Have you ever dreamed of travel around the world without flying? I know I have, because flying internationally is typically a terrible stress for me with expensive flight tickets for the whole family, jet lag, lots of unknowns and the fear of flying itself. If you live in the U.S. and if you are like me this article about travel around the world without flying is for you.
Or may be you LOVE to travel around the world but COVID-19 ruined all your great plans of visiting Asia, Europe or wherever your dream destination was. Don’t despair – here are some great ideas for you to travel the world without flying and have lots of fun in the process!
There are plenty of fantastic international experiences in America: dozens of European towns in the continental USA, international neighborhoods in big cities, unique state parks, cultural centers and much more. Some of them may be in your state or nearby. You can embark on an unforgettable road trip in the U.S. that will for sure make you feel that you indeed travel the world without flying!
Most country sections below also include suggestions for educational, fun, and affordable country-specific hands-on activities you can do at home:
Basque Country
Boise, Idaho
by Kay, The Awkward Traveller
Idaho is not known for many things besides potatoes, especially to those living outside of the USA. But, Idaho, specifically Boise, is home to the largest Basque community outside of Spain!
In case you didn’t know, the Basque people are indigenous to Euskal Herria, currently called “Basque Country,” the region located roughly between north-central Spain and southwestern France. Due to Spain’s quest to unify under one “Spanish identify” and snuff out any different cultures, Basque cultural practices and language speaking were banned and they were even bombed and discarded by the government. So, they began to immigrate to the USA where they could practice their culture freely.
While you’re in Boise, one of the best things to do in Boise is experience the history and culture yourself! Basque Block, a district in downtown Boise, is dedicated to all things Basque! The street is lined with peaceful overhanging oak trees, flower pots, and small shops and restaurants. The names of the Boise’s first Basque immigrants are engraved into the sidewalks, and the Basque flag waves proudly from storefronts.
Visit the Basque Museum and Cultural Center (the only Basque museum in the nation!) for events and catch a traditional dance or two while you’re in town. You can even take home authentic Basque snacks, seasonings, and wine from the Basque Market, which also holds biweekly paella lunches! But if you happen to miss paella, you can always visit the city’s best Basque restaurants, Bar Gernika and Leku Ona, for a taste of traditional Basque cuisine right here in the US!
China
Chinatowns in the U.S.
by Li Tian from Fulltimebaby
There are 4 Chinatowns in the continental U.S. that give you the opportunity to travel the world without flying. They are located in San Francisco, Chicago, New York and Seattle. Chinatowns are a neighborhood where Chinese themed shopping and dining are clustered.
The oldest and largest Chinatown in the US is in San Francisco, stretching across ~ 24 blocks and near Portsmouth Square at the center of historic San Francisco. A majority of the residents were not born in the US, and it’s the most densely populated neighborhood west of New York City.
Grant Avenue, the oldest street in San Francisco, is a lantern adorned main street in Chinatown lined with gift shops, grocery stores, and bakeries. Instagram worthy stops in the neighborhood include the Chinatown Dragon gate, the Golden Gate cookie factory, and one of my personal favorites, the Old (women operated) Telephone Exchange, where operators used to have to remember everyone’s numbers to operate the switchboard.
The cultural activities provide a festive atmosphere during occasions like Lunar New Year, and there are local artist collectives as well. SF Chinatown is a destination rich with history and great food that can’t be missed!
City of Ten Thousand Buddhas
City of Ten Thousand Buddhas in the largest Buddhist monastery in the U.S. located near Ukiah, California. It has the area of 700 acres with many building gardens and the statues of 10,000 Buddhas (hence, the name). Stroll the territory together with the peacocks and enjoy the beauty, peace and tranquility of this place. You will definitely have a feeling of being transported far away to Asia.
Definitely stop by their vegetarian restaurant for lunch that serves delicious, healthy, freshly prepared, vegetarian food. My kids are not vegetarians for sure but they loved the meals served here. Please, note that payment is cash only. The facility may be closed during the pandemic but this gorgeous arch below is located at the entrance of the monastery so you can always stop by to check it out if you are travelling through Mendocino County, it is not far from HW 101.
And the best Chinese cultural activity to try at home is calligraphy. This cool book will help both kids and adults beginners:
Denmark
Solvang, California
If you would like to travel to Denmark without leaving the U.S. then you need to come to Solvang, California. This is the most famous Danish town in America. It will give you a complete immersion into Danish life and culture.
The streets of Solvang are lined by Danish houses, the restaurants serve Danish food and local gift stores sell Danish souvenirs (I personally LOVE their Christmas decorations!) In most places you will visit the employees are dressed in Danish costumes. The town even has its own cute windmill and a kids playground in Sunny Fields Park designed as a Viking village and ship!
Other famous Danish attraction in Solvang are Hans Christian Andersen museum and the Little Mermaid fountain. Hand Christian Andersen was the famous Danish writer, the author of such beloved kids fairy tales as “The Little Mermaid” (hence, the fountain), “Thumbelina”, “Princess and the Pea”, “The Emperor’s New Clothes” and many others. When I grew up in Russia these were our most favorite fairy tales but many of them are not as well-known in the U.S. If your kids are not acquainted with Hans Christian Andersen’s masterpieces, they are a MUST read. This book below has 8 of his absolute best fairy tales with fabulous illustrations. It is a perfect addition to your Danish experience:
It is such a pleasure to stroll along Solvang’s picturesque streets and since it is in California, the weather here is much better than in Denmark, especially in winter. 😉 This little town is probably one of my most favorite destinations in the U.S. that gives you a feel of travel around the world without flying.
