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People need to talk about the Maldives more. It was an awesome experience especially if you have an over the water bungalow. The view from your deck is breathtaking. Hearing the sounds of the ocean and even watching the fish and sting rays go by in your room is an experience. The staff here is great and that spa experience was soooo relaxing. I will bring clients back here again.

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Just got back from Dubai! 🥳🥳🥳 Let me first start off by saying THANK YOU Culture Holidays!!!! From start to finish you guys were AMAZING! Everyone went above and beyond for this group trip! I truly looked like a rock star to my clients!! The hotel and staff all provided a 5 star experience hands down. The location was perfect to quickly and conveniently get to everything. To our guides, OMG, you guys were truly THE best! I mean it was like literally having concierge service to every event! 😩👏🏾👏🏾🥰 I can not truly express the great pleasure I’ve had working with your company! Please keep up the good work and we’ll keep our guest coming! You have a travel partner for life.. next up Bali and I’m sure I will be at least doubling my group size from the responses I’ve gotten this far from my postings. Enjoy some of my favorite moments from this trip!

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My Bali trip was amazing!!! My guests and I truly enjoyed the Culture Holidays Bali Tour🥰

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Cultural Trips

Top 10 cultural tours for 2024-2025, short inca trail hike to machu picchu, mediterranean gems: from dubrovnik to naples, discover iceland, america’s great river, panoramic peru, charms of the mekong, 10 best cultural tours of europe for 2024-2025, 10 best cultural tours of africa for 2024-2025, 10 best cultural tours of asia for 2024-2025, top 10 cultural tours of the united states for 2024-2025, wild alaska escape: haines, the inian islands, and tracy arm fjord, heart of the delta, hawaiian seascapes, new orleans & southern charms, alaska adventure cruise - alaska fjords and glacier bay, america’s heartland, lower mississippi river cruise, great lakes and thunder bay, all five great lakes, our 10 favorite cultural tours of south pacific for 2024-2025, marquesas, tuamotus & society islands, islands of the marquesas & tuamotus, society islands & tuamotus, ancient polynesia: tuamotus and marquesas islands, discover the marquesas, austral islands, society islands, cook islands, tonga & fiji, fiji, tonga, cook & society islands, fiji and tahiti adventure: vibrant reefs and cultural history, travel guide for cultural experiences.

• The Amazon - Contrary to popular myth, most of the indigenous communities in the Amazon have been contacted by modern society, but they choose to keep their customs and traditions. We have formed relationships with several of these communities who are excited to share their jungle lifestyles with you!
• Africa - Perhaps the most famous native group that we visit on our cultural experiences in Africa is the Maasai , who have found a balance between integration into the modern world without losing their customs and traditions. Several of our Africa tours visit other tribes that are even more secluded from the buzz of society. 
• The South Pacific - These early oceanic explorers were the first to settle the islands of the South Pacific and their distance from the nearest major cities has helped them preserve their ways of life (and more native languages than the rest of the world combined) for thousands of years.
• Sample local dishes - a mix of some delicious flavors that you didn't even know existed and some that might even challenge your palate! 
• Learn how to cook these dishes for yourself using the same methods and techniques that the indigenous communities have used for centuries.
• Participate in ceremonies, dances, and rituals! Many native groups are excited to share their ways of life with travelers and will give you a front row seat or even a role in their ceremonial rituals.

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World’s Best Cultural Tourism Destinations: 30 Cultural Trips to Take This Year

Discover the best cultural trips and immersive travel experiences our world has to offer. From Southern India to the High Arctic, here are the top 30 countries and regions for cultural tourism this year .

With many of us now on the lookout for deeper and more meaningful travel experiences , cultural tourism – travel that prioritises learning about and appreciating different ways of life – has never been more appealing.

Immersive cultural experiences give travellers an opportunity to see the world from a different perspective, form meaningful relationships, and develop new skills. They can also open the door to a slower, more sustainable type of travel that has benefits for local communities and a lighter impact on the planet.

Whether you’re a seasoned cultural traveller researching for your next trip or you’re interested in getting off-the-beaten-track but aren’t sure where to start, I hope this guide to culture and travel offers you some food for thought!

I also suggest reading these tips for socially responsible travel for advice about engaging with different cultures in a sensitive and mindful way.

Please note: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you). Learn more.

This post may contain sponsored links for which I received compensation.

What is cultural tourism?

Cultural travel is as broad and multifaceted as culture itself – it’s difficult to pin down, and highly subjective. For me, cultural tourism is a kind of travel that prioritises activities and experiences designed to immerse you in a way of life that differs from your own.

It might involve consuming tangible cultural products (museums, archaeological sites, food , tea ) or encountering intangible cultural elements (rituals, performances, processes). As well as art, literature, religious monuments and the like, it also encompasses ways of living, values and beliefs – both historical and contemporary.

It’s almost impossible to avoid local culture when you travel. No matter your motivation, it’s inevitable that you’ll end up experiencing some aspect of local culture, even if it’s something as simple as eating local cuisine or learning a few words of the language.

Apart from these incidental encounters, cultural tourism represents a more concerted effort to engage with local culture through specialised activities. In the same way an adventure traveller might seek out a particular hiking route, for example, a cultural traveller might plan their trip around a festival.

Cultural vacations might involve:

• Learning a new skill, for example through a cooking class or craft workshop
• Attending a local festival or event
• Participating in a ritual or ceremony
• Eating local food
• Staying with a family at a homestay
• Immersing yourself in the local community by teaching English as a foreign language
• Visiting a community-based tourism project
• Visiting World Heritage Sites and immersive museums
• Taking a locally guided tour

There’s lots more to cultural trips (as you’ll soon see), but these are some of the common elements we tend to associate with this genre of travel.

Pros and cons of cultural travel

Cultural travel is almost a guaranteed way to enrich your experience as a tourist. But it’s worth noting that this type of travel has both benefits and downsides for host communities.

Cultural tourism helps to encourage the preservation of culture and heritage by keeping endangered traditions alive. There might be little demand for heritage handicraft skills, for example, but outside interest (and an opportunity to earn an income) could be enough to safeguard a tradition that might otherwise have been lost.

By the same token, cultural tourism can incentivise better protections for physical heritage sites, ensuring that monuments and the like remain accessible for future generations. Cultural tourism can have far-reaching social impacts and environmental benefits when it gives rise to new social enterprises, local businesses and women-led ventures geared towards giving tourists an immersive experience.

On the other hand, there’s always a question mark around authenticity when it comes to cultural travel. If a ritual is performed for the benefit of outsiders, does it lose its meaning? Commodification of culture for tourism is a serious issue that impacts many communities and can be damaging to social and economic development more broadly.

Cultural tourism often involves travelling to more remote areas, which introduces a whole host of other pros and cons. A road constructed for the benefit of tourists is also new infrastructure for the community – but it might speed up globalisation and cultural erosion, while the very presence of tourists can worsen environmental pollution or cause rifts between different social groups.

These are complicated issues. Personally, I think cultural exchange is one of the most important aspects of travel and when managed properly and in a way that actively involves communities, the benefits can outweigh the drawbacks.

Top 30 countries & regions for cultural trips

There’s not a town, city, county or region in the world that doesn’t have something amazing to offer in terms of local culture. This makes it very hard to pick the ‘best’ places for cultural tourism.

However, each of these 30 hand-picked destinations stands out for its extravagant festivals and celebrations, rich cuisine and heritage handicrafts that give travellers a window on culture, heritage and the local way of life.

At the end of the list, you’ll find my top tips for having a more culturally immersive travel experience no matter where in the world you go.

Cultural destinations in the Americas

Antioquia Department, Colombia • Cuba • Ecuador • Big Island of Hawaii, USA • Orleans Parish, USA • Oaxaca, Mexico

Colombia’s Antioquia Department – for pueblos, bandeja paisa & Botero

A melange of Indigenous traditions and colonial influences, there are few destinations in the world more culturally vibrant or intriguing than Colombia.

Antioquia Department in the north-west – with the city of Medellin as its capital – has become one of the most popular destinations in the country for tourists, beloved for its exquisite landscapes, colourful small towns and coffee farming heritage.

Along with several other departments, this part of Colombia is home to the Paisas , a self-defined cultural group whose name is derived from a Spanish word meaning ‘countryman’. They speak their own dialect, eat their own cuisine, and pass down their culture through a rich tradition of music and folklore.

Modern-day Antioquian culture is defined by the region’s artists, writers and poets. And then there’s the city of Medellin itself, which has undergone a huge transformation in recent years and is now considered one of the country’s main cultural hubs.

Top cultural experiences in Antioquia

Eat Paisa cuisine: One of the biggest joys of visiting Antioquia is experiencing the food scene. Paisa cuisine is heavily influenced by the topography and way of life in the Colombian Andes – carb-heavy dishes that feature beans, rice and maize are designed to fuel bodies for back-breaking work on the land. Bandeja Paisa is by far the most popular traditional dish and a must-eat in Medellin. The Antioquian version of a ploughman’s lunch, it consists of carne asada (grilled steak), chicharrón (crispy pork rind), rice and red beans served with a slice of avocado, fried plantains, a fried egg and a corn arepa on the side. It’s not for the faint hearted!

Visit a pueblo : Colombia is renowned for its small towns with colourful painted facades and pretty flower boxes. Antioquia is home to some of the loveliest pueblos in the country, including  Jardin , Jericó and Santa fe de Antioquia, to name but a few. Developed during Spanish times, most follow the same basic town plan: A public square, a market, a church, and rows and rows of houses built in the region’s vernacular style. If you’re short on time, Pueblo Paisa in Medellin is a model village in the heart of the capital.

Shop at the San Alejo Handicraft Market: If you happen to be visiting Medellin on the first Saturday of the month, don’t miss this unique opportunity to see Colombia’s handicraft traditions on display. Vendors from across the region descend on the city to sell traditional products, including woven Wayuu bags, and artisanal foods. You can chat to the vendors and watch live demonstrations to see how these Indigenous handicrafts are produced.

Visit Comuna 13: A locally guided tour of Medellin’s Comuna 13 will allow you to delve into the city’s tumultuous recent past in a respectful and mindful way. This collection of once-notorious city neighbourhoods has become a symbol for the nation’s transformation and cultural revitalisation. Street art, music and other expressions of local creativity are all on display for visitors to enjoy.

Cuba – for Mambo, classic cars & casas particulares

The native Taino Indians called their beautiful island Cubanacán. When the Spaniards arrived in 1511, they shortened it to ‘Cuba’ and claimed it for Spain, labelling it “the most beautiful land human eyes have ever beheld.”

Ethnically, the country is a vibrant mix of Europeans, Africans brought over as enslaved workers throughout the 1700s, and a large group of Chinese imported as indentured servants. Sadly, the original inhabitants have largely disappeared.

On December 31, 1959 the Cuban Revolution succeeded in converting the country into a communist nation. Since then – and due to the mutually adversarial relationship with the United States – the island nation has existed in semi-isolation, frozen in time.

The cars that roam the streets are the same classic American models from the 1950s, and the frequently crumbling buildings have enjoyed little renovation.    

Despite Cuba’s trying history, the spirit of the people lives on and in its rich and celebrated culture. Before you go, learn the dos and don’t of visiting Cuba . 

Top cultural experiences in Cuba

Dance the night away at a musical venue: Cuba is the birthplace of dozens of musical genres including Mambo, Cha-Cha-Cha and Afro-Cuban Jazz. These Afro-European genres have contributed and enriched music categories around the world. Be sure to experience one of Cuba’s world-famous carnivals and Jazz Festivals.

Overdose on art and architecture: With nine UNESCO World Heritage sites and an amazing collection of museums, Cuba is a culture vulture’s paradise. Most are found in the capital city of Havana, but you also find little gems in the second city, Santiago de Cuba, and the perfectly preserved colonial city of Trinidad. Cuba’s architecture ranges from Spanish colonial and French Baroque to 1920s Art Deco. Visit the Museum of Fine Arts in Havana and the Bacardi Museum in Santiago to start; but don’t miss the quirky Rum Museum or the delectable Museum of Chocolate either.

Stay at a Cuban homestay: These Airbnb-type experiences are called ‘ casas particulares ‘. This is your opportunity to live with a Cuban family and delve into the culture.

Go hiking: Cuba’s national parks, biosphere reserves and 1,500 miles (2,400km) of coastline provide an opportunity to experience the outdoor culture.

By Talek from Travels With Talek

Ecuador – for jungle homestays, festivals & colada morada

A country with just over 17 million people, Ecuador is an extremely culturally diverse nation and a cultural tourism destination that should not to be overlooked.

Retaining a strong influence from Spanish colonisation, with widely-celebrated Catholic festivals and traditions, there is also a diverse mix of Andean Indigenous groups and traditions that dominate the mountainous centre of the country. In the east, the influence of various Amazonian Indigenous groups and their traditions is strong.

The coast of Ecuador, meanwhile, is marked by African influence from the cultures of enslaved peoples brought during colonisation.

With such a diversity of cultures – each with their own festivals, traditional foods and more – there are plenty of immersive experiences to partake in across the country that make a trip to Ecuador a must for any cultural traveller.

Top cultural experiences in Ecuador

Visit a remote community in the Amazon rainforest: One of the most popular and fascinating cultural experiences for travellers to Ecuador is to visit an Indigenous community to learn about and experience the rich traditions. Even a jungle tour of the Amazon on a budget can be tailored to include a visit to an Indigenous community, where you’ll learn to make traditional dishes and beverages such as chicha . Tribes deeper in the Amazon that welcome visitors often offer more in-depth cultural experiences including homestays, ritual cleansings, or even ayahuasa retreats.

Celebrate Easter in Ecuador: In addition to the Indigenous traditions in Ecuador, there are many popular celebrations from the Catholic tradition that travellers can partake in. Easter celebrations during Holy Week include Quito’s parade, known as the Procesión Jesús del Gran Poder, which features thousands of purple-hooded devotes carrying crosses and statues. Make sure you enjoy a bowl of traditional Fanesca , a rich and creamy soup made with 12 grains representing the 12 Disciples.

