For a cultural trip rich in exceptional experiences, you have to go through Colombia. The department of Antioquia in the northwest is among the most popular tourist destinations. The landscapes, colorful small towns, and coffee culture heritage probably have something to do with it. This part of Colombia also offers refuge to the Paisas, a ►
For a cultural trip rich in exceptional experiences, you have to go through Colombia. The department of Antioquia in the northwest is among the most popular tourist destinations. The landscapes, colorful small towns, and coffee culture heritage probably have something to do with it. This part of Colombia also offers refuge to the Paisas, a self-defined cultural group. Their culture is transmitted through music and folklore. Added to this is the city of Medellin, which attracts the curiosity of many travelers with its annual floral festival in August, its panoramic view of the Aburra Valley, its magnificent sculptures by Fernando Botero that adorn the Botero Square in the city center, among others. A detour to New Orleans, United States, is necessary for Creole cuisine and jazz. This place has a unique heritage. A mixture of French, Spanish, Cajun, and Creole cultures transcribes the influences of New Orleans. The many historical museums, the plantation houses of the south, and the parish of Orleans are the primary sources of attractions in the region. Participating in a Mardi Gras parade where the festivities last an entire month is imperative. Then, the Creole population gathers on the city's Place of Congo every Sunday to offer a magnificent jazz show. A visit to a plantation house is a must, and some are along the Mississippi banks. On the European side, the 100% cultural journey can continue in the Basque Country between France and Spain. The locals have their parties, music, dances, games, and folklore. Gastronomy is particularly highlighted in the Basque Country and marked by the famous Espelette pepper. Then, it will also be an opportunity to see the pediments mainly used to practice the national sport, namely Basque pelota. Tourists can also participate. In the Basque Country, craft traditions are well anchored in leather goods, espadrilles, or the making of linen or berets. In addition, the famous Bayonne Festival is to be noticed in July when people spend about five days singing Basque songs, watching Basque sports, and eating local dishes. In Bosnia and Herzegovina, there is cultural diversity. Among the best activities to do in Bosnia and Herzegovina is exploring Sarajevo's Old Bazaar with a focus on Ottoman culture. There, kafane cafes where kahva and rakia are served, you'll see that Bosnian hospitality is well promoted. The gastronomic tour of Sarajevo is also a must, as the national cuisine is a source of pride for Bosnians. A visit to a master woodcarver in Konjic is necessary. Moreover, in Sarajevo, the heritage of craftsmanship is very well exposed. In Central Australia, the Arrernte and Ananga peoples and the landscape, plants, and animals demonstrate the indigenous cultural strength of this part of the country. It would help if you visited Uluru or Ayers Rock, a symbol of Central Australia. Tourists can stop at the cultural center to admire the splendor of the park, but also art galleries and local crafts. Boat navigation around the base allows one to understand better the caves' origin and the rock's water points. Ochre pits are another point of interest used for ceremonial and medicinal purposes. Further on, there is the Alice Springs Desert Park, a beautiful combination of an animal park and a botanical garden. In Cambodia, it will be the time to discover the reminders of the time of the golden age. A guided Buddhist tour in Siem Reap or attending an Apsara show where the Cambodian national dance is honored is essential. A forest hike will also transport nature lovers to Mondulkiri, and those looking to discover Khmer crafts will contemplate the golden silk of SiemReap, cotton, and clay pottery, among others. In India, it is to Kerala that you have to go to live unique cultural experiences, starting with the Kerala houseboat cruise. There is the discovery of tea heritage in Munnar, the annual Muziris Biennale exhibition highlighting contemporary art in Kochi, or observing the artists at Kerala Kalamandalam, which teaches traditional Indian dances to students. Finally, in Northeast Africa in Ethiopia, the smoking tribal lowlands of the Rift Valley will seduce travelers. In terms of cultural treasures, there are UNESCO-recognized Lalibela churches. The hike to the remote mountain community will capsize some hearts. ◄
