casual cultural tourism la gi

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La Gi, Vietnam

Unspoiled, idyllic, and local, La Gi is becoming Southern Vietnam’s up-and-coming backpacker destination. In La Gi, locals frequently outnumber foreigners. Though, the small-town vibe hasn’t put a damper on La Gi’s tourist activity.

Rather, a laid-back atmosphere, friendly locals, and affordable seafood have encouraged travelers to visit La Gi and trod on paths that are lesser-known. While tourism in La Gi is less developed, there is still a lot to see and do in this beachside community. With sun, sand, and surf, adventure awaits in La Gi.

Hidden Gem of the Bình Thuân Province

Bordered by two districts and the South China Sea, La Gi is located in Vietnam’s South Central Coast region. There are 5 wards and 4 communes in La Gi with all communities being governed as a district-level town in the Bình Thuân Province. The oceanside location of the town allows La Gi to be connected to other communities by a coastal road which runs from Bình Châu to Phuóc Hai, Dât Do.

From Ho Chi Minh City, driving to La Gi takes just over 3 hours as the beach town is about 95 miles (153 kilometers) away. Flights and trains to La Gi are uncommon and oftentimes they do not have a reliable, working schedule. The easiest way to get to La Gi is by bus or private car. Buses are more affordable than a taxi or private driver but may take up to 1 hour longer.

La Gi has always been an important beach town where people make money from fishing, trading, and tourism. Originally founded as a small village , La Gi grew to become the provincial capital of Bình Tuy. For years, the Bình Tuy Province flourished until the mid-1970s, when the area was reconfigured. Bình Tuy was integrated into what would become the Bình Thuân Province.

Locals frequently recount tales from the days of the Vietnam War, though official recordings of conflicts and battles are nearly non-existent. Unlike other coastal communities, La Gi was no colonized before or after the war. The lack of French and American attention aided La Gi by keeping the town’s popularity to a low level.

Since La Gi stayed off the radar for so long, the town’s history as a tourist destination isn’t very extensive. In recent years, La Gi has seen a spike in interest as young international travelers are quickly becoming common visitors, however, most days, La Gi is relatively quiet. With fewer tourists, La Gi is one of South Vietnam’s best destinations for crowd-free travel.

• La Gi has a total area of 70.59 square miles
• The population of La Gi is estimated to be 112,558 people
• La Gi’s coastline stretches for over 17 miles (28 kilometers)

Main Attractions

As a coastal destination, La Gi’s 17 miles of white sand has become the town’s main attraction. Beaches in La Gi are secluded, pristine, and uncrowded. With no big resorts or marinas, nature is at the center of attention. There are quite a few activities and visitors can choose from a broad range of options. Whether on or off the sand, La Gi keeps its guests entertained.

Having fun in the sand is a staple activity for any beach vacation. Luckily for tourists, La Gi has a few different beaches that have become popular spots where people can spend the day lounging in the sand, playing in the water, or dining on the shore. Though travelers only need to hop along the coastline to visit the beaches, the area’s two favorite sandy spots are Cam Bình and Coco Beachcamp.

Cam Bình, or the Bathing Beach, is one of the best beaches to visit in La Gi and it is only about 3.1 miles (5 kilometers) away from the center of town. Cam Bình is known for its colorful coral reef, which is home to a vast array of marine wildlife, making snorkeling and scuba diving top activities for visitors.

After a fun day at the ocean, visitors can head to any one of the beach’s restaurants to taste the fresh, delicious, and cooked to order seafood. Less touristy than Cam Bình, Coco Beachcamp has become La Gi’s top choice for young backpackers looking to socialize and have fun. The beach is famous for its parties where guests are invited to partake in various games and activities.

While Coco Beachcamp’s parties may not be world-famous, they have attracted an impressive lineup of international and local DJs. Partygoers can stay the night in tents or trailers that are set up on the sand.

Hire a Guide

Lounging on the beach is always an enjoyable way to spend a vacation, but sometimes it feels good to get up and be active too. Visitors who want to snorkel, scuba dive, surf, windsurf, or paraglide are encouraged to hire a local guide for a full or half-day. Not only will local guides lead you to the suitable beach for your activity, but they can also provide important gear too.

Boat tours are also available and depending on the season, fishing tours may also be an option.

Visit the Reclining Buddha and Pagoda

About 13 miles (21 kilometers) outside of La Gi is Ta Cu Mountain, which has become famous for its massive reclining buddha statue and pagoda. Perfect for a half-day trip, visitors can take a cable car from the base of the mountain up to the pagoda station. From there, visitors can hike to the Reclining Buddha.

Surrounded by nature, the trails on Ta Cu Mountain give visitors an excellent view of the surrounding area.

Stargazing in La Gi

With no major city or resort lights to create pollution in the sky, La Gi’s beaches are excellent for stargazing. Whether you choose to stay long after sunset or return to the beach after your evening meal, thousands of stars will light up the night sky. The dry season is the best time to go stargazing in La Gi because the chances of having cloudless nights are higher.

Though, visitors may be able to see the stars between rainstorms, if the clouds make a break in the sky.

Accommodations

One benefit of La Gi’s smaller and more remote location is that accommodation is affordable. There are a few different accommodation options in La Gi with most having 3–5-star ratings. Resorts, boutique hotels, guest houses, and homestays are all common accommodation options for guests in La Gi.

Beach Camping at Coco – For guests who are looking to get closer to nature, the tents and trailers at Coco Beachcamp (affiliate link) are the best options. As a more laid-back resort, Coco Beachcamp is known for its fun beach parties and day activities. Guests have the option of staying overnight in air-conditioned trailers or in beach tents.

Breakfast is included in the price and nightly rates some of the most affordable in the area.

Beachfront Resorts – A short distance away from La Gi in the Bình Tan community is the Hòn Bá Lagi Beach Resort (affiliate link). An oceanfront hotel, Hòn Bà offers its guests a private beach area, restaurant, outdoor swimming pool, garden, and air-conditioned rooms. The resort is very secure with a 24-hour front desk and onsite security.

To add to the already affordable prices, a continental breakfast is included for all hotel guests.

In-Town Homestays – Guests who would prefer to stay in La Gi should consider the Aurora Garden Homestay. Centered around a peaceful garden and beautiful lobby, the Aurora Garden Homestay is one of the highest-rated hotels in La Gi. With clean and spacious rooms, the hotel is close to the town’s top sightseeing and dining venues.

Free Wi-Fi is included in the stay and a 24-hour desk is available to cater to guests’ needs.

Family Hotels – Traveling as a family can be stressful if you have young children, but the Hoàng An Hotel does its very best to provide a clean and quiet space for all of its guests. With excellent ratings, this in-town hotel is known for its great rooms and location. Guest amenities include free Wi-Fi, free parking, air conditioning, and breakfast.

Situated on a quieter street, families won’t have to listen to the noise from La Gi’s popular karaoke bars.

Pet-Friendly Hotels – Boasting 25 rooms at an affordable rate, the Thanh Binh Hotel (affiliate link) is in the heart of town and is pet-friendly. With quality services and amenities, guests can utilize free parking, free Wi-Fi, bicycle rentals, and a hot tub. The hotel staff is very friendly and accommodating. Transportation to and from the airport can be arranged, as well as rides to the beach.

Not all the hotels in La Gi have their own restaurant, but with an abundance of options in town, guests won’t have to ever go hungry. Seafood is the main ingredient in many dishes in La Gi and it is very affordable. Vendors sell fresh seafood every day on the beaches or visitors can go to any one of the town’s top-rated restaurants.

Grilled gudgeon is La Gi’s featured dish, which is served with fresh vegetables. Additional cuisine options include international gastronomy like Italian or American.

Beachfront Dining – Located outside of the main town on the beach, the Quán An La Gi Restaurant has fresh seafood for an affordable price. With views of the ocean, this restaurant is in a prime location and service is highly rated. For those staying in nearby hotels or homestays, the Quán An La Gi has a takeaway service available too.

Market Meals – Travelers who have booked accommodations with a kitchen can find the freshest ingredients at the local market. Located in town, the market in La Gi sells everything from vegetables and fruits to the catch of the day. Vendors have affordable prices and at a few stalls, they served cooked food.

Aside from the food, exploring the La Gi market is a great way to support the local community and taste new culinary dishes.

Tasty Noodles – Pho Tuong is the top-rated restaurant in La Gi for the traditional Vietnamese dish called pho. Pronounced like “fuh”, pho is a noodle dish served with meat, vegetables, and a healthy amount of broth. For travelers on a budget, this restaurant has good-sized portions for an affordable price.

Special Events

As a smaller community, La Gi is not well-known for being a place to go for special events. While local events may happen throughout the year, it is uncommon for tourists to travel to La Gi for a small celebration. The biggest celebrations in La Gi will follow Vietnam’s Lunar Calendar.

While the entire country celebrates, pagodas and temples around La Gi will also hold their own festivities for these annual events.

The Moon Festival – Originally a part of the Chinese lunar calendar, Vietnam began to celebrate the Moon Festival during the 8 th century. Also called the Mid-Autumn or Tet Trung Thu Festival, the holiday celebrates the legend of Thang Cuoi. According to the story, Thang Cuoi was accidentally sent to the moon when his banyan tree was uprooted by his wife.

The use of lighting lanterns during the festival is a way to show Thang Cuoi the way back home. La Gi holds a large celebration for the Moon Festival, which is held annually on the 15 th day of the eighth month of the Chinese calendar. Most years, this means that the festival is held around mid-September.

The Magician’s Temple – One local celebration that La Gi is famous for is Magician’s Temple, which holds an annual festival during the 9 th month of the Vietnamese lunar calendar. The temple was built to honor a magician and his wife who, with magic, cured illnesses of the local people. Now, an annual festival is held at the Tan Hai Commune near La Gi.

During the festival, the temple is ornately decorated, and attendees can partake in various activities with prayers, oracles, tattoos, and horoscopes.

La Gi is small, but it isn’t small enough that walking is always an option. While guests can easily walk around town, transportation to and from the beach is often preferred to cut down travel times. Taxis are common around La Gi, but visitors should always agree on a price before they get into the car. Visitors can also inquire about getting a ride through their accommodation.

Many hotels are happy to arrange transportation for their guests at an affordable price. A few hotels and restaurants around town also have bicycle rentals for guests to use to get around town and to the beach. Affordable, bicycle rentals are another great option for travelers who don’t want to rely on taxis. However, for safety reasons, it is not recommended to bike after dark.

La Gi has a wet and dry season. The dry season is the most popular time for visitors to travel to La Gi because there is less rain and heat. The dry season in La Gi starts in November, but some tourists travel to the area as early as September because the rains will have started to slow. The rainy season begins at the end of May, with the wettest months being June, July, and August.

April and May are the hottest months of the year with less rain, which makes them the most popular time to swim in the ocean.

Off the beaten path, beautiful and quiet, La Gi’s popularity is on the cusp of booming. Though the town is still relatively unknown to foreigners, the reputation of places in La Gi like Coco Beachcamp is beginning to create a buzz. For backpackers who want to enjoy a beach vacation for the fraction of the price, La Gi takes the top spot.

With a healthy nightlife and fun day activities, visitors are guaranteed to fall in love with La Gi.

Activities near La Gi

• Ho Chi Minh City (152km)
• Nha Trang ( 305km)
• Mui Ne ( 87km)

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About Leigh Hogle

Leigh Hogle is a writer with an emphasis in travel, film, and product marketing. She is known for taking the road less traveled and also has a passion for animals, architecture, and photography.

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Unraveling the Enigma: What Exactly is a Casual Cultural Tourist?

Embarking on a journey of cultural exploration is an enthralling experience, and the realm of casual cultural tourism offers a fascinating insight into the diversity of human culture. The term “casual cultural tourist” might evoke curiosity and wonder, but what exactly does it entail? This article aims to demystify the concept, shedding light on the characteristics and motivations of those who partake in casual cultural tourism. Prepare to embark on a captivating adventure that unravels the enigma of the casual cultural tourist, and discover the essence of cultural exploration in the modern world.

I. Understanding the Concept of Casual Cultural Tourism

A. defining cultural tourism.

Cultural tourism, often referred to as “cultour,” is a form of tourism that focuses on the exploration and engagement with a destination’s cultural attractions, activities, and experiences. This type of tourism is becoming increasingly popular as travelers seek to immerse themselves in the history, traditions, and artistic expressions of the places they visit.

Cultural tourism encompasses a wide range of activities, such as visiting museums, attending cultural festivals, exploring historical sites, engaging in culinary experiences, and participating in cultural rituals and ceremonies. It is a unique way for travelers to connect with the local culture and to gain a deeper understanding of the destination’s customs, beliefs, and practices.

Moreover, cultural tourism is a significant contributor to the local economy, as it supports the preservation and promotion of cultural heritage, generates income for local communities, and fosters cultural exchange and understanding between visitors and hosts. As such, it plays a vital role in the sustainable development of the tourism industry.

In conclusion, cultural tourism is a dynamic and diverse form of tourism that enables travelers to explore and experience the cultural aspects of a destination. It offers a wealth of opportunities for personal growth, cultural enrichment, and sustainable development, making it an increasingly popular choice for discerning travelers.

B. Distinguishing Casual Cultural Tourism

When discussing casual cultural tourism, it is essential to distinguish it from other forms of tourism. This is because casual cultural tourism involves a specific type of traveler who seeks unique and authentic cultural experiences , as opposed to the more conventional tourist who prioritizes sightseeing and commercial activities. Here are some ways to differentiate casual cultural tourists from other types of travelers:

• Purpose of Travel: The primary purpose of a casual cultural tourist’s trip is to experience and engage with the local culture. They are interested in learning about the history, customs, and traditions of the destination they are visiting. On the other hand, other types of tourists may prioritize activities such as sunbathing, shopping, or attending conferences.
• Duration of Stay: Casual cultural tourists tend to stay longer in a destination, often opting for longer-term accommodations such as vacation rentals or homestays. This allows them to fully immerse themselves in the local culture and form connections with the community. Other types of tourists may stay for shorter periods and focus on visiting multiple destinations during their trip.
• Spending Habits: Casual cultural tourists are more likely to support local businesses and engage in sustainable tourism practices. They prioritize authentic experiences and may spend more money on cultural activities such as attending festivals, visiting museums, or taking guided tours. In contrast, other types of tourists may be more focused on finding bargains and purchasing souvenirs from commercial outlets.
• Interaction with Locals: Casual cultural tourists value interaction with locals and seek out opportunities to connect with the community. They may participate in language exchange programs, take cooking classes, or volunteer their time to give back to the local community. Other types of tourists may have less interaction with locals and may stick to more conventional tourist activities.

Overall, casual cultural tourism is characterized by a focus on cultural immersion and personal connection with the local community. By understanding the differences between casual cultural tourists and other types of travelers, it is possible to create more targeted and authentic experiences for those who seek a deeper connection with the culture of their destination.

C. Exploring the Motivations of Casual Cultural Tourists

The motivations behind casual cultural tourism can be diverse and complex, and understanding these motivations is crucial in providing appropriate services and experiences for these tourists. Some of the key motivations of casual cultural tourists include:

• Personal Growth and Development: Many casual cultural tourists are motivated by the desire to learn new things, gain new experiences, and broaden their horizons. They may be interested in exploring different cultures, learning about history, or trying new activities.
• Relaxation and Leisure: Casual cultural tourists may also be motivated by the desire to relax and enjoy leisure activities. They may seek out cultural experiences that are fun and entertaining, such as attending festivals or watching performances.
• Escapism: For some casual cultural tourists, cultural experiences may provide an opportunity to escape from the stresses of daily life. They may seek out experiences that are peaceful, serene, or otherwise provide a break from their normal routine.
• Socialization: Finally, casual cultural tourists may be motivated by the desire to socialize and connect with others. They may seek out cultural experiences that allow them to meet new people, make friends, or connect with others who share their interests.

Understanding these motivations is important for cultural tourism providers, as it can help them tailor their offerings to better meet the needs and desires of casual cultural tourists. By providing experiences that are engaging, entertaining, and educational, cultural tourism providers can help to ensure that casual cultural tourists have a positive and fulfilling experience .

