Honouring Local Cultures and Traditions When Travelling: A Summer Wanderlust Family Guide
One of the most beautiful parts of traveling the world as a family is the opportunity to step into someone else’s story. At Summer Wanderlust, we believe that true travel isn’t just about seeing new places, it’s about connecting, respecting, and immersing yourself in the heartbeat of a culture.
When we travel with kids, we’re not just making memories, we’re shaping little minds. Teaching our children to honor the traditions, beliefs, and lifestyles of the places we visit is one of the most meaningful gifts we can give them. Whether it’s covering shoulders when visiting temples in Bali, removing shoes before entering homes in Japan, or learning a few local phrases to say “thank you,” these small gestures show deep respect and open doors to unforgettable experiences.
Summer Wanderlust Tip: Before arriving in a new country, read a local folktale or watch a family-friendly documentary together. It’s a simple and powerful way to introduce your kids to the culture before they even step off the plane.
Food is another beautiful gateway. Saying yes to a home-cooked meal or trying a street food delicacy isn’t just delicious, it’s cultural appreciation in action. Don’t just snap photos, ask questions, learn the stories, and share what you discover with your kids.
Summer Wanderlust Tip: Create a family tradition where each child picks one thing to learn about the country you’re visiting, maybe it’s a dance, a holiday, or a traditional dish, and they can share it during dinner or journal it in their travel diary.
At Summer Wanderlust, we travel to fall in love with the world, not just its landscapes, but its people. Let’s raise global citizens who lead with curiosity, kindness, and open hearts.
🌍 Summer Wanderlust Travel Culture Checklist for Kids 🌍
A fun and meaningful way to connect with the local culture while exploring the world!
🏡 Learn & Respect Local Ways
☐ Learn to say “Hello” and “Thank You” in the local language
☐ Find out one cool local custom or tradition
☐ Try a local dish, even just one bite!
☐ Dress respectfully for the place you’re visiting
☐ Ask a local (with help from your grown-up) what they love most about their country
🎨 Explore Arts & Crafts
☐ Visit a local art or history museum
☐ Make a craft inspired by the country you’re visiting
☐ Watch a local performance, music, dance, or theatre
☐ Buy a handmade souvenir from a local artisan
☐ Draw a picture of your favorite cultural moment
🧭 Be a Little Explorer
☐ Try a new mode of transportation (like a tuk-tuk or ferry!)
☐ Visit a famous cultural landmark or UNESCO site
☐ Walk through a local market and count 5 new things
☐ Attend a cultural festival or celebration
☐ Learn the story behind a famous building, statue, or temple
❤️ Connect & Reflect
☐ Make a new friend and learn their name
☐ Take a photo of your favorite cultural experience
☐ Share something new you learned with your family at dinner
☐ Start a “travel journal” and write one memory a day
☐ Say thank you to a local person who helped or taught you something
