A big thank you to Jessica from The Belle Voyage for sharing today’s tips on how to immerse yourself in a new culture while traveling.
It’s easy to travel to a foreign country and never truly leave your own bubble. Sure, ticking off major tourist attractions is satisfying, but the most enriching travel experiences happen when you dive into and engage with a different culture. How? Here are five ways to make your next trip more immersive:
1. Start Exploring Before You Leave
Before you even step onto the plane, start immersing yourself in the culture. Learn a few phrases in the local language and read up on current events. I love diving into the local cuisine and music. I usually buy a cookbook specific to my destination to get an idea of what dishes might be on the menu. This not only preps me to try new foods but also gives me recipes to recreate my favorite meals back home.
Music is another fantastic connector. I make a playlist featuring music from my destination and listen to it while packing and throughout my trip. For instance, I listened to a Cantopop playlist on repeat during my last trip to Hong Kong, which served as the perfect backdrop for my travel photo video.
2. Embrace Everyday Activities
Some of my funniest travel memories come from mundane tasks. Whether it was buying produce in an Italian grocery store or mailing a package from Thailand, these ordinary activities highlight how different everyday life can be. The quirks of simple tasks abroad can turn into unforgettable learning experiences.
3. Choose Your Accommodation Wisely
Staying in a fancy hotel with all the comforts of home can be tempting, but opting for local accommodation can enrich your experience. During a trip to Paris, my friends and I rented an apartment in the Latin Quarter. Our mornings began at a local patisserie, sipping noisettes while surrounded by French speakers—a far more authentic and memorable experience than staying in a hotel.
Alternatively, consider a homestay for at least part of your trip. During my time in Japan, I stayed with a family for one night, and the simple act of preparing dinner together gave me a deeper insight into Japanese culture. Websites like homestay.com can help you find a suitable family to stay with.
4. Attend a Festival or Sporting Event
Festivals and sporting events offer a unique glimpse into local culture. Experiencing the Gion Matsuri festival in Kyoto and lighting fireworks on Guy Fawkes’ Night in Canterbury are among my favorite travel memories. If your visit doesn’t align with a holiday, check out local sports. Watching an Australian Rules Football game in Melbourne was an incredible way to connect with the local culture.
5. Consider Solo Travel
Traveling alone might seem intimidating, but it’s one of the best ways to immerse yourself in a new culture. When you travel solo, you’re more likely to step out of your comfort zone and interact with locals. It also allows you to observe your surroundings more keenly, offering a deeper understanding of the culture. Sometimes, just watching and listening can teach you a great deal.
Do you have any tips for immersing yourself in a local culture while traveling? Thanks again to Jessica for this fantastic advice!
About Jessica:
Originally from the Midwest and now a southern Californian, Jessica Corson is adept at living out of a suitcase without compromising her love for beauty and fashion. She has studied and lived on four continents, frequently travels across the US for work, and uses her vacation time for new adventures. Jessica shares her stylish travel experiences on her blog, The Belle Voyage.