II. The Characteristics of Casual Cultural Tourists

Casual cultural tourists value flexibility in travel plans, embracing authentic experiences, and seeking interaction with locals. They balance exploration and relaxation, attending festivals and cultural events, and participating in cultural workshops and classes. To provide appropriate services and experiences for casual cultural tourists, cultural tourism providers should understand their motivations, characteristics, and common activities and destinations.

A. Flexibility in Travel Plans

One of the key characteristics of casual cultural tourists is their ability to be flexible with their travel plans. Unlike traditional tourists who often plan their itineraries well in advance and stick to them rigidly, casual cultural tourists tend to be more spontaneous and open to change. They may have a general idea of where they want to go and what they want to see, but they are willing to adjust their plans based on a variety of factors, such as weather, local events, or even sudden changes in their own interests or preferences.

This flexibility allows casual cultural tourists to take advantage of unexpected opportunities that may arise during their travels. For example, they may stumble upon a local festival or market that they hadn’t planned on attending, but decide to participate in anyway. Or, they may meet a local guide or fellow traveler who offers to show them around a particular area or recommend a hidden gem that they wouldn’t have discovered otherwise.

Furthermore, this flexibility also allows casual cultural tourists to be more adaptable to changes in their environment. For instance, if a natural disaster or political crisis were to occur in the area they are visiting, they would be more likely to adjust their plans and find alternative activities or destinations that are safe and appropriate for their travel style.

Overall, the flexibility of casual cultural tourists is a key characteristic that sets them apart from traditional tourists. It allows them to be more spontaneous and open to new experiences, while still being able to adapt to changes in their environment and make the most of their travels.

B. Embracing Authentic Experiences

Embracing authentic experiences is a key characteristic of casual cultural tourists. This involves seeking out cultural activities and experiences that are genuine and reflective of the local culture. This may include visiting traditional markets, attending local festivals, or participating in cultural rituals and ceremonies.

One of the main motivations for casual cultural tourists to seek out authentic experiences is to gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of the local culture. By participating in activities that are typical of the area, they can immerse themselves in the culture and gain a more authentic sense of what it is like to live in that place.

Furthermore, authentic experiences can provide a sense of connection to the local community and its traditions. By engaging in activities that are meaningful to the local population, casual cultural tourists can build a deeper connection to the place they are visiting and develop a sense of respect for the local culture.

However, it is important to note that seeking out authentic experiences can also have unintended consequences. In some cases, casual cultural tourists may inadvertently contribute to the commodification of local culture or contribute to the exploitation of local communities. Therefore, it is essential for casual cultural tourists to approach their travels with an open mind and a willingness to learn about the local culture in a respectful and responsible manner .

C. Seeking Interaction with Local Culture

A casual cultural tourist is a traveler who seeks to engage with the local culture of their destination, but in a more relaxed and casual manner than a cultural immersion traveler. They are interested in experiencing the local customs, traditions, and lifestyle, but do not necessarily seek to fully immerse themselves in it. Instead, they may choose to participate in activities or events that allow them to interact with the local culture in a more casual and accessible way .

Casual cultural tourists may be interested in trying local foods, visiting cultural landmarks, or attending festivals and events that showcase the local culture. They may also be interested in learning about the history and traditions of the destination, but may not have the time or desire to delve deeply into the subject.

In addition, casual cultural tourists may also be interested in supporting the local economy by shopping for local products, visiting small businesses, and participating in activities that benefit the community. This type of tourism can have a positive impact on the local economy and can help to preserve and promote the local culture.

Overall, the key characteristic of a casual cultural tourist is their desire to experience the local culture in a more relaxed and accessible way , while still gaining a deeper understanding and appreciation of the destination.

D. Balancing Exploration and Relaxation

When it comes to the casual cultural tourist, one of the most defining characteristics is their ability to balance exploration and relaxation. These individuals understand that travel is not just about ticking off items on a list or checking out famous landmarks, but also about immersing oneself in the local culture and way of life. With this in mind, they strive to find a balance between exploring new places and taking time to unwind and recharge.

For many casual cultural tourists, this balance is achieved by planning their itineraries carefully. They may allocate specific days for sightseeing and cultural activities, while reserving other days for relaxation and leisure. This could involve spending time at a local café, reading a book on the beach, or simply taking a leisurely stroll through a new neighborhood.

Additionally, casual cultural tourists are often adept at finding hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path experiences that allow them to immerse themselves in the local culture without feeling overwhelmed. Whether it’s discovering a local market, trying a new cuisine, or attending a local festival, these individuals are always on the lookout for unique experiences that will enrich their travels.

Overall, the ability to balance exploration and relaxation is a key characteristic of the casual cultural tourist. By taking the time to fully experience a destination, these individuals are able to create lasting memories and truly connect with the local culture.

III. Common Activities and Destinations for Casual Cultural Tourists

A. exploring cultural heritage sites.

When it comes to cultural tourism, one of the most popular activities among casual cultural tourists is exploring cultural heritage sites. These sites include historical landmarks, museums, and cultural institutions that provide a glimpse into the past and showcase the rich cultural heritage of a region.

Here are some of the most popular cultural heritage sites that casual cultural tourists visit:

1. Historic Sites and Landmarks

Historic sites and landmarks are among the most popular cultural heritage sites for casual cultural tourists. These include famous monuments, buildings, and other structures that have played a significant role in shaping history. Examples of such sites include the Pyramids of Giza in Egypt, the Taj Mahal in India, and the Eiffel Tower in France.

2. Museums and Art Galleries

Museums and art galleries are also popular destinations for casual cultural tourists . These institutions house a vast array of artifacts, artworks, and exhibits that showcase the cultural heritage of a region. Some of the most popular museums and art galleries include the Louvre in Paris, the British Museum in London, and the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City.

3. Cultural Institutions and Festivals

Cultural institutions and festivals are also important destinations for casual cultural tourists . These events and institutions provide a unique opportunity to experience the local culture and traditions of a region. Examples of such institutions include opera houses, theaters, and music venues, while cultural festivals such as Carnival in Rio de Janeiro and the Festival of Lights in Berlin attract millions of visitors each year.

Overall, exploring cultural heritage sites is a key activity for casual cultural tourists. Whether it’s visiting historic landmarks, museums, or cultural institutions, these destinations offer a unique opportunity to experience the rich cultural heritage of a region and gain a deeper understanding of its history and traditions.

B. Visiting Museums and Art Galleries

For many casual cultural tourists, visiting museums and art galleries is a top priority. These institutions provide a unique opportunity to engage with art, history, and culture in a way that is both educational and enjoyable. Whether it’s admiring famous works of art or learning about the history of a particular time period, museums and art galleries offer a wealth of knowledge and experience for the casual cultural tourist.

The Appeal of Museums and Art Galleries

The appeal of museums and art galleries lies in their ability to provide a immersive experience that allows visitors to explore different cultures, time periods, and artistic movements. From ancient artifacts to contemporary art installations, these institutions offer a wide range of exhibits that cater to a variety of interests and tastes.

Furthermore, museums and art galleries often feature interactive exhibits and educational programs that make the experience more engaging and accessible for visitors of all ages. Whether it’s a guided tour, a hands-on workshop, or a digital interactive display, these institutions offer a variety of ways for visitors to engage with the exhibits and learn about the subject matter.

Popular Destinations for Casual Cultural Tourists

There are countless museums and art galleries around the world that are popular among casual cultural tourists. Some of the most visited museums include the Louvre in Paris, the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City, and the British Museum in London.

Other popular destinations include the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam, the Prado Museum in Madrid, and the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao. These institutions are known for their extensive collections, impressive exhibits, and unique architectural features, making them must-see destinations for casual cultural tourists .

Tips for Visiting Museums and Art Galleries

Visiting a museum or art gallery can be a rewarding experience, but it can also be overwhelming if you don’t know where to start. Here are some tips for making the most of your visit:

• Plan your visit in advance. Look up the museum’s website to see what exhibits are currently on display and plan your route accordingly.
• Dress appropriately. Some museums have dress codes, so it’s always a good idea to check before you go.
• Be respectful of other visitors and the exhibits. Refrain from talking loudly or taking photos without permission.
• Take your time. Don’t rush through the exhibits. Take time to read the labels and placards, and take in the details of the artwork.
• Ask questions. If you’re unsure about something, don’t be afraid to ask a museum staff member or docent for assistance.

C. Attending Festivals and Cultural Events

When it comes to cultural tourism, one of the most exciting and immersive experiences is attending festivals and cultural events. These events provide an opportunity for casual cultural tourists to engage with the local community, experience traditional customs and rituals, and learn about the history and heritage of the destination. Here are some of the most popular festivals and cultural events that casual cultural tourists should consider attending:

• Mardi Gras in New Orleans : This iconic festival is known for its vibrant parades, lively music, and delicious Cajun cuisine. Mardi Gras is a celebration of the Carnival season, which takes place in the days leading up to Ash Wednesday. The event attracts millions of visitors each year, who come to experience the electric atmosphere and join in the festivities.
• Songkran Festival in Thailand : This is the Thai New Year festival, celebrated in April, and is known for its water fights and traditional ceremonies. The festival is a time for cleansing and renewal, and visitors can expect to be doused with water as they wander the streets. It’s a great opportunity to experience Thai culture and participate in age-old traditions.
• Carnaval in Rio de Janeiro : This is the world’s largest street party, held every year before Lent. The event features colorful parades, samba dancing, and lively music. Visitors can expect to be immersed in the vibrant culture of Rio and experience the energy and enthusiasm of the Brazilian people.
• Cherry Blossom Season in Japan : Spring is cherry blossom season in Japan, and the country comes alive with pink petals and picnicking locals. Visitors can join in the fun by visiting popular viewing spots, such as the park in Tokyo’s Ueno district, or taking a leisurely boat ride along the Cherry Blossom Canal in Osaka.
• Diwali in India : This is the Hindu festival of lights, celebrated in October or November. It’s a time for family, feasts, and fireworks, and visitors can expect to be invited into homes for celebrations. The festival is a great opportunity to experience the rich culture and traditions of India.
• Safari in Tanzania during the Great Migration : Each year, millions of wildebeests, zebras, and other animals migrate from the Serengeti to the Masai Mara in search of fresh grazing lands. Visitors can witness this incredible spectacle from the safety of a 4×4 vehicle or on foot, with the help of a professional guide.

Attending festivals and cultural events is a great way for casual cultural tourists to connect with the local community and experience the traditions and customs of the destination. These events provide an opportunity to learn about the history and heritage of the place, as well as to sample the local cuisine and participate in the festivities. So, make sure to plan your trip around one of these exciting cultural events, and have a truly unforgettable experience.

D. Participating in Cultural Workshops and Classes

For casual cultural tourists, participating in cultural workshops and classes is a popular activity that offers a unique and immersive experience. These workshops and classes provide an opportunity to learn about the local culture, traditions, and arts from experts in the field. By participating in these activities, casual cultural tourists can gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of the local culture they are visiting.

Art Workshops

Art workshops are a popular choice for casual cultural tourists who are interested in exploring the local art scene. These workshops offer hands-on experience in various art forms such as painting, sculpture, pottery, and jewelry making. Casual cultural tourists can learn techniques and skills from local artists and experiment with different materials and mediums. This can be a fun and engaging way to connect with the local culture and create a unique souvenir to take home.

Culinary Workshops

Culinary workshops are another popular choice for casual cultural tourists who want to learn about the local cuisine. These workshops offer an opportunity to learn about the ingredients, techniques, and flavors that make the local cuisine unique. Casual cultural tourists can learn how to prepare traditional dishes, try new ingredients, and gain an appreciation for the culinary culture of the destination. This can be a great way to connect with the local people and share a common interest in food.

Cultural Classes

Cultural classes are another option for casual cultural tourists who want to learn about the local culture in a more structured setting. These classes can range from language classes to music and dance classes, and provide an opportunity to learn about the local culture from experts in the field. Casual cultural tourists can gain a deeper understanding of the local culture and customs, and even develop new skills that they can use in their everyday life.

Overall, participating in cultural workshops and classes is a great way for casual cultural tourists to connect with the local culture and gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of the destination they are visiting.

IV. Challenges Faced by Casual Cultural Tourists

A. language barriers.

One of the most significant challenges faced by casual cultural tourists is the language barrier. It can be difficult to communicate with locals, understand signs, and read menus when you don’t speak the language fluently. This can make it hard to fully immerse yourself in the culture and can limit your ability to interact with locals.

1. Communication

Communication is one of the most significant challenges faced by casual cultural tourists . When you don’t speak the language fluently, it can be hard to express yourself and understand others. This can lead to misunderstandings and can make it difficult to form connections with locals.

2. Signs and Menus

Understanding signs and menus can also be a challenge for casual cultural tourists. Even if you can speak the language, it can be difficult to decipher unfamiliar words and phrases. This can make it hard to navigate unfamiliar places and can limit your ability to try new foods and experiences.

3. Immersion

The language barrier can also make it difficult to fully immerse yourself in the culture. When you can’t communicate fluently, it can be hard to connect with locals and understand their customs and traditions. This can limit your ability to experience the culture in a meaningful way and can make your trip less fulfilling.

4. Adaptation

Overcoming the language barrier requires adaptation and effort. It may be necessary to learn some basic phrases and words, such as “hello,” “thank you,” and “excuse me.” It may also be helpful to use translation apps or to carry a dictionary with you. By taking the time to learn and adapt, you can overcome the language barrier and fully immerse yourself in the culture.

B. Navigating Cultural Differences

One of the primary challenges faced by casual cultural tourists is navigating cultural differences. As they travel to different parts of the world, they are exposed to different customs, traditions, and ways of life. This can be both exciting and overwhelming, as they must adapt to new environments and communicate with people from diverse backgrounds.

Navigating Cultural Differences: Examples and Scenarios

• Language Barriers: One of the most significant challenges that casual cultural tourists face is the language barrier. Many people may not speak English or the tourist’s native language, which can make communication difficult. For example, a tourist visiting Japan may struggle to order food at a restaurant or ask for directions because they do not speak Japanese.
• Nonverbal Communication: Another challenge is understanding nonverbal communication, such as body language and facial expressions. What may be considered polite or respectful in one culture may be seen as rude or disrespectful in another. For instance, in some Middle Eastern cultures, it is considered impolite to use your left hand for eating or accepting gifts, as the left hand is traditionally used for personal hygiene.
• Social Norms: Casual cultural tourists may also struggle with understanding social norms and etiquette in different cultures. For example, in some Asian cultures, it is considered impolite to use your feet to touch someone or something, as the feet are considered unclean. In contrast, in some Western cultures, it is acceptable to sit with your feet crossed or resting on a chair.
• Religion and Traditions: Religion and traditions can also pose challenges for casual cultural tourists. For example, in some Muslim countries, it is important to dress modestly and cover your arms and legs. In contrast, in some European countries, it is acceptable to sunbathe topless on the beach.

Strategies for Navigating Cultural Differences

• Educate Yourself: One of the best ways to navigate cultural differences is to educate yourself about the culture you are visiting. This can include reading books, watching movies, and listening to music from the region. It can also involve learning basic phrases in the local language and familiarizing yourself with local customs and traditions.
• Be Open-Minded: Another strategy is to be open-minded and respectful of the local culture. This means being willing to try new foods, participate in local festivals and celebrations, and engage in conversations with locals. It also means being respectful of local customs and traditions, even if they differ from your own.
• Seek Guidance: If you are struggling to navigate cultural differences, seek guidance from locals or tour guides. They can provide valuable insights into local customs and traditions and help you navigate any challenges you may face.

In conclusion, navigating cultural differences is a significant challenge faced by casual cultural tourists . However, by educating themselves about the local culture, being open-minded, and seeking guidance from locals or tour guides, they can overcome these challenges and have a more meaningful and authentic travel experience.

C. Time Constraints and Itinerary Planning

• Limited time for cultural exploration
• Balancing cultural experiences with other tourist activities
• Itinerary planning to maximize cultural immersion

Overcoming logistical challenges in travel

Limited time for cultural exploration:

• The pressures of limited time to experience cultural activities
• The trade-offs between cultural immersion and other tourist activities
• Strategies for maximizing cultural experiences within a limited time frame
• The desire to explore various aspects of a destination
• Prioritizing cultural experiences among competing tourist activities
• Finding the right balance between cultural immersion and leisure pursuits
• Researching cultural attractions and events
• Developing a comprehensive plan for cultural exploration
• Flexibility in itinerary adjustments for unexpected opportunities
• Navigating transportation options for cultural sites
• Accessing reliable information for cultural activities
• Dealing with unexpected changes in schedules or cultural events
• Balancing spontaneity with advance planning for cultural experiences

D. Balancing Authenticity and Commercialization

As casual cultural tourism continues to grow in popularity, so too does the challenge of balancing authenticity and commercialization. This is particularly evident in the ways in which cultural tourism products and services are marketed and presented to tourists.

