Connect with Local Art in 2026

Connect with Local Art in 2026

As you embark on your travels in 2026, let artistic experiences soothe your soul. Engaging in local art activities not only hones your skills but also fosters a connection with the community and culture of the places you visit. In today’s world, exploring local art and culture is becoming an exciting trend for those who love to discover.

1. Learn Calligraphy in Tunisia

You won’t be able to resist the beauty of Arabic calligraphy in Tunisia. During your 9-day adventure, you'll get the chance to enter the studio of a local artist and learn the art of calligraphy. With unique tools like silk-based ink and sharp bamboo brushes, you'll discover how the Lettrism movement of the 1940s has influenced modern calligraphy in this region.

2. Join a Felt Craft Class in Finland

Bring your family along to a felt craft class at a farm in Lapland, Finland. You’ll learn how to handle wool from the sheep raised by the family, mastering skills like washing, carding, and shaping the wool. Plus, you’ll have the opportunity to create and enjoy a traditional Finnish pastry after your class!

3. Explore Textile Art in Kyoto

Japan is renowned for its unique crafts, and during your Premium Japan journey, you’ll get to try your hand at the kyo-yuzen dyeing technique that dates back to the Edo period. With over 3,000 stencil patterns to choose from, you can unleash your creativity and produce pieces that reflect your personal style.

4. Create Art from Marine Debris in Galapagos

Galapagos is not only famous for its rich biodiversity but also offers opportunities to engage in ocean conservation activities. Here, you’ll meet a local artist in a hands-on workshop where you’ll transform drifted plastic into unique art pieces. You’ll discover just how valuable materials often considered waste can be in the creative process.

5. Weave Tartan in Scotland

If you have a passion for tartan patterns, this trip to Scotland is your ideal opportunity. At Radical Weavers, you’ll learn about the significance of tartan designs in Scottish culture and acquire the skills to weave your very own piece to take home.

6. Make Hanji Paper in South Korea

Hanji paper has been a part of Korean history for over 1,000 years. On your Essential South Korea trip, you’ll delve into the cultural aspects of this paper at the Hanji Museum in Jeonju. Here, you’ll see traditional tools and participate in a class to create your own hanji paper.

7. Craft with Cocoa Shells in Thailand

During your Real Thailand & Laos journey, you’ll visit Cocoa Valley to learn how to use cocoa shells—a byproduct that is often discarded—to create items like scented bags or candles. If time allows, why not try your hand at making chocolate as well?

8. Discover Silk Weaving in Uzbekistan

Crossing the border from Tajikistan into Uzbekistan, you'll uncover the secrets of ikat silk weaving. At the Margilan factory, you’ll witness the entire production process, from weaving to finishing, while also exploring local markets and art workshops.

9. Basket Weaving in Botswana

On your family safari in Botswana, you’ll stop by the Shorobe Basket Weaving Cooperative. Here, you’ll learn about the processes of harvesting, dyeing, and weaving baskets, discovering various patterns and how the cooperative supports women in the community.

10. Meet Pottery Artisans in Cambodia

Your culinary adventure in Cambodia will take you to Kampong Chhnang, renowned for its pottery tradition. You’ll tour a pottery workshop and observe the traditional production process, followed by a home-cooked lunch with a local family.

Artistic and cultural activities await you in 2026. Don’t miss the chance to create unforgettable experiences as you immerse yourself in the unique cultural traits of each destination.