​Traveling offers scores of enriching experiences, from exploring new landscapes to tasting exotic cuisines. However, amidst the excitement of discovering unfamiliar territories, it's crucial to recognize the significance of understanding and respecting the culture of a destination. Culturally sensitive travel not only enhances the overall experience but also fosters global harmony and mutual respect. In this article, I will delve into why it's essential to embrace and honor the cultural nuances of the places we visit.

Avoiding Cultural Misunderstandings:
​Respectful behavior is universal, but the expression of manners can vary significantly from one culture to another. What may be considered polite in one country could be perceived as offensive in another. Understanding the local customs helps travelers avoid unintentional cultural faux pas, ensuring harmonious interactions with locals.

​Preserving Cultural Heritage:
Every destination has a rich history and cultural heritage that deserves preservation. By respecting local traditions and practices, travelers contribute to the safeguarding of these invaluable aspects of a community's identity. Tourism should be a force for good, supporting cultural conservation rather than inadvertently eroding it.

Supporting Responsible Tourism:
Responsible tourism goes hand in hand with cultural sensitivity. Being aware of the environmental and cultural impact of your presence as a traveler allows you to make choices that minimize negative consequences. This may include supporting local businesses, respecting natural landscapes, and being mindful of the community's needs.

Creating Positive Interactions:
When travelers show respect for local customs, traditions, and languages, it opens doors to positive interactions with the local community. Whether sharing a meal, participating in a festival, or simply engaging in conversation, these interactions create lasting memories and contribute to building bridges between people from different parts of the world.

My mission at Ace Travels is to create a kinder world one traveler at a time. I am fulfilling this mission by curating culturally immersive experiences that not only help to create memorable experiences for my clients but also connect them to people and communities they may have never imagined getting to know and love. 

It’s my belief that respecting the culture of a destination is not just a courtesy but a responsibility for every traveler. By embracing cultural sensitivity, travelers become ambassadors of goodwill, leaving a positive impact on the places they visit and bringing the world closer together. As you embark on your next adventure, remember that every journey is an opportunity to learn, connect, and contribute to a more culturally aware and harmonious global community. 

​If you are interested in planning a trip and would like assistance, please feel free to reach out by clicking here.  Happy travels and may your 2024 be a year filled with cultural discoveries and rich experiences.

As the world turns the calendar page to the promising year of 2024, a global tapestry of culture and tradition unfolds throughout the months.
​
From vibrant and exuberant festivals to solemn and spiritual ceremonies, each month brings with it a unique opportunity to experience the rich diversity of a different county’s cultural heritage. Travelers and cultural enthusiasts prepare to embark on a year-long journey around the world, as we dive into some of the most captivating and authentic celebrations taking place each month. Join me as we explore the cultural tapestry of 2024, highlighting a kaleidoscope of festivities that are bound to inspire your wanderlust and deepen your appreciation for the cultural wonders that unite us all. 

The streets come alive with lion dances, parades, music, and public festivities.  ​Many East Asian cities host vibrant Chinese New Year festivals, like the famous Chingay Parade in Singapore or the Nian Festival in Hong Kong. In China, the capital Beijing and southern cities like Guangzhou put on elaborate flower fairs and cultural events. The holiday is also celebrated across Malaysia, Vietnam, Korea, Thailand and by Asian populations worldwide. Regardless of location, Lunar New Year revolves around key traditions like cleansing the home, paying off debts, wearing red, lighting firecrackers, and sharing prosperity and blessings for the year ahead.

​The Rio Carnival is truly one of the world's greatest parties and cultural spectacles. In 2024, after the challenges of recent years, the city is sure to put on an unforgettable celebration filled with the amazing sights, sounds and rhythm that makes Carnival legendary. Samba your way to Rio in 2024 for a once-in-a-lifetime Brazilian cultural immersion!

