Cultural and Experiential Travel and Tours

Cultural and Experiential Travel Advice

	The Practical Guide to a Successful Small Group Tour by Stephanie Dyson If you are considering a cultural, adventure, or responsible tour to an exotic or otherwise inaccessible location, here is a guide to tell you what to expect.
	Cooking Vacations in France by Kelby Hartson Carr There are many options for cooking vacations in France. In this country, food has long been elevated to a fine art, where you may satisfy your culinary desires in many ways.
	Budget Adventure Travel: Do It Yourself by Tim Leffel How to research and book budget adventure travel abroad, as laid out by a long-time world traveler and author?
	Tour the World on a Bike by Friedel Rother There are many ways to bicycle anywhere worldwide, from independent to luxury group travel.
	Travel by Cargo Ship Around the World by Friedel Rother Imagine for a moment that you are on the deck of a ship, sipping a glass of wine. You turn your head towards the water just in time to spot a pod of dolphins swimming by. After lingering in the sunshine for a while, it's time to head inside for a 3-course evening meal and a splash in the pool before retiring to bed. Now, what kind of vessel are you on?
	Culturally Sensitive Photography: Like Travel Itself, Photography Builds Bridges by Jim Kane Capture some of the essence of local people and their culture with these tips for travel photography. Learn to take respectful, non-invasive photos that are culturally sensitive and authentic.
	Four Ways You Are Already An Explorer by Amy Gigi Alexander "Exploration today is about our own human potential — whether it is an inner journey or one based on discovery outside of ourselves."

Cultural and Experiential Travel First-Hand Articles

	Do It Yourself Travel in Costa Rica by Ted Campbell
	Learn Flamenco and Study Spanish in Granada, Spain by Mariette Tachdjian Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Granada, Spain, as the author takes you on a journey to learn flamenco dance and guitar while mastering the Spanish language.
	Among the Blue Men: Travel, Ritual, and Adventure with a Tuareg Nomadic Tribe in Mali by James Michael Dorsey A nomadic tribe in Mali graciously invites an adventurous author into their clan, where he witnesses their unique rituals and lives.
	Time Travel in Northern Cameroon: Living Among the Dupa by Lies Ouwerkerk A visit to the Dupa tribe in Northern Cameroon is a magical experience. The author is invited to participate in and observe colorful and powerful sacred rituals witnessed by very few from the outside world.
	Going Local in Porto, Portugal, On the River by Lies Ouwerkerk An illustrated visit to the beautiful Porto region of Portugal, where the people, food, port, wines and land are all explored in a memorable immersive experience.
	Embracing Ancient Greek Traditions in Poros and the Peloponnese by Senior Contributing Editor Lies Ouwerkerk A visit to the beautiful island of Poros and the Peloponnese peninsula in Greece allows for immersion in ancient Greek traditions going back thousands of years to the days of Homer.
	10 Days of Silence at a Buddhist Retreat in Thailand by Thomas Handy Loon An inside view of 10 days at a Buddhist meditation retreat in Thailand.
	Kicking Back in Sri Lanka Health Treatments in an Ayurvedic Beach Resort by Senior Contributing Editor Lies Ouwerkerk
	The Girl Who Went to the Moon by Brooke Griffin A Narrative Travel Writing Contest winner is about a young woman who experienced a transformative visit with a friendly artist and a charming family in a beautiful small town while on a fellowship in Japan.
	Exploring the Remote and Rugged Magdalen Islands of Canada by Lies Ouwerkerk An illustrated visit to the remote Magdalen Islands, where the food, culture, and various adventures are explored.
	Seeing the Real Dominican Republic: A Stay at Tubagua Eco Lodge by Lebawit Lily Girma An illustrated description of an off-the-beaten-path stay at a magnificent and award-winning eco-lodge in the Dominican Republic, far from the usual all-inclusive beach resorts.
	The Irresistible Lure of Zagreb, Croatia by Lies Ouwerkerk An illustrated visit to the beautiful city of Zagreb, Croatia, where the the people, the places, cuisine and architecture charm.
	Escape the Prague Tourists to These 7 Top Czech Destinations by Tim Leffel If the tourist crowds in Prague are too much, visit and immerse yourself in these 7 great nearby Czech destinations that have much to offer and are far less packed.
	Top 10 Reasons to Visit Cuenca: "The Athens of Ecuador" is a Treasure by Lies Ouwerkerk An illustrated visit to beautiful Cuenca, Ecuador, which offers colonial treasures, unique traditional cultural experiences, and a very warm, engaging, and colorful local population.
	5 Routes and Regions for an Authentic Mexican Visit by Ted Campbell A guide to the top regions in Mexico for authentic immersion and experiential travel. Discover places where you can deeply engage with local culture and traditions.
	Snapshots from Colombia by Lies Ouwerkerk An illustrated visit to Colombia reveals the beautiful land and rich culture. The music, food, countryside, coffee plantations, and colorful colonial cities are safe to visit.
	Under the Spell of Bustling Shanghai, The Hotspot of Modern China by Lies Ouwerkerk Shanghai is one of the most bustling cities in modern China, with endless spellbinding attractions to see and things to do and a very eclectic mixture of the old and the new.
	72 Hours Visa-Free in Guangzhou, China: A Packed Trip in a Fascinating City by Lies Ouwerkerk While there are better-known cities in China than those in the West, Guangzhou is well worth the visit in so many ways, and you can now do so without a visa!
	Guanajuato, Mexico: Love at First Sight by Lies Ouwerkerk An illustrated guide — with key background information in the form of a narrative — to one of the most beautiful cities in a country with a complex history, people, and a rich culture.
	Adventures to Remember in Costa Rica by Lies Ouwerkerk Ziplining, hiking, and observing beautiful nature and wildlife.
	Five Unforgettable Adventures in South Africa by Ted Campbell Adventures in South Africa, where the realities for a traveler far exceed what can ever be imagined
	8 Fascinating Alternatives Beyond the Balmy Beaches of Goa by Lies Ouwerkerk Goa is much more than beaches; it has many cultural gems and other activities, as described and illustrated here.
	A Guide to Summer Pleasures in Vibrant Montreal by Lies Ouwerkerk Montreal is a fantastic city to enjoy summer pleasures, with festivals of all kinds from June through August.
	Slow Travel in Bucharest: Soaking up the Good Vibes by Lies Ouwerkerk An exploration of the capital of Romania, Bucharest is a city with many faces which reveal a very rich and complex people, culture, and history.
	Olive Picking and Traditional Cooking in Hidden Andalucía by Martin Li In Southern Spain, the magical region of Andalucia offers options such as working on the olive harvest and learning to taste and distinguish the olive oils while enjoying traditional cooking.

