Destination Ideas
Immersing in Culture
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Explore these far-flung destinations that for centuries have served as global crossroads for a rich tapestry of cultures, cuisines and people.

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Bali: Dive Deep into an Ancient Culture

Long before Bali became an island retreat for seasoned surfers and luxury travelers alike, it was home to a thriving island community, rich with culture. Those customs live on today, providing an ever-present backdrop to the beautiful beaches and lush landscapes Bali is known for. For the Balinese, art, music and dance are more than just a pastime — they’re a way to entertain the gods. Soak up this storied heritage with an Indigenous dance performance, held every evening at The Ritz-Carlton, Bali — you may just feel the gods smiling down on you.

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Al Wadi: Ancient History in the Dubai Desert

Just north of Dubai, this desert oasis combines history with modern Arabic culture for a mixture that’s hard to replicate. With a culture dating back thousands of years, archaeological sites sit next to traditional markets known as souks, and camel tracks meander through the terracotta sands. The Experience Concierge at The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Wadi Desert can arrange a desert trek on camel or horseback, a private archery lesson or an evening of stargazing. Take full advantage of your proximity to nature with dinner at the property's Al Wadi Tower, which the property's architects modeled after traditional Al Wadi desert watchtowers. Dine in a private and luxurious setting, complete with your own private waiter, while taking in the essence of traditional outdoor desert dining. 

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Langkawi: Connect to Nature in Malaysia

Natural beauty takes center stage on this tropical island, where you can hike through mountains to swim in hidden waterfalls or explore more than 100 Malaysian islands by Jet-Ski. Named a UNESCO World Geopark in 2007 because of its luscious, tropical fauna, opportunities for both peaceful solitude and outdoor adventure abound. After a day spent outdoors, enjoy an oceanfront performance of the traditional Dance of Thanks to the Sea at The Ritz-Carlton, Langkawi as the sun dips below the horizon.

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Fire Show at Sea Salt Deck
Koh Samui: Immerse Yourself in Thai Traditions

This Thai island is known as much for its serene white-sand beaches and tropical views as it is for its rich history and heritage. Discover a culture that dates back thousands of years as you explore Buddhist shrines and explore one of the world’s most unique cuisines at Baan Talat, a weekly outdoor dining experience at The Ritz-Carlton, Koh Samui. The property’s outdoor courtyard comes to life, complete with an authentic selection of Thai street food dishes and market stalls full of handcrafted accessories available for purchase.

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Istanbul: Savor a Turkish Hammam

The tradition of Turkish bathing dates back to the Ottoman Empire, when hammams were places where the community came together for rest and relaxation. The ritual endures, and can be experienced at The Ritz-Carlton, Istanbul, where the spa's hammam — with separate spaces for ladies and gentlemen — is modeled after the 16th-century domed baths built for the empire's most revered woman: Roxelana, the wife of Sultan Süleyman the Magnificent.

Jeremy Davenport on trumpet
New Orleans: Get Lost in the Music

Visiting this Southern city is like stepping into a world apart — a place alive in its own culture, traditions and bon-vivant lifestyle. Soulful jazz music is the thumping heart of the city, and you'll hear it everywhere from the street corners of the French Quarter to historic venues like Preservation Hall. Order a sazerac — one of the city's trademark libations — and sway to the sounds of jazz legend Jeremy Davenport, who headlines at The Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans' third-floor lounge.

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