​Historic sites like Osaka Castle and Mount Yoshino also draw crowds for cherry blossom viewing. More offbeat festivities happen too, like the Kawazu Sakura Festival's illuminated pink trees. Sapporo's snow festival coincides with some late-blooming cherries. No matter where you travel in Japan during sakura season, you'll find food stalls, performances, cherry blossom-themed wares, and endless blissful photo ops. Don't miss Japan's fleeting yet magnificent spring spectacle in 2024. Follow the cherry blossom forecasts to catch the trees at their pinkest peak.

summer festival season. Visitors can immerse themselves in Valencian culture and street partying at this beloved Spanish solstice tradition next June.

different Munich brewery. These tents range from the traditional and cozy to the massive and raucous. Inside, you'll find long communal tables, live music, and plenty of hearty Bavarian food, music, singing and dancing.  Many festival-goers, as well as the staff in the beer tents, wear traditional Bavarian clothing.
​
If you would like to attend Oktoberfest be prepared for large crowds, so it's a good idea to plan ahead and make necessary reservations if you wish to fully enjoy the festival. It's also advisable to book a table in the beer tents well in advance, especially for popular weekends, as they can fill up quickly.

​legends of good triumphing over evil. Statues of the goddess Lakshmi are worshipped for prosperity. Special sweets like gujiya and barfi are made for Diwali. Major celebrations happen in Varanasi, Jaipur and New Delhi, but festivities span every corner of India. From towering city displays to small village jubilations, Diwali brings the essence of Indian culture—light, family, mythology and meaning—to life. Partake in the uplifting celebrations of Diwali 2024 to experience India at its brightest and most jubilant.

As the year 2024 unfolds, the global stage promises a magnificent showcase of cultural diversity and traditions. From the vibrant rhythms of Carnival in Rio de Janeiro to the serene lantern-lit nights of Diwali in India, every month offers an opportunity to connect with the rich tapestry of a different heritage.

These celebrations bring us together, transcending borders, languages, and differences to celebrate the shared human experience. So, as you plan your travels and experiences for the year ahead, remember to mark your calendar for these cultural gems around the world, as they offer not just a glimpse into history and heritage, but a chance to create lasting memories and forge connections that span continents.  

If you are interested in planning a trip to experience any of these events and would like assistance, please feel free to reach out by clicking here. 

Happy travels and may your 2024 be a year filled with cultural discoveries and rich experiences

Have you ever wondered how the celestial dance of the stars impacts your life's journey and travel choices? Astrology, a mystical art spanning centuries, offers profound insights into the predominant energies shaping our personalities and destinies.

Each zodiac sign embodies its own qualities, traits and characteristics giving it a personality of its own.  Your zodiac make-up plays a role in how you move about the world, your desires, your ambition and so much more.  The energy and characteristics of different destinations appeal to different zodiac signs.    

What if you could explore the world through the lens of your zodiac sign and unlock the hidden wonders that align with your unique travel style. Whether you're an adventurous Aries, a dreamy Pisces, or any other zodiac sign in between, let the stars guide your wanderlust and dive into destinations tailored to your travel personality.

As a travel planner and so
​meone who is learning about the wonderful world of Astrology, I have my thoughts on each zodiac sign and its travel style. 
Check your zodiac sign below! 

​Aries embraces the world with boundless energy and an insatiable appetite for exploration.  They are seeking travels that ignite their soul and create unforgettable memories.  Motivated by adrenaline and a thirst for new experiences, Aries travelers seek out thrilling escapades. From conquering challenging hikes to bungee jumping off towering cliffs, they thrive on adventure and adrenaline rushes. While they love exhilaration, they also want to embrace the wilderness and natures retreats. The natural wonderlands perfectly align with their energetic and fearless spirit.  

With a dual nature, Gemini travelers are all about curiosity and learning. They seek destinations that offer cultural richness and intellectual stimulation. A travel guide should take them to cities where they can immerse themselves in art, history, and diverse experiences that feed their ever-curious minds. As one of the most social signs in the zodiac, an itinerary that places them in a thriving social scene and provides spontaneity will feed their soul. ​

​Cancer travelers are driven by emotions and nostalgia, seeking destinations that hold sentimental value or connect them to their roots. A travel guide should guide them to serene retreats where they can embrace their nurturing side and find comfort in the beauty of the surroundings. Cancer travelers also like to deepen their cultural understanding and create lasting memories.  As such destinations that allow them to explore the realm of cultural immersion feed their curiosity.  

​For the confident and glamorous Leo traveler, it's all about being in the spotlight. They thrive in vibrant destinations that offer luxury, entertainment, and opportunities to shine and revel in the limelight and experience the world in style. Leo is also the natural ruler of the fifth house in astrology which oversees our unique creative expression.  As such it would only make sense to immerse them in artistic havens or bohemian neighborhoods with vibrant surroundings where a Leo’s prowess can flourish.  

