In the traditional Chinese calendar, the period of Great Heat (Dashu) has arrived, marking the end of summer and the beginning of the hottest time of the year. As temperatures rise across the country, people turn to refreshing treats that are perfect for combating heatwaves. These regional dishes, made from seasonal fruits, beans, herbs, and other natural ingredients, have helped generations stay cool during the sweltering Chinese summers.
One of the drinks that best captures the spirit of summer in Beijing is a chilled drink made from tart plums. This perennial traditional beverage is slowly brewed by hutong vendors using an ancient recipe and then served iced. It has a rich sweet and pleasantly sour taste, enhanced with a delicate cloud of osmanthus flowers, leaving a floral aftertaste that makes every sip irresistible on a scorching day.
After a spicy hot pot or sizzling barbecue, Sichuan residents know what to choose: lianggao, or chilled rice jelly. Lianggao is prepared by slow-cooking rice into a pudding-like cake, resulting in a soft, elastic, and smooth texture. When lightly drizzled with traditional brown sugar syrup on top, this slightly sweet dessert serves as the perfect antidote to the heat and the signature spicy cuisine of Sichuan. One bite is enough to soothe the taste buds.
In Tianjin, located in northern China, the secret to a great scoop of shaved ice lies not in the fruit, but in the toppings. A generous layer of finely chopped ice conceals spoons of rose hips, dried apricots, sweetened beans, canned fruits, and thick homemade fruit syrups. In fact, the amount of filling often equals the amount of ice, creating a colorful, sweet, and tart dessert rich in layers of flavor and texture. One spoonful inevitably leads to the next.
Unlike regular mung bean soup, Suzhou in eastern China gives this classic summer favorite a vibrant appearance. The dish, which features cooked mung beans at the bottom, is topped with sticky rice, syruped dates, sweet candy, red beans, and colorful strips of canned citrus zest. The soup is finished with mint water, making it as beautiful as it is delicious.
In Dunhuang, Gansu province in northwestern China, nothing conveys summer like a chilled apricot peel drink. Locals dry ripe apricot peels under the sun and then boil them into an aromatic decoction. After straining, a little rock sugar is added and the mixture is left to steep in the refrigerator for a couple of hours. Done! You hold a sweet and sour cold drink!
Despite its name, Four Fruit Soup rarely consists of only four ingredients. Served on crushed ice and sweet syrup, each bowl is filled with chewy taro balls, fresh seasonal fruits, crystal-clear sea jelly, and other colorful additions. Every piece is cool, fruity, and wonderfully refreshing—a taste that many in Fujian instantly associate with childhood.
Don't let the name mislead you. Famous Guangdong herbal tea is not a traditional tea and is not always served cold. Instead, it is an herbal infusion made from a mixture of medicinal plants. For generations, locals have relied on it to cope with the long and humid summer in the region. Traditional Chinese medicine holds that it helps 'clear internal heat' in the body, making it a favorite summer product for many Cantonese people.
Sharon Gordon, founder of Lola Montez, a leader in the erotic entertainment industry, shared her opinion on who uses sex toys and lubricants. She emphasized that the notion that these items are intended only for a specific group of people is one of the most common myths in sexual health.
According to Lola Montez, sexual health should be viewed as an integral part of overall bodily condition. Just as people take care of their skin or physical fitness, many begin to pay attention to their intimate health. Gordon notes that conversations about sexuality have significantly changed over nearly 25 years in her industry, but progress is still insufficient.
Doctors, therapists, and sexual health specialists are increasingly recognizing that intimate products can promote self-exploration of the body, improve communication between partners, boost self-confidence, manage changes caused by aging or menopause, and enhance intimacy. They also help alleviate discomfort associated with dryness and regain pleasure after illness or childbirth. Sex toys are now widely perceived as part of a healthy approach to sexual well-being.
Lubricants are often recommended to increase comfort and reduce friction during intimacy. Users include people from the most diverse segments of society, regardless of their conservative background.
Many use sex toys for individual exploration to discover what brings pleasure, relieve stress, build body confidence, and better understand their personal preferences. Self-pleasure is considered a normal and healthy part of life for many people.
Couples often use vibrators, massage oils, and lubricants not because something is missing in the relationship, but because these aids add variety and pleasure. Intimate products help couples communicate more openly, try new things together, increase enjoyment, and reduce performance pressure. Furthermore, they help restore connection after a stressful lifestyle.
One of the fastest-growing groups purchasing lubricants and intimate health products is women going through menopause. Decreased estrogen levels can cause vaginal dryness, increased sensitivity, reduced natural lubrication, discomfort during intimacy, difficulty achieving orgasm, and decreased libido. High-quality water-based lubricants can significantly increase comfort, and many healthcare professionals advise using such products, including vibrators, to manage symptoms.
Men are also actively adopting sexual health products. They use male stimulators, prostate massagers, lubricants, and toys for couples, such as penis rings, which help maintain erections and can enhance partner's pleasure.
Sex toys and lubricants have long been an important part of sexual health for members of the LGBTQ+ community. Modern products are designed to accommodate the diversity of bodies, identities, and relationship styles, making intimate health more inclusive.
A surprising fact is the large number of people over 50 purchasing intimate goods. Many older adults find that they have more free time, increased self-confidence, and become more emotionally connected in relationships. Lubricants are particularly valuable since natural lubrication changes with age, and safe toys help maintain closeness.