Dress up for Día de los Difuntos : Another cultural celebration with Indigenous roots is the Día de los Difuntos or ‘Day of the Deceased’, marked on November 2nd. Ecuador celebrates by honouring the dead and visiting cemeteries. Celebrations also include preparing and eating guaguas de pan , bread in the shape of a baby filled with fruit jam, and drinking colada morada , a thick, sweet drink made with berries and fruit and thickened with blue corn flour before being served warm. These delicious treats are sold in bakeries across the country for at least a month prior to the festivities. The largest celebrations are held in Indigenous communities such as Otavalo in Northern Ecuador.

By Carley from Home to Havana

The Big Island of Hawaii – for palm weaving, stargazing & petroglyphs

The natural abundance of the Big Island of Hawaii, the largest island in the Hawaiian archipelago, is nothing short of spectacular. With eight different climate zones, three active volcanoes, and the most mesmerising waterfalls and beaches in different shades, there’s a wealth of diversity to explore on the Big Island .

This unique natural setting is also home to several important cultural sites. After all, this is the Hawaiian island where the first Polynesian settlers arrived, where the first ruler of the Kingdom of Hawaii, King Kamehameha the Great, was born, and where the European explorers first arrived.

With such a rich heritage, it comes as no surprise that Hawaiian culture is still very much alive on the Big Island. Here are some experiences that allow you to explore the island’s heritage.

Top cultural experiences on the Big Island of Hawaii

Take a self-guided tour of the Pu’uhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park: Just south of Kailua-Kona, there’s a site where the royal family and their warriors once lived. It’s very well preserved and you can still see the thatched huts, an ancient temple, wooden carvings and fishponds. But this site was more than just a royal retreat: When Hawaiians broke the law or kapu , they were condemned to death. The only option to escape their fate was reaching this sanctuary, known as the Place of Refuge. You can visit this intriguing site on a self-guided tour.

Learn the traditional Hawaiian art of weaving palm fronds: In the Hawaiian craft known as lau niu , the leaves of the coconut palm were used to thatch roofs, create baskets and even hats. There’s a handful of workshops where you can learn this traditional craft from a professional weaver. Not only does it make for a unique experience, it also allows you to craft your own handmade Hawaiian souvenir.

Go stargazing at Maunakea: In Hawaiian culture, the dormant Maunakea volcano, with its unique alpine Lake Waiau, is considered sacred. They believed the summit to be the realm of the gods and the meeting place of earth and sky. To this day, cultural rituals are performed on the slopes of Maunakea. This intriguing volcano is home to the world’s largest astronomical observatory, the Onizuka Center for International Astronomy, which hosts a regular stargazing program.

Check out the Hawaiian petroglyphs: Hawaiian petroglyphs tell the stories of ancient times and give a unique inside into the different cultural beliefs on the islands. You can find carvings of canoes, turtles, babies and more at one of the petroglyph sites that dot the Big Island, such as the Puuloa Petroglyph site in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park or the Puako Petroglyph Archaeological Preserve near the Mauna Lani Resort.

Conquer the ocean in an outrigger canoe: Step aboard a double-hull outrigger canoe and explore the shore in the same way the Polynesian settlers did centuries ago. This type of canoe features lateral support floats or outriggers fastened to one or to both sides of the hull. Learn how to paddle and work as a team as you glide along the Kona reefs teeming with fish. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a pod of dolphins.

By Sarah from CosmopoliClan

Orleans Parish – for jazz, Madi Gras & creole cooking

When it comes to cultural destinations, few cities have as much to offer as New Orleans and the surrounding parishes. Located in Southeastern USA, New Orleans is all about tradition and culture. The city’s unique heritage comes from a blend of French, Spanish, Cajun, and Creole cultures.

Combined, these groups have given birth to something truly iconic. The beautiful Mardi Gras celebrations are a remnant of the French colonial era, while the beautiful Spanish colonial architecture in Jackson Square is worthy of a walking tour .

You will also find unique Cajun cuisine served in the city’s most popular restaurants. Add in the many historical museums, southern plantation homes, and distinct architectural styles and Orleans Parish makes for the ultimate cultural destination in the US.

Top cultural experiences in New Orleans

Join a Mardi Gras parade: New Orleans is well-known for its lavish and grand Mardi Gras parades and balls. Visitors can enjoy the festivities for an entire month in the lead up to the big day. Outside of Mardi Gras, there are plenty of other festivals in New Orleans to check out as well. 

Listen to jazz: New Orleans is the birthplace of jazz. The city’s Creole population gathered and celebrated in the city’s Congo Square on Sundays and thus jazz was born!

Tour a plantation home: Many southern plantation homes are located along the banks of the Mississippi. These can be seen on a road trip along the Great River Road. On a tour, you will learn about pre-Civil war life in the South and the history of slavery. Learn more about the ethics of visiting plantation homes here .

By Ketki from Dotted Globe

Oaxaca – for Indigenous cuisine, Zapotec rugs & mezcal

The state of Oaxaca is a cultural hub in Mexico. Void of resorts or even big-name hotel chains, Oaxaca is rich in flavourful cuisine, celebrations, and Indigenous revitalisation.

Located in southern Mexico, Oaxaca features a variety of different landscapes, from lush hills and forests, to dry arid deserts and blissful beaches. However, the community atmosphere of Oaxaca is what keeps people coming back, both international visitors and Mexican residents alike.

Oaxaca is known as the food capital of Mexico, with dozens of celebrity chefs. Notably, Indigenous culture is very visible in Oaxaca, with 16 recognised Indigenous groups in the state. Zapotec weaving is one of the most sought-after souvenirs in the area – and Mexico in general – and it comes from Oaxaca.

Top cultural experiences in Oaxaca

Celebrate Dia de los Muertos : Oaxaca City is a top destination for Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead), with its dazzling parades, intricate family altars and abundant festivities. Dia de los Muertos is a pre-Columbian tradition that honours deceased loved ones with food, drink, and merriment. So, if you happen to visit Oaxaca during a festival like Dia de los Muertos, bring comfortable shoes for fun activities throughout the day. Oaxaca City is an extremely walkable city, and you will want to explore every inch of its mural lined walls.

Eat Oaxacan cuisine: Since Oaxacan cuisine is also central to the region’s identity, sign up for a food tour with a local to learn the origins of some of the most popular dishes and what makes Oaxacan food and flavour so unique and different from other states in Mexico. Or, if you want to take a more hands-on approach, take a cooking class with a world-class chef at Casa de los Sabores and learn how to make mole and other Oaxacan staples.

Visit a Zapotec village: If you’d prefer to focus on Indigenous cuisine, take a day trip out to the Zapotec village of Teotitlán del Valle for a cooking class at El Sabor Zapoteco . After you finish, there are many things to do in Teotitlán del Valle , but you will probably want to get your fill of shopping at the many boutique shops for best quality Zapotec rugs.

Drink mezcal: If you’re a fan of hard drinks, Oaxaca is a great destination for mezcal tasting! Hop on any tour and view the vast agave fields as you taste mezcal throughout the day. Depending on the season, you may even get to try your hand at using the harvesting machete!

By Kay from The Awkward Traveller

Learn more: A local’s guide to the best of Mexican culture and an in-depth guide to Mayan culture in the Yucatan .

Cultural travel destinations in Europe

French Basque Country • Armenia • Sicily • Greece • Bosnia & Herzegovina • Russia • Northern Europe’s Arctic Regions • The Greater Caucasus • Andalusia, Spain

French Basque Country – for frontons , fêtes & espadrilles

The Basque country at the southwestern-most tip of France is one of those regions you might not guess is French – at least not at first.

The half-timbered houses are painted oxblood or green, and the Euskara (Basque) language, Europe’s oldest, is related to no other tongue. The Basques are also among the oldest ethnic groups of Europe.

Basque culture is unique and is spread among seven provinces, of which three are in France (the other four are in Spain). The Basques have their own festivals, music and dances, their own foods, games and folklore, as well as an acute sense of history and heritage.

Top cultural experiences in French Basque Country

Here are just a few cultural experiences to whet your appetite for all things Basque!

Gastronomy: The food is different from your regular French fare. For example, the Espelette pimento is spicier than seasonings you’ll find elsewhere in France, and food itself is taken to new heights here – the region has the highest number of Michelin stars per capita in the world. And let’s not forget the pintxo , the Basque equivalent of the Spanish tapas.

Fronton s: You’ll find one of these walls in every Basque village – it’s what Basques use to play their national sport, Basque pelota (known in some countries as jai alai). It’s played with a racquet-like bat which scoops up the ball. Then, a bit like squash, the players fling it back and forth against the wall, or fronton.

Family-owned businesses: Basque artisanal traditions run deep, whether it’s leatherwork, espadrilles, Basque linen or beret making. This is a region in which hand-made goods thrive and where mass-production takes a back seat. The local government makes sure family businesses are promoted and Basque know-how exported, however stiff the competition – there are special labels for family businesses, and even labels for those businesses that have been around for more than a century (and there are plenty). As a result, hand-made goods from this small region find their way around the world, symbolising not only Basque savvy but Basque determination to hang on to its heritage.

Bayonne Festival: With its one million annual participants, the Fêtes de Bayonne is France’s largest festival. It was ‘borrowed’ in 1932 from not-too-distant Pamplona in Spain, but has grown immeasurably since. Each July, visitors dress up in white clothes and red scarves (and a red beret, of course) and spend five days eating, drinking, singing Basque songs and watching Basque sports. The Festival includes bullfighting, which has a long tradition in the region, although this particular sport might be short-lived given the growing opposition to it.

By Leyla from Offbeat France

Bosnia & Herzegovina – for old bazaars, woodcarving & kahva

Bosnia and Herzegovina is one of the most culturally and ethnically diverse countries in the Balkans . If you have your sights set on this lesser-visited part of Europe for your next cultural trip, it’s the perfect setting to learn about the region’s different – often competing – influences and how they’ve shaped modern life.

Bosnia is the original cultural melting pot, and Sarajevo is where it all comes to a head. The city is divided into two parts – Ottoman and European – with the sprawling Old Bazaar on one side, and the Austro-Hungarian planned portion of the capital on the other. A plaque on the pavement marks the spot where East Meets West.

But the boundaries aren’t always that clear. Bosnia and Herzegovina’s character is a combination of Bosnian, Serb and Croat, layered with Jewish, Romanian, Albanian and Turkish traditions. The vignette of a mosque’s minaret and a church bell tower rising up side by side is a perfect motif for the country’s diversity.

Top cultural experiences in Bosnia & Herzegovina

Explore Sarajevo’s Old Bazaar: One of the most beautiful Ottoman bazaars in the region (and there are a lot), just wandering the rows of picturesque wooden shops connected by cobbled streets – the sound of coppersmiths beating intricate designs onto plates ringing in your ears – is a completely immersive experience. At the kafane coffeehouses, where kahva and rakia are served with much pageantry, you get a feel for famous Bosnian hospitality.

Take a food tour of Sarajevo: Bosnians are fiercely proud of their national cuisine. Dishes such as burek (filled savoury pastry) and cevapi are a common ground and bring the country together. A food tour of Sarajevo takes you behind the scenes on some of the city’s liveliest markets and busiest restaurants while giving you an insight into the history behind some of the country’s most iconic dishes.

Visit a woodcarving master in Konjic: Sarajevo in particular has an incredibly rich art and literature scene, as evidenced in the many festivals that take place in the city throughout the year. Bosnia’s heritage handicrafts shine a light on the culture of craftsmanship that has bestowed the country with so many beautiful landmarks over the years. Woodcarving has been practiced for generations in the city of Konjic and today, visitors can tour the masters’ workshops for an up-close encounter.

See the Stećci Medieval Tombstone Graveyards: Stećci medieval tombstones were laid during the time of the Bosnian Kingdom. Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, they’re found throughout the territory including in forests close to the border with Serbia . Carved from limestone, the Stećci contain motifs and inscriptions and provide a rare window onto this epoch of the country’s history that’s still shrouded in much mystery.

Greece – for markets, mythology & Orthodox Easter

Greece is a country rich in culture, from the legacy of ancient history and mythology to traditional cuisine and celebratory festivals that still bring people together to this day. Greek nationals tend to be very proud of their history and culture , which can be seen in the well-executed museums, galleries and archaeological sites throughout the country.

Believed to be the ‘birthplace of Western civilisation’, Greece is known for its scholars, medics, architects, philosophers and politicians that shaped the way the world works today. This makes the country an excellent choice for cultural tourism as there are simply so many things to see and do that will both satiate your wanderlust while also teaching you new things.

Whether you’re interested in archaeological excavations, gastronomic tours, local festivals or ancient architecture, Greece certainly has you covered.

Top cultural experiences in Greece

Take a Mythology Tour of Ancient Athens: Athens has a whole host of archaeological sites to explore , from the Ancient Agora and Hadrian’s Library to the world-famous Acropolis and Parthenon perched on a hillside overlooking the city. One of the best ways to discover these sites is via a Mythology Tour that takes you around the best historic monuments and ruins while also giving you interesting information about the city and country’s history and mythology. This tour , suitable for all ages, gives you skip-the-line access to some of Athens’ most important landmarks along with an experienced guide to give you detailed history about how Greece became the centre of the world.

Visit the Athens Central Market: If your idea of cultural tourism involves food, you might be interested in a trip to the Athens Central Market and a local cookery class. A gastronomic experience allows you to soak up the sights and smells of the city’s biggest market, picking up local produce and souvenirs while also trying some tasty titbits along the way . You’ll then take your purchases back to the kitchen where you’ll cook up a storm using local recipes and techniques. Try classics like Dolmades (stuffed vine leaves), Tzatziki and Spanakopita (spinach and feta pies) to give you a real taste of traditional Greek cuisine.

Attend the Epidaurus Festival: The Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus, a grand amphitheatre located on the bank of the Acropolis Complex, runs an annual summer festival of art. The festival combines modern and traditional music, theatre and dance with the picturesque Ancient Greek setting, making it a real highlight for any traveller. Over the years, the Epidaurus festival has played host to names like Frank Sinatra, Maria Callas and Luciano Pavarotti.

Celebrate Orthodox Easter in Greece: Easter is one of the biggest traditional festivals on the Orthodox calendar, so no matter where you are in Greece during this time, you’re sure to come across some pretty exciting celebrations! One destination that always enjoys epic Easter festivities is the island of Corfu. Local Easter traditions begin on Palm Sunday (a week before Easter) and there are different festivities each day leading up to the main event.