France
Sonoma County, California
by Sarah Peabody from the Sonoma Family Adventures
How about a local day trip with a French theme? You can easily accomplish it in Sonoma County, California. You can start with a winery that feels like the bucolic French countryside, visit a lavender farm like the ones in Provence, taste some Champagne, and end the day with a fantastic al fresco dinner at a family friendly French restaurant.
All of the attractions on this itinerary will require an advance reservation, due to limitations in place during the COVID-19 pandemic.
First stop, DeLoach Vineyards
DeLoach Vineyards is a biodynamic winery located in the heart of the Russian River Valley. Whenever you see that a winery is biodynamic then you know it is kid friendly because they have lots of animals! Wine tasting is outdoors and by appointment, which costs $20. Be sure to visit the “Theater of Nature,” a self-guided tour through their farm.
Reservations can be made at this link: https://deloachvineyards.com/reservations/
Before you leave DeLoach, why not make lunch easy and arrange for a cheese and charcuterie platter delivery to you? You can make arrangements with a local business called Tilted Platter, and they will deliver to you at DeLoach, just in time for you to bring it to your next stop for a light picnic lunch.
Second Stop, the Lavender Farm at Monte-Bellaria di California
Monte-Bellaria di California is also located in the Russian River Valley in Sebastopol. They grow french lavender, bees and honey, and olives for olive oil. You can explore with the kids via nature walkways with stunning views. Tickets are $5 per person, and an added farm tour will cost an additional $5 for adults.
Reservations can be made at this link: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/monte-bellaria-lavender-high-fragrance-season-2020-tickets-112120744164
Third Stop, Korbel Winery
Korbel specializes in the most iconic french beverage, which is champagne of course! At this time, all wine tasting is stand-up style outdoors, and by appointment. Thankfully, there is still a free tasting option. Since the wine tasting is standing only, this will probably be your quickest stop of the day.
To make a reservation call (707) 824-7319 or email Reservations@korbel.com.
Fourth and final stop, dinner at Gravenstein Grill
Gravenstein Grill is located in Sebastopol. Their large patio is so beautiful, with trees that look like they could be in a park in Paris. The menu has many French inspired dishes. A few items on their menu include truffle fries, house made charcuterie, cheese plate, quiche, duck confit, and steak frites. Some kid friendly items on the menu include Cesar salad, avocado toast, mac n’ cheese, steak, and the classic hamburger.
Want to learn more? Click here to get your free PDF Guide to the Top 3 Family Adventures in West Sonoma County.
How about bringing a piece of France home and building this cute 3D model of Paris:
Germany
The best way to experience German culture, food and traditions outside the country itself is to head over to one of the amazing German towns in the U.S. I have done some research and found out that there are over a dozen (!) German towns in USA. that will make you feel that you have traveled to Germany without leaving the U.S. Many of them are concentrated in the Midwest but there are some in the Pacific Northwest and in the South too. Here are some of the most colorful German towns in USA. that you should not miss:
Frankenmuth, Michigan
by Sherry Trautman of Traveling Michigan
Frankenmuth Michigan in one of the most well-known German towns in the U.S. It makes you feel like you have stepped into a quaint Bavarian Village even though it is located in southeastern Michigan. This small town is a perfect walking town – park once and you can walk to all the cheese and meat shops, quaint boutique stores selling everything from leather goods to fairies, and breweries with scenic views of the Cass River. Window shopping is a favorite pastime as you can watch fudge and taffy being made by skilled artisans.
Dining at the Bavarian Inn is definitely a one-of-a-kind meal that everyone should experience. The cheerful servers are dressed in colorful Bavarian outfits, the décor is old world Bavarian and the food is mouth-watering home cooking. You will definitely not leave the Bavarian Inn hungry as the friendly servers will fill your table with famous fried chicken, creamy potatoes and gravy, and several delectable side dishes. Plus, there’s delicious ice cream for dessert!
While visiting Frankenmuth, Michigan, be sure to walk across the Holz Brucke Covered Bridge located behind the Bavarian Inn. This iconic wooden bridge offers great views of the Cass River, the River Place Shops (check out the popcorn shop, it is fantastic) and Bavarian Belle Riverboat.
The Bavarian Belle Riverboat is a family run boat that is very popular with visitors as it is relaxing, informative and very fun. Keep your eyes open for deer, ducks, birds and other water creatures as you glide along the Cass River. This narrated boat ride tells the story of the area, the history of the riverboat and other great tips about Frankenmuth.
Leavenworth, Washington
by Lindsey Messenger | Seven Day Weekender
Just 2.5 hours east of Seattle is a small town that immediately transports you to Bavaria. When visiting Leavenworth, Washington, the best known German town on the U.S. West Coast, you’ll swear you’re in Germany, rather than actually being smack dab in the middle of the Pacific Northwest. But it’s not just the quintessential Bavarian architecture that makes you feel like you’re a world away, it’s the seasonal activities that include hiking, kayaking, bike riding, wine tasting, and live entertainment; and the charming winter activities of skiing, snowboarding, snow shoeing, reindeer visits, Santa and dog sledding that will keep you busy making memories for days.