Customers often report seeking better intimacy with a partner, relief from menopausal discomfort, increased confidence, easier orgasms, stress reduction, curiosity, or simply wanting to give a special gift. Gordon emphasizes that every reason is unique and valid. Purchasing an intimate product is comparable to buying massage oils or health supplements—it is an investment in one's own well-being. Today, buyers include professionals, parents, spouses, retirees, students, and others, proving the universality of sexual health.
The West Cape is home to many famous South African destinations, yet many of its smaller settlements remain mere footnotes on road signs. Hidden away from the highways, these places offer mountains, local hospitality, and rich history to travelers who choose a scenic route over the fastest one.
These lesser-known villages demonstrate that slowing down often leads to the most memorable discoveries. Whether you are looking for homemade baked goods, birdwatching, heritage, or a quiet rural stay, these spots provide a unique experience.
East of Stellenbosch lies Buffelgrass River, which is easy to overlook but deserves attention. This quiet farming community, surrounded by wheat fields and the Langeberg mountains, offers beautiful scenery and access to the Buffelgrass dam. Furthermore, it serves as a convenient entry point to the Bontebok National Park, making it an ideal stop for nature lovers.
Between Klein Karoo and Langeberg is Vanwykdorps, known for its olive groves, vineyards, and relaxed atmosphere. Local artists and artisans have added creativity to the village, while nearby walking trails and farms encourage visitors to linger longer.
Zoar, founded by German missionaries in the early 1800s, is one of South Africa's oldest missionary settlements. Its historic church and white buildings reflect a rich heritage, and the surrounding orchards and vineyards enhance its rustic charm, making it a perfect spot for those interested in culture and history.
Nestled away from Welldrif is Aurora, offering views of the Sandveld's rolling landscape. In spring, the surroundings come alive with blooming wildflowers, and ornithologists can enjoy various species year-round. Quiet streets and guesthouses create an atmosphere of tranquility on the West Coast.
Located near the Verlorenfllei wetlands, Redelinghuys is a pleasant stop for bird lovers and photographers. Flamingos, pelicans, and other waterfowl are regularly seen in this area, and local cafes and farm stalls offer a taste of local hospitality. Spring flowers are also a reason to visit.
Many travelers pass through Hopefield on the way to Langebaan, but one of the West Coast's oldest towns deserves more than just a quick drive-by. Historic buildings, artisan cafes, and local honey give the village a distinct character, and nearby wildflower meadows attract visitors every spring.
Along the Duivenhoek River, near Heidelberg, lies Vermaaklikheid, a quiet riverside village popular among artists, writers, and kayakers. Canoeing is a great way to explore the local avifauna, and the traditional cottages and peaceful setting make it an ideal place to slow down.
Herbertsdale, overshadowed by the coastal attractions of Garden Route, offers another side of the region. Scenic roads, walking trails, and mountain bike routes wind through beautiful farmland and fynbos, while local farm stalls entice visitors with homemade jams, baked goods, and seasonal produce.
Suurbraak, established as a mission station in 1812, combines history with impressive mountain landscapes. Its historic church remains a central element of the village, and nearby walking trails lead into the Langeberg. Guests can also enjoy homemade preserves and traditional local cuisine prepared by community members.
Situated between Gansbaai and Elgin, Baardskerdersbos has become a favorite spot for weekend artists and travelers. Galleries, pottery studios, and cozy cafes reflect the village's creative spirit, and nearby fynbos reserves and rural accommodation make it an excellent base for exploring Overberg.
These small settlements offer something increasingly rare—time to slow down. They preserve local traditions, support family businesses, and provide an authentic glimpse into daily life outside the province's busiest tourist hubs. Next time you explore the West Cape, consider taking the less-trodden path.
This salad, rich in fiber and plant-based protein, is easy to adapt and tastes even better when chilled. It works perfectly as a weekday lunch or as a barbecue side dish.
If you are looking for a hearty, inexpensive, and simple dish to prepare, this three-bean salad is an excellent choice. It is made from common ingredients easily found in any local supermarket and pairs well with both weekday lunches and South African barbecues featuring boerewors and chops.
Whether you are cooking for the family, meal prepping for the week, or bringing a snack to a gathering, this colorful pasta salad is packed with fiber, plant protein, and fresh vegetables. It is economical, easy to modify, and develops a superior flavor after several hours in the refrigerator, making it ideal for busy South African households.
To make the salad, you will need: 250g of pasta (fusilli, penne, or macaroni), one can (400g) of mixed three beans, drained and rinsed, one cup of cherry tomatoes halved, one cucumber diced, half a red onion thinly sliced, one yellow bell pepper diced, half a cup of sweet corn kernels, and a quarter cup of fresh parsley chopped.
For the dressing, you will need: 4 tablespoons of olive oil, 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, 1 tablespoon of vinegar, 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon of honey, one minced clove of garlic, plus salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
First, cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Then, drain and rinse it with cold water to fully cool. In a large bowl, mix the cooled pasta, the mixed three beans, tomatoes, cucumber, onion, pepper, corn, and parsley. In a separate container, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, and garlic. Season the mixture with salt and black pepper. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until all ingredients are evenly coated. Before serving, chill the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to develop.
To make the salad more personal, you can add crumbled feta for a creamy, tangy flavor, stir in diced avocado right before serving, or add leftover barbecue meat or sliced steak for a heartier meal. You can also mix in chopped olives or pepperoncini, and top with toasted sunflower or pumpkin seeds for a crunchy texture. This salad is perfect to prepare in advance and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. It is also a great way to use up leftover barbecue meat, turning it into a delicious lunch for the next day. If the pasta absorbs some of the dressing overnight, simply add a little olive oil and drizzle with lemon juice before serving to refresh the flavor.
