The two most famous and historic examples of experiential tourism we know are: safaris and spiritual retreats. Since the 1950s, these two forms of tourism, immersing oneself in the most authentic reality of Africa (safaris) and Asia (spirituality), have been practiced primarily by travel enthusiasts. After seeing everything, people go to “experience and feel” the world. Since 2000, and with increased growth after the 2020 pandemic, experiential tourism has become a trend. Today, people travel primarily to learn about and experience the culture and customs of a place and its people. Let’s take a look at the places around the world where you can have a great experiential tourism and what type of tourism to choose, beyond the now overused safaris and pilgrimages.
Cowboys in Canada
Like the famous film “City Slickers” this tourist experience will allow you to live a few days as a real cowboy among authentic, rugged cowboys. You’ll live on Canada’s largest ranches, where a farm can be as large as a big region of Europe, and you’ll be under the orders of local cattlemen. You’ll help the locals with the procedures for caring for, preparing, and accompanying the animals as they move across the vast territory. But don’t worry, you won’t be left at the mercy of a madman… like in the movie! Instead, it’ll all be very exciting. For this type of adventure, the ideal regions are those of Canada’s great west, and the closest airports are Calgary (YYC) and Vancouver (YVR).
The Tea Ceremony in Tokyo
If you want a truly intense Japanese experience, treat yourself to a vacation in Tokyo that also includes the unique experience of a tea ceremony. More suited to women than men, this complex and lengthy ceremony involves preparing tea according to an ancient ritual, with carefully studied and slow movements. A thrilling part is the tying of the kimono: the woman performing this ceremony must wear a special kimono, and dressing up is another wonderful experience to be enjoyed firsthand. To fly into Tokyo, the closest and most convenient airport is usually Haneda (HND).
Chasing the Northern Lights with reindeers
Experiencing the thrill of the Northern Lights firsthand is priceless. Trips and holidays have long been organized for this purpose, heading to Finland in January or February, the best months to admire the phenomenon.
But instead of being transported to the best viewing spots by a comfortable jeep, this time you can arrive by reindeer-drawn sleigh! And you could also help the tour organizer prepare the vehicle and tether the reindeers firsthand…by feeding and caring for them in the days leading up to the event. A reindeer safari to the Northern Lights can only happen in Rovaniemi, where you land directly at the local Rovaniemi Airport (RVN).
On a farm at the edge of the world
In Argentina, and more specifically in Patagonia, you can enjoy a real tourist experience by staying at local “estancias.” These are authentic rural villages, each corresponding to a gigantic farm! Tourists are welcomed by the owners and included in the local work programs: so you might help feed the animals, harvest agricultural products, load or unload goods, and eat and live side by side with the true, courageous ranchers of Patagonia, the southernmost inhabited region in the world. In exchange, you will find excellent local guides to explore the perennial glaciers that jut out into the ocean, at the end of the land. Reference airport: Ushuaia (USH).
Summer skiing in Australia
When you think of Australia, the wild Mr Crocodile Dundee and its landscapes of red powder, scorching sun, and humid swamps always come to mind. Australia is in the south, and we tend to think of it as a warm place… but the seasons exist there too. And they’re reversed! So peak winter arrives between July and August. Since in southern Australia, in the splendid Australian Alps, it snows heavily in July… you can enjoy skiing on the best slopes (in Thredbo, Falls Creek, Mount Hotham, or Mount Bullier). Book our transfers after landing at Melbourne Airport (MEL) so to get to your destination with no effort and no stress.