On one hand, there is a growing demand for authentic cultural experiences that allow tourists to engage with local customs, traditions, and ways of life. On the other hand, there is also a need for cultural tourism products and services that are commercially viable and can generate revenue for local communities.

Balancing these two competing demands can be challenging, as authenticity and commercialization are often at odds with one another. For example, commercializing cultural events or experiences can lead to the loss of their authenticity, while overly emphasizing authenticity can make cultural tourism products and services less commercially viable.

One solution to this challenge is to develop cultural tourism products and services that are both authentic and commercially viable. This can be achieved by working closely with local communities to ensure that cultural tourism products and services are developed in a way that respects local customs and traditions, while also generating revenue and economic benefits for the community.

Another solution is to develop new business models that prioritize sustainability and community involvement. For example, some cultural tourism operators are working to develop sustainable tourism products and services that are owned and operated by local communities, rather than by outside companies. This not only helps to preserve the authenticity of cultural experiences, but also ensures that the benefits of tourism are shared more equitably among local residents.

Overall, balancing authenticity and commercialization is a critical challenge facing casual cultural tourists. By working closely with local communities and developing sustainable business models, it is possible to create cultural tourism products and services that are both commercially viable and authentic.

V. Tips for Enjoying a Memorable Casual Cultural Tourism Experience

A. research and plan ahead.

• Delve into the history, art, music, and cuisine of the destination.
• Seek out cultural festivals, markets, and events that showcase the local way of life.
• Familiarize yourself with the customs and etiquette of the destination.
• Prioritize the cultural attractions and experiences that resonate with your interests.
• Balance your itinerary with a mix of popular and off-the-beaten-path sites.
• Allocate sufficient time for each activity and factor in potential wait times or transportation delays.
• Obtain relevant maps, guides, and apps to navigate the destination.
• Brush up on the local language or download a translation app to facilitate communication.
• Consult online reviews and recommendations from fellow travelers for tips on accommodations, dining, and attractions.
• Reserve tickets for museums, tours, and other cultural attractions in advance to avoid waiting lines.
• Book accommodations that offer easy access to cultural sites and provide a local flavor.
• Arrange transportation and plan your routes to optimize your cultural tourism experience.
• Pack appropriately for the destination, considering climate, local customs, and any specific activities.
• Familiarize yourself with any necessary visa or passport requirements.
• Research any travel advisories or safety concerns and take necessary precautions.

By investing time in research and planning, you can create a tailored and immersive casual cultural tourism experience that allows you to engage with the local culture and create lasting memories.

B. Embrace Local Customs and Etiquette

When engaging in casual cultural tourism, it is essential to embrace the local customs and etiquette of the destination you are visiting. By doing so, you will not only gain a deeper understanding of the culture, but you will also be able to create a more authentic and memorable experience for yourself. Here are some tips to help you embrace local customs and etiquette during your casual cultural tourism journey:

• Familiarize yourself with local customs before you arrive: Before you embark on your casual cultural tourism adventure, take some time to research the local customs and etiquette of the destination you are visiting. This will help you understand what is expected of you and prevent any unintentional offenses.
• Dress appropriately: Dressing appropriately is an essential aspect of embracing local customs and etiquette. In some cultures, it is considered inappropriate to show too much skin, while in others, it is acceptable to wear revealing clothing. Make sure to research the local dress code and adapt your attire accordingly.
• Be mindful of your behavior in public: Public behavior varies from one culture to another. Some cultures are more reserved, while others are more expressive. Be mindful of your behavior in public and try to blend in with the local population. Avoid making loud noises or engaging in behavior that may be considered inappropriate or offensive.
• Learn basic phrases in the local language: Learning basic phrases in the local language can go a long way in showing respect for the culture you are visiting. It will also help you communicate more effectively with the locals, allowing you to connect with them on a deeper level.
• Show respect for local traditions and customs: When visiting a new culture, it is essential to show respect for local traditions and customs. This includes refraining from criticizing or making negative comments about the culture, as well as participating in local festivals and celebrations if possible.

By following these tips, you can embrace local customs and etiquette during your casual cultural tourism experience, creating a more authentic and memorable journey for yourself.

C. Interact with Locals and Seek Authentic Experiences

One of the most enriching aspects of casual cultural tourism is the opportunity to interact with locals and experience authentic cultural activities. Here are some tips for seeking out these unique experiences:

• Visit local markets: Immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting bustling markets, where you can shop for unique souvenirs, sample local cuisine, and interact with vendors and shoppers alike.
• Attend cultural events: Look for local festivals, celebrations, and performances that showcase the region’s customs and traditions. These events provide a great opportunity to engage with the community and learn about the area’s cultural heritage.
• Participate in workshops and classes: Consider taking a cooking class, art workshop, or other activity that allows you to learn from local experts and participate in authentic cultural practices.
• Join a guided tour: Join a small-group tour led by a knowledgeable local guide who can provide insights into the region’s history, culture, and traditions. This is an excellent way to gain a deeper understanding of the area and connect with locals.
• Stay with a local family: For a truly immersive experience, consider staying with a local family in their home. This will give you the opportunity to learn about their daily lives, customs, and traditions, and develop meaningful connections with the people who call the area home.

By taking the time to interact with locals and seek out authentic experiences, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the cultural landscape and create lasting memories that go beyond the typical tourist attractions.

D. Stay Open-Minded and Flexible

• Embrace Cultural Differences

Cultural differences are what make casual cultural tourism so enriching. Be open to experiencing and learning about customs, traditions, and practices that may differ from your own. By embracing these differences, you can broaden your horizons and develop a deeper appreciation for the world’s diversity. 2. Adapt to New Situations

Casual cultural tourism often involves spontaneity and unpredictability. Embrace the uncertainty and adapt to new situations as they arise. This flexibility will enable you to fully immerse yourself in the local culture and make the most of your travel experience. 3. Be Willing to Step Out of Your Comfort Zone

Casual cultural tourism is all about exploring and experiencing new things. Sometimes, this may require stepping out of your comfort zone. Whether it’s trying new foods, participating in local festivities, or engaging in conversations with locals, be open to new experiences and willing to push your boundaries. 4. Stay Curious and Ask Questions

Curiosity is the driving force behind a casual cultural tourist’s quest for knowledge. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and seek out information about the places you visit and the people you meet. This curiosity will enrich your travel experience and help you form a deeper connection with the local culture. 5. Accept the Unpredictable Nature of Travel

Travel is full of surprises, both good and bad. Instead of dwelling on setbacks or disappointments, focus on the positives and remain open to the unexpected. By doing so, you’ll be better equipped to handle any challenges that may arise and continue to enjoy your casual cultural tourism experience.

VI. The Future of Casual Cultural Tourism

A. emerging trends and technologies.

The realm of casual cultural tourism is constantly evolving, and emerging trends and technologies are shaping the way we experience and engage with cultural attractions. In this section, we will delve into some of the key trends and technologies that are likely to influence the future of casual cultural tourism.

Personalization and Customization

One of the most significant trends in casual cultural tourism is the increasing demand for personalized and customized experiences. As travelers seek more authentic and immersive cultural experiences, they are looking for ways to tailor their visits to their individual interests and preferences. This trend is driving the development of new technologies and platforms that enable travelers to design their own itineraries, choose from a range of activities and experiences, and receive personalized recommendations based on their interests and preferences.

Virtual and Augmented Reality

Another emerging trend in casual cultural tourism is the use of virtual and augmented reality (VR and AR) technologies to enhance the visitor experience. VR and AR technologies offer the potential to create immersive and interactive experiences that allow visitors to explore cultural attractions in new and innovative ways. For example, visitors can use VR and AR technologies to explore historical sites and landmarks, take virtual tours of museums and galleries, and interact with digital exhibits and installations.

Sustainable Tourism

Sustainable tourism is also becoming an increasingly important trend in casual cultural tourism. As travelers become more aware of the environmental and social impacts of tourism, they are seeking out experiences that are environmentally responsible and socially conscious. This trend is driving the development of new sustainable tourism initiatives and projects that focus on reducing the environmental impact of tourism, supporting local communities, and promoting cultural heritage conservation.

The Sharing Economy

The sharing economy is another trend that is transforming the way we experience and engage with cultural attractions. Platforms like Airbnb and Couchsurfing are enabling travelers to connect with local hosts and experience authentic local culture, while sharing economy platforms like Uber and Lyft are making it easier and more affordable to get around cultural destinations.

Overall, these emerging trends and technologies are likely to have a significant impact on the future of casual cultural tourism, shaping the way we experience and engage with cultural attractions and influencing the types of experiences and services that are available to travelers.

B. Sustainable and Responsible Cultural Tourism

In recent years, there has been a growing emphasis on sustainable and responsible cultural tourism . This approach to tourism aims to minimize negative impacts on the environment and local communities while maximizing the benefits for both. Here are some key aspects of sustainable and responsible cultural tourism :

• Environmental sustainability: This involves reducing the carbon footprint of tourism activities, promoting energy efficiency, and conserving natural resources. It also includes reducing waste and promoting sustainable practices such as recycling and composting.
• Socio-cultural sustainability: This involves preserving and promoting the cultural heritage of a destination, supporting local communities, and empowering local people to benefit from tourism. It also includes promoting respectful and culturally sensitive behavior among tourists.
• Economic sustainability: This involves ensuring that tourism generates income and employment opportunities for local communities, while also supporting the long-term sustainability of tourism businesses. It also includes ensuring that tourism revenues are distributed fairly and equitably.

To achieve sustainable and responsible cultural tourism , it is important to involve all stakeholders, including tourists, tour operators, local communities, and government agencies. This can be achieved through the development of sustainable tourism policies and practices, as well as through the promotion of responsible tourism behaviors among tourists.

In conclusion, sustainable and responsible cultural tourism is an important aspect of the future of casual cultural tourism. By promoting environmental, socio-cultural, and economic sustainability, we can ensure that tourism benefits both local communities and the environment, while also providing an enriching experience for tourists.

C. The Role of Digital Platforms and Social Media

As casual cultural tourism continues to gain popularity, digital platforms and social media play an increasingly significant role in shaping the experiences of these travelers. These online tools offer a wealth of information and resources, allowing casual cultural tourists to plan their trips more effectively and immerse themselves in the local culture of their destination.

The Power of Online Reviews and Recommendations

One of the most valuable aspects of digital platforms and social media for casual cultural tourists is the ability to read reviews and recommendations from other travelers. These online resources provide insights into the best local restaurants, museums, and cultural attractions, helping travelers to create a more personalized and authentic experience. By sharing their own experiences and providing valuable tips, fellow travelers become a virtual guide for those seeking a more immersive cultural experience.

Social Media as a Cultural Gateway

Social media platforms, such as Instagram and Facebook, serve as gateways to the local culture of a destination. Travelers can follow local influencers, artists, and cultural institutions to gain a deeper understanding of the customs, traditions, and daily life of their destination. This exposure to local culture can inspire travelers to seek out new experiences and deepen their engagement with the destination.

The Rise of Virtual Cultural Experiences

Digital platforms and social media also facilitate virtual cultural experiences, allowing casual cultural tourists to engage with local culture even when they are not physically present. Online tours of museums, virtual cooking classes, and digital workshops offer a unique opportunity for travelers to connect with local culture from the comfort of their own homes. While these virtual experiences may not replace the immersive nature of in-person engagement, they provide a valuable supplement to traditional travel experiences.

The Role of Digital Platforms in Responsible Tourism

As casual cultural tourism continues to grow, digital platforms and social media also play a crucial role in promoting responsible tourism practices. By sharing information about sustainable tourism initiatives, local customs, and cultural sensitivities, digital platforms empower travelers to make more informed decisions and minimize their impact on the destinations they visit. This shift towards responsible tourism practices ensures that casual cultural tourism remains a positive force for both travelers and the destinations they visit.

In conclusion, digital platforms and social media are becoming increasingly integral to the casual cultural tourism experience. These online tools provide a wealth of information and resources, enabling travelers to plan more effectively, immerse themselves in local culture, and engage in responsible tourism practices. As the role of digital platforms and social media continues to evolve, it is essential for casual cultural tourists to harness these tools to create a more authentic and meaningful travel experience.

1. What is a casual cultural tourist?

A casual cultural tourist is a person who engages in cultural tourism but does so in a less structured and less immersive manner than a dedicated cultural tourist. This type of tourist may participate in cultural activities and events, but they typically do so in a more spontaneous and informal way, and they may not seek out the same level of cultural authenticity or immersion as a dedicated cultural tourist.

2. What motivates casual cultural tourists to travel?

Casual cultural tourists may be motivated by a variety of factors, including a desire to experience new places and cultures, to learn about history and art, or to try new foods and activities. They may also be motivated by personal interests, such as a love of music or theater, or by a desire to escape the routine of daily life.

3. How do casual cultural tourists differ from dedicated cultural tourists?

Dedicated cultural tourists tend to be more focused on experiencing the culture of a destination in a deep and meaningful way, while casual cultural tourists may be more interested in a mix of cultural and non-cultural activities. Dedicated cultural tourists may also be more likely to engage in longer, more immersive experiences, such as studying a language or participating in a cultural exchange program, while casual cultural tourists may prefer shorter, more leisurely experiences.

4. What are some examples of activities that casual cultural tourists might enjoy?

Casual cultural tourists may enjoy a wide range of activities, depending on their interests and the destination they are visiting. Some examples might include visiting museums and art galleries, attending cultural festivals and events, trying local cuisine, taking guided tours, or participating in outdoor activities that offer a taste of the local culture, such as hiking or biking.

5. Are casual cultural tourists more common among certain types of travelers?

Casual cultural tourists can be found among a wide range of travelers, and their numbers may vary depending on the destination and the time of year. They are often seen as a large and growing segment of the tourism industry, as more and more travelers seek out authentic cultural experiences as part of their travels.

By tripbloggerscentral

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• CHỨNG KHOÁN
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Du lịch văn hoá (Cultural tourism) là gì? Thực trạng phát triển

Hình minh hoạ (Nguồn: wikipedia)

Du lịch văn hoá 

Du lịch văn hoá trong tiếng Anh được gọi là  Cultural tourism.

Du lịch văn hoá là hình thức du lịch dựa vào bản sắc văn hoá dân tộc với sự tham gia của cộng đồng nhằm bảo tồn và phát huy các giá trị văn hoá truyền thống. 

Bên cạnh những loại hình du lịch như du lịch sinh thái, du lịch khám chữa bệnh, du lịch mạo hiểm, du lịch giáo dục... gần đây du lịch văn hóa được xem là loại sản phẩm đặc thù của các nước đang phát triển, thu hút nhiều khách du lịch quốc tế. 

Du lịch văn hóa chủ yếu dựa vào những sản phẩm văn hóa, những lễ hội truyền thống dân tộc, kể cả những phong tục tín ngưỡng... để tạo sức hút đối với khách du lịch bản địa và từ khắp nơi trên thế giới. 

Đối với khách du lịch có sở thích nghiên cứu, khám phá văn hóa và phong tục tập quán bản địa, thì du lịch văn hóa là cơ hội để thỏa mãn nhu cầu của họ. Phần lớn hoạt động du lịch văn hóa gắn liền với địa phương - nơi lưu giữ nhiều lễ hội văn hóa và cũng là nơi tồn tại đói nghèo. 

Khách du lịch ở các nước phát triển thường lựa chọn những lễ hội của các nước  để tổ chức những chuyến du lịch nước ngoài. Bởi thế, thu hút khách du lịch tham gia du lịch văn hóa tức là tạo ra dòng chảy mới và cải thiện cuộc sống của người dân địa phương. 

Ở những nước kém phát triển hoặc đang phát triển, nền tảng phát triển phần lớn không dựa vào những đầu tư lớn để tạo ra những điểm du lịch đắt tiền, mà thường dựa vào nguồn du lịch tự nhiên và sự đa dạng trong bản sắc dân tộc. 