Palm Sunday sees a large procession of the Holy Shrine; Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday see locals preparing their Easter meals and sweet specialities, going to evening ceremonies and lighting up the town with lanterns; Maundy Thursday is egg-painting day; Good Friday features the mournful marches of the philharmonic orchestra and the procession of epitaphs; Good Saturday features an artificial earthquake(!), bell ringing, the throwing of clay pots and tossing coins into a barrel; and the whole week culminates on Easter Sunday with a celebration of the Resurrection of Christ – fireworks, marches, music and traditional family meals galore!

By Chrysoula from Athens and Beyond

Learn more: 7 awesome cultural activities in Athens .

Russia – for ballet, banyas & borscht

While many may think of Russia as cold and grey, this could not be further from the truth. From the famous colourful onion domes of St. Basil’s Cathedral to the gilded fountains of the Peterhof Palace, Russia’s beauty is undeniable.

Russia is also a country rich in culture and filled with literature, ballet, painting and classical music.

Top cultural experiences in Russia

To really delve into Russian culture, there are a few experiences you should have whilst here.

Experience a Russian banya : One of the best cultural experiences you can have in Russia is to visit a banya . A banya is similar to a sauna. The biggest difference, though, is that a banya has high levels of humidity, while a sauna usually has dry air. They’ve been a part of Russian life for over a thousand years! You wear funny felt hats to protect your hair and ears from the heat. This also helps to regulate your body temperature, so you are able to sit in the banya for a longer period of time.

Another interesting aspect of the Russian banya is ‘flogging’ using birch twigs ( venik ). This is supposed to benefit your health and improve your immune system, and honestly, if you have someone who knows what they are doing, it does feel really good!

After you’ve gone in and out of the banya a couple times, you then cool yourself off by taking a quick, cold shower, jumping into a cold pool or tub (banyas do have these), jumping into a snowbank (seriously). Or… You can just jump in a frozen lake!

See a ballet at the Bolshoi: Seeing a ballet at the Bolshoi Theatre is one of the best things to do in Moscow and all of Russia in general. Even though ballet did not originate in Russia, Russian ballet is world-renowned, and the locals are incredibly proud of the tradition. If you can, try to see a performance of The Nutcracker or Swan Lake on the historic stage. Tickets sell out very quickly, so don’t delay in purchasing them once they go on sale!

Experience NYE: New Year’s Eve is the biggest holiday in Russia. This is because Christmas was forbidden during the Soviet years. Many traditions were moved from Christmas to the New Year, including keeping presents under the Christmas tree and visits from the Russian equivalent of Santa. Celebrations and fireworks take place across the country on December 31 – the biggest and most famous displays are in Moscow’s Red Square and Gorky Park.

Sample Russian cuisine: No trip to Russia would be complete without experiencing the local cuisine. The best Russian food and drinks to sample on your visit are: Pelmeni (a Russian dumpling filled with meat and usually topped with sour cream); borscht (a traditional Russian soup whose main ingredient is beetroot); beef stroganoff (a Russian dish made with sautéed beef in a sauce with smetana ); syrniki (essentially a cottage cheese pancake topped with jam or sour cream – SO good!); kvass (a fermented beverage made from rye bread); and caviar and vodka (alas, you can’t come to Russia and not try caviar and vodka!)

By Lindsey from Have Clothes, Will Travel

Northern Europe’s Arctic Regions – for reindeer & Sami traditions

In Europe’s high northern reaches, you will find one of the continent’s oldest and most distinct cultures, the Sami. Spread across the Arctic regions of Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Russia, the Sami are Indigenous people who have traditionally led a nomadic lifestyle, known for herding their reindeer between their summer and winter feeding grounds.

The origins of the Sami are largely unknown, and it is believed that they once inhabited grounds much further south. But years of persecution drove them north and forced them to decrease livestock numbers in order to maintain their way of life. 

Against all odds, they have managed to hold onto large parts of their culture, including languages, traditions and ceremonies. As the modern world has encroached further north, there have been clashes over natural resources and land, which has put the plight of the Sami at the forefront of people’s minds in recent years and led to movements to protect the people and the culture. 

Top cultural experiences in the Arctic regions

Head to Tromso for an immersive Sami experience: Today, there are plenty of ways you can learn about and experience Sami culture. During the winter months, there are many Sami experiences in Tromsø, Norway and beyond where you can educate yourself about the Sami way of life, hear stories that have been passed down through the generations, and eat traditional foods.

Shop at a Sami market: Keep an eye out for Sami markets where you can purchase handmade traditional items.

Participate in a Sami festival: Norway is known to have the largest festivals and in various Arctic cities, you will find Sami festivals on National Sami Day (February 6th). In the summer, there are also Sami music festivals, such as the one found near Murmansk in Russia.

A visit to Northern Europe’s Arctic region is one of the most meaningful cultural trips in Europe as it helps bring attention to a group of people who have spent many years marginalised in their respective modern-day societies.

By Megan from Megan Starr

Andalusia – for Moorish architecture, tapas & Flamenco

Andalusia is an autonomous region in Southern Spain, geographically bounded by Spain’s southern coast. It’s culturally vibrant and very distinctive when compared to other parts of Spain such as Catalunya.

This part of the country was ruled by the Moors for centuries, and Moorish influence is evident in the cuisine, architecture and culture. Seville, Cordoba and Granada are all among the best Spain city breaks and each serve as a good base for exploring more of the region.

Top cultural experiences in Andalusia

Marvel at the Moorish architecture: The Andalusian architecture will capture your attention as soon as you land there, and this is probably the easiest way to start digging into the region’s past and cultural evolution. Cities like Seville and Granada have major UNESCO sites that will blow your mind – the style is in no way similar to buildings in France or even northern Spain for that matter. Islamic calligraphy and intricate details are most evident at the Real Alcazar Palace in Seville, the Alhambra in Granada , and the Mezquita in Cordoba.

Go tapas hopping: People in Andalusia are known for being a more little laid back, and generally enjoy food, family and companionship. Popular ‘tapas hopping’ is best experienced in Andalusia. Tapas bars in the south cultivate a cosy atmosphere with rounds of $1 dollar beers, spinach and chickpeas, cheese, and churros. Moorish/Muslim influence can be seen in the preparation of some foods, especially marzipan, and in the use of herbs and spices such as cumin and cilantro.  

Watch a Flamenco performance: After food, flamenco is what defines Andalusia. Flamenco is a dance that is synonymous with Southern Spain and is one of the most energetic and passionate forms of dance/storytelling. Flamenco shows in Seville and other cities in Andalusia are a great way to understand and enjoy this side of Southern Spanish culture.

By Mayuri from To Some Place New

Cultural tourism destinations in the Asia Pacific

Central Australia • Timor-Leste • Sarawak, Malaysia • Cambodia • Japan • Bhutan • Kerala, India • Rajasthan, India • Uzbekistan • The Tibetan Plateau • Taiwan

Central Australia – for ancient landscapes, ochre & bush tucker

The Arrernte and Anangu people have lived in Central Australia for over 20,000 years. From Uluru and Kata Tjuta (the Olgas) to the MacDonnell Ranges and Alice Springs, they have made their home in one of Australia’s driest and hottest regions.

The landscape, its plants and animals permeate every aspect of their culture. The natural environment is the basis for the Creation (or Dreamtime) stories at the core of their beliefs, ceremonies and traditions.

Their relationship with the land also has a practical aspect as a source of food, shelter and medicine. The Arrernte and Anangu’s land management techniques, native foods and art have all found their ways into broader Australian life.

Today, members of the communities have roles as guides, ranges and managers of major tourism businesses. For travellers, there are many opportunities to appreciate the on-going connection the Arrernte and Anangu people have with the Central Australian landscape.

Top cultural experiences in Central Australia

Visit Uluru (Ayres Rock): You can’t go to Central Australia and not visit Uluru. It is an iconic Australian landmark and when you visit this enormous rock, you’ll find many ways to immerse yourself in Indigenous culture. At Yulara Resort you can join a free session to learn about Indigenous food, crafts and didgeridoo playing.

On your way to Uluru, stop at the Cultural Centre. There are ranger talks about the area’s wildlife, how the Anagu have lived in the area for thousands of years, and how that knowledge is used to manage the park today. There are also galleries featuring local art and craft. For something a bit different, try a Segway tour of the rock . As you cruise around the 10 km base, you get a wonderful explanation of the Creation Stories tied to many of the rock’s features, caves and waterholes.

Ochre Pits: Ochre is a natural clay that comes in a range of colours and has been used for ceremonial and medicinal purposes for thousands of years. The Ochre Pits are at a site in the West MacDonnell Ranges where ochre has been collected by Arrernte men for generations. The Ochre Pits are an easy and accessible stop as you tour the gorges of the West MacDonnell Ranges. The colourful ochre cliff face is spectacular and it is quite an experience to be in the presence of a site that has been used for so long and continues to play a role in Arrernte life.

Alice Springs Desert Park: With the lives and lore of the Arrernte tied so closely to the environment, this combination of a wildlife park and botanic garden gives you a great insight into their relationship with the land. Besides the fantastic desert animal exhibits, there is a full program of keeper and cultural talks over the day. Learn about surviving in the desert, bush food and the meaning many of the animals have in the daily life of the Arrernte. The park is in Alice Springs with the West MacDonnell Ranges providing a spectacular backdrop.

By Natalie & Steve from Curious Campers

Timor-Leste – for sacred houses, tais weaving & Cristo Rei

Asia’s youngest nation, tiny Timor-Leste fought hard for its independence, first from Portugal and later from Indonesia. Holding strong to customs and beliefs is part of the resistance and against all odds, the Timorese have managed to pass down many traditions through music, dance and storytelling.

Fiestas held year-round throughout the country showcases these oral traditions, while in recent years, contemporary collectives have began building on the nation’s heritage of performance arts to process the events of the past and express their visions for the future.

There aren’t many physical reminders of Timor’s time as a Portuguese colony left – most architecture was subsequently destroyed – but the invisible influence is still there, along with the influence of the Catholic Church.

In the more remote regions, ethnic groups such as the Fataluku speak their own language and observe a fascinating array of cultural practices you won’t find anywhere else on Earth.

Top cultural experiences in Timor-Leste

Tais weaving: Timor’s ornate national textiles are storytelling objects, filled with symbols inspired by folktales and animist traditions. At the Tais market in Dili you can shop for handwoven tais scarves and tablecloths, while visiting a weaving centre such as Koperativa Lo’ud gives you a chance to see the natural dyeing and weaving process in person.

See the uma lulik in Lospalos: Part of the Fataluku tradition, these sacred houses perched high on stilts symbolise the link between the dead and the living. They are sacred objects that cut an impressive profile as you pass them on the coast around far-eastern Timor.

Make the pilgrimage to Cristo Rei: Standing 27 metres tall on a hill overlooking the capital, Dili, Cristo Rei is the ultimate symbol of Timor-Leste’s piety. More than 99% of Timorese are Christian, and the church has played a huge role in shaping the island’s character post-independence. Walking the 590-step path lined with Stations of the Cross is a right of passage. At the top, views of Dili, Atauro Island and the sparkling coastline.

Sarawak, Malaysia – for ikat textiles, longhouses & forest trekking

The largest of Malaysia’s 13 states , Sarawak envelops much of Borneo. Local culture and way of life is intimately intertwined with the island’s flora and fauna and offers visitors experiences quite distinct from anything you find in Peninsular Malaysia.

Life, history, culture and spirituality is all heavily influenced by the area’s Indigenous peoples, most notably the Iban. Malaysia’s mix of Malay, Indian, Muslim, Chinese and British culture can also be felt in Kuching , the autonomous state’s biggest city and a hub for culture and the arts.

Top cultural experiences in Sarawak

Visit a museum in Kuching: The Tun Jugah Textile Museum, the Sarawak Cultural Village and the Sarawak State Museum – all in or near Kuching – offer immersive exhibits that explore Iban culture. The former is dedicated almost completely to the art of ikat weaving, a time-honoured craft tradition that’s kept alive by artisans and students who learn to dye and weave at the museum workshop.

Stay in an Iban longhouse: Travelling up river into the forest to spend the night at an Iban longhouse is an unforgettable experience. As well as sleeping in traditional quarters, you’ll get to taste home-cooked food and experience various oral traditions, including Renong singing and Ensera storytelling.

Eat Sarawak cuisine: Malaysia is a foodie’s paradise and Sarawak is no exception. In addition to the usual mix of cuisines served up at hawker markets, the state boasts many regional breakfast specialties including Sarawak laksa, kolo mee (Sarawakian noodles) and ayam pansuh (chicken cooked in bamboo).

Cambodia – for Theravada Buddhism, apsara & golden silk

It’s easy to think of Cambodian culture as a relic of the past – a crumbling stupa or a cobwebbed museum display. But nothing could be further from the truth.

Khmer culture is a living, breathing thing, and it permeates everything – from underrated Cambodian cuisine to the country’s handicraft industry and the young collectives in Battambang and Kampot who are reviving the arts scene.

Many traditions and art forms almost lost during the 1970s have been brought back from the brink by artists and entrepreneurs determined to keep Cambodian culture alive.

Whether you’re interested in the legacy of the most powerful Golden Age state, the Khmer Empire, or discovering reminders of the Kingdom’s time as part of French Indochina in the beautiful colonial architecture and peppercorn plantations, it’s never been easier for visitors to get a feel for Cambodian culture.

Top cultural experiences in Cambodia

Take a Buddhism tour of Siem Reap: Spirituality plays a huge role in contemporary Cambodian life and there’s no better lens for exploring the country through. After you’ve taken in the Temples of Angkor that blend Hinduism and Buddhism, learn the ins and outs of Theravada Buddhism with an immersive Buddhism tour of Siem Reap . It’s a life-changing experience that teaches you how ancient beliefs coexist with modern society.

Watch an Apsara performance: It wasn’t so long ago that Cambodia’s national dance, Apsara, was considered an endangered art form. Artist and genocide surviver Arn Chorn-Pond has almost single-handedly revived Apsara traditions through his organisation Cambodian Living Arts. Nothing captures the Cambodian spirit like the understated but immensely beautiful performance. Nightly shows are held in Phnom Penh along with hands-on Apsara workshops that teach visitors the basic moves.