​Virgo travelers are detail-oriented and analytical, seeking destinations that offer opportunities for self-improvement, wellness, and beauty. A travel guide should lead them to serene havens where they can indulge in holistic practices, yoga retreats, and embrace their inner peace. They are also seeking refined atmospheres, to savor exquisite cuisines and marvel at intricate details that are captivating.  Their intellectual curiosity and thirst for knowledge will also lead them to destinations that inspire learning and exploration.  

​Balanced and seeking harmony, Libra travelers are drawn to destinations that boast beauty and culture. A travel guide dedicated to Libras will guide them to enchanting places where they can revel in art, architecture, and bask in the enchanting ambiance. And because they are ruled by Venus, the planet of love, romance, money, beauty, and art, they want to indulge in tranquil escapes that offer serenity and relaxation allowing Libra’s need for peace and harmony to be nurtured.  

​For the passionate and mysterious Scorpio traveler, soul-searching experiences are a must. A travel guide for Scorpios will take them to thrilling destinations where they can embrace the wild and delve into their deepest desires. As a sign ruled by both Mars and Pluto, the planet of transformation, serene destinations that offer solace and spiritual rejuvenation are perfect for Scorpios seeking inner transformation. Those destinations allow them to embrace the transformative energy and delve into self-reflection and personal growth.  

​Sagittarius travelers have an insatiable thirst for exploration and seek places that broaden their horizons. A Sagittarius tailor made guide should lead them to cultural crossroads where they can indulge in diverse traditions and ignite their sense of adventure. Additionally, as a Sagittarius traveler, the call of the wild beckons you to explore extraordinary frontiers where nature's magnificence unfolds before your eyes. Expedition frontiers offer a profound sense of adventure, igniting your curiosity and passion for exploration.

​Driven and ambitious, Capricorn travelers seek destinations that offer opportunities for growth and success. A travel guide tailored to Capricorns should guide them to bustling urban landscapes where they can network, pursue their goals, and embrace the spirit of achievement. The ambitious and intellectually inclined Capricorn will also revel in destinations that provide the opportunity to connect with ancient wisdom and unlock centuries old secrets. Finally, to escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, serene landscapes provide the ability to find solace and reconnect with their inner selves.  

​Innovative and curious, Aquarius travelers are drawn to unique and progressive destinations. A travel guide tailored to an Aquarius will have them embark on an extraordinary escapade that aligns with their innate Aquarian spirit of exploration and innovation.  As progressive as they are, Aquarians are also deeply philanthropic. Destination where opportunities for giving back and making a positive impact will provide ample ways to contribute to humanity.  

​Imaginative and sensitive, Pisces travelers seek destinations that inspire their creativity and spirituality. A Pisces tailored travel guide should lead them to tranquil escapes where they can connect with their inner selves and immerse themselves in enchanting beauty. As a water element, Pisces seek serene and enchanting coastal experiences.  Coastal destinations offer a harmonious blend of natural wonders, charm and a sense of tranquility that aligns with the Pisces spirit.    

So, are you ready to embark on a cosmic journey like no other? Did this get your travel juices flowing?

No matter which zodiac sign guides you through life, our Zodiac-Inspired Travel Guides have something extraordinary in store for every traveler. Embrace your unique traits, follow the stars, and let our curated adventures ignite your wanderlust like never before. With each destination tailored to your zodiac sign's personality, your next journey is destined to be nothing short of magical.

​So, are you ready to explore the cosmos with us? Your celestial adventure awaits! Click below to find your zodiac inspired guide! 

Welcome, fellow adventurers, to a whirlwind exploration of the vibrant world of travel! Whether you're a seasoned globetrotter or a curious wanderer, it's time to dive deep into the contrasting realms of vacationers and travelers. With a special focus on cultural and immersive travel, let's embark on a journey that will broaden our horizons and ignite our passion for discovering the unknown.

The Relaxation Seekers: Vacationers 
Picture this: you are lounging by a crystal-clear pool, cocktail in hand, toes buried in the sand. Ah, the blissful life of a vacationer! 