	Culinary Treats in Istanbul: Food by Foot by Lies Ouwerkerk A culinary tour of the many and varied street foods in Istanbul turns into a feast without end among very hospitable locals.
	Hospitable Tunisia and its Tantalizing Cuisine: "A Moveable Feast" For the Budget Traveler by Lies Ouwerkerk Tunisia has much to offer the budget traveler who loves great food, rich culture, varied landscapes, sophisticated architecture, and hospitable people.
	Cruising Through the Magical Desert of Northern Sudan by Lies Ouwerkerk Travel through Northern Sudan reveals a wealth of historical and cultural surprises.
	13 Reasons Why Martinique is a Great Winter Destination by Lies Ouwerkerk A visit to the beautiful island country of Martinique is ideal during a wearying winter. The warm local people, great food, sandy beaches, and complex culture are a revelation.
	Jungle Karma: How a Blind Musician in Cambodia Taught Me to See by James Michael Dorsey The author visits a jungle in Cambodia and meets a wise blind musician. The man plays a unique instrument, which he offers as a gift, and results in the author seeing life anew.
	Going in Circles in Myanmar by James Michael Dorsey Taking the circle train from Yangon, Myanmar offers an entrancing inside view into a fascinating country.

	Antigua, the Soul of Guatemala by James Michael Dorsey Venture into the magical Antigua, Guatemala world, where ancient Mayan rituals and culture remain at the city's core.
	Bagan Rising by James Michael Dorsey Over 1,000 ago, Bagan — in what is now Myanmar — was created as a sacred city and is now an untouched archeological site. The author immerses in a spiritual place of beauty that tourists and Buddhists come to revere.
	Life on the Mekong River by James Michael Dorsey The Mekong River flows through parts of six countries, carries much commerce, and is where people live colorful lives. The author paints an iconic region in words and images.
	Cultural Travel in Tana Toraja, Sulawesi, Indonesia by Lies Ouwerkerk A richly illustrated voyage to the land, culture, and people who practice a unique and very colorful form of animism.
	A Journey in Otherworldly Ladakh: Monastic Festivals, Remote Villages, and Majestic Wilderness by Lies Ouwerkerk A visual journey and a first-hand story about the daily and sacred rituals practiced by the people of remote Ladakh in the Himalayas.
	The Spirit of Genghis Khan: The Stone Monoliths of Kanas, China by James Michael Dorsey An exploration of the origin and meaning of sacred stone monoliths in Northwestern China, from the era of the legendary historical figure Genghis Khan — shaman and legendary leader.
	A Guide to Slow Travel in Playa Samára, Costa Rica by Paul France How to learn to enjoy slow travel and living in idyllic Playa Sámara, Costa Rica