Leavenworth’s location makes it the perfect getaway from a variety of PNW cities – it’s 2.5 hours from Seattle, about 4 hours and 45 minutes from Portland and only 4 hours from Vancouver, BC.
Depending on when you visit you may time it perfectly for one of the popular festivals including the Bavarian Ice Festival in January, Taste Leavenworth! and AleFest in April, the Bavarian Bike & Brew, Leavenworth Wine Walk and Leavenworth Farmers Market (which runs through August) in June, Summer Theater in July, the Washington State Autumn Leaf Festival in September, Oktoberfest in October, the Christkindlmarkt in November, and the Christmas Lighting Festival in December.
One of the best ways to transport yourself is through food and drink and Leavenworth delivers on this front. Family friendly Rhein Haus is one of the best outdoor restaurants in town featuring views of the shops below and mountains in the distance. Huge pillowy soft pretzels can be washed down with pints of beer or cider, and it makes for the perfect spot to get your bearings and plan out your explorations. For dinner make sure you visit Andreas Keller – offering German food in a more traditional restaurant setting. Icicle Brewing is a local favorite featuring outdoor seating with in-table fireplaces, and a plethora of games and puzzles inside for you to play. You also can’t leave Leavenworth without visiting the Nutcracker Museum and sampling the best gingerbread cookies ever from Gingerbread Factory – both quintessentially Leavenworth and Bavarian.
Leavenworth is one of the best escapes to Germany you can experience in the US. It’s the perfect weekend getaway and the perfect extended family trip. For everyone dreaming of touring Europe’s magical towns, look no further than this 100% worthy and must-see replacement.
Helen, Georgia
by Apryl Chapman Thomas, the feature writer for Southern Hospitality Magazine Traveler.
In the North Georgia Mountains, about two hours from Atlanta, Georgia, sits Helen, a Bavarian Alpine village with a southern accent.
However, it didn’t start out this way, and that’s what makes the destination fascinating.
Helen was once a mining town and then a logging town, and once logging left, it was a town in decline. Around the late 1960s, three businessmen met with an artist with German roots to rebrand and rebuild Helen into a tourist attraction that would eventually result in it becoming the third-most visited place in the state.
Today, its 2.1 square miles is filled with quaint shops, German-inspired eateries and more, making it easy to immerse yourself in Helen’s unique atmosphere.
Start your day with breakfast at Hofer’s an order of either Apline French Toast or Apfelküchle (pan-fried sliced apples topped with cinnamon and whip cream.) Be sure to stop by the bakery on your way out for a treat or two to enjoy later. Take a horse-drawn carriage tour through Helen, and afterward meander through local shops, such as Linderhaus Imports and The Glass Blowing Shop, both on Main Street.
Also not to miss on Main Street is Hansel and Gretel Candy Kitchen, worth stopping in, even if you are only browsing (and drooling.) Sit down for a quick lunch (and a German beer) at Alpine Brew Deck. If you have kids in tow or are a model train fan, check out Charlemagne’s Kingdom. Finish the evening with schnitzel at either Hofbrauhaus Restaurant and Pub or The Heidelberg.
For the ultimate experience, play your visit around Helen’s annual Oktoberfest (September – October), the longest-running one in the country.
All the above makes Helen a not-to-miss German town in the U.S.
Gatlinburg, Tennessee
Gatlinburg, TN is not a bona fide German town in USA per say but this beautiful gateway town to Great Smoky Mountains National Park definitely has a distinct Bavarian vibe. It is built in the foothills of the mountains and it has a cute German village looking outdoor shopping center called the Village Shops right in the middle of town. All 20+ stores and eateries in the Village shops are built as cute German houses and the centerpiece of this whole area is The Cheese Cupboard Store and Hofbrauhaus Restaurant styled as German pub and serving typical German items on the menu.
For a cool German hands-on experience, how about building the famous Bavarian Neuschwanstein Castle 3D puzzle for under $20? Check it out:
Holland
Holland, Michigan
Where best to experience Holland than in Holland, Michigan? As the Danish town of Solvang above, Holland, MI gives you a fully immersive Dutch experience. There is so much Dutch flavor in town that you won’t be able to enjoy it all in 1 day. A weekend will probably give you the best opportunity to see and try it all.
Start your journey with Nelis Dutch Village. Visiting the Village is like stepping back in time 150 years ago or so, on a day when a carnival came to town. You can watch Dutch dancing and wooden shoe carving, taste Dutch cheese and walk along the canal, order tulip bulbs and so much more. Kids will love the themed amusement rides and friendly farm animals.
Holland Museum should be your second stop on this “travel around the world without flying” itinerary. It has a huge collection of Dutch art and culture objects form paintings to costumes.
Finally, Windmill Island Gardens and Venheer Tulip Gardens are prime destinations for tulip lovers. The latter is dedicated to tulips only while the former has a collection of variety of flowers. The best time to see tulips in Holland, Michigan is from late April to mid-May. May is the time of Holland, MI’s famous Tulip Time festival with parades, performances, cultural celebrations – it is an event not to miss.
Pella, Iowa
Whether you’re looking for a special place for a one-day escape or you happen to drive through Iowa on one of your road trips, a visit to Pella, Iowa definitely deserves to be taken into consideration!
