEN Ekamai Complex.