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Welcome to the weekly AST Briefing.

Immersive family activities at hotels and resorts can play a significant role in engaging visitors in ways that help preserve and celebrate local cultures.

With a diverse range of cultures, religions, and languages, Asian destinations offer many opportunities that would give travelers an unforgettable experience.

With that in mind, this week’s Feature Story shows you five ways that Asia’s hotels integrate local traditions, crafts, and immersive experiences into their guest offerings. 

5 Proven Ways to Elevate Family Travel Experiences through Immersive Cultural Tourism

According to sustainable travel data released by Booking.com on April 22, 2024, 96% of travelers who engaged in sustainable practices reported that participating in authentic, local, and cultural tours or activities enhanced their travel experience.

However, Booking.com also reported that while 75% seek authentic experiences that reflect the local culture, 40% remain unsure about how or where to find tours and activities that will ensure they contribute back to the local community.

Examples of Hotels Making Their Cultural Tours Easy to Find

• Six Senses showcases its various activities on a mobile app that offers information beyond property details. Guests can explore guided cultural tours and community projects.

• Bambu Indah partners with Green School Bali for holistic, nature-immersed educational programs in a wall-less, bamboo campus. This collaboration introduces visitors to sustainable practices and Balinese crafts through easily bookable day visits and workshops.

• Shinta Mani Wild in Cambodia offers a range of activities aimed at preserving local traditions and enhancing the livelihoods of local communities. The hotel's website features a dedicated section for adventures such as foraging and boat trips, ensuring that potential guests can plan their itineraries well in advance.

By integrating technology, forming local partnerships, and providing clear and appealing information, they make it easier for guests to choose experiences that celebrate and sustain local cultures and environments.

Meanwhile, here are examples of how Asia’s hotels and resorts integrate local traditions, crafts, and immersive experiences into their guest offerings.

1. Organize Experiential and Immersive Stay 

"The inspiration behind our property in central Bhaktapur is multifaceted, encompassing our deep appreciation for the city's cultural heritage, our commitment to community living, and our desire to give back to our roots by preserving and promoting the cultural heritage they cherished," shares Shailaja Pradhanang, Custodian of The Nanee.

The hotel curates "The Nanee Signature Experiences" that can consist of Early Morning Tour, Evening with a Local Artisan, Bhaktapur by Night, Culinary Appreciation and Family Dinner, and Chef’s Table for travelers to enjoy Bhaktapur's hidden gems.

 »»» Go deeper into ‘The Nanee Signature Experiences’ here.

2. Offer Authentic Culinary Adventures

Shinta Mani Wild's forest foraging experience offers an authentic glimpse into Cambodia's culinary traditions. Led by experienced Rangers and Butlers who have grown up practicing forest foraging, this activity immerses guests in the traditional methods of sourcing food from the wild. The Executive Chef also participates when available or upon guest request, enriching the experience with his insights and expertise.

At Capella Ubud, Bali, the Balinese Home Cooking experience offers guests an interactive way to learn traditional cooking techniques that are integral to the Balinese life. Guests meet their host, Pak Dewa, a fifth-generation Keliki farmer, at the Camp's Post, and walk through lush rice terraces and forest fields to harvest fresh vegetables and fruits along the way. 

 »»» Read about Interactive Farm-to-Table Cooking Classes at Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai here.

3. Curate an Engaging Agricultural Tour.

At Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai, guests engage in the ancient art of rice cultivation. Dressed in traditional Mor Hom farmer clothes, they learn from the local farmers precise planting techniques that have sustained Thai agriculture for generations.

This hands-on experience promotes a meaningful connection with the land and its bounty. Children also benefit as they learn the effort involved in growing rice and the importance of consuming food mindfully. It's an educational and eye-opening opportunity for young guests.

»»» Also take a look at Capella Ubud, Bali’s agricultural tour here.

4. Establish an Artist Residency Program

On Nikoi Island, Ubah Rumah, which means ‘Home of Change’, offers an unparalleled intersection of art, environment, and community engagement.

According to Alecia Neo, co-artistic director for the residency, Ubah Rumah seeks to inspire future actions focused on sustainability and environmental stewardship by providing a dedicated space for deeper conversations, connections, and contemplations.

Filipino artist Florence Cinco led assemblage workshops at the kid's club, encouraging children to create artworks using natural and found materials from the island. Cinco's practice emphasizes mending human relationships with the environment by reintroducing ancient rituals and wisdom. His site-specific sculpture, Unglo, crafted from driftwood collected on Nikoi Island, represents mythical guardians of nature from Samar, Philippines, symbolizing protection and reverence for the natural world.

5. Host Cultural Arts and Crafts Workshops.

On Trafalgar's 13-Day Splendor of Japan tour, guests will visit Gokayama, a serene mountain town renowned for its traditional washi paper-making. This tour introduces travelers to a family-run business that has been preserving this ancient art form since the 7th century. 

At Four Seasons Chiang Mai, expert instructors guide guests through traditional tie and dye techniques, emphasizing the use of natural dyes. Designed for children, these sessions offer a hands-on approach to learning about Chiang Mai's rich textile heritage.

»»» Learn about Endek Painting Workshop at Hotel Indigo Bali Seminyak here.

Conclusion

Hotels and resorts across Asia are elevating family travel experiences by offering a wide range of culturally immersive activities. Each activity is thoughtfully designed to showcase local traditions and nurture a deeper connection between guests and their surroundings, creating memorable and enriching experiences for all ages.

By integrating sustainability into their offerings, these establishments set a benchmark for responsible travel, encouraging travelers to embrace eco-conscious practices and support communities.

What are some of the most culturally immersive activities that you have taken part in? Let us know at [email protected] 

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