Traveling as a family allows you to explore the world and create beautiful memories. There are also some fantastic opportunities to embrace different cultures and traditions, and immerse yourselves in them. Immersive travel presents great learning opportunities for both kids and adults alike, opening up your family to some incredible new experiences.
Though there are many wonderful chances to immerse yourself in other cultures around the world, we wanted to share a list of some of our favorite destinations that combine fun travel experiences with cultural learning opportunities. From Japan to Italy and more, here are our top cultural immersion trips for families.
Japan
Pack your bags because we’re going to Japan! Japan is a destination that everyone should visit at least once in their lives, and is fantastic for people of all ages. Japan is full of rich history and culture, which is why it’s important to make sure that you’re staying there long enough to experience it all. To help get you started in the planning process, here are some of the best activities to try while visiting Japan, that will allow you to fully embrace the culture.
Partake in a Tea Ceremony: Attending a tea ceremony is something that we highly recommend trying, as it is a big part of Japanese culture. You can find tea houses throughout Japan, with some even offering special tea sessions for families with children. They’ll teach you about traditional tea ceremonies, the history behind them, and the proper way to serve tea.
Make Traditional Crafts: Arts and crafts are a big part of Japanese culture, and you’ll find craft workshops all around Japan. You can learn about origami and make your own creation, try your hand at gold leaf decorating, or take part in fabric dying. Not only are crafts fun to make, but you’ll also have a keepsake to take home with you and display.
Learn Samurai Skills: This activity is one that your children will really enjoy as they (and you) can dress up in traditional gear and practice sword techniques. There are plenty of dojos that offer samurai training lessons, with many also teaching you about the history of Japan and samurais. This experience is one that you will definitely remember for the rest of your life.
Greece
Another fantastic place to visit with your family is Greece. Greece is known for its magical beaches and warm hospitality, and has so much to offer in terms of history and culture. Though there are many ways to immerse yourself in Greece’s culture, here are some wonderful activities that we think you and your family will enjoy.
Explore the Ancient History of Athens: Athens has so much to explore, especially when it comes to learning more about the city’s bountiful history. While here, be sure to explore the Acropolis and Parthenon, and consider taking a tour of these historic sights so that you can learn everything that there is to know about them from a knowledgeable guide. Athens is not a place to be missed.
Learn More About Greek Mythology: Greek mythology is a very interesting topic to learn about, no matter your age. Kids and parents alike will love learning more about Greek mythology, and there are a number of ways to do so. Consider taking a tour that educates you more about the topic, or look up places that you can go that are home to some of the more popular Greek myths.
Take a Traditional Cooking Class: One thing about Greece is that it has some incredible food. So, why not learn how to cook some of their traditional dishes? There are a lot of places that offer cooking classes, many of which can cater to your entire family. You can learn to make things such as tzatziki, moussaka, spanakopita, baklava, and more.
Brazil
One place that many people don’t typically think about when planning a cultural immersion trip is Brazil. However, we’re here to tell you that Brazil should be on your bucket list of places to visit! Brazil boasts plenty of history and a vibrant culture, which is why it should be on your radar. That said, here are some of the best activities to try while on your trip to Brazil, that people of all ages can participate in.
Visit the Amazon Rainforest: The beauty that comes along with the Amazon Rainforest truly is breathtaking, and is a must-see spot in Brazil. You’ll be amazed by all of the different species of plants, insects, and animals around, and will love learning all about them from a local guide. If you’re feeling up to it, you can even stay at an eco-lodge right in the heart of the jungle.Â
Spend Time in Florianópolis: Florianópolis is known for its wonderful beaches, and is a very popular destination for surfing and fishing. While here, you and your family can take a surf lesson and enjoy the waves, or grab your fishing poles and see what you can catch. No matter what you decide to do while here, we just know that you’re going to have a good time.
Take a Samba Class: A unique way to get you and your family moving all while learning about local Brazilian traditions is to take a samba class. Samba is a popular style of dance in Brazil, and a whole lot of fun to learn. Take a local samba class with your family and then use your new moves to show your family and friends what you’ve learned once you get back home.
Italy
Italy is such a magical place, and one that we know you and your family are going to enjoy visiting. There are so many activities that you can partake in together, that will teach you more about the incredible history and culture of Italy. From trying tasty food to experiencing the Tuscan countryside, the possibilities to explore truly are endless. To help give you some ideas, here are some of our top activities to try while in Italy.
Explore Venice: Though Venice has so many amazing things to see and do, the first thing we suggest is taking a gondola ride. The beautiful scenery that you’ll see while on the gondola ride is unmatched, and this is truly a once in a lifetime experience. Another thing that you must experience is watching a glass blowing demonstration. The art of glass blowing is very unique and a skill that you don’t see often.
Take a Pizza Making Class: Pizza is the heart of Italian culture, and is a big part of their food scene. Fortunately, there are cooking classes all over Italy that will teach your group how to make some delicious pizza. Many of these classes will educate you about the history of pizza in Italy, and give you the skills needed to recreate your delicious creations once you return home.
Stay in the Tuscan Countryside: Tuscany, Italy is one of the most beautiful places in the world, and one that you and your family are sure to love. You can stay overnight on a working farm or rent a Tuscan villa, visit quaint surrounding towns such as Chianti and Lucca, and have a relaxing family meal from a local trattoria. Tuscany is one spot that you cannot miss.
These destinations are perfect for immersing your entire family in new cultures and traditions. If you are starting to make travel plans to one of these countries and need to obtain passports for everyone in your family, Swift can help! Head over to our website to get started on the passport application process. If you have any questions along the way, please contact a member of our team. We’d be happy to help! No matter where you’re going, we’ll get you there.