Những nguồn lợi này không tạo ra giá trị lớn cho ngành du lịch, nhưng lại đóng góp đáng kể cho sự phát triển của cộng đồng xã hội. Những quốc gia phát triển mạnh du lịch văn hóa là Thái Lan, Indonesia, Malaysia, Trung Quốc, và một số  nước thuộc khu vực Nam Mỹ....

Du lịch văn hóa là xu hướng của nhiều nước. Loại hình du lịch này rất phù hợp với bối cảnh của Việt Nam, rất tốt cho hoạt động xóa đói giảm nghèo quốc gia, vì vậy phải được xem là hướng phát triển của ngành du lịch Việt Nam.

Ở Việt Nam, nhiều hoạt động du lịch văn hóa được tổ chức dựa trên những đặc điểm của vùng miền. Chương trình Lễ hội Đất Phương Nam (Lễ hội văn hóa dân gian vùng Đồng bằng Nam bộ).

Du lịch Điện Biên (Lễ hội văn hóa Tây Bắc kết hợp với sự kiện chính trị: 50 năm chiến thắng Điện Biên Phủ), Con đường Di sản miền Trung (Lễ hội dân gian kết hợp tham quan những di sản văn hóa được UNESCO công nhận)... 

Là những hoạt động của du lịch văn hóa, thu hút nhiều khách du lịch trong và ngoài nước. Trong số đó, Festival Huế được xem là hoạt động du lịch văn hóa đặc sắc nhất Việt Nam.

(Tài liệu tham khảo: Tổng quan Du lịch, Phạm Trọng Lê Nghĩa, Cao đăng nghề Du lịch Vững Tàu) 

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Cultural Curiosity: A Comprehensive Guide to the 5 Types of Cultural Tourists

By: Author Valerie Forgeard

Posted on August 1, 2023

Categories Travel

You’ve likely heard of cultural tourism, but did you know there are five distinct types of cultural tourists?

It’s not just about visiting a place; it’s about how you engage with the culture once you’re there. Whether you’re an avid traveler or someone who simply appreciates diverse cultures from afar, understanding these categories can deepen your appreciation for this popular form of tourism.

In this article, we’ll delve into the characteristics and motivations that distinguish purposeful cultural tourists, sightseeing cultural tourists, and casual cultural tourists among others. We’ll also highlight how conservation efforts and technology play a pivotal role in shaping today’s cultural tourism landscape.

So buckle up as we take you on a journey through some of the world’s top destinations for cultural exploration while sharing tips to help make your next adventure more meaningful and responsible!

Key Takeaways

• Purposeful cultural tourists have a deep-rooted interest in understanding and experiencing different cultures, actively participate in local events, and have a substantial financial impact on local economies.
• Sightseeing cultural tourists prefer visiting historical landmarks, museums, and galleries, and have a preference for visual experiences representing diverse cultures.
• Casual cultural tourists partake in cultural activities in a relaxed manner, appreciate cultural experiences spontaneously, and contribute to the vibrant cultural atmosphere.
• Cultural tourism has a significant economic impact, serving as an economic lifeline for many regions, boosting local economies, and contributing to the tourism industry. Additionally, it promotes the preservation and promotion of local traditions and supports conservation efforts in cultural heritage sites.

Definition of Cultural Tourism

Cultural tourism, isn’t it simply fascinating? It’s the immersive journey of exploring and understanding the vibrant tapestry of traditions, heritage, art, and rituals that make each place uniquely enchanting.

But let me tell you something else, there are many cultural tourism misconceptions floating around. Some people may confuse it with a form of neo-colonization or exploitation. However, that’s far from truth.

Tourism versus colonization is a hot debate in this realm. While colonization imposed dominance and disrupted local cultures, cultural tourism aims to celebrate them while fostering understanding and respect. When done responsibly, it doesn’t strip away identities but rather enriches our global human heritage by spreading awareness about different cultures and their significance.

In essence, it’s an enlightening encounter with diversity.

The Role of Cultural Tourism in Today’s Society

In today’s fast-paced society, it’s intriguing to see how the allure of historical significance and traditional practices can play a significant role in attracting visitors on a global scale. This is where cultural tourism comes into play.

It serves as an economic lifeline for many regions, bringing not only monetary gains but also facilitating the preservation and promotion of local traditions.

Cultural tourism’s economic benefits are undeniable. It promotes job creation, boosts local economies, and positions cities or countries as attractive destinations. Furthermore, it presents opportunities for transforming local identities through cultural tourism.

As you explore various cultures, you’re not just observing; you’re participating in an exchange that fosters understanding and respect among diverse cultures. Hence, cultural tourism plays a crucial part in fostering global unity and mutual appreciation.

Purposeful Cultural Tourists

As a purposeful cultural tourist, you are driven by a deep-rooted interest in understanding and experiencing different cultures. This type of tourism involves traveling with the explicit aim of exploring facets of culture such as art, history, religion, or customs that are distinctive to a certain group of people or a specific region.

Characteristics of Purposeful Cultural Tourists

Purposeful cultural tourists, aren’t just casual observers. They’re the ones who dive headfirst into new cultures, eagerly seeking to understand and engage in local traditions, customs, and ways of life. Their passion for exploration drives them to immerse themselves fully in their travel experiences.

Consider some key traits of purposeful cultural tourists:

• Cultural tourist demographics : These travelers are typically well-educated with a high interest in history, art, or cuisine. They range from young backpackers to retirees.
• Economic impact of purposeful tourism : Their spending has substantial financial effects on local economies because they often prefer locally-sourced products and services.
• Active participation : They don’t just passively consume culture; they actively participate in local events and contribute to local communities.

Understanding these characteristics can help stakeholders design better tourism strategies.

Examples of Purposeful Cultural Tourism

Examples of purposeful cultural tourism are abundant. They showcase how this form of travel can enhance understanding and appreciation for diverse cultures. For instance, a visit to the ancient pyramids in Egypt or the Great Wall of China goes beyond mere sightseeing. It allows travelers to dive deep into history and culture.

While on such journeys, travelers are likely to encounter Cultural Tourism Ethics that guide their actions. These ethics include respecting local customs and buying from local artisans to support their livelihoods. Additionally, Cultural Tourism Policies, often set by governments or tourist boards, ensure sustainable practices and protect cultural heritage sites.

By abiding by these ethics and policies, travelers become model purposeful cultural tourists. They contribute positively to the local communities while immersing themselves in unique experiences.

Sightseeing Cultural Tourists

You may be familiar with Sightseeing Cultural Tourists, the type who prefer to visit historical landmarks, museums, and galleries. They are typified by their curiosity in understanding different cultures through visual experiences. They’re the ones you’ll often find clicking pictures of monuments or taking guided tours around heritage sites.

For instance, a trip to view the pyramids of Egypt or a tour through Rome’s Colosseum would fall under sightseeing cultural tourism. It’s all about immersing oneself in the rich tapestry of human history and civilization.

Characteristics of Sightseeing Cultural Tourists

Sightseeing Cultural Tourists are deeply captivated by the wonders of art, architecture, and history, immersing themselves in each monumental spectacle. They’re characterized by an undying thirst for knowledge about diverse cultures.

• Sightseeing tourist preferences: They’re fond of visiting museums, galleries, historical sites and landmarks. Their interest lies not only in the visual appeal but also what these represent culturally.
• Impact of climate change on sightseeing cultural tourism: Climate change can affect their travel plans drastically as it threatens to destroy some iconic sites around the world.
• Adaptive behavior: They show adaptability by adjusting their itinerary based on weather conditions or other factors that may impact their visit.
• Knowledge seekers: Lastly, they’re always eager to learn more about different cultures through guided tours or self-exploration.

These traits make them distinct from other types of tourists.

Examples of Sightseeing Cultural Tourism

From the awe-inspiring pyramids of Egypt to the artistic richness of Italy’s museums, there’s a whole world out there waiting to be discovered by sightseeing enthusiasts. This form of cultural tourism opens up opportunities for you to immerse yourself in diverse traditions and histories.

It also presents a chance for you to practice ‘cultural photography ethics’, capturing images that respect local customs and people.

However, as a sightseeing tourist, it’s important to remember your responsibility towards sustainable travel practices. This means respecting natural resources, reducing waste, supporting local economies, and preserving cultural heritage sites.

For instance, visiting the Great Wall of China or Machu Picchu requires careful steps not only towards conserving these landmarks but also contributing positively to their surrounding communities.

Casual Cultural Tourists

You’re about to delve into the realm of casual cultural tourism, a concept that’s as intriguing as it is unique.

Casual cultural tourists are those who partake in cultural activities in a relaxed manner. They might visit a museum or historical site on a whim rather than as part of an itinerary.

Examples of casual cultural tourism could include exploring local food markets in Bangkok, casually strolling through the Louvre in Paris, or spontaneously attending a traditional music performance in New Orleans.

Characteristics of Casual Cultural Tourists

Casual cultural tourists stand out due to their motivations and approach toward cultural immersion. As a casual tourist, you’re interested in cultural experiences but aren’t necessarily driven by an intense desire to fully immerse yourself in another culture.

Your motivations might lean more toward relaxation or entertainment with a hint of educational interest. You appreciate absorbing elements of different cultures through food, music, or art, without feeling the need to understand every aspect deeply.

Cultural immersion strategies for casual tourists often involve participating in popular activities rather than seeking out less-known traditions or practices.

Remember though, being a casual cultural tourist doesn’t mean that your experiences are any less enriching or meaningful!

Examples of Casual Cultural Tourism

Imagine strolling through a bustling local market, tasting exotic foods, attending a lively music festival, or admiring beautiful art pieces in a museum. These are all examples of casual cultural tourism. This type of tourism is often spontaneous and driven by curiosity rather than a deep interest in the culture itself.

The casual tourism impact can be seen in the way it helps to boost local economies by providing additional income for small businesses and artisans. Moreover, it facilitates cultural assimilation in tourism as tourists get immersed in diverse cultures casually.

However, it’s important for you to respect the traditions and customs of the places you visit. Remember that your casual interest has the potential to contribute to preserving or even revitalizing unique cultural expressions around the world.

Incidental Cultural Tourists

You’ve likely encountered Incidental Cultural Tourists, even if you weren’t aware of it. These tourists are characterized by their primary interest in general travel rather than cultural experiences. However, they may still partake in cultural activities if the opportunity arises during their travels.

For instance, a person visiting London primarily for business who decides to take a quick tour of the British Museum is an example of incidental cultural tourism.

Characteristics of Incidental Cultural Tourists

Incidental Cultural Tourists aren’t necessarily planning their trips around cultural experiences, but they’ll happily partake if the opportunity arises during their vacation. Their incidental tourist motivations are often driven by curiosity or a spontaneous desire to explore something new.

Your level of cultural immersion as an incidental tourist can vary greatly. It might range from visiting a local market to attending a traditional festival. Don’t expect them to fully immerse themselves in every aspect of the culture, though.

Here’s a brief breakdown:

Remember, incidental tourists appreciate cultural experiences but don’t prioritize them. They’re more about seizing unexpected opportunities along their journey.

Examples of Incidental Cultural Tourism

Examples of incidental cultural tourism can be seen in real-world scenarios. One such scenario is when you travel for business but find yourself unintentionally immersed in a new culture during your downtime. For instance, attending a conference in Tokyo and deciding to visit the Tsukiji Fish Market can lead to an inadvertent experience of Japanese culinary traditions. Similarly, taking a ski trip to Switzerland might lead you to discover Swiss alpine culture when exploring quaint mountain villages off the slopes. In both cases, the primary purpose wasn’t cultural exploration, but by embracing these unexpected opportunities, you experience an accidental yet enriching cultural immersion – the essence of incidental cultural tourism.

Serendipitous Cultural Tourists

Stumbling upon a cultural gem unexpectedly can turn someone into a Serendipitous Cultural Tourist, and isn’t that just the best kind of surprise? These folks aren’t necessarily driven by serendipitous tourist motivations when setting out, but they inadvertently discover and appreciate new cultural aspects during their travels.

Unexpected cultural experiences often unfold as:

• A sudden encounter with a local festival in full swing.
• Discovering an obscure art gallery tucked away in an alleyway.
• Engaging in impromptu conversations with locals, revealing deep-seated traditions.
• Stumbling upon a street performance of traditional music or dance.
• Experiencing local cuisine first-hand at a family-run eatery.

The beauty lies not only in these unexpected moments but also your willingness to embrace them wholeheartedly. Your journey becomes enriched by newfound knowledge and appreciation for diverse cultures.

The Impact of Cultural Tourism on Local Communities

Imagine the transformative power your visit can have on a local community! While cultural tourism often brings economic benefits, it’s crucial to recognize the potential for economic disparities too.

Not all communities are equipped to handle an influx of tourists. Infrastructure may buckle under the strain, leading to community resistance as locals grapple with rapid changes.

Your presence could also influence social dynamics, possibly promoting inequality if not managed carefully. Some locals might profit more than others from tourist spending, fueling tensions among community members. Such disparities can trigger resistance to tourism initiatives.

In essence, while cultural tourism can boost local economies and foster cross-cultural understanding, it’s vital that these visits respect and uphold the integrity of local cultures and their socio-economic structures.

The Role of Cultural Heritage Sites in Cultural Tourism

Exploring heritage sites is an enriching experience, offering a unique window into the traditions, history, and spirit of local communities. These places play a vital role in cultural tourism, as they’re not just attractions but also repositories of culture and tradition.

Heritage site management is crucial in preserving their authenticity and educational value for tourists.

The key to managing these sites lies in balancing tourist interest with conservation efforts. It’s about maintaining the authenticity preservation while ensuring visitor satisfaction. This involves careful planning, from controlling foot traffic to implementing educational programs that promote respect for the site’s cultural significance.

Remember, each visit you make contributes to keeping alive our shared heritage – making you a part of this ongoing story of mankind’s diverse cultures.

How to Respectfully Engage in Cultural Tourism

When engaging in cultural tourism, it is important to navigate the fine line between exploration and respect. A great starting point is cultural sensitivity training, which teaches you to understand, communicate with, and effectively interact with people across cultures. This awareness can prevent misunderstandings or offensive behavior.

Ethical travel practices are also crucial. Before visiting a new place, it is important to research their customs and norms to avoid causing offense inadvertently. It is important to respect local traditions, support local businesses, and ask permission before taking photos of locals or sacred sites.

It is important to remember that cultural tourism is not just about ticking places off a bucket list; it is about gaining insights into different ways of life without disrupting them. Travel responsibly!

The Future of Cultural Tourism

As we look to the future, it’s your journey through the diverse tapestry of human experiences that will shape and redefine what tourism means in a globalized world.

COVID-19 has drastically altered travel norms, directing us toward new innovations like virtual reality tours.

• Virtual Reality Tours: These offer immersive cultural experiences without leaving home. It’s predicted that these tours will gain popularity, providing access to remote or fragile cultural sites.
• Health and Safety Measures: COVID-19 has highlighted the importance of health security during travel. Expect more stringent safety protocols as part of future cultural tourism.
• Local Engagement: There will be increased emphasis on engaging locals in tourism planning, ensuring their culture is represented authentically.

Going forward, you will play an active role in shaping this inclusive, responsible approach to cultural tourism.

Conservation Efforts in Cultural Tourism

Conservation efforts in cultural tourism are crucial for the sustainability of heritage sites. Tourist education plays a key role in promoting respect and appreciation for the cultural significance of these locations. By providing visitors with proper knowledge about the importance of conservation, they become more aware of their impact and are motivated to act responsibly. Sustainable practices also play a vital role in preserving these sites. By incorporating sustainability into all aspects of cultural tourism, from tour planning to the promotion of local products, tourism professionals contribute significantly to the conservation of world cultures for future generations to enjoy.

The Role of Technology in Cultural Tourism

The role of technology in cultural tourism is fascinating. It has become a game-changer in the realm of heritage exploration and appreciation. Virtual reality experiences, for instance, have redefined our interaction with cultural sites. You can now tour historic landmarks or museums from the comfort of your home, immersing yourself in vivid displays that transport you across time and space.

Technology’s influence extends beyond virtual tours too. It enables language translation apps that break down communication barriers during travels. Interactive maps offer detailed insights into local customs and traditions, enhancing your understanding of diverse cultures. Tech advancements also contribute to conservation efforts by aiding in damage assessment and restoration planning for cultural heritage sites.

In short, technology plays a pivotal role in enriching and democratizing our engagement with cultural tourism.

