Can you imagine cooking Thai food in Bangkok? Sailing the canals of Venice? Or even seeing a live show in an ancient Greek amphitheatre? These exciting cultural experiences are a must-try at least once in your life!
1. Stir Up Authentic Food in Thailand
Thailand is a country full of culinary wonders and in Bangkok in particular, Thai cooking classes are endlessly popular. Most classes are half a day in length, and involve a trip to the fresh food markets (or at least education on typical ingredients), a chance to cook various dishes, and of course, a delicious lunchtime feast.
2. Laze on the Canals in Venice
Sailing down the labyrinth-like Venetian canals is something that every traveller has to try at least once in their lifetime. Not because it’s a popular tourist attraction, but because travelling the routes of ancient locals and seeing the city from the water is an incredible Venetian experience.
You can book in advance or barter your fee at the dock, and keep in mind that it’s also customary to tip your guide a few Euros at the end.
3. Meditate (and Meet Others) in India
If you’ve never tried meditation, India is the perfect destination. Most meditation retreats take place over a couple of days or even a couple of weeks, and they often take place in some of the most gorgeous wilderness and coastal areas India has to offer.
4. Yoga Yourself at Times Square in New York
If you prefer yoga over meditating, prep your trip to coincide with Solstice in Times Square. Yogis from all over the world travel here during the summer solstice to offer yoga classes out in the open, right in the heart of the city.
5. Dine on the Sand Dunes in Morocco
In Morocco, there are many tour agents that offer a chance to dine right out on the sand dunes, often over sunset or at night, under the stars. Your meal can also be combined with a camel safari, which is lots of fun and a great way to learn more about the role the desert has played in the local history and culture.
6. Bathe in an Onsen Spa in Japan
In Japan, hot springs are called ‘onsens.’ Bathing in these springs is a huge part of Japanese culture, and it’s a practice that’s been going on since ancient times. There are dozens of onsen spas to choose from around the country, many in beautifully natural settings.
Keep in mind that most onsens require you to bathe nude; if you feel uncomfortable with this, you’ll need to find an onsen with private baths available.
7. Watch Hundreds of Yachts Take Off in the UK
Cowes Week is one of the biggest yachting and sailing events in the world and is held in July-August every year alongside the Isle of Wight. Dozens of races and over 800 boats make up this 8-day spectacular, which has been running for 190 years.
There are two ways you can watch: either from the shore or on a spectator boat (book early for the latter). Other activities include boutique shopping, exploring the museums, dining on the Isle or seeking out festival entertainment.
8. Attend a Festival in ‘Ancient’ Greece
The Athens and Epidaurus Festival is held in July each year and features some incredible music, theatre and dance performances.
What makes it all the more worthwhile is that many shows take place in real life ancient amphitheatres, like the Odeon of Herodes Atticus (built 161 AD) and the Theatre of Epidaurus (from around 4th century BC).
Tickets start from around 10€, and ladies, be sure to wear flats, as heels are not allowed.
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