The best part about traveling is learning about cultures. But you don't always have to leave your home- you can read up on cultural issues, attend cultural events (virtually and in person), or have a great chat about cultures.
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Websites
Events
Music
Websites
Here are some great websites for learning about the cultures of global people
The US State Department travel website is full of helpful travel info- whether you're American or not.
Travel.State.Gov
The CIA keeps up to date information on every country in the world. Traveling soon? Learn about your new destination.
The World Factbook
This website has travel recommendations and interesting itineraries that help you learn about these different places.
The Culture Trip
Atlas Obscura is one of my favorite reading sites. They know everything about everywhere.
Atlas Obscura
Features stories from around the world, written by local contributors, highlighting diverse perspectives and cultural nuances.
Global Voices
Covers in-depth cultural insights, historical background, and travel experiences for global destinations.
BBC Travel
Learn about protected cultural landmarks and their significance across the globe.
UNESCO World Heritage Centre - World Heritage List
Known for its travel guides, the website also offers blogs on local customs, traditions, and etiquette.
Lonely Planet
A comprehensive resource offering insights into the cultural norms, values, and etiquette of different countries.
Cultural Atlas
Provides information about the world’s languages and their cultural significance.
Ethnologue
Offers detailed economic, cultural, and social data to understand a country’s context better.
World Development Indicators | DataBank
Features in-depth articles about global cultures, traditions, and ways of life through stunning storytelling and photography.
National Geographic Travel
Events
Go and see for yourself what and how people celebrate
Experience samba parades, elaborate costumes, and the energy of Brazil’s iconic pre-Lent celebration.
Rio Carnival
Celebrate the "Festival of Colors" with traditional rituals, music, and vibrant powder across India.
India Holi
Celebrated all over the world in some form, these vibrant celebrations have an interesting history and an important place in honoring our loved ones.
Mexico's Day of the Dead
New Years celebrations come at different times of year around the world. This one is pretty cool.
Songkran - Thai New Year
I learned about Fringe from my European friends. I can't wait to attend one day.
Edinburgh Fringe Festival
I would absolutely love to see these floats. This July festival in Kyoto Japan has been celebrated for nearly 1200 years. It started as a way to placate the gods during an epidemic.
Gion Matsuri
A 10 day music festival in Morocco? Yes, please!
Fes Festival
Held every five years, this massive celebration of Bulgarian folk music, dance, and traditions gathers thousands of performers and visitors in a stunning mountain setting. It’s a UNESCO-recognized event that preserves centuries-old cultural heritage.
National Festival of the Bulgarian Folklore - Koprivshtitsa
This famous tomato-throwing festival is a fun and messy celebration rooted in local tradition, attracting participants from around the world.
La Tomatina (Spain)
A month-long celebration of arts, culture, and performances, featuring theater, music, dance, and indigenous Australian storytelling.
Sydney Festival
Music
Get into the global rhythm
A unique interactive map that lets you explore and listen to live radio stations from almost every country in the world.
Radio Garden
A free internet radio service with dedicated world music channels spanning every continent.
AccuRadio Online
Offers curated playlists like "Global Groove" and "Folk & Acoustic from Around the World" featuring diverse music styles.
Spotify
A platform where independent global artists share and sell their music, often featuring rare and traditional sounds.
Bandcamp
Streams thousands of international radio stations and podcasts, making it easy to discover global music trends.
TuneIn
A treasure trove of recordings preserving traditional and folk music from every corner of the world.
Smithsonian Folkways Recordings
A dedicated world music site featuring reviews, artist interviews, and global music recommendations.
