Really discover your destination: immerse yourself in the local culture
Eat locally, sleep in people's homes and help the locals. This is how you meet extraordinary people and discover other cultures. Anyone who delves into the local culture will have a unique travel experience. Immerse yourself in the local culture and don't see your destination just through the eyes of a tourist. Curious about the best way to do this? We give you a few tips!
In addition to discovering the local culture, do you also want to support the local economy? Before you travel, read our tips.
Eat at a local market
In Asian and South American countries, in particular, there is a vibrant eating culture on the streets. But that is also the case in Southern Europe. There, the locals get together to eat and raise a glass. Local markets are therefore the ideal place to sample traditional dishes and learn about the local culture. Sit among the locals on plastic chairs and be pleasantly surprised by local delicacies. You'll experience a night out that can't be found in any travel guide.
Take a cooking course
Want to learn how to make the perfect pasta? Or what ingredients you use to prepare the best curry? Take a cooking course with a local! The best way to learn how to cook traditional dishes is from someone who really lives the local cuisine. You can use the knowledge you gain during the cooking class as a souvenir to organise a dinner at home. You can also build a nice relationship with locals in an accessible way.
Stay in a homestay
For an authentic cultural experience, stay at a local’s home. This is also known as a homestay. This kind of overnight stay is not only very enjoyable, but it also has a positive impact on the family's life. After all, your money goes directly to the host family. For many families, running a homestay offers extra income, allowing them to save for their children's studies, for example. So, you have a great experience, and they have a chance of a better future.
Visit a local museum
The origins of a country's local culture often go back centuries. While visiting a local museum, you'll learn more about a culture's rich history, rituals, customs, and habits. Tip: Look for cities or towns that have been important to the country's history. Chances are you can learn a lot about the local culture at these places.
Volunteer
Would you like to see your destination not only through the eyes of a tourist, but also want to mean something to the locals? Then volunteer. You often stay with local families and participate in the daily life of the locals. You can experience the local culture at its best and contribute to a better world as well.
In addition to discovering the local culture, you could also choose to support the local economy. Buy, eat and stay with the locals. But there are several ways to travel more sustainably. Curious about what else you can do? Read more on our sustainability page!