This pretty town is less than an hour drive from Des Moines and what makes it unique is the European atmosphere you breath while walking down its quaint streets, all in perfect Dutch style! The town was founded back in 1847 by Dutch people who migrated to the US. It is also well known as the childhood home of a famous sheriff of the Wild West, Wyatt Earp.
When you enter the town, you’ll be greeted by the Vermeer Mill, the tallest working grain mill in the US, that also hosts the Pella Historical Society Museums. What will surely attract your eye, though, is the near Molengracht Plaza, featuring picturesque Dutch architecture, with colorful buildings, a clear blue waterway and a working drawbridge! Walking down the cobblestone streets, you’ll also run into the Klokkenspel, a carillon clock featuring eight figures related to Pella’s history which performs daily at 11 am, 1, 3, 5 and 9 pm.
If you’re looking for an even more unique experience, then the best time for you to visit Pella is the first weekend in May, when the town holds the annual Tulip Time Festival, a celebration of its Dutch heritage featuring tulip gardens, Dutch costumes, music, food, and even parades!
How about recreating little piece of Holland at home with these gorgeous tulips:
Italy
The North End, Boston, Massachusetts
By Jackie Gately at Enjoy Travel Life
Longing for Italy? Boston’s Little Italy, called “The North End,” is one of the best places for an international experience without leaving the US. This small and historic neighborhood by the waterfront is known for authentic Italian food (including fresh-made pasta and cannolis) and Italian culture. It is perhaps most famous for the Prince Spaghetti video where “Anthony” runs through the maze of narrow streets to get home in time for dinner.
While the North End was established by predominantly first-generation Italian families, more recently, it has become desirable for young, affluent professionals. However, you will still find a rich Italian culture at its core.
Hanover Street is where you’ll find most of the goings on, but be forewarned: street parking is tight at best. It’s within walking distance of Boston’s downtown, and you’ll also find several paid lots if you decide to drive.
In the summer, The North End hosts several Italian feasts and processions, including:
- The Fisherman’s Feast by the St. Anthony’s Society, celebrating the beloved Madonna del Soccorso,
- Saint Agrippina’s Feast, where the visage of St. Agrippina of Mineo is led through the streets by a marching band,
- The San Rocco procession, and many more.
Each of these events is surrounded by fun and fanfare, along with plenty of Italian sausage and fried seafood.
At any time of year you visit, be sure to dine at La Dolce Vita Ristorante for incredible plates of fresh pasta, copious red wine, and decadent tiramisu. Or check out il Molo to enjoy the famous “Feast of the Seven Fishes” around the holidays. These are two of several delicious dining options in the North End; it’s hard to go wrong here.
However, expect to find some local debate as to whether Mike’s Pastry vs. Modern Pastry offers the best cannoli’—and you’ll probably find a line at both when you visit. Either way, it’s absolutely worth the wait.
Castelo di Amorosa, Napa Valley, California
by Summer Robinson , Stand by for Summer
For a distinct Italian flair head out to Napa Valley, California. In northern Napa Valley, there is a wonderful winery designed after a 13th-century Tuscan castle. It is called Castello di Amorosa and is located in a town called Calistoga. It was founded in 1993, but construction took 15 years! Besides an impressive moat and wine cellar, I think this winery is worth visiting just for its history!
Castello di Amorosa was established by Dario Suttui, a 4th generation winemaker and great-grandson of an Italian immigrant. Dario traveled around Europe after college and became obsessed with medieval architecture. He originally launched V. Sattui winery in St. Helena but wanted to open another winery to showcase his Italian heritage. After years of waiting for his dream property, he finally purchased land in 1994. Construction finished in 2007, and the project turned into a 121,000 square foot Tuscan castle. Castello di Amorosa needed to be authentic, so only old, hand-made materials were used to build it! As a result, the same construction methods from 700-800 years ago were used to build the castle.
Driving up to the castle will leave you breathless! You are greeted with views of lush greenery and those iconic Napa vineyards. Luckily there is a large parking lot, so parking isn’t an issue.
A tour of the castle is very interesting. It takes approximately 2 hours, and reservations are required in advance. This winery gets extremely busy so be prepared for large crowds. The tour starts with a walkthrough of the castle and even includes a visit to the torture chamber! It ends in an immaculate wine cellar, and you can choose which types of wine you want to sample. Once you are finished, walk through the gift shop, and consider buying the bottles of wine that you enjoyed. Unfortunately, this brand can’t be bought in stores!
Italy is famous for its Murani glass so for a fun Italian experience create your own jewelry at home from Murano style beads:
Japan
San Francisco Bay Area, California
Japanese Tea Garden
by Manpreet, HelloManpreet.com
A true international experience, found in the heart of Golden Gate Park, is the Japanese Tea Garden. This visit actually inspired us, and many others, to visit Japan in order to learn more about the culture and history of their art. The easiest way to access the garden is to enter via Fulton Street and Crossover Drive. After a few minutes of walking, you will be welcomed by a beautiful large red entrance gate in true Japanese architecture.
Upon entering the garden, the sound of the smooth waterfall will make you feel nothing but calm within just a few seconds. As you take a quick glance around, the true sense of Japanese culture will leave you feeling mesmerized. What will be most surprising is that a majority of the visitors are not tourists, but this is very popular spot for locals due to the history this garden brings. Locals also visit often as the garden is home to a cute little tea house cafe which overlooks the garden from all angles. Though you are just a few steps away from the very busy streets surrounding the park, you will find the garden is very very quiet and peaceful. A great getaway from the busy lifestyle. Like a holiday, whilst still at home!