Go forest trekking in Mondulkiri: Mondulkiri and Ratanakiri in Cambodia’s far north-east are two of the country’s most remote provinces , known for their thick forests and biodiversity, including wild elephants. Ethnic minority groups including the Tampuan and the Bunong have developed sustainable tourism offerings, hosting guests at homestays and organising guided forest treks. During the tours, you get a glimpse of how people have coexisted with the forest for generations, and learn about the struggles they face today.

Seek out Khmer handicrafts: From Siem Reap’s Golden silk to Takeo cotton and clay pottery in Kampong Chhnang, every Cambodian province has its specialty crafts, many of which are still made by hand according to traditional techniques. In addition to making the perfect Cambodia souvenir , many co-ops offer tours and workshops so you can see the processes up close.

Japan – for ryokans , geisha culture & tea ceremonies

For those seeking an immersive cultural travel experience, Japan offers visitors a unique look at some of the oldest and most beautiful traditions in the world.

From the historic temples and shrines found throughout the country to the many spiritual and cultural celebrations, there are plenty of opportunities for visitors to Japan to learn about the various philosophies and spiritual traditions that underpin Japanese culture. 

Top cultural experiences in Japan

Observe a temple ritual: Consider participating in some of the various rituals at Japan’s temples and shrines. This is especially beneficial if you’re visiting Japan with kids , as it helps to gain a better understanding and appreciation for Japanese customs. Many people in Japan have deep-seated beliefs in symbolism. At the temples and shrines, you can observe and participate in practices that will bring you good fortune, luck, prosperity or health.

Spend the night in a ryokan : To truly embrace Japanese culture, book a stay at a ryokan rather than a hotel. These traditional Japanese inns typically feature rooms with tatami-matted floors and communal onsens or bathhouses. Guests tend to walk around the ryokan in a yukata or lounging kimono and slippers. It is also common for guests to walk around barefoot, as it is considered unclean to wear shoes inside.

Drink matcha : A tea ceremony is another immersive experience that is unique to Japan. Although popular throughout Japan, tea ceremonies are especially prominent in Kyoto, the home of geisha culture. Geishas are treated somewhat like celebrities in Japan, and booking a geisha performance and tea ceremony can be expensive and fairly difficult to arrange. However, you can book a tea ceremony with a maiko , or geisha apprentice, for a more modest price. This one-of-a-kind ritual ceremony is sure to be one of the most memorable travel experiences you’ll have in Japan!

By Melissa from Parenthood and Passports

Bhutan – for handicrafts, thangka & fertility symbols

Most people think of the Tiger’s Nest when they think of Bhutan. But this small, mountainous nation has a wealth of cultural history to offer in addition to its ornate monasteries.

Bhutan is a nation of crafters. In every town and city you will find streetwise vendors selling all manner of clothing, kitchenware, homeware and decorations that have been made using techniques that have been taught and passed down for hundreds of years.

Likewise, if you turn your attention to the buildings, you’ll see that many of them are adorned with colourful decals and patterns, especially designs that depict the eight auspicious signs which, among other things, represent wealth, good fortune, purity and harmony.

Bhutan is the only country in the world to measure their country’s wellbeing based on Gross National Happiness as opposed to Gross Domestic Production, which makes it (un)officially the happiest country on Earth.

Best cultural experiences in Bhutan

Attend a Tshechu ceremony: The annual Tshechu ceremonies show off Bhutan’s handicraft history perfectly. Throughout the year, locals gather across the country in regional Tshechus to celebrate Bhutan’s culture by singing traditional songs and performing dances in elaborate, brightly coloured costumes. At the Tsechu celebrations, an enormous religious banner or thangka depicting the country’s founder, Guru Rinpoche, is unveiled. The thangka is the size of a three storey building, hundreds of years old, and has not faded through the centuries due to the tradition of making sure that the light of the sun never touches it, so it’s still incredibly colourful and detailed.

Visit the Choki Traditional Art School: In order to see the historical handicrafts of Bhutan in production for yourself, make sure to visit the Choki Traditional Art School. Located just to the north of the capital city of Thimpu, here you can witness the students being taught how to weave, paint and sculpt masks, clothes, models, tapestries and dioramas from Bhutan’s history. Students’ ages range from elementary through to late teens, with all levels of skill on display. The students’ creations can then be bought from the school craft shop, with the proceeds helping fund the continuation of the institute’s classes.

Spot the phallus in Punakham: Punakham is the former capital of Bhutan, and was the seat of government until 1955. Located in the north of the country, the town is notable to western tourists for one particular reason. In the 15th century, a controversial master named Lama Drukpa Kunley (also known as the ‘Divine Madman’) popularised the phallus as a means to ward off slander and provide protection for those who lived in houses that displayed it prominently. Yes, it may be taboo for most of the world, but not here – these graphic symbols of fertility and good luck are artistically painted on walls everywhere!

By Jeremy from Cultura Obscura

Kerala, India – for houseboats, tea estates & contemporary art

Dubbed ‘God’s Own Country’, Kerala is a noodle-shaped state in the Southwest of India on the Malabar Coast. It’s known for its beautiful nature – especially a series of canals known as the backwaters and the hilly terrain of the Western Ghats Mountains.

Kerala people are officially the most literate in India and have the longest life expectancy. It is often said the Keralites have the best quality of life in this part of India, and that things are a lot more advanced. This is conveyed in the increasingly popular field of ecotourism and other initiatives.

The region is a beautiful mix of influences and religions. The spice trade has flourished in the area, which brought about European colonisation. You can feel Portuguese influence to this day, especially in the town of Kochi.

Top cultural experiences in Kerala

Cruise Kerala’s backwaters on a houseboat: With the decline of goods being transported on water, Kerala’s trade boats were repurposed into houseboats, and now provide a unique immersive experience on the famous backwaters. The most popular route is between Alleppey and Kumarakom or Kolam. Spending at least one night on the backwaters is necessary for the ultimate houseboat experience.

Soak up the tea heritage in Munnar: Munnar in the Western Ghats is famous for its tea production. You can visit several tea estates in the area and enjoy a tasting. In the village of Munnar, you can also experience the peaceful coexistence of three religions. There’s a Hindu temple, a Catholic church and a mosque all within a few meters from each other. 

Attend the Muziris Biennale in Kochi: A bi-annual international exhibition of contemporary art takes place in Kochi. This is the largest festival of its kind in Asia. When the biennale is on, the whole city lives it. The main space for the festival is a large complex of empty buildings near the port. Here, art installations covering all possible mediums bring the space to life. It’s a wonderful sight and quite a modern undertaking in Kerala.

Watch the artists at work at Kerala Kalamandalam: This is one of India’s most traditional universities of art and culture. Students learn Indian performing arts, especially those typical for Kerala. When visiting, you can observe students practicing unique dances with distinct facial expressions such as the Kathakali or Ottan Thullal, learning martial arts, and playing on unique musical instruments. The school is located in Cheruthuruthy.

By Veronika from Travel Geekery

Learn more: 9 amazing cultural encounters in Kerala .

Rajasthan, India – for folk dance, thaali & camel fairs

Rajasthan, the ‘Land of Kings’, is one of the most historically and culturally significant states of India. Over the centuries, Rajasthan has witnessed many rulers and many epic battles. Each built their own magnanimous fort and helped develop the region’s rich culture of art, dance and literature.

Over the past few decades, the Ghoomar dance from Jodhpur region and Kalbeliya dance of the deserts of Jaisalmer and Bikaner have become famous all over the world. Along with dance, folk music and songs relating the heroic tales of epic battles, these form an essential part of Rajasthan culture.

Against a backdrop of the vast Thar Desert, this has all shaped the culture of Rajasthan as we see it today.

Top cultural experiences in Rajasthan

Rajasthan offers travellers a plethora of unique cultural experiences .

Be a bystander at the Pushkar Camel Fair: The Pushkar Camel Fair, held every year in November, is one of the largest animal trading fairs in the world. This colourful carnival is a great opportunity for travellers to experience the charm-in-chaos of traditional melas (Indian fairs) along with a huge tribal gathering. In 2018, nearly half-a-million people visited this multi-day festival. Pushkar is only 150km from Rajasthan’s capital, Jaipur, and is easily accessible by road. 

Visit Choki Dhani: A resort village merely 20km from Jaipur, Choki Dhani is the go-to place to experience a collection of Rajasthan cultural experiences. Spread across 10 acres, this uniquely designed resort-village reflects the grandeur of the Rajasthani tradition. Visitors can experience Rajasthani traditional folk dance, watch a puppet show, see skits and sketches depicting important battles, and relish a traditional Rajasthani thaali (set meal), eaten while seated on the floor.

Watch a Dharohar dance performance: The Dharohar dance show at Bagore Ki Haveli in Udaipur is a mesmerising experience in itself. This hour-long show is a combination of many traditional, tribal and folk dances local to the region along with a puppet show. One of the highlights of the show is when an 80-year-old folk dancer performs with more than 10 earthen pots stacked on her head.

By Mainak from Places in Pixel

Uzbekistan – for ceramics, Silk Road heritage & plov

Uzbekistan is an upcoming cultural destinations in Central Asia. With a new visa policy, it is now easier than ever to visit the country – and there are many good reasons to do so.

Uzbekistan was once an important part of the famous Silk Road and has a rich cultural heritage that is still visible in the beautiful Islamic architecture and historic sites throughout the country. 

Uzbekistan’s major cities including Samarkand, Khiva and Bukhara were multicultural melting pots where people from all over the world exchanged goods, ideas and philosophies. The Turks, Greeks, Persians, Russians and Mongols all ruled parts of what is now Uzbekistan. Each of them left behind their own influence.

With so much history around, it’s sometimes easy to forget modern Uzbek culture, but this is just as interesting. The Uzbek people are very friendly and will give you a warm welcome to their world of delicious Uzbek food, traditional dance and music, and beautiful handicrafts.

Top cultural experiences in Uzbekistan

Taste Uzbek cuisine: One of the highlights of Uzbek culture is without doubt its food. The best way to learn more about Uzbek food is by taking an Uzbek cooking class. Tashkent is a great place to do so and also has some great restaurants where you can try the country’s national dishes. The Plov Center serves plates of the national dish to thousands of people every day – the huge steaming pots and pans outside are impressive enough to warrant a visit. 

Explore ikat and ceramic traditions: Another great cultural experience in Uzbekistan is to explore the country’s beautiful handicrafts. The Fergana valley is home to several centres of handicraft production where they still use traditional techniques. Margilon is famous for its ikat silk textiles and there are several silk factories that offer free tours to see how it’s done. The Usmanov Ceramic Workshop in Rishton also welcomes visitors for a short visit to see its pottery production and design process. 

Watch a dance performance: Traditional dance and music is an important part of Uzbek culture. Uzbek dance is an ancient art that has been perfected over hundreds of years. In Bukhara, there are almost daily performances in the Nadir Divan Begi madrasah showing the traditional dances from the different regions in the country.

By Ellis from Backpack Adventures

Learn more: Things to do in Uzbekistan for cultural travellers .

The Tibetan Plateau – for horse trekking & nomadic culture

Sprawled across the eastern edge of the Tibetan Plateau, in the remote northern tip of China’s Sichuan province, Ruoergai town and county do not appear on Google maps. To Google, this locality is known by its Tibetan name, Zoige.

After 12 hours of following your car GPS from Chengdu to Zoige, climbing onto the Tibetan Plateau , Chinese road signs welcome you to Ruoergai, 3,500 meters above sea level.

Top cultural experiences on the Tibetan Plateau

Witness nomadic culture: Remote and isolated, Zoige/Ruoergai is the best place in the world to witness the disappearing Tibetan nomadic culture. All you have to do is drive around this vast, open grassland to catch a glimpse. You’ll see white nomads’ tents with smoky chimneys scattered on the sides of the road, surrounded by herds of domestic yak and protected by the menacing Tibetan mastiffs. The nomads are mistrustful of outsiders, which is not surprising given political tensions in the region.

Go horse trekking: Yet there is a way to experience the nomadic culture first-hand here – by taking a horse-trekking adventure with the local Tibetan Horse Trekking Agency in the nearby town of Langmusi. Tours range from a day hike to the hills – the domain of the nomads – to a multi-day horseback adventure with overnight stays in nomad tents. Guides are local Tibetans, so while you may not be having extensive discussions in English, you’ll be welcome in nomadic households.

Visit the monasteries and mosques in Langmusi: Encircled by forest-covered mountains, the small sleepy town of Langmusi is inhabited by three ethnic groups: Amdo Tibetans, Han Chinese and Hui Muslims. So, even just a visit to the town is a unique cultural experience. There are two large Tibetan monasteries on the hills above the town and a Hui mosque at its centre.

The nearest airport to Langmusi is Gannan Xiahe Airport, 130 km away. From Xiahe, you can take a bus to Langmusi, or arrange a car with a driver via Tibetan Horse Trekking.

By Margarita from The Wildlife Diaries

Taiwan – for night markets, Confucianism & forbidden relics

An island nestled off the coast of Mainland China, Taiwan is fast becoming one of the best cultural tourism destinations in Asia.

Its long history and combination of cultural influences – including Indigenous culture, Mainland China, Korea and even Japan – make Taiwan as intriguing as it is complex. Bustling with life, amazing food and beautiful scenery, this island has it all.

Top cultural experiences in Taipei

Eat your way through the Night Markets in Taipei: The capital city of Taiwan, Taipei, offers a world of things for people to see and do . One of the most popular culturally immersive activities for visitors is to head down to the local night market, the biggest one being the Shiling Night Market. Along with delicious local foods, you can also find clothes, accessories, games, cosmetics and more. Night Markets are significant because they play a huge role in Taiwanese culture . Locals and tourists alike flock to these areas each and every day to shop and socialise.

Observe the rituals at a Taiwanese temple: Taiwan is a very religious country with most people following either Buddhism or Confucianism. Many temples are built around these religions in a very extravagant manner. Visitors can take part in the prayer ceremony, burn some incense, or just sit back and observe. If you’re interested in visiting these temples, one of the best places to start is the Songshan Ciyou Temple, which is conveniently located right next to the Raohe Night Market. 

