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If you’ve got the travel blues, don’t fret. Here are five ways to experience other cultures from the comfort of your own home.
People all over the world have had to cancel travel plans due to COVID-19. While it might be a while before any of us get to experience the next dream destination on our bucket list, there are still plenty of ways to experience different cultures without leaving your house.
Get cooking
Foodies - now is your time to shine. If you have been dreaming about an authentic Thai green curry or have been wanting to track down the best plant-based cheese in Europe, you needn’t look much further than your own kitchen. An abundance of recipes can be found online to match your country and cuisine of choice. The Adventurous Vegetarian is a great resource for anyone wanting to give traditional meals a meat-free twist. The cookbook includes vegetarian recipes inspired by 30 countries around the world - many of which are vegan friendly or can be converted into a plant-based dish.
Learn a new language
Why not prepare for your next big trip by learning the language? There are so many books, YouTube videos, and online learning resources that can help you to get started. If you are reading this while in COVID-19 quarantine, now could be a great time to support a local language teacher by asking for some online lessons. Try to make a list of words that you think you will be frequently using during your travels. I have found that the five translations I most commonly need to know in a new country are:
Hello
How much?
Vegan
Spicy/not spicy (depending on your preference)
Thank you
Watch a documentary
Travel documentaries provide an easy way to dip your toes into a new country and culture without committing thousands of dollars to actually travel there. There is a great online community called Vegan Travel that provides a platform for vegans to inspire and inform each other on the best vegan eats and animal sanctuaries around the world. Be sure to keep a list of your top destinations as you make your way through this channel - and make sure you have some good snacks on hand before you dive in!
Learn some new beauty secrets
Something that I have become aware of during my travels is that every country has its own beauty trends and rituals. Every trip needs a rest day or two, so why not set aside some time for an internationally-inspired, cruelty-free spa day? Check out Priyanka Chopra’s DIY facemask (using a vegan-friendly yoghurt) for some Indian-inspired beauty inspiration or perhaps educate yourself on the detailed world of Korean skincare. Your skin will love you for it!
Try some new music
So much of a country’s culture can be found in its music. See what songs or albums are currently trending in your country of choice and give it a listen - you might find your new favourite artist in the process! Maybe make a playlist of music from all of the countries you want to visit. Paired with some good food and company, it’s a guaranteed cultural experience for the senses!
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