These individuals seek respite from the daily grind, longing for relaxation, pampering, and indulgence. And who can blame them? After all, life should be about unwinding and enjoying the finer things.
​
Vacationers gravitate towards all-inclusive resorts, luxury cruises, and destinations known for their pristine beaches. They prioritize comfort and convenience, embracing a well-deserved break from responsibilities. For them, travel is a chance to recharge their batteries and return home with a rejuvenated spirit.

The Explorers of the Soul: Travelers 
Now, let's shift our gaze to the thrill-seeking souls who yearn for something more. Enter the travelers! These intrepid individuals possess an insatiable curiosity about the world, eager to immerse themselves in new cultures, traditions, and experiences. They believe that travel is not just a vacation but a transformative journey of self-discovery.

For travelers, cultural and immersive travel is the heart and soul of their adventures. They venture off the beaten path, seeking connections with locals, learning their customs, and trying authentic cuisines. Their itineraries are brimming with visits to historic landmarks, hidden gems, and lesser-known neighborhoods, painting a vivid tapestry of the destination's essence.

Embracing the unknown, travelers cherish serendipitous encounters, finding beauty in the unexpected. They may choose homestays, community-based tourism, or volunteer opportunities to foster meaningful connections and give back to the communities they visit but are not limited to just this. Believe it or not many travelers also appreciate beautiful and luxurious accommodations. Either way it's through these experiences that travelers truly grow and develop a profound appreciation for the world's diversity.

Finding Common Ground: 
While vacationers and travelers may seem worlds apart, they both share a common goal: to escape the monotony of daily life and indulge in memorable experiences. It's the approach that sets them apart, with vacationers seeking relaxation and travelers seeking adventure.

Cultural and immersive travel acts as a bridge between the two. Even the most dedicated vacationer can enhance their journey by immersing themselves in the local culture, tasting authentic cuisine, or engaging in a cultural workshop. Likewise, travelers can embrace moments of relaxation, taking a pause to bask in the beauty of their surroundings.

In this vibrant tapestry of vacationers and travelers, cultural and immersive travel stands as the connective thread that weaves together experiences, memories, and personal growth. Whether you find solace in the tranquility of a luxury resort or embark on a thrilling odyssey of cultural exploration, the world awaits your discovery.

So, fellow wanderers, as you plan your next adventure, consider how you want to shape your travel experience. Be intentional with your travel plans.  Embrace the relaxation of a vacation, but also open your heart and mind to the wonders of cultural immersion. Let's celebrate the diverse ways we can embrace travel and create a world where wanderlust knows no boundaries. 

Happy exploring! 

Travel!! Ahhhhhh, travel.  That elusive thing everyone wants to do but is afraid to do so but are always concerned about the price tag.    

Here is the real deal. Travel doesn’t have to be expensive unless of course you are a luxury traveler. But even then, you are getting a certain value for your expense. But who doesn’t want to minimize travel expenses, right? I would assume that luxury traveler wants to save if he/she can too.

Below are three ways to save money for or during your travels.
 
 Credit Cards:

Most people have and use credit cards. Why not exchange one of your cards for one that rewards your purchases with miles and/or travel points.  While I don’t advocate running up your credit cards you can use them to pay for your monthly bills (which you would have to pay anyway) and get rewarded in the process.  Add these to the miles you are accumulating from being part of the travel rewards loyalty programs and BINGO…you are on the road to some free travel!  I follow a podcast called ChooseFI where they talk about the best methods for using credit cards to essentially get free travel. They also have a website and have an entire section dedicated to this subject.  They even have a free course for it.  Check it out! It’s extremely informational and even I have learned a few things.  

And If you travel for business and are required to use your own credit cards to pay for your travel, HELLLLLOOO, this is an amazing way to rack up on those miles or points for basically nothing.

Additionally, find a credit card that doesn’t charge a foreign transaction fee.  Credit card issuers sometimes charge foreign transaction fees on transactions made and processed in a foreign currency or passing through a foreign bank. The charge is a percentage of the amount of the transaction, typically 3%. So consider a credit card that doesn’t assess foreign transaction fees — you’ll thank me on your next international trip.  Nerdwallet.com recently published a list of the 6 Excellent No Foreign Transaction Fee Credit Cards in 2022.   Some on the list are travel rewards too. Talk about killing two birds with one stone!!
 
