This holiday really delivered beyond our expectations in every respect. The itinerary is packed and varied; culture, wildlife, scenery, exciting activities and enlightening experiences. We climbed Lions Rock; biked alongside rivers, lakes, fields and forest; walked to World End and Horton Plain; explored jungle villages, ancient temples and botanic gardens; rafted across rivers and over rapids; swam in the ocean and gorgeous hotel pools, rode the gloriously scenic train from Pattipola to Ella and even braved tuk tuk rides amidst the mad chaos of The Sri Lankan roads. We jiggled around in jeeps, seeking elephant and leopard and enjoying everything else our excellent guides spotted on two very special safaris. Sounds exhausting doesn’t it but with a very comfortable air conditioned bus to transport us between beautiful hotels in superb situations, and delicious multicultural buffets and wonderful Sri Lankan curries and Lion Beer to reenergise us at the end of each day we were always ready and eager for the next early start. Longer trips were broken up with lovely lunch stops and there were interesting visits to spice gardens, a gem museum, a folk museum and a tea factory. We went from busy towns and hot, humid forests to cooler high country and finished at refreshing beaches, journeying via temples, lakes, paddy fields and the gorgeous contours of tea plantations. We saw traditional dancing and fire eaters in Kandy and had time off to wander the markets and soak up the vibes. There were plenty of spontaneous surprises to add a little extra. We felt safe and welcome, the hospitality was genuine, everyone was so friendly, the children are delightful, and although there is some obvious poverty the people seem happy at heart and very keen to share their love of their country with us visitors. The wildlife in this fabulous country is all around you, flora and fauna in abundance and breathtakingly beautiful.
Culture Holidays in Mexico
Mexico Culture Holidays
Top Things to Do on Cultural Holidays in Mexico
Visit Chichen Itza: One of the most significant archaeological sites in the country, Chichen Itza is located in Yucatan and is a must-see for anyone on Mexico cultural holidays. The UNESCO World Heritage Site is also one of the New 7 Wonders of the World, dating back to 600 AD. The site is home to 26 extraordinary Mayan ruins that are split into two parts: Chichen Itza and Old Chichen, each as impressive as the other. If you’re not sure which Mayan ruin to visit first, the Chichen Itza Pyramid or El Castillo are good places to start. But there are plenty more sights to see, including the Observatory, The Temple of the Warriors, El Caracol and the Mayan Ball Game. The site is utterly enthralling and gives you a deeper insight into the history of the Mayans.
Explore San Cristobel: This colonial highland city wrapped inside ancient pine forest and traditional villages is a jumble of cobbled streets, colourful plazas and centuries-old buildings with red tiled roofs and whitewashed exteriors. As well as boasting a majestic mountain backdrop, San Cristobel is firmly rooted in the country’s indigenous culture and is a great place to scratch beneath the surface of Mexico. Its fusion of ancient customs and modern luxuries adds to its charms. The vibrant cafes are great for mixing with the local Tzotzil people and trying some authentic dishes, or perhaps wander through the streets and admire the old colonial houses.
Attend the Day of the Dead Festival: This is one of Mexico’s most famous festivals, which takes place every year to celebrate the passing of friends and family. The streets, homes and cemeteries in Oaxaca are filled with people remembering their lost loved ones. The Mexicans believe that death should be celebrated rather than mourned and they certainly know how to celebrate in style. You’ll see people of all different cultures gathering in nearby villages and market squares to perform spiritual rituals and traditions. In the evening, the streets are filled with carnivals and parties, with people dressed in spooky costumes.
As well as being immersed in the party atmosphere, you can learn about the local cuisine and sample foods such as enchiladas, almond stew or stuffed chillies. Enjoying lunch at the home of one of the local families is a great privilege and you’ll see their ‘shrine for the dead’ and learn about their heritage first hand.
Take a Tour of Mexico City: The beating heart of Mexico, Mexico City is a potent cocktail of historical sites, floating gardens and modern-day culture. The famous Plaza de la Constitución, Templo Mayor and the Baroque Cathedral Metropolitana hark back to when it was the Aztec capital, yet today it’s a cosmopolitan hub where travellers from around the globe come to get their fix of Mexican culture. A tour of the city guides you through the Zócalo and ancient streets to some of the most significant landmarks such as the Palacio de Bellas Artes, before visiting the Palacio Nacional and the Museum of Anthropology and History.
Ruth Clarke Discover Sri Lanka
Karen Harris Cycling VietnamWe have just returned from this amazing trip. Vietnam certainly lived up to and possibly exceeded our expectations. Vietnam is such a beautiful country – a true feast for the senses, so vibrant and joyful. The Vietnamese people are truly warm, friendly and engaging.
The cycling landscape was very varied through some busy towns, quiet villages, breathtaking scenery and alongside endless rice fields.
The organisation of this trip was truly remarkable thanks to the professional skills of our group leader Son. He absolutely is the best group leader we have ever met on our trips.
Unfortunately, I had an accident half way through the holiday but I have nothing but praise for our wonderful leader Son. He showed such professionalism alongside care, support and empathy, as did all the support team – Lee the mechanic, Tee and Saow our driver. I could not fault any of the team and I felt so lucky to have the love and support of the group members.
The accident did not ruin my trip. I feel so blessed to have seen so much of this beautiful country.
Our hotel rooms were fantastic with available conditioning and a swimming pool available in most of them . Whale Island was beautiful. The overnight train was an interesting experience and Halong Bay at the end was beautiful.
Karen Harris Cycling VietnamWe have just returned from this amazing trip. Vietnam certainly lived up to and possibly exceeded our expectations. Vietnam is such a beautiful country – a true feast for the senses, so vibrant and joyful. The Vietnamese people are truly warm, friendly and engaging.
The cycling landscape was very varied through some busy towns, quiet villages, breathtaking scenery and alongside endless rice fields.
The organisation of this trip was truly remarkable thanks to the professional skills of our group leader Son. He absolutely is the best group leader we have ever met on our trips.
Unfortunately, I had an accident half way through the holiday but I have nothing but praise for our wonderful leader Son. He showed such professionalism alongside care, support and empathy, as did all the support team – Lee the mechanic, Tee and Saow our driver. I could not fault any of the team and I felt so lucky to have the love and support of the group members.
The accident did not ruin my trip. I feel so blessed to have seen so much of this beautiful country.
Our hotel rooms were fantastic with available conditioning and a swimming pool available in most of them . Whale Island was beautiful. The overnight train was an interesting experience and Halong Bay at the end was beautiful.
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