On Monday, Wednesday and Friday, it is free to enter the gardens before 10 am and $9 entry outside of that for tourists. We would recommend visiting the gardens at around 1 pm where you will be able to join a free guided tour to learn more about the plants and history of the garden with a local resident. Here’s a little fact before you arrive… the main entrance gate that you walk through is made without any nuts and bolts! Genuine Japanese architecture and workmanship combined with origami hold this gate together above you. The garden is home to plants which are almost a century in age, showing the amount of love and care which has been put into keeping this garden immaculate every day.
Other Japanese gardens in San Francisco Bay Area
There are three more Japanese gardens in San Francisco Bay Area, in San Mateo, Hayward and San Jose. San Mateo Japanese garden is the smallest of the three. My personal favorite is the Friendship Garden in San Jose, it is the biggest of the three and has more features. I especially love its water lily pond. It is best visited in April when you can see cherry blossoms in bloom as well as water lilies. Another great thing about these Japanese gardens is that the entrance to all of them is FREE of charge. In fact, there are 17 FREE botanical gardens in San Francisco Bay Area.
San Francisco Japantown
San Francisco Japantown is the largest Japantown in the United States out of the remaining three. At the center of the Japantown there are two huge mall buildings that take you on traveling to Japan without flying. There are many authentic Japanese restaurants and cute stores in the malls where you can buy uniquely Japanese things, from magazines to jewelry. Kids will love their stores with adorable toys and stationary.
Another authentic Japanese experience at the mall is Kabuki spa offering Japanese communal baths and Asian spa treatments (temporarily closed during COVID-19 pandemic).
Once you are outside, you definitely need to explore Japanese Peace Plaza with its beautiful pagoda and Buchanan Street (pedestrian only). This is a place for annual Northern California Cherry Blossom Festival that takes place every April. It is famous for its parade, cultural performances, art classes and so much more.
Los Angeles, California
Little Tokyo
by Jenny Kotlyar of Campsite Vibes
Little Tokyo in Downtown Los Angeles is a great way to experience a little bit of Japan right in LA. Especially if you’re in the mood for good Japanese food. From sushi and ramen bowls to a variety of different matcha desserts.
You can wander the streets looking at different restaurants and shops. If you’re in the mood for ramen, Daikokuya is one of the best. Most of their ramen bowls have a pork based broth, but they also have two vegan options! If you’re in the mood for udon noodles, Marugame Monzo is a great option. If you sit at the bar, you can see them making the noodles right in front of you! If you’re looking for sushi, stop by OOTORO Little Tokyo. They have a great variety and the fish just melts in your mouth.
To top off dinner, stop by Midori Matcha for a matcha dessert. They have everything from soft serve, iced matcha lattes, matcha eclairs, matcha tiramisu and so much more. If you’re into matcha, this is not a place you want to miss.
On the cultural side, you can also explore the Japanese American National Museum. They have a wide range of exhibits from modern art to historical research. These exhibits inspire conversations on important social issues and explore the relationship between Japanese and American cultures. For more adventure travel inspiration, click here.
Urbana-Champaign, Illinois
Japan House
Japan House and the surrounding Japanese garden is a unique facility that is managed by the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. I love cultural presentations and tours provided at the House and my most favorite experience here is the Japanese tea ceremony. The tours and the tea ceremony must be booked in advance for a small fee.
Japan House also organizes various classes for the community, such as ikebana flower arrangements, calligraphy and The Way of Tea.
The small Japanese Garden is free to visit at any time but it is especially beautiful during May when cherry blossoms are in bloom.
If you are a fan of Japanese gardens there are many of them in the U.S. The biggest and most prominent are located in: Portland OR, Chicago IL, Philadelphia PA, St. Louis MO, Brooklyn NY, Seattle WA, Del Ray Beach FL, Hot Springs AR, St. Paul MN and Fort Worth, TX (some of them are stand alone Japanese gardens and other are located within bigger botanical gardels like in Chicago and Hot Springs, AR, for example).
To bring Japanese culture home, check out these adorable origami kits:
Korea
Koreatown, Los Angeles
by Arabela from the Spicy Girl Travel
Koreatown is hands down my favorite neighborhood in Los Angeles and one of the best places to have an international experience without leaving the US. Its immense size and authenticity not only make it an amazing place for food and shopping but also offer incredible opportunities to immerse in Korean culture without leaving the US.
If you’re already a fan of Hallyu culture, Koreatown will be pure heaven for you. Among the countless Korean-owned businesses in the neighborhood, you’ll find everything from hanboks to traditional pottery there. And if you happen to be a k-pop fan, Koreatown’s iconic CD shops will be of particular interest to you. Check out Music Plaza in Koreatown Plaza Mall to find the best selection of k-pop CDs and merchandise. Koreatown is also a paradise for skincare enthusiasts since you’ll find a huge variety of Korea’s most popular skincare brands concentrated in Koreatown to give you that glowy honey skin look you’ve always wanted.
