Exploring History and Culture Savings Guide

In the process of exploring the histories and cultures around the world, you will help keep folk traditions from getting lost—and vacation in places where dollar buys more than just a fraction of your bus fare.

• Lafayette, Louisiana. If there’s one place in North America that captures both history and culture well, it’s the Cajun Country. Time your visit during the town’s Mardi Gras celebration for less spending. In one go, you’ll get to experience a free five-day festival filled with parades, fireworks, live music, and carnival rides. You’ll find plenty of opportunities to experience the Cajun and Creole culture. Revel in the cuisine by offering bisque, gumbo, or homecooked meals. Throw in a hefty touch of abandon and you’ll be in Zydeco in its foot stomping glory and dancing all night.

• Brazil. The country’s history is tumultuous enough for vacations centered on rich traditions and cultures. Many historic buildings still surround parts of Brazil. Tourists can head to Salvador and learn Candomble and capoeira. Rococo churches are everywhere in Brazil’s mining towns. Entrance fees to Sao Paulo’s fine museums come cheap.

• Slovenia. The country is proof that a trip to European history and culture does not need to be expensive. Though the landscape is very much diversified, most people speak English. Located between Croatia and Italy, Slovenia should not be overlooked with its abundance of cheap touring options.

• China. A trip to China means a trip to Shanghai, Beijing, Shenzhen, and even Macau or Hong Kong. A hundred dollar’s worth could easily translate to a night or two in a five-star hotel, a week’s worth of indulgent dining, or a whole baggage full of goodies. But what sets it apart from other vacations centered on history and culture is that parts of China are well preserved. The Great Wall offers a story of one dynasty, while the Forbidden Palace tells of another.

Follow these Tips for an Affordable First-Hand History and Culture Lesson:

The type of trips you can have arranged depends on two factors: your budget and your interest. Decide on which city or country would you want to immerse in. Start by choosing from general cultures, such as eastern or western flavors. How far back in history would you like to discover? What was it that interested you during your history classes? If something didn’t appeal to you back then it might not be as worth it, so you better plan your interests well.

Once you do choose a place, invest in research. So many people have already traveled before you, and it’s a sure bet that they have advises. Since you’re in for a travel centered on history and culture and not primarily for leisure, choose an inexpensive lodging place such as a dormitory, a hostel, or a motel. In some European countries, homes offer an extra room for cheap rent.

For a real taste of culture, schedule your trip during famous celebrations. Instead of going to different places, fairs and festivals only mean that diverse cultures gather in one spot and come to you.

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