Visit the National Palace Museum: This museum houses thousands of cultural relics, art and artefacts, including many items that were carried out of the Forbidden City in China and moved to Taiwan to protect them from destruction during the Chinese Civil War. It’s one of the largest collections of its kind in the world. Here, you can learn how the Chinese language was formed, see what kinds of ancient tools and weapons were used throughout history, and witness what life was like many hundreds of years ago.

By Wayne from Daily Tourist

Learn more: The best cultural experiences in Taiwan .

Cultural trips in Africa & the Middle East

Ethiopia • Oman • Mauritius • Morocco

Ethiopia – for coal-fired coffee, churches & injera

Ethiopia is a country like no other. Here in North East Africa, the steaming tribal lowlands of the Rift Valley collide with the cool thin air of the Northern highlands. The fertile lands towards the West produces some of the world’s best coffee, while the wind from the East carries whispers from Arabia. It’s truly a spectacular place to visit.

Ethiopia is even more unique in terms of its cultural treasures. As the only country in Africa never to be colonised, Ethiopia is a truly African country with African culture. If you want to see lions chase and eat zebras, go somewhere else. If you want to see and experience African culture at its purest, then book your ticket to Ethiopia already!

Top cultural experiences in Ethiopia

Visit the city of Lalibela: Situated in the northern highlands, Lalibela is the most important pilgrimage site in the country for the predominantly Orthodox Christian population of Ethiopia. It is here that you’ll find eleven incredible churches completely hewn from the rock. If you see only one place in Ethiopia, make it Lalibela.

Attend Sunday Mass: The UNESCO recognised Lalibela churches still function as churches, and attending a Sunday morning service before sunrise with hundreds of pilgrims is an experience that you won’t forget. Afterwards you can join the crowds eating injera while basking in the morning sun. Be prepared for the fact that everyone will want to come and talk to you.

Hike to a remote mountain community: Hiking into the mountains surrounding Lalibela will take you to small farming communities where time has seemingly stood still. It’s also possible to visit one of these communities for a day and learn how to cook traditional Ethiopian dishes such as injera , tibs or shiro . You’ll also find a few cave churches and monasteries in these mountains. The priests will be eager to show off their ancient treasures for a small tip.

Participate in a traditional coffee ceremony: Ethiopia is considered the birthplace of coffee, and man are you in for treat! The best way to drink a cup of buna (Ethiopian coffee) is to attend a coffee ceremony. It starts off with the hostess washing green coffee beans and then roasting them in a pan over an open fire. The coals are infused with natural incense made from tree resin. You’ll see bags of these tree resin for sale in markets all over Ethiopia. Finally the coffee beans are ground and brewed in a special coffee pot called a jebena . It’s expected that guests will have at least three cups of buna, but why stop there?

By De Wet & Jin from Museum of Wander

Oman – for dhow boats, frankincense & Bedouin culture

Unlike some of its more glitzy neighbours who’ve traded their souqs for skyscrapers, Oman has approached cultural preservation from a different angle. It’s often called out as the most culturally ‘authentic’ country in the region .

This part of the Middle East has long been a melting pot of Arabian and East African cultures, with a strong South Asian influence. Semi-nomadic Bedouin tribes that paint the desert with their costumes and brightly coloured carpets are less accessible, but a range of tourist-friendly desert experiences allow you to brush with this part of Omani culture.

Contemporary Omani traditions are deeply tied to Ibadism and revolve around an annual calendar of Islamic festivities.

Top cultural experiences in Oman

Get lost in a souq: Perfumed by rose petals and frankincense, Oman’s souqs are a treat for the senses. Roam displays of henna and spices while getting a feel for commerce and culture. Muttrah Souq in the capital, Muscat, and the delightful Nizwa Souq are both must-visits.

Visit a dhow workshop in Sur: Not only are Oman’s wooden boats an impressive feat of engineering, they’re steeped in legend and tradition. In Sur, the home of Sinbad the Sailor, you can watch expert craftsmen fitting the vessels together without glue or nails.

Spend the night at a desert camp. The Sharqiya Sands, Oman’s slice of The Empty Quarter, is the territory of nomads. Bedouin-inspired desert camps recreate the experience of staying with a Bedouin tribe – albeit with a luxury edge! Spending the night in a desert camp involves listening to folk music, eating Omani food, while the very lodgings – the tent lined with carpets you’re sleeping in – is part of the Bedouin tradition.

Mauritius – for street food, Sega & sugarcane

The island nation of Mauritius is normally associated with splendid white-sand beaches and luxury resorts – thus its inclusion on this list of cultural trips might come as a bit of a surprise.

Yes, this is an island paradise incarnate, but it also happens to be one of the most ethnically and religiously diverse countries in the region, with African, Indian, Chinese and South Asian cultures – along with layers of Dutch, French and British influence – all accounted for.

Many elements of Mauritian culture can be traced back to the island’s plantation roots and the legacy of slavery. Mauritians honour this period of history while proudly showing off their culture in everything from the cuisine to the music.

Top cultural experiences in Mauritius

Take a street food tour of Port Louis: Mauritian food, much like Mauritian society itself, combines Chinese, Indian, Creole, East African and European flavours. Must-try dishes include vindaye , an adaptation of West Indian vindaloo, Chatini (chutney) is a popular condiment and traces its roots back to British-Indian origins, briani (biryani) and creations gifted from the island’s Chinese community, such as bol renversé (a layered dish of rice, chicken, shrimp and vegetables). The best way to get a grasp of these edible delights is by joining a guided street food tour of the capital, Port Louis .

Watch a Sega performance: Recognised by UNESCO for its value to Intangible Cultural Heritage, Mauritian Sega is a performance art characterised by music, song, dance and costume. It started out as an expression of pain and loss practiced by slave communities but has morphed over time into a colourful, optimistic expression of local culture. Elaborate Sega costumes moving to the tune of Creole lyrics is a . Many hotels offer Sega performances.

Visit an old sugarcane farm: Mauritius’ history of slavery and plantation farming has left an indelible mark on the island. Visiting preserved plantation homes and crumbling sugar mills is a step back in time to the colonial period, while regenerated cane fields such as those on Frederica Reserve now serve as a sanctuary for the island’s wildlife.

Learn more: 8 ways to experience Mauritian culture .

Morocco – for riads , tajines & mint tea

By all accounts, Morocco is a beguiling destination . The most popular country to visit in North Africa, it stands out for its diversity of landscapes and cultural experiences.

Morocco is an important gateway to the rest of Africa, and has been since Roman times. Its position at the northernmost tip of the continent – with a coast shared between the Atlantic and the Mediterranean – means it’s been at the centre of conquests and various cultural overlap throughout the ages.

Today, Morocco lives with the legacies of various civilisations, including Roman, Phoenician, Jewish, Berber, Arabic, Spanish and French. Morocco has a very hospitable culture, steeped in a refined art of living. When you visit the imperial cities of Marrakech and Fes, or the coastal towns of Essaouira and El Jadida, you will notice a multitude of little details typical of Moroccan life.

This art of living and careful hospitality is very important in Morocco and, as a visitor, you can experience it in many different ways.

Top cultural experiences in Morocco

Try your hand at Moroccan cuisine: Moroccan cuisine is world-famous for its use of spices and mix of sweet and savoury flavours. Every restaurant offers a selection of delicious tajines , a stew of meat and vegetables. Couscous is on the menu every Friday and if you like sweets, you will be in heaven. Sweet biscuits mixing flower, almond and spice flavours make a delicious afternoon treat. If you’re interested in learning new skills, cooking classes are often available in traditional riads in Marrakech. Moroccan cuisine takes time and care, but the results are delicious and quite easy to recreate at home.

Shop for authentic handicrafts at a souq : Another great way to experience the heart of Morocco is to spend time in the souks. Shopping in Morocco is a fun experience and haggling for a good price is the norm. You have to engage with merchants, ask questions, make small talk and, most importantly, have fun with it! Never lose your smile and sense of humour, and it will great fun! The most spectacular shopping experience is in Marrakech due to the volume and intensity of the medina. It’s easy to get lost but that’s part of the experience too!

Sip mint tea, a Moroccan tradition: When you travel throughout Morocco, you will notice that mint tea is served everywhere. This is a pivotal element of Moroccan hospitality. Green tea is mixed with fresh mint leaves and served in little decorated glasses. There is a little bit of theatre in serving mint tea, with the brass or silver teapot held high above the glass… Traditionally, mint tea is served with a lot of sugar, but these days it is common for sugar to be served on the side, so you can dose it yourself. And you can even buy a set of decorated tea glasses in the souk as a souvenir!

By Delphine from Lester Lost

How to have a more culturally immersive travel experience anywhere in the world

It doesn’t matter if it’s a remote community or a popular city – there are things you can do to have a more enriching cultural travel experience no matter where you’re going.

Here are 10 practical tips to help you on your way.

1. Do your research before you go: Familiarise yourself with local customs and learn a bit of the history so you know what types of experiences to look out for. This guide is a great start!

2. Seek out festivals and special events: Many tourism boards feature a calendar on their website, or you can try using Facebook to find local events. Check out my four-part series about the world’s best festivals, starting here .

3. Eat local. Food is one of the easiest routes to culture. Here are my tips for eating local when you travel.

4. Stay at a homestay. Spending time with a local family will give you an invaluable insight into daily life. Here are my tips for using homestays in Vietnam.

5. Participate in a class or workshop . Trying a cooking class, handicraft workshop or any other hands-on experience is one of the easiest ways to immerse yourself in local culture. I recommend using Get Your Guide , Airbnb Experiences, Cookly or Backstreet Academy to find opportunities.

6. Learn a bit of the language. Even knowing a few basic words will show you’re interested and can go a long way to forming relationships.

7. Shop local. Support artisans and heritage skills. Here are my tips for finding authentic and meaningful souvenirs .

8. Slow down. The best cultural experiences are often spare-of-the-moment and can’t be planned in advance. Keep some flexibility in your travel itinerary for spontaneous detours.

9. Go your own way. You don’t always have to follow the pack. Venturing away from the crowds will often give you access to unique and meaningful experiences.

10. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. If in doubt, ask a local. Remember that cultural tourism is all about exchange – don’t just take, make sure you give something back in return.

Are you a cultural tourist? Which of these destinations is your favourite? What other places would you add to the list? I’d love to hear your suggestions in the comments below!

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This is a very wonderful article about cultural destinations! Thank you so much for sharing!

One can easily visit India and experience the different kinds of cultures in a particular place. Tourism in India has been much more managed and safe with passage of time. Rajasthan tourism has been the most reliable and safe in India. One can enjoy all the traditional dishes and enjoy living in the palaces as a hotel room in different cities. But, whenever you are visiting to Rajasthan, India travel guide is a must because one can easily lose track of pathways in the puzzle like roads of the cities in Rajasthan. One can easily plan for a Kerala tour packages because of the minimal expenses in the state.

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Want to learn about Black Forest craft?

Want to discover folk italian weaving, want to see lusitano horses in portugal, all you need to know about arts & culture tours, what is culture heritage tourism.

Culture heritage tourism is traveling to experience authentic food, music, clothing, stories, artifacts and activities of different countries and cultures around the world. Our arts and culture tours include cultural heritage experiences like listening to Fado music in Portugal, learning how to wear a kimono in Japan, and witnessing the flamenco in Spain.

What is the art capital of the world?

Looking for the best cities in the world for art? You can’t miss the art mecca of Paris, with over 1,000 galleries including The Louvre. You also have to visit New York for its MoMa and Guggenheim, London for its Tate Modern and National Gallery, Florence for Renaissance art, Barcelona for the works of Gaudi, Amsterdam for its iconic Dutch artists, and Singapore for its futuristic exhibitions.

Which destinations are popular for arts and cultural trips?

If you’re keen on arts tours or cultural vacations, you can’t go past destinations like Kyoto in Japan, Shanghai in China, Siem Reap in Cambodia, Chiang Mai in Thailand, Hoi An in Vietnam, Wellington in New Zealand, the Northern Territory in Australia, the east coast of the USA, and European cities like Paris and Rome.

What are the top cultural trip destinations in Europe?

Our cultural tours take you to some of the top destinations in Europe where you can experience arts and cultures, including Istanbul, Vienna, Prague, Porto, Seville and of course, the cultural heavyweights like Venice, Florence and Rome of Italy and Paris and Bordeaux of France.

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Our Culinary Vacations in Italy, Portugal & Croatia

We promise you will fall in love with each of our all-inclusive italy cooking vacations , as well as our culinary vacations in Portugal and our immersive vacations in Croatia . They about much more than just sightseeing, food, and cooking. We create an experience of a lifetime, immersing you into the culture while giving you the sense of having found your home away from home. You will truly feel like family with us. We don’t do the traditional tour thing. When we cook, we are a group of friends doing hands on cooking classes based on traditional Italian family recipes. When we are on excursions, we are a group of friends exploring the beautiful hamlets and countryside together. It is a unique experience like none other, and time again our guests tell us it was the best vacation they had ever taken , and we had completely changed the way they will travel forever. Have a look at our hundreds of Italy Cooking Vacations reviews , and learn more about our:

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A Truly Authentic Family Experience

It starts with location. There is nothing quite like small town hospitality when you get away from the areas infected with mass tourism. The people are warm and welcoming, and the more you eat their food and drink their wine, the more they fill with joy. That sense of Italian hospitality is our number one priority with every guest on our culinary holidays. Our goal with each guest is not to simply show you the sights and offer culinary experiences. It is to bring you into our family . Everything we do revolves around that premise. It is all so relaxed and fun. Our guests quickly find that we don’t treat them like customers. We treat them like visiting relatives (The kind we enjoy having, that is!). Of course, this sounds like marketing mumbo jumbo, but it simply isn’t. It is one of the reasons our guests so regularly tell us we far exceeded their expectations .

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We choose truly special and small locations that reflect the local living wherever we go...

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Get to know the real Italy, Portugal & Croatia as you visit the places that excite the locals, as well as bucket list destinations...

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Nobody wants to feel like cattle, and we want to know you! So our average group size is 16 to 18 guests...

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We will never "steer" you into tourist traps that give tour company incentives or kickbacks...