Get Rail Passes
​
Rail passes (like Eurail) are a great way to save money when it comes to train travel, especially in Europe. If you’re traveling around the region for a while, rail passes will likely be much cheaper than just booking individual trips. If you are booking individual trips, booking ahead of time can usually save you about 50% of the cost of a train ticket. However, that fixes you to a set timeline. If you don’t want to be tied into a fixed schedule, rail passes can save you a lot of money while giving you the flexibility you need.

If you live in the US and want to take advantage of train travel, Amtrak is an option.  While living in NYC my friends and I would take the Amtrak train to Montreal for long weekends. It was less expensive than a flight, easier than going to the airports (especially in NYC) and a smooth trip.   There is a great blog article at Koopy.com entitled “12 Clever Ways to Save Money On Your Next Amtrak Trip”
 
Consider an e-SIM Card in Destination:

Never heard of e-SIM cards?  They are the next evolution of the SIM card.  It’s a SIM card that is embedded into your device, so you don’t require a physical SIM card. You can activate it by installing the “eSIM profile” of a new operator. It’s important to note this only works with unlocked devices.  With an eSIM card you can use multiple operators and subscribe simultaneously several data plans to suit your needs: when travelling, working from home or remotely. What’s even better about this is that it can be installed into your phone or laptop.    In some cases, you can save up to 90% off roaming costs.  One provider of e-SIM cards and service is Ubigi. They offer free e-SIM profiles and one-off (valid for 30 days), monthly and annual plans. For instance, you can purchase 3 Gigabytes of Data in France for $8 or 10GB for $19.  It’s all convenient and prepaid with no commitments. 

Savvy travelers who are always on the lookout for a good deal and can save money by following even just a few of these simple tips. As you travel more often you will learn new tips and tricks that resonate with you.  Every little bit helps.

So, can traveling be expensive? Absolutely, but it can also be inexpensive and doesn’t require backpacking and staying in hostels.  If tips and tricks to saving money before and during your travels check out my guide “Ultimate Guide To Reducing Your Travel Costs.”

From family getaways to cultural immersions, there are so many different types of group travel experiences to choose from.

Group travel is a great way to explore new places, make new friends, and create memories that will last a lifetime. Whether you're traveling with your family, friends, or a group of strangers who share your interests, there's something special about experiencing the world with others.

So, let's take a look at some of the different types of group travel options that are available:

• Family Getaways - Traveling with your family is a great way to create memories and bond with one another. Whether you're taking a beach vacation, going camping, or exploring a new city, family getaways can be a lot of fun.
• Cultural Immersions - If you're interested in learning about different cultures and ways of life, cultural immersions are a great way to do so. These trips often include visits to museums, historical sites, and local communities.
• Adventure Travel - For those who love to get their adrenaline pumping, adventure travel is the way to go. From hiking and kayaking to skydiving and bungee jumping, there are plenty of thrilling activities to choose from.
• Volunteer Travel - If you're looking to give back while you travel, volunteer travel is a great option. You can choose from a variety of volunteer opportunities, including working with animals, building homes, and teaching English.
• Niche Specific Group Travel Opportunities - Finally, there are niche specific group travel opportunities that cater to specific interests and hobbies. For example, you could go on a wine tasting tour, a photography trip, or a yoga retreat. Below are a few other niches: 
  
  
  1. Food and Wine Tours - For those who love to eat and drink, food and wine tours are a great option. These tours allow travelers to sample local cuisine and wines, and learn about the history and culture behind them. This also includes tours for other spirits like Whiskey, Scotch, Mezcal or Tequila.  
  2. Art and Architecture Tours - If you're interested in art and architecture, there are a variety of tours that cater to this interest. You can visit museums, art galleries, and historical sites, and learn about the history and cultural significance of different artistic movements and architectural styles.
  3. Music Tours - Music tours are a great option for music lovers who want to explore the history and culture of different genres of music. You can visit iconic music venues, attend concerts and festivals, and learn about the musicians and artists who have shaped the music industry.
  4. Sports Tours - Sports tours are a great option for sports enthusiasts who want to explore the world of sports. You can attend major sporting events, visit sports museums and halls of fame, and participate in sports-related activities.
  5. Eco-Tourism - For those who are passionate about the environment and conservation, eco-tourism is a great option. These tours allow travelers to explore natural habitats, learn about wildlife conservation efforts, and participate in eco-friendly activities.
     
