Vietnam Family Adventure from North to South
Writer Maria Boyle travels the length of the country, taking in lantern-lit towns, UNESCO sites of world heritage, delectable food, and one of the best beaches in the world. Here…
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Writer Maria Boyle travels the length of the country, taking in lantern-lit towns, UNESCO sites of world heritage, delectable food, and one of the best beaches in the world. Here…
Mark Bibby Jackson joins an accessible travel tour in Edersee Germany visiting the Eder Dam, and going on forest and tree top walks all accessible for wheelchair users. Travelling can…
Mark Bibby Jackson visits Kotor and Budva to stay at the Hyatt Regency Kotor Bay, and discover the charms of this delightful part of coastal Montenegro. There is something about…
Probably one of the most overused words in travel literature is undiscovered – I confess to be a repeat offender. While Montenegro has been on the tourism radar for quite…
Panama is a Central American country known for its vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and unique blend of old-world charm and modernity. With so much to see and do, it can…
From Wat Pho to Wat Phra Kaew Mal Tattersall discovers what’s wat on his day trip in Bangkok Thailand. “YOU going to see Wat?” the smiling woman at reception asks…
Set in the Irish Sea sandwiched between Ireland and Britain, the Isle of Man has a long history with many traditions and unusual folklore. Discover about the history and customs…
Welcome to Tunisia, a North African gem that has something for everyone. From the stunning beaches of the Mediterranean to the vast expanse of the Sahara Desert, this country is…
“The word “tourist” is still quite new to us,” said our Batumi guide. This sounded a strange statement when having just got off a cable car, I am enjoying the…
From its stunning beaches to its rich cultural heritage and vibrant nightlife, there is no shortage of great things to do in Phuket, Thailand. Here are 10 of the most…
It was 1979, and the future was looking somewhat chilly for English country houses. The Labour Government’s ‘Winter of Discontent’ with the unions had left its mark, another energy crisis…
Easter Monday is when Curaçao comes alive with the infectious energy of the Seú Harvest Parade Festival. This vibrant celebration sees over 3,000 participants decked out in colourful traditional costumes…
Aruba, a small island located in the southern Caribbean, is known for its white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and year-round warm weather. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a…
River Stage National Theatre is the biggest free outdoor arts festival in the UK capital. It takes place at the National Theatre (NT) on London’s Southbank from 5 to 28 July. This year…
The Broadstairs Dickens Festival is celebrating its 87th anniversary in 2024. The three-day festival held in June in the coastal Kent town celebrates the work of the greatest Victorian novelist…
Mark Bibby Jackson discovers the culture, food and street art of the Portuguese capital on his Lisbon city break. On my previous visits to Lisbon, I had never felt truly…
The Portuguese capital is one of the most popular destinations in Europe for good reason, but while there you can enjoy a day trip from Lisbon to incredible sites such…
Prepare to be enchanted by world-class theatre at the Stratford Festival Ontario Canada. This renowned theatre festival celebrates the works of William Shakespeare alongside a vibrant mix…
The Marche du Nain Rouge Detroit takes place around the Spring Equinox. This traditional festival involves a parade in the Cass Corridor part of the city, were locals outwit the…
Santo Domingo Dominican Republic lies on the south coast of the Caribbean nation. The greater metropolitan area is home to 3.8 million people, making it the largest city in the…
Welcome to Sydney, one of Australia‘s most vibrant and captivating cities. If you’re planning a trip to this iconic destination, you’re in for an unforgettable experience. In this guide, we’ll…
Travel Begins at 40 rounds up the best festivals in March 2024 across the globe, from Wales to Colombia, with cherry trees, loads of Guinness and even some frozen dead…
A beautiful island set in the Irish Sea, a short ferry ride from the UK mainland, with stunning walking, ancient traditions, wonderful seafood and great beaches, the Isle of Man…
Ancient Celtic versions of Halloween, the oldest continuous Parliament in the World, Viking Longboats and Tin Baths, there is a lot to celebrate on the Isle of Man, including a…
For many an appreciation of the culture of the country or community that you visit on your holidays is a major part of the travelling experience, especially for the more mature traveller.
Whether you are taking a short city break to Amsterdam or Paris, or going on a longer trip to a distant and exciting land, your experience is enriched by an appreciation of the local culture.
Ideally, time your trip to coincide with a major festival. At Travel Begins at 40 we have a whole section devoted to some of the most colourful and spectacular festivals from around the world. So whether it is the whirling dervishes of Konya, Nagaland’s Hornbill Festival, the Tsagaan Sar in Mongolia or Benin’s Voodoo Festival that tickles your cultural fancy, let us guide your way.
Visiting an unfamiliar country can lead to a bit of a cultural shock, but don’t let this put you off making that special journey. Often it is when we leave our comfort zone that we reap most rewards.
Not that we always have to travel that far to have a rich and rewarding cultural experience. Hull is the current city of culture in the UK, and a trip there can be a surprisingly rewarding experience. Enjoy it.