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Looking for a travel experience that goes beyond the usual sightseeing this year? If you’re a traveller eager to step outside your comfort zone and experience something beyond superficial interactions, in-depth experiences that show you the different cultures around the globe can satisfy your desire.
Kickstart your travel plans by selecting favourites from our list. From places with a radically different way of life to unexpected traditions or immersive local customs, these destinations offer a fascinating window into worlds not so familiar to you.
Asia: A Journey into Contrasting Traditions
Asia is a continent of contrast, where the ancient and the ultramodern often coexist side by side.
Nowhere is this more evident than in Japan, where traditional tea ceremonies and centuries-old temples stand proudly next to sleek bullet trains and neon-lit skylines. Visitors are often surprised by the formality of Japanese etiquette—from bowing in greeting to the ritual of removing shoes indoors—and the subtle yet deep cultural values of respect and harmony.
Culinary delights abound, too, with dishes like natto (fermented soybeans) and kaiseki (a multi-course meal) offering a flavour profile far from typical Western fare. Japan’s vibrant festivals—like Kyoto’s Gion Matsuri or the springtime cherry blossom celebrations—are a cultural spectacle in themselves.
One of the most rewarding ways to explore this rich culture is by sea. Japan cruises provide a seamless opportunity to discover the country’s many islands, each offering unique regional traditions and historical landmarks. Whether you’re wandering through ancient shrines in Nara or sampling sushi in Hakodate, a cruise allows for a deeper, more varied immersion.
India, too, offers an unforgettable cultural deep dive. From the colourful chaos of Delhi’s markets to the peaceful banks of the Ganges in Varanasi, India is a country with immense cultural wealth. Historical marvels like the Taj Mahal, spiritual rituals, and a diversity of languages and cuisines make India a beautiful blend of many traditions and cultures.
Africa: Discovering Rich Heritage
Africa is home to some of the oldest cultures in the world. In Benin, you can explore royal palaces, the thriving contemporary art scene in Cotonou, and museums that delve into the region’s Vodun (voodoo) heritage and slave trade history. This West African nation is a compelling place to reflect on colonial legacies while witnessing a vibrant cultural rebirth.
Middle East: Immersive Historical Experiences
If a blend of modern luxury and ancient heritage is what you’re looking for, Abu Dhabi, the capital city and the largest of seven emirates, is a must-visit. The city’s cultural district is expanding with additions like the Guggenheim and Zayed National Museum.
These institutions offer insight into Emirati history and showcase a stunning fusion of traditional Islamic architecture and contemporary design. Don’t forget to savour the world’s largest surf park while you’re there!
On the sustainability front, new electric taxi planes will soon connect Abu Dhabi with Dubai, the country’s most populous city, in 30 minutes with zero operating emissions. And to combat light pollution, a new “dark sky” policy is set to limit light emissions across the emirate.
Europe: Surprising Cultural Differences
Even within Europe, cultural shocks await. Countries like Slovenia offer immersive experiences in folk music, cuisine, and outdoor traditions that may differ from mainstream European travel spots. And don’t be surprised by customs like paying for public toilet use or strict rules around dining etiquette in certain regions. These subtle cultural quirks can be both amusing and enlightening.
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Travelling somewhere that feels entirely different from home can be a life-changing experience. It is one of the most powerful ways to grow, learn, and connect. Whether you opt for Japan cruises, a West African heritage tour, or a tech-savvy cultural immersion in the Middle East, these journeys will undoubtedly give you a deeper understanding of our world and the many cultures that shape it.