When I think about cultural tourism in Australia, I think specifically about Indigenous experiences, but what does cultural tourism mean worldwide?
It's not only about Indigenous experiences; but it's about many different cultural expressions that reflect the richness of a place, including arts, food, experiences, sustainability, history, the broader culture of a place, and, it requires expressive storytellers to bring it to life.
Photo of Daina Walker pouring wine in Tuscany, Florence.
According to Karryon, Lonely Planet’s recent "Best in Travel 2025 list" - France’s “La Ville Rose,” Toulouse, was celebrated for its flourishing art scene.
In Australia, Tasmania’s Launceston and the Tamar Valley scored for cultural diversity, for its natural beauty and premium wine offerings, and showcasing the island’s culinary and artistic heritage.
Egypt and Japan have also been in demand in 2024 to experience the history and traditions.
ArtsHub recently published an article (in October 24) discussing that for many travellers, the true value of cultural tourism lies in connecting with passionate Tour Leaders who are experts in destinations, and can bring destinations to life.
As Managing Director of Renaissance Tours, Evan Petrelis, states, “Our tour leaders are not tour guides, breathlessly expounding facts and figures. They are subject-matter experts who love nothing more than to share their enthusiasm for their specific fields of interest with others and to provide an exceptional travel experience.” More than two-thirds of their clients return primarily for the expertise and enthusiasm of these leaders, who elevate each journey into a deeper exploration.
I'm a firm believer the number one reason tourism flourishes is because people travel to learn about different cultures, different people, learn about the history of destinations, I know that's the case for myself anyway.
Photo taken by Daina Walker in Cinque Terre.
In some of my global travels, I've experienced the culture of Italy - drinking espressos and limoncello, swimming in the green sea (Ligurian sea) and taking siestas.
Experiencing art in the Louvre, France and the culture of Amsterdam, visiting the historic sculptures of stone henge in England, living with a family in South Africa truly immersing myself in their traditions.
Photo of Daina Walker and Yakel tribe.
I've danced with the Yakel tribe on Tanna island in Vanuatu and learned about their traditions and practices first hand in their community, through to gaining deeper connections with my own Indigenous ancestors, which is still an ongoing journey for me.
Cultural tourism globally is multifaceted, encompassing Indigenous experiences, traditions, practices, arts, history, local cultures, culinary experiences, story telling and connecting.
We have to ensure that "cultural tourism" in all of its forms, is sustained to keep the travel industry going.
If you want to learn how to implement cultural tourism frameworks in your tourism workplace, get in touch for professional coaching.
Learn how implementing a cultural tourism framework can help your business stand out, attract new markets, and build lasting partnerships with communities, while honouring and preserving cultural heritage.
Daina Walker.
0431 256 994
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