Top Destinations for Cultural Tourism

Ready to immerse yourself in the world’s rich history and traditions? Let’s dive into some top-notch destinations that’ll leave you spellbound with their unique heritage and charm.

• Kyoto, Japan: Known for its ancient temples, traditional tea ceremonies, and Geisha culture.
• Culinary explorations: Savor authentic Japanese cuisine such as sashimi or kaiseki.
• Sustainable practices: Embrace local customs like ‘mottainai’, a philosophy centered around waste reduction.

Marrakesh, Morocco: An intoxicating blend of bustling souks, magnificent palaces, and lush gardens.

• Culinary explorations: Dive into a world of flavors with dishes like tagine or couscous.
• Sustainable practices: Participate in eco-friendly tourism initiatives that preserve the city’s cultural heritage.

These cultures offer immersive experiences while promoting sustainable travel — an enchanting way to explore our diverse world.

Tips for Becoming a Responsible Cultural Tourist

While it’s exciting to explore the world’s top cultural destinations, it’s equally important to be a responsible traveler. To truly appreciate and respect different cultures, you need to understand your role and impact as a visitor. Here are some tips on how you can become a more responsible cultural tourist.

Remember, small actions can make big differences!

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The Village for Ethnic Culture and Tourism

Co Dong, Ba Vi, Hanoi

Located about 40 km away from Hanoi, it is a part of Dong Mo tourist area, Son Tay, Hanoi, the cultural – tourism village with diverse mountainous terrain along peaceful valleys and lakes. Vietnam National Village for Ethnic Culture and Tourism is the ideal destination for you to visit and travel as well as to learn more about the culture of Vietnamese ethnic groups.

With nearly 200 ha, The area of ethnic villages was built into zones of hamlet structures and reconstructing villages within zoning plan and folk architecture in order to introduce, preserve and develop the traditional cultural values of 54 Vietnamese ethnic communities .

The Village consist of four smaller hamlets belonging to different regions where local residents live.

Things to do

Vietnam National Village for Ethnic Culture and Tourism is considered a national center of culture, sports and tourism activities where traditional cultural heritage of 54 Vietnamese ethnics can be kept and exploited. When you have chance to come here you do not only relax, go sightseeing and enjoy the green and fresh atmosphere but also participate in cultural and artistic activities with rich, dynamic, diverse, attractive performance. Besides, your solidarity, mutual understanding, friendship, cooperation and your cultural exchange with other nations in the world are enhancing when you visit the village.

Vietnam National Villages for Ethnic Culture and Tourism will be a good place for travelling, cultural and research activities of both Vietnamese and foreign tourists.

Entrance ticket

• 30,000 VND/ person for adults
• 10,000 VND/ person for tertiary students
• 5,000 VND/ person for primary and secondary students
• Free for children below 6 years old

Vietnam National Villages for Ethnic Culture and Tourism is opened from

Tuesday to Sunday included holidays.

• 8:00 – 11:00 AM  in the morning
• 13:00 – 16:30 PM  in the afternoon

Nice Cornelia June 26, 2020 (5.0)

Is this village available now or open for tourists this month and July 2020?

I want to visit this place. Do they accept tourists now? or in July 2020? How to get there from Kim Ma, Hanoi?

HVG June 27, 2020 (5.0)

Yes, the village is open now for all tourists and also will be opening in July onward. You can rent a car for a comfortable trip to the village, here’s for your reference if you are interested https://hanoishuttle.com/car-hire-with-driver/

Victor February 18, 2021 (5.0)

Hello Is the centre open now, I don’t want to visit if it’s closed due to the pandemic

HVG February 19, 2021 (5.0)

Yes, it’s open now for tourists, and be sure you bring face mask to be allowed to come in. Have a good trip!

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Please note you do not have access to teaching notes, cultural tourism market: a perspective paper.

Tourism Review

ISSN : 1660-5373

Article publication date: 7 January 2020

Issue publication date: 20 February 2020

This paper aims to discuss the evolution of the cultural tourism market and what its future may be.

Design/methodology/approach

Instead of seeing the cultural tourism market as homogeneous, a segmentation model was developed based on the centrality of culture in the overall decision to travel and the depth of experience sought.

The model verified five segments, including: the purposeful cultural tourist, the sightseeing cultural tourist, the serendipitous cultural tourist, the casual cultural tourist and the incidental cultural tourist.

Originality/value

This framework has transformed how we think about cultural tourists, as it provides a better understanding of the differences in behavior and preferences for certain types of experiences. It is also a tool to develop more effective marketing communication strategies and serves as the basis to evaluate the market significance of this activity.

• Cultural tourism
• Segmentation

McKercher, B. (2020), "Cultural tourism market: a perspective paper", Tourism Review , Vol. 75 No. 1, pp. 126-129. https://doi.org/10.1108/TR-03-2019-0096

Emerald Publishing Limited

Copyright © 2020, Emerald Publishing Limited

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How to segment cultural tourists

Visit Britain Segments

Cultural visitors can be classified into the following categories:

• The purposeful cultural tourist /culture vulture - cultural tourism is the primary motive for visiting a destination and the tourist has a deep cultural experience
• The sightseeing cultural tourist - cultural tourism is a primary reason for experiencing a destination, but the experience is less deep
• The serendipitous cultural tourist - a tourist, who does not travel for cultural reasons but who, after participating, ends up having a deep cultural experience
• The casual cultural tourist - cultural tourism is a weak motive for travel and the resulting experience is shallow
• The incidental cultural tourist - the tourist does not travel for cultural reasons, but nonetheless participates in some activities and has shallow experiences

Motivational trends: this resource also identifies some motivational trends in cultural tourism such as authenticity and uniqueness, cultural immersion and experiential holidays, amongst others.

Authenticity and uniqueness

• In consumers' continued search for meaning in their lives, the trend for authenticity has been identified to refer to the search for something real, original or authentic. This can be in a product, a service or an experience, as well as looking for a sense of it within themselves. This is now applying to a cross section of society and is likely to increase among the population of developed markets as accessibility to knowledge and information continues.
• Many destinations already market their cultural tourism on the theme of authenticity, for example New Zealand ran a '100% Pure' campaign, utilising its Maori heritage.
• A key consideration is that for the experience to feel authentic it also has to avoid high tourist density, so it is important that consumers are offered enough choice away from the mainstream activities and experiences to avoid these quickly becoming tourist hotspots in themselves.
• Research into the emerging markets shows that a desire for 'immersion into the culture of the country they are visiting' is a key differentiator of those that are most likely to visit Britain in these markets versus those who are not.
• The sorts of authentic experiences are things like visiting a country pub and meeting real British people, learning a new skill such as learning how to build a stone wall or cook British food. Other experiences could be putting a stately home to bed, going to a football match, or going to Wimbledon and eating strawberries and ice-cream.

Experiential holidays

• In the future, people will have more and more diverse interests, and travel will develop to be more about the experience and participation. It will be the immersion and passion that counts above the destination itself. This is about having a desire not just to have things or buy things but to experience them.
• VisitBritain's research in Japan (2008) demonstrates this growing trend among travellers towards independent and experiential holidays rather than the 'trophy tour'. The signalling of status has become more subtle and involves experiences and events not just ticking off famous cities and landmarks.
• They want to get involved in the site - live and breathe it. Therefore propositions from Britain marketers that offer good value experiential or self-enrichment products are likely to win good business from consumers.
• Evidence is building for the existence of multiple markets for special interest/niche travel eg lifestyle holidays. These go hand in hand with global trends towards self-improvement and experiential travel. These groups have a strong educational focus relating to special interest areas of art, history, architecture, gardening, walking, theatre or music. The tour participants are generally people in their fifties and over. They are leisure travellers who are seeking new experiences, learning with like-minded people and personal fulfilment through experiential travel.

Download the guide to read more: How to segment cultural tourists (PDF)

Cutting Edge | Bringing cultural tourism back in the game

The growth of cultural tourism

People have long traveled to discover and visit places of historical significance or spiritual meaning, to experience different cultures, as well as to learn about, exchange and consume a range of cultural goods and services. Cultural tourism as a concept gained traction during the 1990s when certain sub-sectors emerged, including heritage tourism, arts tourism, gastronomic tourism, film tourism and creative tourism. This took place amidst the rising tide of globalization and technological advances that spurred greater mobility through cheaper air travel, increased accessibility to diverse locations and cultural assets, media proliferation, and the rise of independent travel. Around this time, tourism policy was also undergoing a shift that was marked by several trends. These included a sharper focus on regional development, environmental issues, public-private partnerships, industry self-regulation and a reduction in direct government involvement in the supply of tourism infrastructure. As more cultural tourists have sought to explore the cultures of the destinations, greater emphasis has been placed on the importance of intercultural dialogue to promote understanding and tolerance. Likewise, in the face of globalization, countries have looked for ways to strengthen local identity, and cultural tourism has also been engaged as a strategy to achieve this purpose. Being essentially place-based, cultural tourism is driven by an interest to experience and engage with culture first-hand. It is backed by a desire to discover, learn about and enjoy the tangible and intangible cultural assets offered in a tourism destination, ranging from heritage, performing arts, handicrafts, rituals and gastronomy, among others.

Cultural tourism is a leading priority for the majority of countries around the world -featuring in the tourism policy of 90% of countries, based on a 2016 UNWTO global survey . Most countries include tangible and intangible heritage in their definition of cultural tourism, and over 80% include contemporary culture - film, performing arts, design, fashion and new media, among others. There is, however, greater need for stronger localisation in policies, which is rooted in promoting and enhancing local cultural assets, such as heritage, food, festivals and crafts. In France, for instance, the Loire Valley between Sully-sur-Loire and Chalonnes , a UNESCO World Heritage site, has established a multidisciplinary team that defends the cultural values of the site, and advises the authorities responsible for the territorial development of the 300 km of the Valley.

While cultural tourism features prominently in policies for economic growth, it has diverse benefits that cut across the development spectrum – economic, social and environmental. Cultural tourism expands businesses and job opportunities by drawing on cultural resources as a competitive advantage in tourism markets. Cultural tourism is increasingly engaged as a strategy for countries and regions to safeguard traditional cultures, attract talent, develop new cultural resources and products, create creative clusters, and boost the cultural and creative industries. Cultural tourism, particularly through museums, can support education about culture. Tourist interest can also help ensure the transmission of intangible cultural heritage practices to younger generations.

StockSnap, Pixabay

Cultural tourism can help encourage appreciation of and pride in local heritage, thus sparking greater interest and investment in its safeguarding. Tourism can also drive inclusive community development to foster resiliency, inclusivity, and empowerment. It promotes territorial cohesion and socioeconomic inclusion for the most vulnerable populations, for example, generating economic livelihoods for women in rural areas. A strengthened awareness of conservation methods and local and indigenous knowledge contributes to long-term environmental sustainability. Similarly, the funds generated by tourism can be instrumental to ensuring ongoing conservation activities for built and natural heritage.

The growth of cultural tourism has reshaped the global urban landscape over the past decades, strongly impacting spatial planning around the world. In many countries, cultural tourism has been leveraged to drive urban regeneration or city branding strategies, from large-sized metropolises in Asia or the Arab States building on cultural landmarks and contemporary architecture to drive tourism expansion, to small and middle-sized urban settlements enhancing their cultural assets to stimulate local development. At the national level, cultural tourism has also impacted planning decisions, encouraging coastal development in some areas, while reviving inland settlements in others. This global trend has massively driven urban infrastructure development through both public and private investments, impacting notably transportation, the restoration of historic buildings and areas, as well as the rehabilitation of public spaces. The expansion of cultural city networks, including the UNESCO World Heritage Cities programme and the UNESCO Creative Cities Network, also echoes this momentum. Likewise, the expansion of cultural routes, bringing together several cities or human settlements around cultural commonalities to stimulate tourism, has also generated new solidarities, while influencing economic and cultural exchanges between cities across countries and regions.

Despite tourism’s clear potential as a driver for positive change, challenges exist, including navigating the space between economic gain and cultural integrity. Tourism’s crucial role in enhancing inclusive community development can often remain at the margins of policy planning and implementation. Rapid and unplanned tourism growth can trigger a range of negative impacts, including pressure on local communities and infrastructure from overtourism during peak periods, gentrification of urban areas, waste problems and global greenhouse gas emissions. High visitor numbers to heritage sites can override their natural carrying capacity, thus undermining conservation efforts and affecting both the integrity and authenticity of heritage sites. Over-commercialization and folklorization of intangible heritage practices – including taking these practices out of context for tourism purposes - can risk inadvertently changing the practice over time. Large commercial interests can monopolize the benefits of tourism, preventing these benefits from reaching local communities. An excessive dependency on tourism can also create localized monoeconomies at the expense of diversification and alternative economic models. When mismanaged, tourism can, therefore, have negative effects on the quality of life and well-being of local residents, as well as the natural environment.

These fault lines became more apparent when the pandemic hit – revealing the extent of over-dependence on tourism and limited structures for crisis prevention and response. While the current situation facing tourism is unpredictable, making it difficult to plan, further crises are likely in the years to come. Therefore, the pandemic presents the opportunity to experiment with new models to shape more effective and sustainable alternatives for the future.

hxdyl, Getty Images Pro

Harnessing cultural tourism in policy frameworks

From a policy perspective, countries around the world have employed cultural tourism as a vehicle to achieve a range of strategic aims. In Panama, cultural tourism is a key component of the country’s recently adopted Master Plan for Sustainable Tourism 2020-2025 that seeks to position Panama as a worldwide benchmark for sustainable tourism through the development of unique heritage routes. Cultural tourism can be leveraged for cultural diplomacy as a form of ‘soft power’ to build dialogue between peoples and bolster foreign policy. For instance, enhancing regional cooperation between 16 countries has been at the heart of UNESCO’s transnational Silk Roads Programme, which reflects the importance of culture and heritage as part of foreign policy. UNESCO has also partnered with the EU and National Geographic to develop World Heritage Journeys, a unique travel platform that deepens the tourism experience through four selected cultural routes covering 34 World Heritage sites. Also in Europe, cultural tourism has been stimulated through the development of cultural routes linked to food and wine , as well as actions to protect local food products, such as through labels and certificates of origin. The Emilia-Romagna region in Italy, for example, produces more origin-protected food and drink than any other region in the country. One of the regions' cities Parma - a UNESCO Creative City (Gastronomy) and designated Italian Capital for Culture (2020-2021) - plans to resume its cultural activities to boost tourism once restrictions have eased. Meanwhile, Spain has recently taken steps to revive its tourism industry through its cities inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List . In this regard, the Group of the 15 Spanish World Heritage Cities met recently to discuss the country's Modernization and Competitiveness Plan for the tourism sector. Cultural tourism has progressively featured more prominently in the policies of Central Asian and Eastern European countries, which have sought to revive intangible heritage and boost the creative economy as part of strategies to strengthen national cultural identity and open up to the international community. In Africa, cultural tourism is a growing market that is driven by its cultural heritage, crafts, and national and regional cultural events. Major festivals such as Dak-Art in Senegal, Bamako Encounters Photography Biennial in Mali, Sauti za Busara in United Republic of Tanzania, Pan-African Festival of Cinema and Television of Ouagadougou in Burkina Faso, and Chale Wote Street Art Festival in Ghana are just a handful of vibrant and popular platforms in the continent that share cultural expressions, generate income for local economies and strengthen Pan-African identity.

Countries are increasingly seeking alliances with international bodies to advance tourism. National and local governments are working together with international entities, such as UNESCO, UNWTO and OECD in the area of sustainable tourism. In 2012, UNESCO’s Sustainable Tourism Programme was adopted, thereby breaking new ground to promote tourism a driver for the conservation of cultural and natural heritage and a vehicle for sustainable development. In 2020, UNESCO formed the Task Force on Culture and Resilient Tourism with the Advisory Bodies to the 1972 World Heritage Convention (ICOMOS, IUCN, ICCROM) as a global dialogue platform on key issues relating to tourism and heritage management during and beyond the crisis. UNESCO has also collaborated with the UNWTO on a set of recommendations for inclusive cultural tourism recovery from the COVID-19 crisis. In response to the crisis, the Namibian Government, UNESCO and UNDP are working together on a tourism impact study and development strategy to restore the tourism sector, especially cultural tourism.