In case you’re not that familiar with Korean culture just yet, Koreatown LA is the perfect place to get some first impressions and learn about Korean culture without jumping on a 13-hour flight. There are multiple cultural centers located in the neighborhood that are dedicated to keeping the traditions from the motherland alive – and sometimes you can even sign up for language courses there! Koreatown is also known to host the famous LA Korean Festival where you can sample food and buy produce from every Korean province and meet some amazing Korean artists during the three days of concerts.
Lastly but most importantly, Koreatown is an absolute hotspot for foodies in Los Angeles – I mean the entire United States! Having spent months eating my way across Korea, I can guarantee you there is no place with a more authentic variety of Korean food outside of Korea than K-Town LA. Here you can find everything your heart desires, from the classics like spicy rice cake (tteokbokki) and Korean BBQ to extremely authentic treats like sundae soup! For some of the best eats in Koreatown, check out Kyodong Noodles At Madang and the Koreatown Plaza food court.
To top of your Korean experience with some educational and fun activities, check out this great book of Korean stories, songs, games, crafts and more:
Luxemboug
Belgium, Wisconsin
by Paulina from Paulina on the Road
If you hope to get an international experience without leaving the U.S, the best way to do that is to visit the Luxembourg Heritage Center in Belgium, Wisconsin. The Cultural Center greets countless visitors annually from throughout the U.S, Luxembourg, and other international countries! Opened its doors in 2009, it’s the only aesthetic center in the world honoring the unique heritage and culture of Luxembourgers!
The Luxembourg American Cultural Center was constructed under the auspices of Luxembourg’s Ministry of Culture that especially holds the “Roots and Leaves Immigration Museum.” The museum is positioned in the Mamer-Hansen stone barn, the ultimate Luxembourgian stone barn in Wisconsin, built-in 1872 by Jacob Mamer. Furthermore, this stone barn is classic preservation, and the museum represents the past and present of Luxembourg, alongside Luxembourg settlement to America and its repercussions on the framework of America.
The Cultural Center highlights the Luxembourg American Family Tree – a marvelous sculpture founded in Luxembourg. Plus, the Dooley-Wagner Research Center is another unique aspect of the Luxembourg American Cultural Center- the largest research center for Luxembourg studies and genealogy outside of Luxembourg. It’s indeed a treasure trove of erudition and sources for historians, genealogists, and researchers.
Enclosing the Cultural Center’s “Roots and Leaves Museum” are the remarkable Pesche-Leider Luxembourg Garden, Adolph & Marie Ansay Courtyard, and Schieren Conservancy. Additionally, these enclosures offer peaceful serenity as well as the added history of Luxembourgers in America. Indeed, the Cultural Center provides diverse traveling exhibits/gifts throughout the year for everybody. The Center also organizes its ever so popular yearly festival – Luxembourg Fest with food boothes, a parade, presentations and much more.
Moreover, there are plenty of luxury resorts in Wisconsin, such as- Grand Geneva resort and spa, The four-season island, The Osthoff Resort, etc. All the resorts provide a great experience. So, whenever you visit there, you will gain the international experience of America’s most unique and welcoming ethnic groups at the ancient heritage.
Mexico
San Antonio, Texas
by Michael Taylor from Accidental Travel Writer
Known as Day of the Dead in English, Dia de los Muertos is a day in which Mexicans celebrate the lives of dearly departed friends and relatives.
In fact, Day of the Dead is related to All Saints’ Day, which also falls on November First, the day after Halloween.
In a tradition dating back 3,000 years, families make offerings to their forebears, who they believe return to earth on this day for a visit. Included are alters with skulls made of sugar as well as tamales and alcoholic spirits. They are usually placed in the home or at grave sites.
While the Day of the Dead is celebrated in many American cities with Mexican-American communities, nowhere is it celebrated with more enthusiasm than in San Antonio, Texas, which is not surprising. San Antonians of Hispanic or Latino heritage account for nearly two-thirds of the city’s population!
In San Antonio, the festivities begin in late October and continue through early November, spanning an entire week. In fact, more than 20 events of various types take place across the city, including processions, parades, festivals, and live music.
A highlight is surely the parade of dancers, mariachis, and giant dancing puppets, which sail down San Antonio’s famed River Walk on November First.
On the following two days, a festival is held at La Villita Historic Arts Village, where families compete to create the most spectacular or creative alters. And there is no shortage of food, music, and dance.
Other events with a Latin flavour include Fiesta, a 10-day celebration in April; Cinco de Mayo, or the Fifth of May; and Fiesta de las Luminarias, when 7,000 candles lit in sand-filled bags are placed along the banks of the River Walk.
Year-round attractions include the city’s four missions, which are clustered within San Antonio Missions National Historical Park.
But without doubt, the biggest attraction of all is surely the city’s many Mexican and Tex-Mex restaurants. Could it be the best Mexican food North or the border?
Olvera Street/El Pueblo, Los Angeles
Olvera Street in Los Angeles is located in the area of the city that is considered the birthplace of Los Angels. It is a historic district dating back to 1877 which is full of Mexican history and traditions. Olvera Street is part of the el Pueblo de Los Angeles Historic Monument.
Olvera Street has a marketplace that is full of vendors selling everything from Mexican food to clothes to souvenirs. Olvera Street is also famous for organizing various famous Mexican celebrations including but not limited too: the Day of the Dead, Cinqo de Mayo, Las Posadas and Blessing of the Animals. During those celebrations you can see traditional music and dance performers and celebratory processions. In the video below you can see one of such performances.
