Newcomers in the DC area will notice the incredible beauty of the autumn season. Changes in nature are a given, and you adapt more or less by instinct. But changes in our cultural environment are more difficult to spot, let alone to deal with. How to interpret the exuberant greeting by a doorman - “Hi, how are you doing,” when you are used to a more formal way of being greeted? Our article on cultural differences will enlighten you on how to handle such cultural differences. In our regular series the Teens talk about how music is both culturally divergent and similar. Another important facet of our culture is food and if you crave for ethnic foods, then we help you hunt down the best places to find them in the neighborhood. Also, find a perceptive poem on deforestation and its impact. The holidays are approaching and we would like you to send in your tips on where to go during the holiday season or share with us a story about your holiday traditions. Read on, enjoy this issue but also remember to send us your feedback. We want to hear from all of you so feel free to ask a question or share a thought.

Maaike le Grand and Vidya Rangan.