	In the Footsteps of Field Biologist Alfred Wallace: Exploring the Islands of the Indonesian Archipelago by Lies Ouwerkerk An extraordinary and visually compelling voyage following Darwin's contemporary and collaborator path through the islands of Indonesia on a "Pinisi."
	The Hadzabe of Tanzania: Visiting My Own Ancestors by James Michael Dorsey How often are you allowed into a clan that lives as did early humanity, able to observe and even asked to participate in primordial rituals that represent the essence of our existence?
	Listening to the Silence: Climbing Kilimanjaro and Encounting a Maasai Elder in Kenya by James Michael Dorsey Narrative Travel Writing Contest winning entry describing a life-changing adventure in which the author climbs Kilimanjaro and later meets a wise Maasai elder from a tribe in Kenya.
	Walking with Markus by James Michael Dorsey Markus, a warm and generous host, generously shares a glimpse into the material and spiritual lives of a Maasai community in East Africa.
	The Accidental Spirit: Experiencing an Exorcism in Burkina Faso, West Africa by James Michael Dorsey This is a rare first-hand experience by a Westerner who accidentally becomes involved in an exorcism during a traditional ceremony.
	Journey Botswana by Rob Sangster A safari (Swahili for "journey") experience in Botswana reveals incredible wildlife and a new emphasis on ecology.

	Cycling South Africa’s Cape and Winelands by Lies Ouwerkerk A physical and cultural adventure on and around Cape South Africa, combining cycling, wine tasting, and much more.
	Localized Accommodation in Italy by Amy E. Robertson Localized accommodation allow visitors interested in cultural travel to stay in apartments that offer more privacy than a B&B and more authenticity than a hotel. Here are some examples of experiences and resources.
	Sage Tea and Starlight in Wadi, Jordan by Amy E. Robertson Family travel to a desert camp turns into a genuine physical and cultural adventure, guided by the Bedouins, and staying in localized accommodation — a tent.
	Call of the Arctic: Voyage by Icebreaker Ship Along the Edge of the World by Lies Ouwerkerk Traveling on an icebreaker had been on my wish list for quite a long time. However, polar expeditions are not cheap, as icebreakers are extremely expensive to run due to high fuel costs and crew/staff—passenger ratio. But when an extra work contract fell unexpectedly into my lap this year, I jumped on the opportunity to make my dream come true.
	Pasta Making in Northern Italy: A Journey to Learn a Traditional Culinary Art by Jeff Titelius A journey to Northern Italy is highlighted by two unique experiences where the author learns how to make two different types of pasta by hand, in the traditional manner, at two different cooking schools.
	How to Taste Daily Life in Cuba’s Bed and Breakfasts by Lies Ouwerkerk Wandering through Cuba via its network of casas particulares, you can experience the incredible resilience of the hospitable Cuban people and the richness of their culture despite all that stands in their way.
	Cultural Travel in the Dolomites of Italy by Lara Giavi An Italian guide through the small region of the Italian Dolomites by exploring its many traditions while traveling slowly.
	Top Mountain Towns to Learn Spanish in Latin America and Spain Schools that Combine Language Learning and Cultural Tours by Mary Beth Strawn Six of the top language schools to learn Spanish and experience cultural tours in Latin America and Spain.
	Lost in Marrakesh, Morocco by Kevin Dimetres A journey into Marrakesh's labyrinth, where ancient doors of all types and shapes, winding streets, and colorful traditional crafts suggest mysterious stories.
	The Haida Monumental Totem Poles by James Michael Dorsey A visit to a remote archipelago on the Northwest Coast of Canada where the Haida Nation creates the last free-standing totems.

Savor the Journey While you Enjoy Cultural Travel
Jeff Titelius provides a collection of slow cultural travel vignettes from Europe. These vignettes are more about the journey than the destination and are beautifully photographed.

Eastern Europe on the Run
Taylor Chase explains why seeing Eastern Europe on the run is one of the best ways to immerse yourself in the culture and ambiance of cities such as Budapest, Prague, and Krakow.

Discover Guatemala's Cultural Richness through its Rituals
Jim Kane describes the powerful rituals and the proud people of Antigua, Guatemala, as experienced on a visit as a leader of a responsible travel group.