When you visit the area don’t miss the most interesting historic buildings that are part of el Pueblo de Los Angeles Historic Monument, such as: The Church of Our Lady Queen of the Angels and Avila Adobe. You can take a 50-minute, historic walking tour of El Pueblo de Los Angeles that is conducted by Las Angelitas del Pueblo every Tuesday through Saturday.
For a Mexican Day of the Dead hands-on experience, try making these beutifull skulls:
Philippines
Little Manila, New York
by Lucille Hernandez Rodriguez
Here is a fantastic idea for people who love to travel the worl without flying who are also foodies. Woodside is a neighborhood of New York City located in Queens that is considered a “Little Manilla”, with around 15% of the population from Filipino origin. To go there, take line 7 to 69th Street Station. Going to a different neighborhood is one of the best ways to travel locally and discover other cultures without going far.
Most of the businesses in Little Manila are catering to the Filipino-American population and those interested in the culture. The most well-known are Jolibee, a fast-food chain, and Red Ribbon Bakeshop.
There are also many street food vendors, selling very authentic and delicious food. Ask around as the locations change a lot and the residents of the neighborhood often are in the know of the best spots. If you are adventurous and like trying new foods, go for the Balut, that can be best described as a boiled egg embryo. The street vendor selling them is only doing so a few times a week, so you will be in luck if you find him!
The place where you’ll find ALL the food is Krystal’s Café and Pastry Shop: from chicken adobo to ube (purple yam) cakes, this shop has it all. Try out the Halo Halo, a dessert made of shaved ice, condensed milk, and many other ingredients such as ube, coconut, beans, or fruit, as it is really delicious there.
Before you go, don’t forget to stock up on Filipino food and go to a local supermarket such as Phil-Am Foods, get all the ingredients you need to make Halo Halo at home or stock up on Ube ice cream for a third of the price you’ll find in Manhattan. For cooking the yummy Filipino dishes at home without hassle, check out this great cookbook:
Russia
Forst Ross, California
Do you know why there are such places in California as Russian River, Moscow Road, the town of Sebastopol and such? Because in the middle of the 19th century a big chunk of Northern California was Russian territory. So how about travel to Russia without flying? It is easier than you think! Just come visit Fort Ross State Historic Park in Sonoma County which was a stronghold of the Russian territory.
I strongly recommend taking a guided tour to learn the fascinating history of the Fort, Russian settlers and life in the 19th century. Throughout the year Fort Ross also organizes a number of cultural events and festivals. The biggest annual festival that takes place at the end of July will have Russian folk music, dances, games and other performances as well as Russian food.
Also of note is Russian Cultural Center in San Francisco which has a small history museum and is also known for organizing various cultural events, including annual Russian Festival with Russian performances, arts, crafts and jewelry vendors, vodka tasting and some amazingly delicious Russian food.
Here are some great Russian crafts to do at home available on Amazon:
I also would like to introduce my book about Russia here – Russian Winter Folk Tales, a collection of the best Russian folk tales illustrated by kids around the world, a delight to read for children of all ages (NOTE: sometimes Amazon says that the book is temporary unavailable. Don’t pay attention to that, the book is “print-on-demand”, once you purchase it they will print specifically for you).
Spain
Spanish Missions, California
What makes California very similar to Spain is the Mediterranean climate, the ocean, the love for seafood and wine and Spanish colonial architecture. There are many places in California that will take you traveling to Spain without flying. First of all, the are 21 missions in California that were built in the best traditions of Spanish colonial architecture. You can visit them on a road trip from San Diego to San Francisco Bay Area. They are all very beautiful and some of them have nice gardens too. My favorite ones are in Carmel and in San Luis Obispo. These two missions also have historic museums on site that are very educational in terms of Spanish colonization of the New World, their traditions and ways of life, as well as the history of California.
Hearst Castle, California
But the best representation of Spanish colonial architecture is, no doubt, the Hearst Castle. This gem of California’s Central Coast will definitely make you feel being transported to Spain. It is hard to describe its beauty and grandeur with words, you need to see it at least once:
Santa Barbara and San Diego
There are also several cities in California that have the definitive Spanish vibe, such as Santa Barbara and San Diego. In San Diego you need to visit Old Town San Diego, which is considered the birthplace of California and Balboa Park to get that vibe. In Santa Barbara don’t miss Mission Santa Barbara, El Presidio State Historic Park and the whole downtown that looks like a Spanish town.
I suggest this exciting book about California missions to accompany your Spanish-themes adventures:
Switzerland
Ouray, Colorado
by sustainable travel bloggers Oksana & Max from Drink Tea & Travel
For an authentic mountain experience, head to Ouray in Colorado. Thanks to its alpine charm, this tiny town has been dubbed the Switzerland of America. Here you will find outdoor activities, stunning natural beauty and friendly locals.
We discovered Ouray on our Colorado road trip and it quickly became one of our favourite Western Colorado destinations. The main street is lined with lovely little shops, cafes and restaurants. And the mining roots and rich history of this town shine through the architecture of the town centre.
Ouray’s Perimeter Trail is an excellent way to see the area. This six mile trail offers up a birds eye view of the town as well as four waterfalls, five bridges and beautiful scenery. For even more hiking opportunities head to the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park which is located nearby. It is one of the finest parks in the nation.