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All personal with true local culture at the center of it all. A true sense of family and belonging...

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Experience Italian & Portuguese Food by Local Standards, where restaurants have their own farms...

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Letters & Reviews From Our Guests...

   thanks for sharing Bologna's best with us .   

   hiking on Mt. Etna the beauty & history of Siracussa/Ortygia/Agrigento/Scicia++ ALL the cooking classes & wonderful meals we shared LaForesteria & the wine experience in Menfi   

   CDV Never Disappoints!   

   This holiday was 100 times better than we expected. We met some fantastic people - both our fellow guests and the CDV team, and had some of the best experiences of our life.   

   This has been an experience we'll cherish for years to come!   

   The most wonderful week in Italy . Thanks so much for such special memories.   

   Been back FIVE more times! Made some life long friends! Every place we go to is stunning and different   

   What an experience ! Thank you so much for a wonderful time in beautiful Italy   

   The staff accommodated every wish of our group and our friendships with other group members grew stronger.   

   If you are looking for an authentic cooking experience with the chance to meet locals to experience the real Italy, this is the tour for you.   

   This was a truly outstanding experience. I won't say much more about the activities themselves - just check out the website - it's all true!   

   The sense of 'family' while exploring Sicily. The food and wine and meeting such wonderful people who hosted us all. So many great laughs with a group of people who melded so well.   

   A week I'll always remember.Everything was more than advertised.   

   The culture we were exposed to on the island of Favignana is something we never could have arranged on our own   

   I would HIGHLY recommend any Culture Discovery Vacations as their attention to detail on this trip was remarkable.   

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Culture Trip Review [2024]: Reliable travel guide, or nah?

In this article, we review Culture Trip, exploring its features, pros, and cons to help you determine if it’s actually a reliable source for travelers eyeing authentic experiences.

Culture Trip is not an unfamiliar name among travelers. You would have come across its website when brainstorming travel ideas, researching about a destination, or looking for inspirational travel guides.

We've previously reviewed travel guides like Lonely Planet and Fodors , but what exactly is a travel guide and how is it any different than travel blogs?

A great Travel guide identifies itself as a traveler’s “essential companion” that feeds users with credible travel stories. While it has increased in popularity over the years, the app has also faced a fair share of criticism regarding the originality, timeliness, and accuracy of its content.

So, in this article, we are reviewing Culture Trip, exploring its features, pros, and cons to help you determine if it’s actually a reliable source for travelers eyeing authentic experiences.

What is Culture Trip?

Founded in 2011, The Culture Trip is a UK-based company that aims to motivate people to travel more and embrace different experiences around the world. Since then, Culture Trip has become a go-to travel guide for all of the best tourist hotspots around the world.

How does Culture Trip Work?

Culture Trip provides articles, podcasts, and videos that contain useful information on destinations around the world that cover a variety of aspects such as culture, food, entertainment, heritage, accommodation, unusual attractions, and others.

Culture Trip has a large team of content creators from around the world with local knowledge and insights on places they write about. In addition, there are also many other interesting features offered by the app.

What are the Major Features of Culture Trip?

Browse localized travel content .

Culture Trip prides itself on providing travel-content curated by travel experts and locals to provide travelers with insider-tips and helpful guides on destinations. This way, travelers can avoid tourist traps and over-crowded places and dive into local and authentic experiences. Moreover, it prioritizes accommodation options that align well with local culture, sustainability, and reasonable pricing.

Create Travel Itineraries

In addition to just viewing content, Culture Trip also lets users create itineraries based on travel information that’s available on the platform. Users can save or bookmark interesting attractions, hotels, cafés, and restaurants in a particular destination and build a detailed travel itinerary out of it. Once you have added everything, you can view your trip plan detailed on a map.

Place Bookings on Accommodation and Adventures

If you come across an interesting boutique or hotel, you can make reservations via the app/website by clicking the link. In addition, you can also book experiences like safari rides, kayaking tours, parasailing, etc. 

Sign Up for Virtual Experiences

A relatively newer feature that was introduced during the pandemic was the ability to book virtual experiences like online cookery classes, painting classes, meditation courses, and other similar experiences via the app. 

How Much Does Culture Trip Cost?

Culture Trip is free to use and is available in both web and mobile versions (iOS and Android). They do provide tours, but Culture Trip itself is a free source of travel inspiration and guide.

What's TRIPS by Culture Trip?

TRIPS by Culture Trip is a new venture by Culture Trip that operates similarly as tour operators, providing adventure-like tours to small groups who embrace Culture Trip's values of sharing travel experiences, making new friends, and immersing in the local, authentic culture. You can book their tours through TRIPS now!

Benefits of using Culture Trip

Interesting travel content.

Culture Trip is a great place to browse for content related to unusual attractions and lesser-known destinations. For the most part, it does provide insightful tips on how to avoid common experiences and discover local flavor. Some content is also in the form of stories that are persuasive to read.

Based on your location, the app suggests interesting places or activities nearby for users in search of unusual attractions to explore. It improves user experience as you don’t have to search for them by yourself using filters. This is one of the popular features of the app.

Direct bookings

The fact that you can browse for good, cost-effective accommodation options and also book them via the app or website is pretty useful. The app guarantees free cancellation subject to their terms and conditions with the option of changing dates as well. It makes travel planning a step easier and hassle-free.

Users can make use of Culture Trip’s features and access its content free of charge. An account is not essential for browsing content but is recommended if you need to create trip plans and save places that interest you. You can download its articles and access them offline as well.

Downsides to using Culture Trip

Duplicated content.

You can come across multiple versions of the same destination or point of interest contributed by different writers. This is because Culture Trip continuously renews content based on updated information but doesn’t do a good job of getting rid of the old ones.

So, for a user, it could be difficult to sift through these and figure out what’s the most useful version to gain the required information.

Limited itinerary building feature

Culture Trip’s itinerary building has a major limitation.

In many ways, it resembles a shopping cart of an online store.

Itineraries or travel plans can only be created from options available within the platform as users cannot import travel ideas from elsewhere. We think it would be a more user-friendly travel planner if the “import” feature is available.

• Questionable accuracy

It’s hard to validate if Culture Trip’s travel stories are completely accurate and timely. Users have complained of articles suggesting places that have shut down a long time prior to the publication date. Inaccuracies related to information on popular attractions have also been noted.

While the platform does claim to prioritize authentic user experiences, it generates its revenue through affiliate links – which means their selections could also be biased.

Is Culture Trip Worth it?

We believe that Culture Trip is worth considering if you're looking for an alternative to typical travel guides like Lonely Planet or Fodors! Culture Trip's travel content provides a fresh perspective on boutique & culturally immersive traveling, reflected in the TRIPS tours as well.

With Culture Trip's content being completely free and easy to navigate and use, they're a great consideration of travel guides to use when researching sights to see or places to go!

While Culture Trip's travel content is generally better, in my opinion, than general travel guides like Lonely Planet, much of their content is duplicated and not very unique since different writers publish their content on the platform. There are also Culture Trip reviews online that point to the question of legitimacy and authenticity of Culture Trip's content that travelers should be aware of.

With that being said, if you consider that not all of their content is perfect, they're definitely worth checking out, especially since they're a free source of inspiration!

Our Rating: 3.9/5

• Large database of travel resources
• Intuitive Apps
• Integration of TRIPS tours.
• Repetitive content
• Bad for Itinerary building

Alternatives to Culture Trip

We think Culture Trip is a great platform to seek inspiration for your travel bucket list as it has informative and interesting content on different destinations around the world. But there are plenty of alternatives out there.

For example, recent popular travel publications such as CNTraveler & Atlas Obscura are great alternatives to check out!

While they're a great platform to seek inspiration, they're not constantly and daily updating their travel content. We are! Check out our travel blog now!

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TRIPS by Culture Trip For over a decade, people have trusted Culture Trip to help them discover some of the world’s coolest and unexpected destinations and experiences - now we can take you there. Book our curated multi-day TRIPS by Culture Trip itineraries, to truly experience extraordinary places, together with a small group of culturally curious travellers.

Our travel experts have done all the planning to create exciting and perfectly balanced itineraries combining unique stays, immersive activities and authentic experiences, with enough free time to explore on your own and unwind. On the trips, our Local Insiders are with you to show you their destination like never before, share their insights and take you to the secret spots you couldn't find yourself. With TRIPS by Culture Trip, we help you experience the world while being good to it, and to connect with a place, its people and its culture. And because we know that booking travel with confidence is more important than ever, we are committed to making it hassle-free for you. About Culture Trip Culture Trip was created in 2011 to inspire people to go beyond their cultural boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people, and its culture special, unique, and meaningful. So for over a decade now, Culture Trip’s global community of travel experts and Local Insiders have hand picked the world’s best bits to share travel stories and unbiased recommendations, together with curated collections of places to stay, hotels, things to do, experiences - and now also TRIPS by Culture Trip which are unique small-group adventures. Why TRIPS by Culture Trip? A small-group travel experience Together with a small group of culturally curious travellers, you get to truly experience - not just visit - the world. Groups will welcome up to 18 travellers and you can join solo or with others. Our small groups enable you to get to know the other travellers, bond quickly and enjoy your trip to the fullest whilst building friendships and forming life-long memories. Curated itineraries For our curated, diverse itineraries, our travel experts do all the planning and hand-pick the best bits of a place: all itineraries combine hyper-local, authentic activities and immersive experiences, with quality accommodation that has a personal feel. Whether that’s well-known hotspots or more off-grid trails, city or nature - with us, they will all feel like hidden gems. Thoughtfully planned with ample free time to unwind or explore solo, our trips offer the right balance of action and relaxation. Local Insider Our trips are led by expert Local Insiders who know the destination inside out and show a place like never before. They share unique insights and in-depth knowledge, show lesser-known places and reveal hidden gems that travellers might not be able to access or do on their own. They also take you to secret spots you couldn’t find yourself and activities that are impossible to do on your own or you wouldn’t have otherwise discovered. Value and quality TRIPS by Culture Trip is not about the lowest price. Trying to be the cheapest just isn’t good for our planet or for local communities - so we focus on value and quality, while offering fair prices. Prices include the Local Insider; activities; accommodation based on two people sharing, with single occupancy available with a supplement; transport throughout the trip and a range of meals.

Culture Trip Trips & Specials

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Complete Portugal

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European Discovery (Winter, Start London, Classic, 12 Days)

Europe escape, europe jewel, 10 days treasures of turkey tour, anatolian civilizations | 10 days (small group), grand journey of italy - 11 days, genuine europe, european delight, best of greece | 11 days, european highlights escape - 12 days.

“The tour was very knowable and friendly to all participants on the trip.” Lachlan Snaith, traveled in January 2023

• In-depth Cultural
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• Explore the White Cliffs of Dover
• Tour Rome and taste authentic Italian food
• Experience a Tyrolean show in the Alps

“I would like to know the hotel name for the start day earlier for better plan.” Mai Huynh, traveled in July 2024

• Snap photos at the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa
• Cruise the canals of Amsterdam and the Rhine River in Germany
• Visit Burgundy, Florence, Innsbruck, Munich and Ghent

“Very fast paced but well organized. Wish we would have 2 nights in each major city.” Richard Brian Thomas, traveled in July 2024

• Free days in Prague, the Swiss Alps and Paris
• See the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa
• Local guided walking tours of Prague, Florence, Vienna and Ljubljana

“Nice itinerary and excellent arrangement.” Mufazal Paliwalla, traveled in June 2024

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• Visit the Mevlana Museum in Konya
• Explore Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque

“All the hotels were very comfortable. Our vegetarian food was ordered.” Kittur Shankar, traveled in September 2023

• Most comprehensive itinerary of Central and Western Anatolia
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• Whirling Dervishes Ceremony in Cappadocia Cave Lodge

“The value in doing the tour is, you get a sample of a lot of different sites and cities.” Kerry Michaels, traveled in October 2022

• Discover Pompeii's ruins with a local guide
• Throw a coin into the Trevi Fountain
• Tour the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel

“Locations of hotels worked as they were all near rail lines. Would recommend to anyone wanting to experience a lot in a short amount of time.” Symone Andersen, traveled in January 2024

• Drift through Venice and dine in a charming bistro
• Time travel to ancient Rome with a visit to the Colosseum
• Cross the Alps en route to Romeo and Juliet’s Verona

“The trip was excellent. The guides fantastic and knowledgable.” Stuart Leo, traveled in November 2022

• Admire the picturesque Bruges and indulge in local waffle
• Discover the ancient Rome and tour the historic Florence
• Visit Saint Mark's Basilica and the Murano glass factory

“Overall we had an amazing time!! All else was wonderful!!” Sharon Michau, traveled in July 2023

• Stroll through the white-washed streets of Mykonos
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“DOT was nothing short of extraordinary with their customer service. We will be booking with DOT travel eu.” Tiffany Bickel, traveled in March 2020

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What is Cultural Tourism and how important is it?

In Ancient Rome , people traveled to places like Greece, Egypt, and Asia Minor to explore temples, and monuments and participate in cultural and sporting events , such as the Olympics. During the Middle Ages , holy sites such as Jerusalem, Santiago de Compostela, and Rome attracted pilgrims who traveled for spiritual reasons and to experience the local cultures . In the Renaissance and the following centuries, young aristocrats traveled around Europe , especially Italy, France, and Greece, to complete their education by immersing themselves in the arts, architecture, and classical culture. With the Industrial Revolution , the democratization of transport allowed more people to visit cities famous for their cultural heritage , such as Paris, Vienna, Florence or Rome. From the second half of the 20th century , institutions such as UNESCO began to promote the preservation of the World and Intangible Cultural Heritage, making World Heritage sites iconic tourist destinations .

This form of travel, which goes far beyond traveling to a destination for leisure/rest purposes , is still prevalent today and has developed into specific themes and subjects. It's called Cultural Tourism and is becoming increasingly popular.

What is Cultural Tourism?

This is a segment of tourism whose main objective is to provide experiences related to the culture of a destination . This includes the exploration of historical, artistic, architectural, gastronomic, religious heritage and local traditions. This type of tourism seeks to offer travelers an immersion in the identity and history of the place visited , promoting the learning and appreciation of different cultures and their preservation. It began as a practice reserved for elites and gradually became an activity accessible to a much wider public. In the 21st century, Cultural Tourism continues to evolve, benefiting from technologies such as the Internet, which facilitates access to information about cultural destinations and promotes more interactive and immersive experiences. It adapts to different interests, from literary and musical tourism to experiential tourism and cultural volunteering.