     

Group trips are often viewed as inflexible and rigid, with a strict itinerary and little room for deviation. However, this simply isn't true. In fact, group trips can be incredibly flexible and allow for a great deal of personalization and individualization.
 
One of the major benefits of group travel is the convenience and organization it provides. Instead of trying to plan and coordinate every detail of your trip yourself, a group tour operator takes care of all the logistics for you. This can be a huge relief, especially if you're traveling to a foreign country or a destination you're not familiar with.
 
However, just because the tour operator is handling the details doesn't mean you have to stick to a strict schedule. Many group tours offer a variety of optional activities and excursions that allow you to customize your trip and do the things that interest you the most. For example, if you're on a group tour of Europe and you want to spend an extra day exploring a particular city, you can usually arrange to do so with the tour operator. Or, if you're on a group safari and you want to spend more time observing a particular animal, your guide can usually accommodate your request.
 
Another way group trips can be flexible is by offering different levels of accommodation. If you're on a budget, you can opt for a more economical hotel or hostel. If you prefer a more luxurious experience, you can choose a higher-end hotel or resort.
 
Finally, group trips often have a variety of departure dates, so you can choose a time that works best for you. And if you can't find a group trip that fits your schedule, many tour operators are willing to create a custom itinerary just for you.
 
In conclusion, group trips are not inherently inflexible. With the variety of optional activities, different accommodation options, and the ability to customize your itinerary, you have the power to make your group trip as flexible as you'd like it to be.

​Ace Travels offers a variety of group trips to locations across the world. We can curate each trip to be as personalized as you'd like your experience to be. To learn more about what group trips are currently available click here. 

As I get older I do my best to give gifts that have sentimental value or are useful. In a world where the average person continues to accumulate more and more nonessentials or has everything it makes it difficult to determine what to gift someone.  I know I fit in this bucket and I am trying my hardest to ensure I only have the items I need or deem functional.

​As an avid traveler, anything that can help make my travel experience better is a gift I appreciate.  If you have someone on your list who is a wanderluster at heart I have some affordable gift ideas that will surely not get tossed in the donation box or gifted forward.  

Looking for gift ideas for the traveler in your life? Or maybe you could use one of these genius gadgets to make your next trip even better! Even the most seasoned traveler can pick up new tricks every now and then. Have you ever stumbled on the perfect travel gadget — the thing that turned into the item you now would never dream of leaving the house without? Here are some of my favorites right now. 

​Behold for the coolest and most functional travel gadget!!

Ok picture this.....you are walking through the airport. You are pulling or pushing your luggage with one hand. With your other hand you are trying to juggle your phone, your drink and any other item you may be carrying. Can you see it?

There’s something so satisfying about finding the perfect travel tool that makes your life a million times easier. We think these gifts  are a great place to start! 

I think using a specific holiday (Easter, Halloween, etc) as a launch pad to planning a trip is a creative way to experience and see things you would not normally have access to.  I also think it puts the culture aspect of travel upfront and center because in many cases holidays can be a defining aspect of your destinations culture.  It helps you experience that country in a way you normally wouldn’t be able to at other times of the year.  

If you weren’t already aware Halloween is one of the oldest holidays. Its origins date back to the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain (sow in).  The Celts, who lived mostly in the area that is now Ireland, the United Kingdom and northern France, celebrated their new year on November 1.

This day marked the end of summer and the harvest and the beginning of the dark, cold winter, a time of year that was often associated with human death. Celts believed that on the night before the new year, the boundary between the worlds of the living and the dead became blurred. On the night of October 31, they celebrated Samhain, when it was believed that the ghosts of the dead returned to earth.   Although it stems from religious beliefs, it is still celebrated today by many people of different religious backgrounds.  

If you are someone who loves Halloween and traveling you are in for a treat today. I have decided to take us on a quick trip around the world so we can learn how other countries celebrate Halloween. So, if you ever want to take a trip to celebrate Halloween elsewhere here are some countries to consider.   

Mexico

In Mexico Halloween is more of a multiday affair. It’s a time to remember your loved ones who have passed on.  Our commercialized Halloween doesn’t hold a candle to El Dia de Los Muertos, the Day of the Dead, which is believed to take place on November 2. It is commemorated with a three-day celebration that begins on the evening of October 31. Dia de los Muertos is a defining aspect of Mexican culture and a joyous holiday.  

