How to Organize a Rich and Varied Cultural Trip

by  • 

How to Organize a Rich and Varied Cultural Trip-Chispa Magazine - Home PageCultural trips are becoming increasingly popular. Cheap flights and varied accommodation make it easier to experience different places and cultures. Social media and online reviews ensure we’re informed about places of interest. If you’re thinking about organizing a cultural trip, here are some simple steps to make your planning a success.

Do Your Research
Prepare thoroughly in advance. Work out the places you want to visit and how to get there. If you’re staying in one location or city, look for interesting places to stay. Services like Airbnb will take you right to the heart of your location. You can stay in a residential area and mix with local people, and this will allow you to immerse yourself fully in the customs and traditions of the area.

Familiarize yourself with online reviews, and guides such as this post on Manchester. Identifying the cultural hotspots before you head out will save time. It will also enable you to put together a list and prioritize places of interest. You’ll also have a good idea of what to pack.

The Alternative Scene
When we think about culture breaks we often think of art galleries and museums; however, culture transcends this. It encompasses a wide range of experiences including music, food, theatre, etc. Comedy, street art and dance also fall under this heading. Look for places that don’t always make it into the travel guides. Check out independent galleries and items made by local artisans and shop street art and homemade food from local vendors.

It can be harder to seek out these hidden gems so ask local people for advice, and remember social media sites are also a good source of inspiration.

Food + Drinks
Food and the customs associated with it are a big part of culture. Find out everything you can about the place you’re visiting. Are there any local delicacies? What about specialty beers or regional wines? Seek places that serve these, and again, ask the locals where they like to eat. Wherever possible, avoid the tourist traps and go local.

Seasonal Events
Before you leave, it’s worth checking out whether there are any festivals, exhibitions or other events taking place. Check to see whether you need tickets; booking ahead will avoid disappointment.

Live Performances
Remember to consider live performances such as theatre, music, and dance. Again, don’t limit yourself to the large venues. Find fringe events, comedy clubs, and street artists. Plan for a diverse range of activities.

Have a Back-Up
As with any holiday, things don’t always go to plan. Venues close due to unforeseen circumstances, and the weather is always an unknown factor. Have a few alternatives up your sleeve in case things go a little awry.

There’s a lot to be said for planning ahead. It’s a great opportunity to get to know an area and find out exactly what is available. It also allows you to read honest opinions and reviews. You can then prioritize accordingly; yet, don’t fill your travel itinerary. Allow some flexibility for impromptu visits as you can’t know everything about a place before you arrive, and there may be things that the guides miss. Be organized, but not rigid. Allow for spontaneity.

Photo by Alex Holyoake

Facebooktwitterpinterestlinkedinmail
Mavian Arocha-Rowe

Mavian Arocha-Rowe

Editor-in-Chief at Chispa Magazine
Mavian Arocha-Rowe is known as an asset to the business and communications industry and is motivating and advocating “your authenticity should be your strategy,” for all women, regardless of their season and roles. For the past 20 years she has directed magazines, plus multiple art and marketing departments as creative director and brand manager. What supersedes all of her great career moves is her role as wife and mother living in Atlanta. Challenging herself to discover and bravely pursue the calling for her life, Arocha-Rowe helps other women discover and pursue their life’s assignment. She is a passionate, and loud-laughing speaker on the topic of purposefully redeemed, and mentors young women so they can exercise a mind that is doctrinally pure, along with a heart that beats toward sanctification. She will almost never turn down Marlow’s Tavern double-tavern cheeseburger, a cooking-demonstration from Leaning Ladder, or any opportunity to head to Miami to spend time with family.
Mavian Arocha-Rowe

Latest posts by Mavian Arocha-Rowe (see all)

Mavian Arocha-Rowe

Mavian Arocha-Rowe is known as an asset to the business and communications industry and is motivating and advocating “your authenticity should be your strategy,” for all women, regardless of their season and roles. For the past 20 years she has directed magazines, plus multiple art and marketing departments as creative director and brand manager. What supersedes all of her great career moves is her role as wife and mother living in Atlanta. Challenging herself to discover and bravely pursue the calling for her life, Arocha-Rowe helps other women discover and pursue their life’s assignment. She is a passionate, and loud-laughing speaker on the topic of purposefully redeemed, and mentors young women so they can exercise a mind that is doctrinally pure, along with a heart that beats toward sanctification. She will almost never turn down Marlow’s Tavern double-tavern cheeseburger, a cooking-demonstration from Leaning Ladder, or any opportunity to head to Miami to spend time with family.