UNESCO has scaled up work in cultural tourism in its work at field level, supporting its Member States and strengthening regional initiatives. In the Africa region, enhancing cultural tourism has been reported as a policy priority across the region. For example, UNESCO has supported the Government of Ghana in its initiative Beyond the Return, in particular in relation to its section on cultural tourism. In the Pacific, a Common Country Assessment (CCA) has been carried out for 14 SIDS countries, with joint interagency programmes to be created building on the results. Across the Arab States, trends in tourism after COVID, decent jobs and cultural and creative industries are emerging as entry points for different projects throughout the region. In Europe, UNESCO has continued its interdisciplinary work on visitor centres in UNESCO designated sites, building on a series of workshops to strengthen tourism sustainability, community engagement and education through heritage interpretation. In the Latin America and the Caribbean region, UNESCO is working closely with Member States, regional bodies and the UN system building on the momentum on the International Year of Creative Economy for Sustainable Development, including through Creative Cities, and the sustainable recovery of the orange economy, among others.

BS1920, Pixabay

In the context of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, tourism has the potential to contribute, directly or indirectly, to all of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Tourism is directly mentioned in SDGs 8, 12 and 14 on inclusive and sustainable economic growth, sustainable consumption and production (SCP) and the sustainable use of oceans and marine resources, respectively. This is mirrored in the VNRs put forward by countries, who report on cultural tourism notably through the revitalization of urban and rural areas through heritage regeneration, festivals and events, infrastructure development, and the promotion of local cultural products. The VNRs also demonstrate a trend towards underlining more sustainable approaches to tourism that factor in the environmental dimensions of tourism development.

Several countries have harnessed cultural tourism as a policy panacea for economic growth and diversification. As part of Qatar's National Vision 2030 strategy, for example, the country has embarked on a development plan that includes cultural tourism through strengthening its culture-based industries, including calligraphy, handicrafts and living heritage practices. In the city of Abu Dhabi in the UAE, cultural tourism is part of the city’s plan for economic diversification and to steer its domestic agenda away from a hydrocarbon-based economy. The Plan Abu Dhabi 2030 includes the creation of a US$27 billion cultural district on Saadiyat Island, comprising a cluster of world-renowned museums, and cultural and educational institutions designed by international star architects to attract tourism and talent to the city. Since 2016, Saudi Arabia has taken decisive action to invest in tourism, culture and entertainment to reduce the country’s oil dependency, while also positioning the country as a global cultural destination. Under the 2020 G20 Saudi Presidency, the UNWTO and the G20 Tourism Working Group launched the AlUla Framework for Inclusive Community Development through Tourism to better support inclusive community development and the SDGs. The crucial role of tourism as a means of sustainable socio-economic development was also underlined in the final communique of the G20 Tourism Ministers in October last.

Siem Reap, Cambodia by nbriam

On the other hand, cultural tourism can catalyse developments in cultural policy. This was the case in the annual Festival of Pacific Arts (FestPac) that triggered a series of positive policy developments following its 2012 edition that sought to strengthen social cohesion and community pride in the context of a prolonged period of social unrest. The following year, Solomon Islands adopted its first national culture policy with a focus on cultural industries and cultural tourism, which resulted in a significant increase in cultural events being organized throughout the country.

When the pandemic hit, the geographic context of some countries meant that many of them were able to rapidly close borders and prioritize domestic tourism. This has been the case for countries such as Australia and New Zealand. However, the restrictions have been coupled by significant economic cost for many Small Island Developing States (SIDS) whose economies rely on tourism and commodity exports. Asia Pacific SIDS, for example, are some of the world’s leading tourist destinations. As reported in the Tracker last June , in 2018, tourism earnings exceeded 50% of GDP in Cook Islands, Maldives and Palau and equaled approximately 30% of GDP in Samoa and Vanuatu. When the pandemic hit in 2020, the drop in British tourists to Spain’s Balearic Islands resulted in a 93% downturn in visitor numbers , forcing many local businesses to close. According to the World Economic Outlook released last October, the economies of tourism-dependent Caribbean nations are estimated to drop by 12%, while Pacific Island nations, such as Fiji, could see their GDP shrink by a staggering 21% in 2020.

Socially-responsible travel and ecotourism have become more of a priority for tourists and the places they visit. Tourists are increasingly aware of their carbon footprint, energy consumption and the use of renewable resources. This trend has been emphasized as a result of the pandemic. According to recent survey by Booking.com, travelers are becoming more conscientious of how and why they travel, with over two-thirds (69%) expecting the travel industry to offer more sustainable travel options . Following the closures of beaches in Thailand, for example, the country is identifying ways to put certain management policies in place that can strike a better balance with environmental sustainability. The  UNESCO Sustainable Tourism Pledge  launched in partnership with Expedia Group focuses on promoting sustainable tourism and heritage conservation. The pledge takes an industry-first approach to environmental and cultural protection, requiring businesses to introduce firm measures to eliminate single-use plastics and promote local culture. The initiative is expanding globally in 2021 as a new, more environmentally and socially conscious global travel market emerges from the COVID-19 context.

Senja, Norway by Jarmo Piironen

Climate change places a heavy toll on heritage sites, which exacerbates their vulnerability to other risks, including uncontrolled tourism. This was underlined in the publication “World Heritage and Tourism in a Changing Climate” , published by UNESCO, UNEP and the Union of Concerned Scientists, which analyses the consequences of climate change on heritage, and its potential to permanently change or destroy a site’s integrity and authenticity. Extreme weather events, safety issues and water shortages, among others, can thwart access to sites and hurt the economic livelihoods of tourism service providers and local communities. Rising sea levels will increasingly impact coastal tourism, the largest component of the sector globally. In particular, coral reefs - contributing US$11.5 billion to the global tourism economy – are at major risk from climate change.

Marine sites are often tourist magnets where hundreds of thousands of annual visitors enjoy these sites on yachts and cruise ships. In the case of UNESCO World Heritage marine sites – which fall under the responsibility of governments - there is often a reliance on alternative financing mechanisms, such as grants and donations, and partnerships with non-governmental organizations and/or the private sector, among others. The West Norwegian Fjords – Geirangerfjord and Nærøyfjord in Norway derives a substantial portion of its management budget from sources other than government revenues. The site has benefited from a partnership with the private sector company Green Dream 2020, which only allows the “greenest” operators to access the site, and a percentage of the profits from tours is reinjected into the long-term conservation of the site. In iSimangaliso in South Africa, a national law that established the World Heritage site’s management system was accompanied by the obligation to combine the property’s conservation with sustainable economic development activities that created jobs for local people. iSimangaliso Wetland Park supports 12,000 jobs and hosts an environmental education programme with 150 schools. At the Great Barrier Reef in Australia, where 91% of all local jobs are linked to the Reef, the Coral Nurture Programme undertakes conservation through planting coral, and promotes local stewardship and adaptation involving the whole community and local tourist businesses.

Grafner, Getty Images

With borders continuing to be closed and changeable regulations, many countries have placed a focus on domestic tourism and markets to stimulate economic recovery. According to the UNWTO, domestic tourism is expected to pick up faster than international travel, making it a viable springboard for economic and social recovery from the pandemic. In doing so it will serve to better connect populations to their heritage and offer new avenues for cultural access and participation. In China, for example, the demand for domestic travel is already approaching pre-pandemic levels. In Russian Federation, the Government has backed a programme to promote domestic tourism and support small and medium-sized enterprises, as well as a cashback scheme for domestic trips, which entitles tourists to a 20% refund for their trip. While supporting domestic tourism activities, the Government of Palau is injecting funds into local businesses working in reforestation and fishing in the spirit of building new sustainable models. The measures put in place today will shape the tourism to come, therefore the pandemic presents an opportunity to build back a stronger, more agile and sustainable tourism sector.

Local solutions at the helm of cultural tourism

While state-led policy interventions in cultural tourism remain crucial, local authorities are increasingly vital stakeholders in the design and implementation of cultural tourism policies. Being close to the people, local actors are aware of the needs of local populations, and can respond quickly and provide innovative ideas and avenues for policy experimentation. As cultural tourism is strongly rooted to place, cooperating with local decision-makers and stakeholders can bring added value to advancing mutual objectives. Meanwhile, the current health crisis has severely shaken cities that are struggling due to diminished State support, and whose economic basis strongly relies on tourism. Local authorities have been compelled to innovate to support local economies and seek viable alternatives, thus reaffirming their instrumental role in cultural policy-making.

Venice, Oliver Dralam/Getty Images

Cultural tourism can be a powerful catalyst for urban regeneration and renaissance, although tourism pressure can also trigger complex processes of gentrification. Cultural heritage safeguarding enhances the social value of a place by boosting the well-being of individuals and communities, reducing social inequalities and nurturing social inclusion. Over the past decade, the Malaysian city of George Town – a World Heritage site – has implemented several innovative projects to foster tourism and attract the population back to the city centre by engaging the city’s cultural assets in urban revitalization strategies. Part of the income generated from tourism revenues contributes to conserving and revitalizing the built environment, as well as supporting housing for local populations, including lower-income communities. In the city of Bordeaux in France , the city has worked with the public-private company InCité to introduce a system of public subsidies and tax exemption to encourage the restoration of privately-owned historical buildings, which has generated other rehabilitation works in the historic centre. The city of Kyoto in Japan targets a long-term vision of sustainability by enabling local households to play an active role in safeguarding heritage by incrementally updating their own houses, thus making the city more resilient to gentrification. The city also actively supports the promotion of its intangible heritage, such as tea ceremonies, flower arrangement, seasonal festivals, Noh theatre and dance. This year marks the ten-year anniversary of the adoption of the UNESCO Recommendation on the Historic Urban Landscape (HUL). The results of a UNESCO survey carried out among Member States in 2019 on its implementation show that 89% of respondents have innovative services or tourism activities in place for historic areas, which demonstrates a precedence for countries to capitalize on urban cultural heritage for tourism purposes.

Cultural tourism has been harnessed to address rural-urban migration and to strengthen rural and peripheral sub-regions. The city of Suzhou – a World Heritage property and UNESCO Creative City (Crafts and Folk Art) - has leveraged its silk embroidery industry to strengthen the local rural economy through job creation in the villages of Wujiang, located in a district of Suzhou. Tourists can visit the ateliers and local museums to learn about the textile production. In northern Viet Nam, the cultural heritage of the Quan họ Bắc Ninh folk songs, part of the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, is firmly rooted in place and underlined in its safeguarding strategies in 49 ancient villages, which have further inspired the establishment of some hundreds of new Quan họ villages in the Bắc Ninh and Bắc Giang provinces.

Many top destination cities are known for their iconic cultural landmarks. Others create a cultural drawcard to attract visitors to the city. France, the world's number one tourist destination , attracts 89 million visitors every year who travel to experience its cultural assets, including its extensive cultural landmarks. In the context of industrial decline, several national and local governments have looked to diversify infrastructure by harnessing culture as a new economic engine. The Guggenheim museum in Bilbao in Spain is one such example, where economic diversification and unemployment was addressed through building a modern art museum as a magnet for tourism. The museum attracts an average of 900,000 visitors annually, which has strengthened the local economy of the city. A similar approach is the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA), established in 2011 by a private entrepreneur in the city of Hobart in Australia, which has catalysed a massive increase of visitors to the city. With events such as MONA FOMA in summer and Dark MOFO in winter, the museum staggers visitor volumes to the small city to avoid placing considerable strain on the local environment and communities. Within the tourism sector, cultural tourism is also well-positioned to offer a tailored approach to tourism products, services and experiences. Such models have also supported the wider ecosystems around the iconic cultural landmarks, as part of “destination tourism” strategies.

Destination tourism encompasses festivals, live performance, film and festive celebrations as drawcards for international tourists and an economic driver of the local economy. Over the past three decades, the number of art biennials has proliferated. Today there are more than 300 biennials around the world , whose genesis can be based both on artistic ambitions and place-making strategies to revive specific destinations. As a result of COVID-19, many major biennials and arts festivals have been cancelled or postponed. Both the Venice Architecture and Art Biennales have been postponed to 2022 due to COVID-19. The Berlin International Film Festival will hold its 2021 edition online and in selected cinemas. Film-induced tourism - motivated by a combination of media expansion, entertainment industry growth and international travel - has also been used for strategic regional development, infrastructure development and job creation, as well to market destinations to tourists. China's highest-grossing film of 2012 “Lost in Thailand”, for example, resulted in a tourist boom to Chiang Mai in Thailand, with daily flights to 17 Chinese cities to accommodate the daily influx of thousands of tourists who came to visit the film’s location. Since March 2020, tourism-related industries in New York City in the United States have gone into freefall, with revenue from the performing arts alone plunging by almost 70%. As the city is reliant on its tourism sector, the collapse of tourism explains why New York’s economy has been harder hit than other major cities in the country. Meanwhile in South Africa, when the first ever digital iteration of the country’s annual National Arts Festival took place last June, it also meant an estimated US$25.7 million (R377 million) and US$6.4 million (R94 million) loss to the Eastern Cape province and city of Makhanda (based on 2018 figures), in addition to the US$1.4 million (R20 million) that reaches the pockets of the artists and supporting industries. The United Kingdom's largest music festival, Glastonbury, held annually in Somerset, recently cancelled for the second year running due to the pandemic, which will have ripple effects on local businesses and the charities that receive funding from ticket sales.

Similarly, cancellations of carnivals from Santa Cruz de Tenerife in the Canary Islands to Binche in Belgium has spurred massive losses for local tourism providers, hotels, restaurants, costume-makers and dance schools. In the case of the Rio de Janeiro Carnival in Brazil, for instance, the city has amassed significant losses for the unstaged event, which in 2019 attracted 1.5 million tourists from Brazil and abroad and generated revenues in the range of US$700 million (BRL 3.78 billion). The knock-on effect on the wider economy due to supply chains often points to an estimated total loss that is far greater than those experienced solely by the cultural tourism sector.

Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, Spain by erlucho

Every year, roughly 600 million national and international religious and spiritual trips take place , generating US$18 billion in tourism revenue. Pilgrimages, a fundamental precursor to modern tourism, motivate tourists solely through religious practices. Religious tourism is particularly popular in France, India, Italy and Saudi Arabia. For instance, the Hindu pilgrimage and festival Kumbh Mela in India, inscribed in 2017 on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, attracts over 120 million pilgrims of all castes, creeds and genders. The festival is held in the cities of Allahabad, Haridwar, Ujjain and Nasik every four years by rotation. Sacred and ceremonial sites have unique significance for peoples and communities, and are often integral to journeys that promote spiritual well-being. Mongolia, for example, has around 800 sacred sites including 10 mountains protected by Presidential Decree, and lakes and ovoos, many of which have their own sutras. In the case of Mongolia, the environmental stewardship and rituals and practices connected with these sacred places also intersects with longstanding political traditions and State leadership.

Cities with a vibrant cultural scene and assets are not only more likely to attract tourists, but also the skilled talent who can advance the city’s long-term prospects. Several cities are also focusing on developing their night-time economies through the promotion of theatre, concerts, festivals, light shows and use of public spaces that increasingly making use of audio-visual technologies. Situated on Chile’s Pacific coast, the city of Valparaíso, a World Heritage site, is taking steps to transform the city’s night scene into a safe and inclusive tourist destination through revitalizing public spaces. While the economies of many cities have been weakened during the pandemic, the night-time economy of the city of Chengdu in China, a UNESCO Creative City for Gastronomy, has flourished and has made a significant contribution to generating revenue for the city, accounting for 45% of citizen’s daily expenditure.

The pandemic has generated the public’s re-appropriation of the urban space. People have sought open-air sites and experiences in nature. In many countries that are experiencing lockdowns, public spaces, including parks and city squares, have proven essential for socialization and strengthening resilience. People have also reconnected with the heritage assets in their urban environments. Local governments, organizations and civil society have introduced innovative ways to connect people and encourage creative expression. Cork City Council Arts Office and Creative Ireland, for example, jointly supported the art initiative Ardú- Irish for ‘Rise’ – involving seven renowned Irish street artists who produced art in the streets and alleyways of Cork.