Types of Cultural Tourism

Cultural Tourism encompasses a wide range of experiences and interests that allow travelers to explore the culture of a destination in different ways. These are some of the main types of Cultural Tourism:

Historical Tourism

Focused on exploring historical sites such as castles, ruins, ancient cities, museums, and monuments that tell the story of a region. Examples: Torre dos Clérigos, in Porto, Castelo de São Jorge, in Lisbon, or Templo de Diana, in Évora.

Heritage tourism

Focused on UNESCO World Heritage sites that have exceptional universal value, whether cultural, historical, architectural, or natural. Examples: Sintra Cultural Landscape, Alto Douro Wine Region, or the Ancient City of Santiago de Compostela.

Religious Tourism

It involves trips to places of spiritual or religious importance, such as temples, churches, mosques, synagogues, and shrines. Examples: Pilgrimages to Santiago de Compostela or Fátima.

Art and Architecture Tourism

Focused on the appreciation of art museums, galleries, exhibitions, and notable architectural works. Examples: Conímbriga National Museum in Condeixa-a-Nova, Gaudí's Architecture in Barcelona, and Soares dos Reis National Museum in Porto.

Gastronomic Tourism

Exploring the cuisine and food traditions of a region, including visits to local markets, typical restaurants, wineries, and food fairs. Examples: Wine tasting in the Douro, or gastronomic tours in the Alentejo.

Literary Tourism

Based on visits to places associated with famous writers, books, or literary works, including authors' houses, literary cities, and literature festivals. Examples: Casa Miguel Torga, in Coimbra, Casa de Camilo Castelo Branco, in Vila Nova de Famalicão, or Casa-Museu José Saramago, in Lanzarote.

Events and Festivals Tourism

It involves taking part in cultural events and festivals, such as carnivals, music festivals, traditional dances, and cultural celebrations. Examples: Ovar Carnival, Mad Cool Festival in Madrid, or Nos Alive in Lisbon.

Handicrafts and Traditions Tourism

Focused on exploring local crafts, art markets, craft fairs, and workshops by local artists. Examples: Craft markets in Marrakech, Feira de São Mateus in Viseu, or Mercado de La Mola in Formentera.

Tourism of Local Traditions and Customs

It allows visitors to immerse themselves in local cultural practices and customs, including traditional ceremonies, folk dances, and traditional weddings, among others. Examples: Nossa Senhora d'Agonia pilgrimage in Viana do Castelo, or Holy Week in Braga.

Tourism of Memory and Reconciliation

Visits to sites related to important historical events, such as battlefields, war museums, memorial sites, and reconciliation centers. Examples: Museo-Refugio De La Guerra Civil in Cartagena, or the Interpretation Center of the Battle of Aljubarrota in Porto de Mós.

Ethnographic tourism

It involves direct contact with local communities and immersion in daily life, exploring traditions, languages, and ways of life. Examples: Living with the people of remote villages in the interior of Portugal and Spain.

Why Cultural Tourism?

As a form of tourism that seeks greater involvement with the places visited and their communities, cultural tourism encourages the preservation of cultural and historical heritage since tourist demand creates resources for the conservation of these assets. It generates jobs and income for local communities, promoting the economic development of regions less exploited by mass tourism. It also provides learning opportunities and raises awareness about the importance of cultural diversity and heritage preservation. In addition, it facilitates cultural exchange and mutual understanding between people of different origins.

Challenges of Cultural Tourism

Despite the benefits, cultural tourism faces the constant challenge of maintaining a balance between increasing tourist demand and preserving cultural and environmental heritage. Another aspect is the excessive commercialization of local culture, which can lead to a loss of authenticity in traditions and customs. At the same time, it is faced with the need to manage tourist flows to avoid overcrowding of destinations and the erosion of historical heritage and typical sites.

Cultural Tourism and Sustainability

The relationship between Cultural Tourism and Sustainability is complex and vital to ensure that tourism does not harm, but rather enhances and preserves the cultural and environmental heritage of destinations. Sustainability in cultural tourism involves practices that ensure tourist activities are beneficial to local communities, respect the environment, and maintain cultural authenticity. Learn about some of the aspects that link cultural tourism and sustainability:

Preservation of cultural heritage

Cultural tourism can generate significant financial resources for the preservation of historical monuments, museums, archaeological sites, and other forms of heritage. However, these resources must be managed in such a way as to avoid the degradation of sites due to excessive visitors or lack of proper maintenance.

Benefiting local communities

This type of tourism should involve and benefit local communities, ensuring that they have a voice in decisions about tourism development and that they receive a fair share of the profits generated. This can include creating jobs, supporting local businesses such as artisans and tour guides, and encouraging the preservation of cultural traditions.

Tourist education and awareness

One of the roles of Sustainable Cultural Tourism is to educate visitors about the importance of cultural and environmental preservation. This can be done through interpretive programs, informative signage, well-trained local guides, and awareness campaigns.

Minimizing environmental impact

Cultural tourism should also consider the environmental impact of tourism activities, such as the use of transportation, waste management, and the consumption of natural resources. Sustainable practices include encouraging the use of public transport or bicycles, implementing recycling policies, and promoting eco-friendly accommodation.

Maintaining cultural authenticity

One of the challenges of cultural tourism is to avoid the massification or over-commercialization of local cultures, which can result in a loss of authenticity. To be sustainable, tourism must respect and preserve genuine cultural practices and traditions, rather than adapting them just to please tourists.

The future of cultural tourism in the 21st century

Cultural tourism has evolved significantly in the 21st century, driven by changes in traveler preferences, technological advances, and a growing appreciation for authenticity and the local experience. Here are some of the main trends, target audiences, and destinations that are excelling in this field:

Authentic and immersive experiences

Modern tourists are looking for more than just visiting monuments. They want authentic experiences that connect them with the local culture, such as craft workshops, traditional cooking classes, or participation in local festivals.

Sustainable and responsible tourism

There is a growing awareness of the environmental and social impact of tourism. Travelers are looking for experiences that respect the environment and local communities, and that promote sustainable development.

Valuing Intangible Heritage

In addition to monuments and museums, there is a growing interest in intangible heritage, such as traditions, music, gastronomy, and local customs. This trend has led to a greater focus on preserving and promoting lesser-known cultures.

Memory and identity tourism

There is an increase in tourism linked to genealogy and personal history, with many people traveling to explore their family roots and better understand their cultural heritage.

Target audiences:

Millennials and Generation Z

These groups value authentic experiences, personalization, and a strong sense of purpose in their travels. They are more likely to explore local cultures and take part in activities that offer a genuine connection with the destination.

Baby Boomers and Generation X

Although traditionally more focused on classic destinations, these groups are increasingly interested in cultural trips that offer comfort and safety, but also new learning and meaningful experiences.

Digital nomads and freelancers

With the growing flexibility of remote working, there is an increase in professionals combining work and cultural tourism, looking for destinations that offer a mix of technological infrastructure and rich cultural offerings.

Experienced tourists

Travelers who have already explored traditional destinations and are now looking for more specific cultural experiences, niches, or emerging destinations that have not yet been massified.

Featured destinations:

Cities like Kyoto (Japan) and Hoi An (Vietnam) have attracted tourists thanks to their rich cultural and architectural history and remain top cultural destinations.

Eastern Europe

Countries like Georgia, Croatia, and Slovenia are becoming popular for their unique and less explored cultural heritage. Wine routes, traditional music, and well-preserved historic towns are big draws.

Destinations such as Morocco, Egypt, and Ethiopia stand out for their ancient history, cultural diversity, and rich tapestry of living traditions. There is also growing interest in countries like Ghana and Senegal, which offer authentic cultural experiences linked to the African diaspora.

Latin America

Mexico, Peru, and Colombia are on the rise due to their pre-Columbian heritage, traditional festivals, and world-renowned cuisine. There is also growing interest in less explored destinations such as Bolivia and Uruguay.

Cultural tourism is a rich and educational form of travel that contributes to the appreciation of global, national, and local culture, promoting respect and understanding between different peoples and traditions. It is ideal for encouraging a deep experience for travelers, connecting them with places and, above all, with the people who inhabit or have inhabited them.

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10 popular '90s artists on tour in 2024

Every era seems to make a comeback decades later, and the 1990s are no exception.

In the past several years, we've seen fashion trends like Adidas slides and bucket hats become stylish again, while studios have rebooted popular '90s movies and TV shows.

Reunion tours have also seen a resurgence, with '90s artists ranging from TLC and Blondie to the Fugees  stepping foot on stage for the first time in years. Fans are willing to fork out big bucks to see their favorite groups get back together, and many artists are capitalizing on the interest. 

The trend is going strong in 2024. Creed  announced its first shows in 12 years ,  while Blink-182 continued  its highly anticipated reunion tour with Tom DeLonge. Other acts, from Weezer and Sarah McLachlan to The Flaming Lips and Violent Femmes, kicked off celebrations of milestone album anniversaries in big ways. Even New Kids on the Block reprised the famous "Magic Summer" tour.

And if Oasis' announcement of a Summer 2025  tour is any indication, '90s tours may be here to stay—or at least until the buzz wears off.  Stacker curated a list of 10 popular '90s artists who went, are currently, or will be on tour in 2024 with the help of music publications and press releases. Read on to see who's hitting the road this year and what makes their tour special.

Creed members surprised fans in October 2023 by announcing their first tour in over a decade. Billed as the "Summer of '99 Tour," the post-grunge band embarked on a 40-show run featuring fellow '90s rockers 3 Doors Down as support for most shows.

"I feel like I'm as strong as I've ever been vocally, and looking forward to sharing the stage with the guys again," frontman Scott Stapp said in a statement . "The fans have clearly let us know they feel it's long overdue. I want to give them what they deserve. I'm ready to bring it."

Creed released four studio albums between 1997 and 2009. The group's sophomore album, 1999's "Human Clay," catapulted the act to superstar status with 11.7 million copies sold.

Hootie & the Blowfish

Before becoming a country sensation in 2008, rocker Darius Rucker fronted Hootie & the Blowfish. The band's 1994 debut album "Cracked Rear View" afforded the bandmates mainstream fame; the record is still among the top 10 bestselling albums in U.S. history 30 years after its release.

The alt-rockers' "Summer Camp With Trucks Tour" features 43 dates across North America. It's the group's first tour since 2019. Joining the act are fellow '90s stars Collective Soul and Edwin McCain. 

Shania Twain

Shania Twain is spending the latter half of 2024 in Las Vegas, performing her 24-date "Come On Over" residency at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino's Bakkt Theater. This is quite a comeback, considering the country star went nearly a decade without singing at all after contracting Lyme disease in 2003. In 2011, after undergoing two "open-throat" surgeries, Twain could project her voice again.

Twain reflected on her overwhelming success in the late '90s and early 2000s, telling Billboard, "It's funny, because I don't have very vivid memories of that time, because it was such a whirlwind." After releasing 1997's "Come On Over," Twain said: "It was single after single, and video after video. It was as if I couldn't keep up. … I was hands-on with everything, and it exhausted me. So I didn't get to enjoy a lot of it in the moment. But I'm celebrating now."

"Come On Over" produced seven #1 singles and remains the bestselling album by a solo woman artist in history.

Blink-182 set fans into a frenzy in 2022 by reuniting with guitarist Tom DeLonge after a seven-year separation and announcing a 2023 world tour. While the reunion news was happy, the reason behind it was less so: Bassist Mark Hoppus was diagnosed with cancer in 2021, and his illness is what rekindled his relationship with DeLonge.

2023 also brought a new album from the band called "One More Time" and a subsequent announcement for another world tour in 2024.

Sarah McLachlan

Sarah McLachlan's 30-date 2024 tour celebrating the 30th anniversary of her 1993 album "Fumbling Towards Ecstasy" is her first since 2016.

The album features singles like "Good Enough," "Possession," and "Hold On" and was the Grammy-winning Canadian musician's first album to enter the U.S. charts .

Green Day is going all out in 2024 with a tour celebrating three albums: the band's latest record, "Saviors," 2004's "American Idiot," and 1994's "Dookie."

"The Saviors Tour" harkens back to the '90s with the Smashing Pumpkins, the Linda Lindas, and Rancid accompanying the band as support for the North American leg.

"Dookie" was Green Day's breakthrough third album, featuring the singles "Welcome to Paradise," "Basket Case," "Longview," and "When I Come Around." "Saviors" marks the group's 14th album.

Yes, Pantera originated in the '80s—but it was the group's 1990 album "Cowboys from Hell" that transformed the band from glam rock nobodies into metal icons. Thirteen years after "Cowboys," the band split acrimoniously and a reunion didn't seem to be in the cards—especially after the deaths of founding members and brothers "Dimebag" Darrell Abbott in 2004 and Vinnie Paul Abbott in 2018.

After a handful of shows in 2022, however, a full-blown reunion took place in 2023 that continued in 2024. Guitarist Zakk Wylde and drummer Charlie Benante will join longtime members Phil Anselmo and Rex Brown to celebrate the legacies of the late founding members.

New Kids on the Block

Before there was 'N Sync or the Backstreet Boys, there was New Kids on the Block. The pioneering boy band got their start in the late '80s, but NKOTB is still synonymous with the '90s. This year, the group celebrates that era with the "Magic Summer 2024" tour  that kicked off in June.

The string of shows is a callback to the group's "Magic Summer Tour"  from 1990 and will feature support from two other '90s icons: Paula Abdul and DJ Jazzy Jeff.

"The true 'magic' of this tour is in the music, the moments and the memories that we get to create—and recreate—with our amazing fans each night," NKOTB's Donnie Wahlberg said in a statement . 

Slipknot played its  first show at the end of 1995 under the moniker Meld, but it was the release of the group's 1999 self-titled debut album that turned its members into metal icons. With 2024 marking the album's 25th anniversary, the masked rockers came into the year with big plans including a handful of U.S. festival dates along with a global tour through Europe, the U.K., and the U.S. 

