When it comes to travelling, there are many different ways to do it. Some like to keep it simple by relaxing by a beach or at a tranquil spa while others like to hop from one tourist attraction to another without missing a beat – and some like to truly immerse themselves into new places and cultures, and the emergence of immersive travel is catering to them.
Immersive travel allows tourists to truly enjoy a new country or cities’ unique cultural offerings, often curating specific events and excursions for visitors to explore.
From immersive exhibitions to special personalised tours, immersive travel is sure to take your travel experience to the next level – and we’ve found five places that are worth adding to your travel list for the remainder of 2023 and beyond.
Malaga, Spain
As the home to Pablo Picasso, Malaga is going big for the 50th anniversary of the painter’s death by increasing their offerings for fans of the artists. Travellers can immerse themselves in Picasso inspired experiences across the island, starting with a stay at Anantara Villa Padierna Palace, which is offering ‘A Palatial Stay Inspired by Picasso’, with a Malaga Picasso experience and exclusive Picasso Dining by Design experience. Also, people can take their immersive Piccaso experience to the next level by visiting the Picasso Museum, which is home to more than 230 of his works, before taking in Plaza de la Merced, where Picasso’s childhood home still stands.
Champagne, France
If, like me, you enjoy Champagne, a visit to picturesque Champagne, France is definitely on the cards.
Fans of the bubbly can hop onboard Coquelicot, a luxury barge by Belmond, which has returned in partnership with Maison Ruinart to offer access to its Taissy vineyard and a technical tasting of Maison Ruinart cuvéduringes, among other sparkling experiences. Visitors can also explore the many other vineyards and tastings on offer, while taking in the beautiful scenery, whether you’re bike riding through the vineyards or exploring the charming villages along the way.
Xi’an, China
Immersive tourism has grown in popularity in Xi’an, thanks to this city’s rich history, which served as the capital of 13 dynasties in Chinese history.
In an interview with China Daily, Xu Hong, dean of the College of Tourism and Service Management of Nankai University said: “Nowadays, more and more tourists are willing to pay for immersive tourism, because they can have a deeper travel memory and a better experience. It gradually becomes a hot demand in the tourism market in China”.
Visitors can walk through Huaqing Palace, one of the city’s cultural landmarks and wear special costumes while exploring what life was like during the Tang Dynasty (618-907) was like. Talk about immersing yourself in history
Bhutan
Travelling to Bhutan and immersing yourself in Bhutanese culture is a must. Known for its stunning Himalayan landscapes, Bhutan allows visitors to truly take in the beauty of the culture, from exploring the bustling markets and trekking along some of the beautiful landscapes to visiting monasteries and witnessing the captivating festivals which includes the spectacular Thimphu Tshechu Festival.
Kilchberg, Switzerland
One of the things you first think of when it comes to Switzerland is chocolate – and for the chocolate girlies, Kilchberg is just the spot for you. Enjoy the sprawling scenic views while immersing yourself in the land of chocolate by visiting the Lindt Chocolate Factory and learning all about the world of Swiss chocolate-making. From watching the creation of Lindt chocolate bars to exploring the factory, Kilcherg will allow you to indulge in all your chocolate favourites while enjoying gorgeous views of the Alps.