Chengdu Town Square, China by Lukas Bischoff

Environment-based solutions support integrated approaches to deliver across the urban-rural continuum, and enhance visitor experiences by drawing on the existing features of a city. In the city of Bamberg, a World Heritage site in Germany, gardens are a key asset of the city and contribute to its livability and the well-being of its local population and visitors. More than 12,000 tourists enjoy this tangible testimony to the local history and environment on an annual basis. Eighteen agricultural businesses produce local vegetables, herbs, flowers and shrubs, and farm the inner-city gardens and surrounding agricultural fields. The museum also organizes gastronomic events and cooking classes to promote local products and recipes.

In rural areas, crafts can support strategies for cultural and community-based tourism. This is particularly the case in Asia, where craft industries are often found in rural environments and can be an engine for generating employment and curbing rural-urban migration. Craft villages have been established in Viet Nam since the 11th century, constituting an integral part of the cultural resources of the country, and whose tourism profits are often re-invested into the sustainability of the villages. The craft tradition is not affected by heavy tourist seasons and tourists can visit all year round.

Indigenous tourism can help promote and maintain indigenous arts, handicrafts, and culture, including indigenous culture and traditions, which are often major attractions for visitors. Through tourism, indigenous values and food systems can also promote a less carbon-intensive industry. During COVID-19, the Government of Canada has given a series of grants to indigenous tourism businesses to help maintain livelihoods. UNESCO’s Intergovernmental Committee for the Protection and Promotion of the Diversity of Cultural Expressions announced that it will grant, through the International Fund for Creative Diversity (IFCD), US$70,000 dollars to Mexican indigenous cultural enterprises, which will support indigenous enterprises through training programmes, seed funding, a pre-incubation process and the creation of an e-commerce website.

Tourism has boosted community pride in living heritage and the active involvement of local communities in its safeguarding. Local authorities, cultural associations, bearers and practitioners have made efforts to safeguard and promote elements as they have understood that not only can these elements strengthen their cultural identity but that they can also contribute to tourism and economic development. In recent years, there has been a growing interest in the role of intellectual property and in the regulation of heritage. In the field of gastronomy, a lot of work has been done in protecting local food products, including the development of labels and certification of origin. Member States are exploring the possibilities of geographical indication (GI) for cultural products as a way of reducing the risk of heritage exploitation in connection to, for example, crafts, textiles and food products, and favouring its sustainable development.

The pandemic has brought to the forefront the evolving role of museums and their crucial importance to the life of societies in terms of health and well-being, education and the economy. A 2019 report by the World Health Organization (WHO) examined 3,000 studies on the role of the arts in improving health and well-being, which indicated that the arts play a major role in preventing, managing and treating illness. Over the past decade the number of museums has increased by 60%, demonstrating the important role that museums have in national cultural policy. Museums are not static but are rather dynamic spaces of education and dialogue, with the potential to boost public awareness about the value of cultural and natural heritage, and the responsibility to contribute to its safeguarding.

Data presented in UNESCO's report "Museums Around the World in the Face of COVID-19" in May 2020 show that 90% of institutions were forced to close, whereas the situation in September-October 2020 was much more variable depending on their location in the world. Large museums have consistently been the most heavily impacted by the drop in international tourism – notably in Europe and North America. Larger museums, such as Amsterdam’s Rijksmuseum and Vienna’s Kunsthistorisches Museum have reported losses between €100,000 and €600,000 a week. Smaller museums have been relatively stable, as they are not as reliant on international tourism and have maintained a closer connection to local communities. In November, the Network of European Museum Organisations (NEMO) released the results of a survey of 6,000 museums from 48 countries. Of the responding museums, 93% have increased or started online services during the pandemic. Most larger museums (81%) have increased their digital capacities, while only 47% of smaller museums indicated that they did. An overwhelming majority of respondents (92.9%) confirm that the public is safe at their museum. As reported in the Tracker last October, the world’s most visited museum, the Louvre in France (9.3 million visitors annually) witnessed a ten-fold increase in traffic to its website. Yet while digital technologies have provided options for museums to remain operational, not all have the necessary infrastructure, which is the case for many museums in Africa and SIDS.

New technologies have enabled several new innovations that can better support cultural tourism and digital technologies in visitor management, access and site interpretation. Cultural tourists visiting cultural heritage sites, for example, can enjoy educational tools that raise awareness of a site and its history. Determining carrying capacity through algorithms has helped monitor tourist numbers, such as in Hạ Long Bay in Viet Nam. In response to the pandemic, Singapore’s Asian Civilizations Museum is one of many museums that has harnessed digital technologies to provide virtual tours of its collections, thus allowing viewers to learn more about Asian cultures and histories. The pandemic has enhanced the need for technology solutions to better manage tourism flows at destinations and encourage tourism development in alternative areas.

Shaping a post-pandemic vision : regenerative and inclusive cultural tourism

As tourism is inherently dependent on the movement and interaction of people, it has been one of the hardest-hit sectors by the pandemic and may be one of the last to recover. Travel and international border restrictions have led to the massive decline in tourism in 2020, spurring many countries to implement strategies for domestic tourism to keep economies afloat. Many cultural institutions and built and natural heritage sites have established strict systems of physical distancing and hygiene measures, enabling them to open once regulations allow. Once travel restrictions have been lifted, it will enable the recovery of the tourism sector and for the wider economy and community at large.

While the pandemic has dramatically shifted the policy context for cultural tourism, it has also provided the opportunity to experiment with integrated models that can be taken forward in the post-pandemic context. While destinations are adopting a multiplicity of approaches to better position sustainability in their plans for tourism development, there is no one-size-fits-all solution.

A comprehensive, integrated approach to the cultural sector is needed to ensure more sustainable cultural tourism patterns. Efforts aimed at promoting cultural tourism destinations should build on the diversity of cultural sub-sectors, including cultural and heritage sites, museums, but also the creative economy and living heritage, notably local practices, food and crafts production. Beyond cultural landmarks, which act as a hotspot to drive the attractiveness of tourism destinations, and particularly cities, cultural tourism should also encompass other aspects of the cultural value chain as well as more local, community-based cultural expressions. Such an integrated approach is likely to support a more equitable distribution of cultural tourism revenues, also spreading tourism flows over larger areas, thus curbing the negative impacts of over-tourism on renowned cultural sites, including UNESCO World Heritage sites. This comprehensive vision also echoes the growing aspiration of visitors around the world for more inclusive and sustainable tourism practices, engaging with local communities and broadening the understanding of cultural diversity.

As a result of the crisis, the transversal component of cultural tourism has been brought to the fore, demonstrating its cross-cutting nature and alliance with other development areas. Cultural tourism – and tourism more broadly – is highly relevant to the 2030 for Sustainable Development and its 17 SDGs, however, the full potential of cultural tourism for advancing development – economic, social and environmental - remains untapped. This is even though cultural tourism is included in a third of all countries’ VNRs, thus demonstrating its priority for governments. Due the transversal nature of cultural tourism, there is scope to build on these synergies and strengthen cooperation between ministries to advance cooperation for a stronger and more resilient sector. This plays an integral role in ensuring a regenerative and inclusive cultural tourism sector. Similarly, tourism can feature as criteria for certain funding initiatives, or as a decisive component for financing cultural projects, such as in heritage or the cultural and creative industries.

Houses in Amsterdam, adisa, Getty, Images Pro

Several countries have harnessed the crisis to step up actions towards more sustainable models of cultural tourism development by ensuring that recovery planning is aligned with key sustainability principles and the SDGs. Tourism both impacts and is impacted by climate change. There is scant evidence of integration of climate strategies in tourism policies, as well as countries’ efforts to develop solid crisis preparedness and response strategies for the tourism sector. The magnitude and regional variation of climate change in the coming decades will continue to affect cultural tourism, therefore, recovery planning should factor in climate change concerns. Accelerating climate action is of utmost importance for the resilience of the sector.

The key role of local actors in cultural tourism should be supported and developed. States have the opportunity to build on local knowledge, networks and models to forge a stronger and more sustainable cultural tourism sector. This includes streamlining cooperation between different levels of governance in the cultural tourism sector and in concert with civil society and private sector. Particularly during the pandemic, many cities and municipalities have not received adequate State support and have instead introduced measures and initiatives using local resources. In parallel, such actions can spur new opportunities for employment and training that respond to local needs.

Greater diversification in cultural tourism models is needed, backed by a stronger integration of the sector within broader economic and regional planning. An overdependence of the cultural sector on the tourism sector became clear for some countries when the pandemic hit, which saw their economies come to a staggering halt. This has been further weakened by pre-existing gaps in government and industry preparedness and response capacity. The cultural tourism sector is highly fragmented and interdependent, and relies heavily on micro and small enterprises. Developing a more in-depth understanding of tourism value chains can help identify pathways for incremental progress. Similarly, more integrated – and balanced – models can shape a more resilient sector that is less vulnerable to future crises. Several countries are benefiting from such approaches by factoring in a consideration of the environmental and socio-cultural pillars of sustainability, which is supported across all levels of government and in concert with all stakeholders.

abhishek gaurav, Pexels

Inclusion must be at the heart of building back better the cultural tourism sector. Stakeholders at different levels should participate in planning and management, and local communities cannot be excluded from benefitting from the opportunities and economic benefits of cultural tourism. Moreover, they should be supported and empowered to create solutions from the outset, thus forging more sustainable and scalable options in the long-term. Policy-makers need to ensure that cultural tourism development is pursued within a wider context of city and regional strategies in close co-operation with local communities and industry. Businesses are instrumental in adopting eco-responsible practices for transport, accommodation and food. A balance between public/ private investment should also be planned to support an integrated approach post-crisis, which ensures input and support from industry and civil society.

The COVID-19 crisis has highlighted the essential role of museums as an integral component of societies in terms of well-being, health, education and the economy. Digitalization has been a game-changer for many cultural institutions to remain operational to the greatest extent possible. Yet there are significant disparities in terms of infrastructure and resources, which was underscored when the world shifted online. Museums in SIDS have faced particular difficulties with lack of access to digitalization. These imbalances should be considered in post-crisis strategies.

The pandemic presents an occasion to deeply rethink tourism for the future, and what constitutes the markers and benchmarks of “success”. High-quality cultural tourism is increasingly gaining traction in new strategies for recovery and revival, in view of contributing to the long-term health and resilience of the sector and local communities. Similarly, many countries are exploring ways to fast track towards greener, more sustainable tourism development. As such, the pandemic presents an opportunity for a paradigm shift - the transformation of the culture and tourism sectors to become more inclusive and sustainable. Moreover, this includes incorporating tourism approaches that not only avoid damage but have a positive impact on the environment of tourism destinations and local communities. This emphasis on regenerative tourism has a holistic approach that measures tourism beyond its financial return, and shifts the pendulum towards focusing on the concerns of local communities, and the wellbeing of people and planet.

Entabeni Game Reserve in South Africa by SL_Photography

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Wander-Lush

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.

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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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More cultural travel inspiration.

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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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How to visit LA’s cultural highlights in 72 hours

From switched-on cultural happenings to soul-warming soul food, here’s how to do La La Land with both style and substance.

Los Angeles has long been the West Coast’s star attraction, offering a heady blend of Hollywood glamour and glorious sunshine. Yet recently, away from the plush red carpets and swaying palm trees, it’s been LA’s revitalised downtown, thriving art scene and diverse culinary offerings that have stolen the limelight. While it’s hard to do the wonders of this sprawling, multi-layered city justice in just a couple of days, it’s still plenty of time to get a taste for what makes LA a blockbuster hit. Here's how to spend 72 hours in LA.

Day one: visit LA’s most exciting exhibitions

Kick things off with a 1,000-layer pancake at Pine and Crane DTLA , an airy eatery serving modern takes on traditional Taiwanese cuisine. Hungry for culture? Head to Exposition Park, a tree-lined neighbourhood that’s currently being transformed into a hub for PST Art: Art and Science Collide ,   a major art event organised by Getty   exploring timely topics such as environmental justice and artificial intelligence (September 2024 to February 2025). Found in Exposition Park and participating in PST Art, the Natural History Museum is set to open a transformative $75 million wing called the NHM Commons. This project will house a 400-seat theatre used for performances, educational seminars and festivals. Within the leafy confines of Exposition Park, you’ll also find the California Science Center and the California African American Museum , which is home to over 5,000 objects representing the diverse contributions of African Americans in the United States. If time, sports fans should make a beeline for the 77,500-seater LA Memorial Coliseum also situated in the park. Make the most of a guided tour of the stadium before it hosts the 2028 Summer Olympics — making it the first stadium to have hosted the sporting event three times .

Work up an appetite by wandering through the park’s sunken rose gardens (a masterpiece of landscaping that’s even starred as an eery backdrop in the TV series Buffy the Vampire Slayer ) before heading to the nearby Mexican seafood restaurant Holbox in the Mercado La Paloma . Take a seat at the bustling counter of this laidback dining spot, where chef Gilberto Cetina Jr has gained a Michelin recommendation for his dishes, including the famed empanadas.

Fortified, head to Destination Crenshaw , which opens this year. The open-air museum will stretch 1.3 miles along Crenshaw Boulevard and feature works by more than 100 Black artists and be the largest Black public art project in the US. Then, swing by Sole Folks — a cutting-edge retail incubator showcasing young designers from underserved communities — to shop for sharp threads and cool travel bags.

These days, no visit to LA is complete without catching a football game at the glittering BMO Stadium in Exposition Park, an epic 22,000-seat stadium that’s home to Los Angeles Football Club and Angel City Football Club . Round your debut day off with a well-earned plate of smoked brisket slathered in tangy apple barbecue sauce at Alta Adams , a soul food joint with a stylish al fresco patio, perfect for balmy LA evenings.

Day two: get your design fix at LA's Arts District

Rise and shine with a hearty plate of spicy huevos rancheros at Zinc Cafe in LA’s Arts District, a trendy hub jampacked with galleries, breweries and underground music venues. The beauty of this neighbourhood is that most of the attractions are within walking distance, so ditch the car and explore on foot.

Over the Influence is a gallery showcasing contemporary art and design, while nearby, Hauser & Wirth has transformed a former flour mill into a globally recognised multipurpose art centre, complete with a tranquil mural-clad garden. Continue on to Hennessey & Ingalls to browse carefully curated shelves of design and architecture books, while a visit to high fashion Dover Street Market rewards with a glimpse into the latest style trends, housed within an industrial-chic boutique.

Head to the historic Olvera Street district to explore LA’s Latin heritage, first with lunch at Chiguacle Sabor Ancestral de Mexico , where the menu riffs on Yucatán classics, before stopping by at La Plaza de Cultura y Artes , a cultural complex dedicated to Mexican-American artists. As evening falls, Bavel has become the city’s hotspot for new-wave Middle Eastern cuisine, with standout dishes including delicious slow-cooked shawarmas and tender beef cheek tagine sprinkled with pomegranate seed jewels.

Day three: discover a symphony of architecture & music in the Historic Core

Launching back in 2011, Eggslut has since become a cult breakfast destination, with outposts in London, Tokyo and LA’s Grand Central Market food hall and emporium. Try potato puree topped with coddled egg, before checking out the architectural delights of the area, including the imposing Bradbury Building , used in the 1982 sci-fi film Blade Runner , and the soaring Angels Flight funicular railway , famed as the world’s shortest railway.

Once you’ve come back down to earth, walk through a tunnel made entirely of well-thumbed novels at the Last Bookstore , which also stocks rare comics and vinyl. Leave the City of Angels on a high note with a farewell visit to the spectacular Walt Disney Concert Hall . Designed by architect Frank Gehry, this harmonic building of stainless-steel curves is the place to hear some of the finest classical, jazz and contemporary music around.

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Tourism là gì? Những khái niệm về Tourism cần biết

Trang chủ » Blog » Kinh nghiệm » Tourism là gì? Những khái niệm về Tourism cần biết

Tourism là một trong những ngành phát triển nhanh nhất thế giới và là nguồn thu nhập chính của nhiều quốc gia. Có thể nói tourism hiện hữu ở bất kì nơi đâu trong cuộc sống của chúng ta, vậy tourism là gì? Những thông tin mà chúng mình chia sẻ trong bài viết dưới đây sẽ giúp giải đáp toàn bộ những thắc mắc của bạn về tourism.

I. Khái niệm Tourism là gì?

Inbound tourism là gì , outbound tourism là gì , domestic tourism là gì , mass tourism có nghĩa là gì , mice tourism nghĩa là gì , khái niệm sustainable tourism là gì , định nghĩa niche tourism là gì , medical tourism là gì , eco tourism là gì, hospitality and tourism management nghĩa là gì, tourism management là gì.