After all that hiking head to Orvis Hotsprings for a chance to relax in the natural hot springs. The surroundings are beautiful as well.
Ouray has some of the most scenic drives in the country. The Million Dollar Highway and the Dallas Divide are roadways which weave through the mountainside revealing some awe inspiring natural scenery. Bonus points if you go in the fall!
And to bring a piece of Switzerland home, try a fondue party. Switzerland is famous for its cheese and chocolate fondues and thisfine pot can make both perfectly:
Additional locations for traveling around the world without flying
The Shrine of the Grotto of the Redemption, West Bend, Iowa
by Karen Mellott-Foshier
Although surrounded by soybeans and cornfields, The Shrine of the Grotto of the Redemption will make you feel like you’ve been transported to Europe.
This hidden gem in rural Iowa is literally made of gems. Depicting the life and final hours of Jesus Christ and other Biblical events, the Grotto features one of the world’s largest collection of precious and semi-precious gems. The shrine is comprised of malachite, agates, geodes, jasper, quartz, topaz as well as seashells, marble statues and even 65 tons of petrified wood in the manger scene.
So how did this beautiful Grotto find its way to the farming community of West Bend, Iowa?
It’s a promised vision the late Father Paul Dobberstein made to the Blessed Virgin Mary while gravely ill. He spent a decade collecting the materials and largely built the Shrine of the Grotto of the Redemption by himself – and much by hand. Eventually two others joined him in making his promise a reality.
And while off the beaten path, 100,000 visitors make the pilgrimage to this top roadside attraction in Iowa each year. The Grotto of the Redemption is the largest man-made grotto in the world and is listed on the U.S. National Register of Historical Places.
Learn more about the Shrine of the Grotto of the Redemption – a promise that took several decades to create.
Disney World
by Alanna Koritzke of Periodic Adventures
Nestled in the middle of Florida swamp land, Disney World has created an incredible international experience at Epcot World Showcase where you can visit multiple countries and sample regional food, drink, and shopping. Epcot is one of the four main Disney World parks and hails itself on celebrating human achievement through science, discovery, and culture where the World Showcase is the highlight. At the center of Epcot is a lake, called the World Showcase Lagoon, and scattered around said lake are different country pavilions representing Canada, the United Kingdom, France, Morocco, Japan, the United States, Italy, Germany, Africa (trading post), China, Norway, and finally Mexico, in counterclockwise order around the lake.
There are various ways to experience the World Showcase such as eating or drinking your way around the world. I highly recommend trying the fish and chips in the United Kingdom at Yorkshire County Fish Shop, German beer at Biergarten Restaurant, pot stickers at the Lotus Blossom Café, and barbacoa tacos at La Cantina de San Angel. Additionally, there are a number of great location specific shops like tea in the United Kingdom, wine in France, authentic carpets and lamps in Morocco, steins in Germany, fleece in Norway, and even the only Japanese Mitsukoshi Department Store in North America!
Lastly, be sure to check out the shows and rides at each location, like the new Frozen ride in Norway!
So, if you’re planning a trip to Disney World, be sure to include Epcot’s World Showcase for a fantastic international experience!
Las Vegas
Las Vegas may not be everybody’s cup of tea but we have to serve it justice: it does provide some cool cultural experiences.
The Venetian Resort
The Venetian Resort is an opulent destination with several well-known Venetian landmarks including including the Palazzo Ducale, Piazza San Marco, the Lion of Venice Column and the Column of Saint Theodore, St Mark’s Campanile, the Rialto Bridge and of course the cannals. You can rent a gondola and sail around the resort as if in Venice. Or if you want to save money you can just walk around for free, checking out inside and outside the hotel. On the inside I absolutely love their ceiling murals.
But wait, this is not all! Another part of the Venetian experience is watching Italian opera and other Italian street performances taking place every day in the area of the Canal Shoppes. You can ask the concierge at the front desk of the hotel about specific daily schedule. This cool experience is absolutely FREE!
Finally, stop by one of more than half a dozen (!) Italian restaurants and cafes at the Venetian to complete the experience. There are food joints here for all the budgets serving a great variety of fabulous Italian food from lunch pizza to multi course scrumptious dinners.
Paris Resort
Paris resort, as the name suggests has a definitive French theme. The main attraction of the resort is half scale 540-foot tall replica of the Eiffel Tower, which has a viewing platform on top, the same way as the original. From there you can enjoy great panoramic views of Las Vegas. Other famous Parisian landmarks that you can see at Paris Las Vegas are: two-thirds size Arc de Triomphe and a replica of the Fontaine Des Mers.
The same as the Venetican, Paris resort has over half a dozen French food destinations: restaurants, brasseries, cafes and a bakery that can satisfy all your cravings.
I sincerely hope that this article gave you enough ideas for many future road trips in the U.S. Here is a visual map of the locations of most of these amazing places (click on the image to go the the live map that you can explore):
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These are all such great recommendations. I love how much travel experiences have spread around the world and an appreciation for other cultures can still be experienced closer to home, wherever that may be. Thanks for including me!
Thank you so much for participating! I believe travel should be educational and I think visiting these locations in the U.S. is a great opportunity to learn about countries and cultures.
Hi, Alanna, I so happy you love all these ideas!