Barging Vacations Offer a Grassroots Taste of Europe
Senior travel editor Alison Gardner describes the options for a canal and river barging vacation, which allows time for cultural exploration at a slow pace.

Intimate Glimpses of Canada's Wild West Coast
On her trip aboard a historic boat, Alison Gardner visits Canada's west coast shoreline and culturally rich islands with Mothership Adventures tours.

Adventure Activities in San Carlos de Bariloche, Argentina
Shanie Matthews provides resources and describes 10 adventure activities to enjoy in beautiful and eclectic San Carlos de Bariloche, Argentina.

Trekking in Morocco's Magical Sahara Desert
Friedel Rother provides practical information for those who wish to partake in a memorable cultural and physical adventure in the desert.

Pilgrimage Travel in the 21st Century
Senior travel editor Alison Gardner describes the history of spiritual travel and goes into the nature of the motives and cultural experience. Alison describes how spiritual travel has changed in the 21st Century while providing ample resources.

Learning about Burgundy Wines on a Budget: Combine Cycling Through the Vineyards and Drinking Fine Wine
Experienced oenophile and tour guide Michael Kerwin takes you through Burgundy. It offers tips for drinking great wine on a budget while cycling to enjoy the beautiful countryside of this region of France.

Cycling and Wine Tasting in Bordeaux
Michael Kerwin takes you on a trip through Bordeaux and offers tips for drinking excellent wine while cycling through the countryside.

Slow Travel and Living in Palma de Mallorca
How to practice slow travel and living in Palma de Mallorca, by Paul Graham France.

An Adventure Surfing on the Cheap in Cornwall, England
Ben Keene on learning to surf at a surfing school in Penzance, a port in Cornwall, England.

4 Ways to Travel the World by Bicycle
Friedel Rother describes the many solo and group options for biking through countries worldwide while meeting the locals.

Cycling and Learning About Wines in New Zealand
Michael Kerwin takes you on a trip through two areas of New Zealand and offers tips for learning to find great wine while cycling and enjoying the countryside.

Exploring the Diversity of Provence: The Foods, Wines, Markets ,and Cultural Life of Avignon
Beebe Baharmi, Ph.D., explores the culinary and cultural diversity of Provence from one of its richest historical centers, Avignon, France.

How to Plan Your Own Tibetan Trekking Adventure
Andris Bjornson describes options for trekking adventures in Tibet. He provides excellent practical survival resources and travel advice.

The Three Best Hot Spring Resorts in Japan
Stephen Carr describes the top hot spring resorts in Japan. He provides inside tips on enjoying a unique Japanese cultural experience.

Educational and Cultural Travel in the South of Spain
Regina Winkle-Bryan describes some of the many educational travel and cultural travel options available in the south of Spain, including dancing schools, horse-riding schools, and language schools offering many activities.

The Culture of the Markets of Oaxaca
Ron Mader describes the many varied markets in Oaxaca, Mexico, and provides tips for responsibly shopping.

A Desert Escape in Egypt
Nicole Feliciano found an escape from the bustling streets of Cairo on a private desert safari.

Travel to Learn in France: Vacation Courses Offer Opportunities for Cultural Immersion
Anna Gibson describes the many vacation and cultural travel options in France.

Hot Air Ballooning in Cappadocia, Turkey
Alison Gardner describes her exhilarating trip in a hot air balloon over the volcanic landscapes and stone-house communities in Cappadocia, Turkey. She also provides resources for ballooning in beautiful locations around the world.

Cultural Travel in Bhutan: The Land of the Thunder Dragon
Martin Li on responsible cultural travel in the still unspoiled and magical Kingdom of Bhutan.

Tuscan Women Cook
Ann Woodyard reports on a rustic cooking school in Tuscany.

Love and Tango Culture in Argentina
Andrea Gourgy provides tips based on her experience learning to dance the Tango in Buenos Aires.

Spanish and Whitewater Kayaking in Chile
Ann Beman describes her learning adventure in Chile, where she participated in whitewater rafting while improving her Spanish.

Rafting to a Jungle Lodge in Costa Rica: Indulge in a Responsible Adventure
82-year-old Katherine McIntyre describes an adventure tour on a great rafting river in Costa Rica, where the destination is a sustainable lodge down the river.

Camping in Africa
Janet Williams emphasizes that camping in Africa is not just about the wildlife, but also the people and the culture. She provides tips and resources on how to respectfully immerse oneself in this unique experience.

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