Theo Wikipedia, tourism được định nghĩa là ngành du lịch . Là một hình thức kinh doanh cung cấp các dịch vụ cho người đi du lịch như di chuyển, nơi ở, hoặc giải trí trong thời gian không quá 1 năm liên tiếp.

Tourism là một ngành năng động và cạnh tranh, đòi hỏi khả năng thích ứng với nhu cầu thay đổi liên tục của khách hàng; bởi vì sự hài lòng, an toàn và hưởng thụ của khách hàng là trọng tâm của các doanh nghiệp du lịch.

Tuy nhiên, giống như các hình thức phát triển khác, tourism cũng có thể gây ra một số vấn đề, như mất trật tự xã hội, mất di sản văn hóa, phụ thuộc kinh tế và suy thoái sinh thái. Nhận thức được tác động của ngành du lịch, nhiều hình thức du lịch thay thế hoặc bền vững khác nhau đã được ra đời. Ví dụ như du lịch thiên nhiên, du lịch sinh thái và du lịch văn hóa.

II. Những khái niệm về Tourism cần biết

Inbound tourism là những chuyến du lịch tại một quốc gia của những du khách đến từ những quốc gia khác. Mục đích của chuyến đi chủ yếu là để giải trí và rất hiếm khi liên quan đến kinh doanh.

Chẳng hạn như du khách nước ngoài đến Việt Nam du lịch trong một thời gian ngắn thì được xem là inbound tourism. Tuy nhiên nếu du khách Tây đến Việt Nam sinh sống và làm việc thì không được xem làm inbound nữa.

Ngược lại với inbound tourism, outbound tourism là những chuyến du lịch nước ngoài/ quốc tế của người dân tại một quốc gia. Mục đích của chuyến đi có thể là viếng thăm người thân, đi du lịch tham quan, đi chữa bệnh, v.v.

Ví dụ, bạn là người Việt Nam, bạn cùng gia đình đi du lịch Hawaii trong một kỳ nghỉ lễ. Khi đó, bạn và người nhà là khách outbound , còn chuyến du lịch này được coi là outbound tourism.

Cụm từ này dùm để chỉ những chuyến du lịch trong nước/nội địa. Những chuyến đi này không cần phải chuyển đổi ngoại tệ trước khi đi. Domestic tourism có thể bao gồm từ chuyến tham quan địa phương, các chuyến đi trong thành phố đến các chuyến du lịch xuyên Việt.

>> Xem thêm: Những mẫu ví đựng passport và visa tiện ích!

Là một cụm từ chuyên dùng để chỉ những chuyến tour du lịch đại trà của các công ty du lịch, khách sạn và hãng hàng không phối hợp cùng nhau. Loại hình du lịch này giúp bạn có thể đặt chuyến bay, nơi ở của bạn và tất cả các dịch vụ bổ sung tất cả trong một lần thanh toán. Mass tourism đã trở nên vô cùng phổ biến, đặc biệt với những người trẻ tuổi muốn đi du lịch, vì nó thường rẻ hơn rất nhiều so với việc đặt riêng mỗi dịch vụ.

Land Tour cũng là một hình thức tour du lịch trọn gói tại một địa điểm tham quan hay vùng đất nào đó. Tour du lịch này thường chưa bao gồm phí máy bay hoặc xe di chuyển.

Tuy nhiên, bất kì hình thức du lịch nào cũng có mặt tích cực và tiêu cực. Vậy mặt tiêu cực của mass tourism la gi? Tuy du lịch đại trà có thể giúp bạn có chuyến đi giá rẻ hơn, không phải lo lắng về vấn đề thủ tục đăng kí máy bay, phòng khách sạn; nhưng bạn sẽ phải đối mặt với sự đông đúc và gò bó về thời gian. Ngoài ra, khi một địa điểm du lịch bị quá tải, có khả năng sẽ ảnh hưởng đến văn hóa và đời sống người dân nơi đó, làm mất những nét văn hóa truyền thống địa phương.

>> Có thể bạn quan tâm: Một số phụ kiện bơi lặn đảm bảo an toàn cho bạn và người thân!

MICE tourism là viết tắt của meeting, incentive, conventions, exhibitions. Đây là một hình thức du lịch của các công ty, doanh nghiệp thường kết hợp chung với các sự kiện như gặp gỡ đối tác, giới thiệu sản phẩm, xây dựng mối quan hệ khách hàng mới, hội thảo, khen thưởng cho nhân viên, tổ chức sự kiện của công ty, v.v.

Đây là một ngành quan trọng bởi vì khách hàng sử dụng dịch vụ MICE thường đi công tác và thường chi tiêu nhiều hơn so với khách du lịch giải trí.

Sustainable tourism là khái niệm du lịch bền vững , tôn trọng và cải thiện môi trường tại nơi bạn đi du lịch, bao gồm duy trì truyền thống văn hóa của người dân cũng như môi trường sinh thái và đa dạng sinh học.

Mục đích của du lịch bền vững là tăng lợi ích và giảm các tác động tiêu cực do du lịch gây ra cho các điểm đến du lịch. Điều này có thể đạt được bằng cách:

• Bảo vệ môi trường tự nhiên, động vật hoang dã và tài nguyên thiên nhiên khi phát triển và quản lý các hoạt động du lịch
• Cung cấp trải nghiệm du lịch đích thực để tôn vinh và bảo tồn di sản và văn hóa
• Tạo ra lợi ích kinh tế xã hội cho cộng đồng thông qua các cơ hội kiếm việc làm và thu nhập

Niche tourism đề cập đến một loại hình du lịch tập trung vào một khía cạnh hoặc chủ đề cụ thể. Đây có thể là thực phẩm, thể thao, chiến tranh hoặc thiên nhiên, động vật hoang dã. Mỗi tour du lịch sẽ tập trung vào các khía cạnh riêng.

Loại hình du lịch này khá mới, và ngày càng có nhiều tour du lịch niche xuất hiện hơn, đặc biệt là khi du khách ngày nay thường hứng thú đến những chủ đề độc đáo hơn. Chẳng hạn như một số người chỉ muốn xem những kiến trúc cũ xưa, một số người muốn ăn tại các nhà hàng được sao Michelin và những người khác muốn tham quan các bảo tàng lịch sử.

>> Xem thêm: [Top 10] mẫu túi đa năng du lịch trên thị trường!

Khi bạn đi du lịch với mục đích tìm kiếm các phương pháp điều trị y tế , đó được xem là medical tourism . Ở nhiều quốc gia, một số ca phẫu thuật hoặc thủ thuật y học rất tốn kém, hoặc yêu cầu bạn phải tham gia một danh sách chờ dài.

Đông Á, Cuba và Canada là một vài trong số những điểm đến phổ biến cho loại hình du lịch này. Vì những quốc gia này cung cấp dịch vụ và chăm sóc sức khỏe chất lượng cao, nhưng với chi phí thấp hơn so với các quốc gia như Mỹ hoặc Anh.

Eco tourism cũng tương tự như du lịch bền vững, nhưng khác ở chỗ các nhóm du lịch, thường rất nhỏ, đi đến các khu vực nguyên sơ và đang được bảo tồn. Những loại tour du lịch sinh thái này giúp bảo tồn, giáo dục môi trường, mang lại lợi ích cho nền kinh tế và phát triển địa phương và giúp cộng đồng địa phương phát triển hơn.

Thông thường, những chuyến du lịch sinh thái sẽ luôn có một tour guide đi cùng để giới thiệu và chia sẻ cho du khách những thông tin về môi trường thiên nhiên, giá trị văn hóa, lịch sử, v.v.

Hospitality and tourism management có nghĩa là quản trị ngành dịch vụ hiếu khách và du lịch lữ hành . Đây được xem là một ngành năng động và cực kì phát triển, những người học ngành này đòi hỏi phải có kỹ năng ứng biến, thích nghi trong môi trường cạnh tranh cao và yêu thích việc phục vụ khách hàng. Hospitality bao gồm các lĩnh vực sau:

• Khách sạn và resort
• Nhà hàng và dịch vụ ăn uống
• Hội thảo và tổ chức sự kiện
• Điểm đến du lịch và danh lam thắng cảnh
• Quản lý giải trí và thể thao
• Hãng hàng không, du lịch trên biển và giao thông vận tải khác
• Phát triển du lịch văn hóa và bền vững môi trường
• Quản lý spa và chăm sóc sức khỏe

Tourism management là một mảng nằm trong hospitality and tourism management, được định nghĩa là sự giám sát tất cả các hoạt động liên quan đến du lịch, lữ hành . Cụ thể hơn, tourism management có trách nhiệm thiết kế tour, chuẩn bị phương thức di chuyển cho khách hàng.  Đồng thời đảm bảo an toàn và chăm sóc cho họ trong quá trình du lịch và tham quan tại địa điểm du lịch.

Ngoài những khái niệm trên, còn rất nhiều khái niệm và thông tin khác liên về ngành du lịch ngày nay. Hy vọng những thông tin hữu ích bên trên sẽ giúp bạn phần nào hiểu thêm về tourism là gì !

Xem thêm >> Tour là gì? Các khái niệm về Tour bạn nên biết

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center for food and culture

Culinary Tourism

CULINARY TOURISM: “Eating Out Of Curiosity”

—“the intentional, exploratory participation in the foodways of an Other”  (Long, 2004) “Exploring the world through food.” Also known as gastrotourism and food tourism.

The phrase “ culinary tourism ” was coined by folklorist Dr. Lucy Long to explore the meanings, motivations, and implications of seeking food experiences different from our usual ones. She introduced it at scholarly conferences in 1996 and first used it in print in 1998. It was later the title of Long’s edited volume (2004) and has since been adopted internationally by the tourism industry to refer to highlighting food as a tourist destination and attraction. Long has also applied her concepts to food-related programs throughout the world, to educational strategies in museums (particularly the Smithsonian Institution Folklore Festival), and to tourism initiatives. She developed a model for culinary tourism in the Bowling Green Tourism Trail (Ohio) that focuses on introducing tourists to the food culture of the area.

Long’s model of culinary tourism offers ways in which tourism can be used for cultural education and interpretation as well as for economic, social, and environmental sustainability. This “eating out of curiosity” also offers a way of exploring the world. Food opens up new cultures for us. It offers a window into the lives of other people, other times and regions, religions, belief systems, and social classes. Such exploration can be done through cookbooks, cooking shows, grocery stores, family recipes, and everyday meals in our own kitchens as well as through travel, fine dining restaurants, and exotic or gourmet foods. This understanding of culinary tourism also makes us aware of the power food has to carry memories, affirm relationships, construct identity, and encourage artistic self-expression.

Most of us approach new foods with a certain amount of curiosity: will it taste good; will it make us sick; can it really be eaten? But some of us also approach new food as an adventure, as an opportunity to try new experiences. This spirit of adventure characterizes culinary tourism. “Eating out of curiosity” introduces us not only to foods that are new to us, but also to a way of exploring the world. Food opens up new cultures for us. It offers a window into the lives of other people, other times and regions, religions, belief systems, and social classes. And such exploration can be done through cookbooks, cooking shows, grocery stores, family recipes, and everyday meals in our own kitchens as well as through travel, fine dining restaurants, and exotic or gourmet foods.

“Culinary tourism is about food as a subject and medium, destination and vehicle, for tourism. It is about individuals exploring foods new to them as well as using food to explore new cultures and ways of being. It is about groups using food to “sell” their histories and to construct marketable and publicly attractive identities, and it is about individuals satisfying curiosity. Finally, it is about the experiencing of food in a mode that is out of the ordinary, that steps outside the normal routine to notice difference and the power of food to represent and negotiate that difference.” ( Long, 2004)

Culinary Tourism , edited by Lucy M. Long, Univ. Press of Kentucky, 2004.

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Are you a casual tourist? Or traveller. The key word being ‘casual’.

I’d asked Uncle George if they went to the Frida Kahlo museum in Mexico City as I’d suggested. They have a gorgeous garden here – a wild wonderful garden that’s a cross between a romantic ‘English cottage’-inspired gardens and something you’d see at a Russian dacha in a Tarkovsky film (there’s a mini Birch forest) – plus my uncle’s an artist and my aunt’s very creative when it comes to interior design so I thought they might appreciate Frida Kahlo’s garden and house. But they didn’t go. In fact they didn’t go to a lot of places I’d recommended. But they assured me they still had a great time. Flabbergasted, I asked: “But what did you actually *do*?” “Well, we just walked,” my uncle replied, with a shrug of his shoulders and roll of his eyes, “We did a bit of this, a bit of that… we like to walk.”

I’m guessing the look on my face must have been one of dismay, but still somewhat enquiring, because then he declared – after swallowing a glass of wine (not that I’m suggesting he needed guts to tell me this – but maybe he did!) – “I think I’m a casual tourist…” “Uh-hah!” and I quickly splashed some more wine in my own glass. And so, over a bottle of wine, and Terence’s preparation of another very fine meal, we developed a theory… my uncle’s idea of travel can be described as ‘casual tourism’. The way he likes to travel is very low key and laidback. He likes to explore, but he doesn’t like to do much planning or preparation, and certainly doesn’t want his day crammed with sightseeing. In fact, when he arrives he doesn’t like to *do* much at all. But he’s not the kind to lie on a beach and do completely nothing. He wants to experience a place, and the more atmospheric it is the better.

For instance, Jerusalem is a favorite. But he and my aunt like to wander around a bit, see a sight perhaps, maybe do a short tour, eat some lunch some place, but it doesn’t have to be very spectacular at all – they certainly don’t feel obliged to base their choice on reviews. Then they’ll do some more walking, perhaps browse in a shop, stop for a drink and a nibble at a cafe… and so it goes. They don’t have tremendous expectations, and so they’re not terribly disappointed either. They just seem to appreciate a place for what it is. Wandering around, walking the streets, taking in the vibe… that’s their idea of a good time. And actually, when I’m not working on a travel book, that’s mine too. Oh, except the bit about the restaurants of course. So, what do you think? Are you a casual tourist? Or casual traveller?

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Ý nghĩa của casual trong tiếng Anh

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casual adjective ( INFORMAL )

• His clothes were artfully arranged to look stylishly casual.
• Everyone else was in jeans and casual gear and I had my office clothes on - I stuck out like a sore thumb .
• His casual manner was wholly inappropriate for such a formal occasion .
• form-fitting
• French tuck
• voluminously

casual adjective ( NOT INTERESTED )

• half-heartedly
• incuriously
• nonchalantly
• passionless
• unmotivated
• unromantically
• unseriousness
• your heart isn't in it idiom

casual adjective ( TEMPORARY )

• administrative
• administrative assistant
• administratively
• at the coalface idiom
• job-sharing
• joblessness
• professionality
• well qualified
• white-collar
• who's who idiom
• wilderness years idiom

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casual adjective ( CHANCE )

• accident of birth
• arbitrarily
• arbitrariness
• luck into something
• more by accident than design idiom
• more by luck than judgment idiom
• non-purposive
• serendipitous
• serendipitously
• stumble into something

Từ liên quan

Casual | từ điển anh mỹ, casual adjective ( not serious ), casual adjective ( not planned ), casual | tiếng anh thương mại, các ví dụ của casual, bản dịch của casual.

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Từ của Ngày

two-wheeler

a vehicle with two wheels, usually a bicycle

Trang nhật ký cá nhân

Keeping up appearances (Talking about how things seem)

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• casual (INFORMAL)
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//xem chuyen nganh strHtml='Casual'; document.getElementById('firstHeading').innerHTML=strHtml;

//tagline strhtml='bài từ dự án mở từ điển anh - việt.'; document.getelementbyid('sitesub').innerhtml=strhtml;, / 'kæʤjuəl /, tình cờ, bất chợt, ngẫu nhiên, vô tình, không có chủ định, (thông tục) tự nhiên, không trịnh trọng, bình thường, thường, vô ý tứ, cẩu thả; tuỳ tiện, không đều, thất thường, lúc có lúc không, người không có việc làm cố định ( (cũng) casual labourer), người nghèo túng thường phải nhận tiền cứu tế ( (cũng) casual poor), ( số nhiều) quần áo bình thường, không trang trọng, chuyên ngành, tai nạn, thương tích, người bị thương, người chết do tai nạn, ngẫu nhiên không cố ý, các từ liên quan, từ đồng nghĩa.

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