Weezer's bandmates are celebrating the 30th anniversary of their self-titled debut album, famously known as "The Blue Album," with a tour in the second half of 2024 with The Flaming Lips and Dinosaur Jr. "The Blue Album" features two of Weezer's biggest hits: "Say It Ain't So" and "Undone (The Sweater Song)."

The alt-rock heroes also played the Shaky Knees festival in Atlanta in May, and a handful of U.K. shows with the Smashing Pumpkins in June.

Story editing by Eliza Siegel. Copy editing by Paris Close. Photo selection by Lacy Kerrick.

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Explore the Fox Cities' craft beer culture with a trip on the 'Ale Trail'

by Mallory Allen, FOX 11 News

GRAND CHUTE (WLUK) -- Fox Cities residents and visitors are invited to explore the region's rich craft beer culture with a new interactive program.

On Tuesday, the Fox Cities Convention and Visitors Bureau launched what they call the Fox Cities Ale Trail. It's described as the "ultimate guide" to local breweries, tap rooms and craft beer.

As part of the campaign, participants -- called "passport holders" -- earn points when they visit the stops along the Ale Trail. Those points are then redeemed for prizes, such as Ale Trail stickers, beer bottle coolers, bottle openers, car coasters and playing cards.

"We are so excited to feature our local craft brewers in this way and share the long history of brewing with the local community and visitors to the area," said Pam Seidl, executive director of the Fox Cities CVB.

The Ale Trail features 11 craft breweries across the Fox Cities:

• Appleton Beer Factory
• Bare Bones Brewery
• Emprize Brew Mill
• Fox River Brewing
• Hop Yard Ale Works
• Lion’s Tail Brewing Co.
• McFleshman’s Brewing Co.
• Stone Arch Brew Pub
• Stone Arch Tied House
• TAQ Brewing
• Timber Tap Taproom and Brewery

The Ale Trail runs from September 3, 2024 to August 30, 2025.

If you'd like to join the trail, sign up for the free digital passport by clicking here.

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Oasis Announces Reunion Tour After 15 Years of Brotherly War

Liam and Noel Gallagher’s 1990s Britpop band will play dates in Britain and Ireland in 2025.

By Ben Sisario

In the list of rock bands considered least likely to bury their hatchets long enough to successfully reunite, the British group Oasis has always been near the very top.

At its peak in the 1990s, Oasis — led by the brothers Liam and Noel Gallagher — exemplified the soaring appeal of Britpop, with anthemic hits like “Wonderwall,” “Live Forever” and “Champagne Supernova” that could produce mass singalongs in any pub or arena. In 1994, the group’s debut, “Definitely Maybe,” rocketed to the top of the British pop chart and became a zeitgeist-defining moment for a new wave of English rock.

But the band kept crashing down to earth, largely through the fisticuffs — verbal and physical — of the Gallagher brothers. In 1995, a 14-minute unofficial CD was released of Noel and Liam getting sidetracked during a journalist’s interview to bicker with each other, loudly and ruthlessly if not quite comprehensibly.

The band split up in 2009 — “I simply could not go on working with Liam a day longer,” Noel said at the time — and over the years the Gallaghers have continued to lob public insults at each other.

Now they seem to have reconciled sufficiently to announce a comeback tour in summer 2025, which is to include shows throughout Britain and Ireland, including at least four nights at Wembley Stadium in London. The band announced the tour on its website . In a statement, the band said plans were underway for dates on “other continents outside of Europe later next year.”

“The great wait is over,” the statement added: “Come see.”

The announcement was no surprise. Over the weekend, Oasis posted Tuesday’s date on its website and social media accounts, after days of gossip on social media and detailed reporting from anonymous “industry insiders” in the British news media about an imminent tour announcement. Liam Gallagher himself boosted those rumors. When one fan said he was “scared” about the news to come, Liam answered, “Your scared how do you think I feel.” Streams of the band’s catalog spiked in anticipation .

Tickets for the shows go on sale Aug. 31.

In Britain, Oasis was a phenomenon, selling tens of millions of albums and racking up six Brit Awards, and the Gallagher brothers’ antics guaranteed constant coverage in the news media. But the band never scaled the same heights in the United States. Perhaps that was a result of its quintessential Englishness. More likely, it was self-inflicted: In 1994, when the American rock press was buzzing about Oasis, it put on a notoriously debauched performance in Los Angeles and Noel abandoned the group for a few days.

Oasis has never won a Grammy Award. This year it was nominated for the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame for the first time but was not inducted .

Since Oasis broke up, Noel has released four albums with his group Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds. Liam has released two with his group Beady Eye, three solo albums and one with John Squire of the Stone Roses.

One question left unanswered: Who will play in the band besides the Gallagher brothers? The announcement made no mention, and a spokeswoman for the group did not respond to a question about the lineup.

This week, Oasis is set to release a 30th-anniversary edition of its debut album, “Definitely Maybe,” including early tracks that the band had long considered lost .

Alex Marshall contributed reporting.

Ben Sisario, a reporter covering music and the music industry, has been writing for The Times for more than 20 years. More about Ben Sisario

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Oasis' Noel and Liam Gallagher confirm 2025 reunion tour dates

Oasis split after a 2009 fight between brothers Noel and Liam Gallagher.

LONDON -- Oasis fans have been begging for a reunion for years, and it's finally happening.

Liam and Noel Gallagher of the iconic English rock band announced Tuesday that Oasis will play a series of shows in the U.K. and Ireland in summer 2025.

The reunion marks the first time in 15 years that the brothers are set to reunite. The group famously disbanded in 2009 when Noel Gallagher left due to a fight with younger brother Liam Gallagher.

“This is it, this is happening,” the brothers wrote in identical posts on X early on Tuesday morning.

The Gallaghers confirmed 14 shows spread over five cities -- Cardiff, Manchester, London, Edinburgh and Dublin -- in July and August 2025. Tickets will go on sale at 4 a.m. Eastern Standard Time on Aug. 31. The dates will be "the band’s exclusive European appearances," Noel said in a follow-up post.

"Plans are underway for OASIS LIVE ’25 to go to other continents outside of Europe later next year," the tour's official website noted.

Noel Gallagher shares unreleased Oasis demo; Liam Gallagher responds

Oasis, one of the most successful British rock bands of all time, formed in 1991 in Manchester and rose in popularity with brothers Liam and Noel Gallagher leading the group to stardom.

The band grew in popularity in their native U.K. following the release of their 1994 debut album, "Definitely Maybe," which turns 30 later this week. The group's sophomore effort, "(What's the Story) Morning Glory?" released in 1995, brought the band greater success stateside after songs like "Wonderwall" and "Champagne Supernova" became mid-90s radio staples.

"(What's the Story) Morning Glory?" also featured the hit "Don't Look Back in Anger," which Oasis songwriter and guitarist Noel Gallager performed lead vocals on.

In total, Oasis released seven studio albums before their 2009 split, releasing their final album, "Dig Out Your Soul," in 2008.

The band has three RIAA platinum-certified albums, including "Definitely Maybe," "(What's the Story) Morning Glory?," and "Be Here Now," which came out in 1997.

The group has also notched two RIAA gold-certified hits for "Wonderwall" and "Champagne Supernova," as well as a gold-certified long-form video album for "There and Then," a film covering the band's "(What's the Story) Morning Glory?" Tour.

Members from iconic music band's mashup for new show 'Building the Band'

Since splitting, the brothers have pursued careers in their own right, with Noah Gallagher starting Noel Gallagher's High Flying Birds, while Liam Gallagher started a band called Beady Eye and pursued a solo career.

In 2015, Noel Gallagher told ABC News he was not on speaking terms with his brother. The two have publicly traded insults in statements and comments on social media and through interviews through the years, but it appears they've resolved their differences for the time being.

In recent days, Noel and Liam Gallagher teased the band's reunion by posting the date of Aug. 27 on X.

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Crystal Croatia

Available trips, coastal croatia.

Good to know facts about Croatia, Europe

Top experiences in croatia.

BEST THINGS TO DO IN CROATIA

The real-life King’s Landing on the Adriatic coast, with gorgeous views over the city’s terracotta rooftops

Ancient Greek and Roman history combined with pretty beaches along the coast

One of the most popular islands off the Adriatic, with history, beaches and exceptional wine

A laid-back city, home to the best-preserved Roman ruins outside of Italy

Plitvice Lakes National Park

Turquoise lakes and stunning waterfalls, this beautiful national park is a Unesco World Heritage site

MORE INFO ABOUT CROATIA

Croatia’s endlessly explorable coastline, dotted with hundreds of pretty little islands and historic cities, has skyrocketed in popularity in recent years. Whether you choose to explore the Adriatic coast, or would rather venture inland to national parks and cosmopolitan cities, there’s something for everyone in this exciting European destination.

Walk the 13th-century city walls in Dubrovnik – the real-life King’s Landing from Game of Thrones – and explore the Diocletian’s Palace in Split, before venturing over to the Istrian peninsula to see the best-preserved Roman ruins outside of Italy in Pula. Or perhaps you’d rather head to the often-overlooked capital city, Zagreb, for museums, green parks, street art, cafe culture and stunning Austro-Hungarian architecture.

Croatia’s natural beauty wows visitors time and again. The spectacular Adriatic coast is full of islands, rocky bays and inlets perfect for a spontaneous swim. Large islands like Hvar and Korcula lie alongside tiny, uninhabited islands with pristine sandy beaches – discover as many as possible on a sailing trip along the coast. Head away from the Adriatic for extraordinary national parks – Krka and Plitvice Lakes National Parks offer turquoise-coloured lakes and epic waterfalls. 

Croatian cuisine varies by region; seafood dominates the coast, as expected. Hearty meat dishes pair with home-made pasta, with crni rizot (black risotto) being a popular delicacy. Wine lovers should head to Istria or Dalmatia, where vineyards are plentiful.

To see the best of the coast, join our eight-day Coastal Croatia Epic Trip. Starting in Split, you’ll wind your way south – with stops in Vis, Kor č ula and Lumbarda on the way. After exploring a former Yugoslav military base, a speed boat trip out to secluded coves and a wine-tasting session, you’ll finish in Dubrovnik with a tour of the Unesco-listed Old Town.

Ron - June 16, 2024

"Local Insider Guide and Driver were superb"

Excellent planning and conduct of the trip from pre-t thru entire trip Our Local Guide, German (pronounced Herman) was so knowledgeable and in tune with every aspect of the trip, from human culture and social challenges to all the challenges and successes for Costa Rican environments. The concept of sustainability was so evident in the coffee and cocoa plantations and the representatives of both of those were so personable in sharing every aspect of their production. Beyond that, or insider, German, was expert in bird identification and ecology which added so much to the experience. The hotels were all excellent although we did not favor the highly processed and bland food except that the fruit every morning was the best ever, so fresh and flavorful, and the coffee was superb. The food at the off-hotel places that our guide took us was wonderful, genuine and so enjoyable. All the people were so friendly and respectful and informative Our driver, Geraldo, was a gem! Very little English but we all had some Spanish and he had such a friendly, respectful and fun attitude and great driving skills. And with our small group, if we exclaimed "there's a sloth!! or "Monkeys!!" He immediately found a safe place to pull over and joined us with German to view and enjoy. German had a spotting scope and with that we could really see the monkeys, sloth, and many birds. We think the trip was carefully planned and a good value. It was our first guided trip and we do expect to enjoy more with Culture Trip

Alana - June 26, 2024

"Greece Odyssey Experience, recommend this trip"

I have been on two culture trips, Portugal and Greek odyssey. Both have been great. I traveled with my 3 adult daughters. We returned from Greece a month ago., June 3rd. Our accommodations were perfect, had a new guide upon arriving at each destination, which we enjoyed, all friendly and very knowledgeable and eager to converse. Our ferry trips to Naxos and Santorini were comfortable, with reserved seating inside. We were met promptly and easily at the pier upon arrival by our guide and driver. We visited the busy , tourist side of Santorini and the next day was taken to an organic farm on the quiet side of Santorini , enjoyed a tasty picnic dinner and stayed for a beautiful sunset. Our favorite was a three night stay in Naxos. We could easily walk to beach, town , shops, restaurants, A very relaxing experience. Culture trip provides excellent travel opportunities for a fair price.

Pamela - June 25, 2024

"Expertly Guided, Perfectly Organized, Beautiful Locations. Enchanting!"

Had a wonderful trip. Culture Trip responded quickly when I had an issue with a prebooked hotel and they made things right. Everything was well planned and ran smoothly. Our local guide (Francesco) was absolutely amazing. The places we went to were beautiful and not too crowded. We had guided tours along with plenty of time on our own, which made the trip enjoyable without feeling rushed, The group on this trip were also amazing and I had a great time getting to know them. A group number of 10 was perfect, not too few people but not too many. Having never been to Italy before, this trip was a perfect introduction and I will definitely use Culture Trip again for future adventures.

Lesley - June 23, 2024

"Soulful Korea"

I highly recommend the Soulful South Korea trip. It was a busy trip but an excellent way to see a variety of cities and other areas of South Korea and to take part in a variety of activities - some perhaps once in a lifetime - all wonderfully organised by our Local Insider Yong. As someone who is not particularly fit I was initially concerned about the amount of activity involved in the trip but I found this to be manageable and Yong, who went above and beyond to support our group and also to give us as authentic an experience of Korea as possible, was able to be flexible regarding the activities when necessary. It was a brilliant introduction to a beautiful and interesting country, shared with a wonderful group of people. I will definitely be returning to South Korea.

Meilin - June 15, 2024

"Best 1st trip overseas - Soulful South Korea"

This Soulful South Korea trip has been AMAZING! We loved everything about it, all thanks to Yong! (our tour guide) He was very informed, wise, knowledgeable, and being able to offer various choices to choose from. He was personal but also professional! He does what he does BEST! Thank you for making our trip the most memorable one ever! One thing we would like to alter, would probably be, if for people who love pamper sessions like we do, is the Visit to Centum Spa Land Jjimjilbang. We would do a whole day of it! Or maybe start in morning side of the day to get more out of the day. But other than that, we are really thankful for having the opportunity to visit a place with so much wonder and magic! Thank you, we have loved every moment of it! And we will definitely visit South Korea again!

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