This celebration is designed to honor the dead who, it is believed, return to their earthly homes during these days.  Customs vary across the country, but core traditions remain the same wherever you go. Mexicans visit cemeteries, decorate the graves and spend time there, in the presence of their deceased friends and family members. They also make elaborately decorated altars (called ofrendas) in their homes to welcome the spirits.

​If you are fortunate to visit Mexico during this time you will find participants will often paint their faces to resemble skulls or create skeleton costumes or dead versions of Mexican historical or cultural figures.  In some cities, like Mexico City, there are massive parades.  One of the most famous celebrations takes place on a small island names Janitzio in Lake Patzcuaro in the state of Michoacan.   Thousands of visitors gather at the local cemetery to watch the Purepecha indigenous people perform Dia De Los Muerto rituals.  There are also processions with music and folk dances and you will also get to see the local fisherman illuminate the lake with torches. 

Ireland

If you want to visit Ireland for this spooky holiday you will be in for some particularly unique foods and ancient traditions. 

Many countries have their own culinary traditions and recipes for holidays and Ireland is no different.   As part of tradition, Colcannon (mashed potatoes mixed with Kale or cabbage) and barmbrack (sweet bread with dried fruits) are served.  Coins are said to be wrapped in paper and then put into the potatoes for the children to find. Perhaps, the Irish version of trick or treat!! For fortune-telling purposes, charms (coin, a ring or a piece of rag) are added to the Barmbrack. The charm piece you receive in your piece of barmbrack indicates your fortune for the next year.  If you get the rag then your financial future is not great, the coin means prosperity and the ring is of course romance in the offing.

In Ireland you will also find lots of bonfires. Bonfires have always been part of the Samhain celebration and it's not uncommon to find many around the country on October 31st, as they're all lit for a reason. Legend says that bonfires could ward off bad fortune as well as evil spirits and they also served as a form of protection as well as metaphorical future insurance for good fortune. It was also believed that bonfires encouraged dreams, and the embers would often be scattered in the fields of farmers in order to ward off bad luck in the face of the following year.

Visit Ireland during this holiday and you will be in for a treat.  In Dublin you can attend a family friendly event that begins with an overview of the origins of Halloween including the games often played on this holiday.  For instance, he Celts were obsessed with finding out the identity of their future spouses and many games are centered around this including apple snap and bobbing for apples.   In Galway over 70,000 people line the stress every year to witness a parade full of magic. You will experience giant creations, sculptural images, pyrotechnics, custom made costumes and performances bringing that years chosen theme to life.  

Japan

Forget the trick-or-treating, in Japan Halloween is for the adults. It’s all about cosplay and partying.  Some people argue that the concept of trick or treating wouldn't work in Japan because Japanese people don't like bothering other people, especially not strangers. Therefore Halloween in Japan is mostly for the grown ups and it's all about partying and dressing up!

If you’re wondering where to celebrate Halloween in Japan, the street parties are a great place to start. They take place throughout Japan in popular spots such as squares and parks.  There’s a huge annual Halloween parade at Roppongi Hills which always turns into a huge street party. Another one of the best parties is in Shibuya (Tokyo) where the Scramble Crossing and Center Gai are closed off from traffic and the partying goes on until the early hours!

Add to this the most prestigious event of the day, the Kawasaki Halloween Parade and you are in for a treat.  It features around 4,000 costumed participants and over 120,000 spectators.  Participants must apply at least two months in advance and pay a 1,000 Japanese Yen fee. Talk about a party!!! 

Romania 

In Romania Halloween is a fairly recent tradition transplanted from the USA.  The home of the fictitious Dracula celebrates Halloween with a dance party on All Hallows Eve.  As such it would only be right that Bran Castle, is one of the several castles associated with the Halloween festivities.   In addition to music the castle organized Vlad Tepes guided tours from dusk until midnight and entertainment includes traditional Romanian folklore dances, the presence of Count Dracula, ghosts and vampires. You can also watch horror movies and animation.  The festivities are not just for adults though. Children can attend and at the end of the evening awards are given to those with the best costumes.  Requests to attend the party starts as early as January from all around the world.  

This is just a small sampling of some of countries that celebrate Halloween.  There are actually many more. If you are ever seeking to pull together a Halloween inspired trip I would be thrilled to help.  You can always contact me here to get started.