Exploring Cities and Countries of the World. Volume 2

Volume 2 first provides a brief overview of Pakistani history, culture and economy, particularly providing insight on the cultural diversity of the country in terms of language, food, religion, arts, gender orientation and family structure. The authors analyse spatial and temporal urban expansion in the medium-sized city of Coimbra in Southern Europe during a ten year period. A better understanding of these dynamics may be a helpful contribution to the planning and organisation of local human activities for sustainable urban development. Street food in Italy, born many centuries ago, is discussed in the context of its cultural implications, along with advice for choosing healthier and more sustainable options. Some typical cakes such as the cassata and the pastiera are described, along with some considerations for bakery products of the future. The authors also analyze and discuss public policies of gastronomy actors focused on local cuisine, highlighting that policies of this nature consider that sustainable tourism can represent a considerable instrument of social strength and economic development. The relationship between gastronomy and destination brands is also examined, expanding these reflections by contextualizing gastronomy in Minas Gerais. Subsequently, the status of science research in Singapore is described, along with the crucial role this has played in making Singapore a model for sustainable development.