May 14, 2024 - Big 7 Travel Team
The Lunar New Year, known as Tết or Tết Nguyên Đám, is the most important festival of the year in Vietnam. It falls on the first day of the Lunisolar calendar, usually at the end of January or the start of February. Each year is dedicated to a sacred animal [...]
August 17, 2023 - Big 7 Travel Team
Africa, the cradle of humanity, is known for being the most geographically diverse place on earth. The 54 countries each contain numerous tribes with their own distinctive cultures and idiosyncrasies. Needless to say, some unique traditions have evolved across the continent over the years. From spittle-laden blessings to ritualistic wife [...]
May 7, 2023 - Big 7 Travel Team
Despite being largely misunderstood, Russia is a hugely sought after tourist destination. Whether embarking on the bucket list worthy trans-Siberian railway, galivanting around Moscow or exploring the vast countryside, there’s lots to love about Russia. After all, it’s not only the world’s largest country with 11 timezones; it’s also one [...]
May 7, 2023 - Big 7 Travel Team
The Philippines is a beautiful, vibrant country with 7,600 islands to explore. Every corner of every region here has something new to discover, but here’s some key things to know about Filipino culture. [...]
April 29, 2023 - Big 7 Travel Team
Italy is steeped in age-old traditions, quirky customs and unusual superstitions. And, while it might not be Europe’s largest countries, it is one of its most diverse, encompassing 20 regions with their own distinctive cultures, dialects and histories. Looking to fit in? From beach days to exploding carts, here are [...]
November 24, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team
If passion, romance, and super sexy accents are all things that light your fire, then get ready to book a one-way ticket to one of the sexiest cities in the world. [...]
November 15, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team
Mexico is a nation chockfull of history and culture. From the ancient Mesoamerican peoples who once thrived in the region to the complex Spanish colonial history and vibrant Catholic culture, there’s much to be explored and admired. Whether you’re planning to visit or are just curious about the most famous [...]
November 15, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team
Mexico is a top travel destination for people from all corners of the globe looking to indulge in the nation’s incredible food, vibrant culture and beautiful scenery. It’s quite hard to narrow down just seven things that Mexico is famous for, but we did it. The country is literally bursting [...]
October 19, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team
Dreaming of a week or two on the glittering Turkish coast? Marmaris and Bodrum are two of the most popular resort towns in Turkey, thousands flock to the golden sands for a summer holiday each year. Although they’re both beautiful destinations on the west coast of Turkey, there are quite [...]
October 12, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team
There are many things Edinburgh is famous for like its literary heritage, historic cobbled streets and striking architecture. Not to mention its world-famous whisky walks and festivals. Want to know more about ‘Auld Reekie’, the capital city of Scotland? Here are just some of the things Edinburgh is famous for. [...]
October 11, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team
Valencia is Spain’s third-largest city and one of the nation’s most fascinating destinations. Whether you’re an adventurous eater, history lover or art buff, there’s loads for every type of traveller. Thanks to Spain’s long and storied history, each city varies greatly, and Valencia is no exception. Whether you’re planning to [...]
October 11, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team
Argentina’s endless landscapes and its stunningly diverse fauna alone could be enough to make a name for the country. However, anyone who has met an Argentinian could easily put the locals’ funny, outgoing, and welcoming personalities above anything else. There is no chance you will get bored among these dramatic [...]
October 11, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team
Naming just seven things that Italy is known for is tough – it’s just the tip of the iceberg… From historical monuments, creamy gelato, art, sculptures, coastline and cities to sports cars and pizza, Italy is famous for a lot! [...]
September 12, 2022 - Big 7 Travel Team
Greece has a fascinating and interesting past. However, it’s not all about crumbling ruins and ancient architecture. Across Greece and the Greek islands are monuments dating from all periods. So, from the ancient ruins in Athens to the iconic blue domes in Santorini, here are some of the most famous [...]
June 1, 2022 - Aleyna Yilmaz
Vietnam is steeped in spirituality, superstitions, and old-age traditions. Throughout Vietnam’s rich and long history, a fascinating cultural heritage has been passed down through generations. The Vietnamese take their traditions seriously, which has contributed to their strong national identity – a blend of traditional and contemporary values. They strongly value [...]
May 24, 2022 - Allie D'Almo
Thought merry olde England had lost hold of most of its traditions? Not quite. From Bonfire Night to Maypole Dancing, here are a few unique (ish) traditions in England to remind you. [...]
May 24, 2022 - Allie D'Almo
Curious about Ecuadorian rituals, superstitions and traditions? From Jesus pageants to pelting visitors during Carneval, here are a few unique traditions in Ecuador that might surprise you. [...]
May 24, 2022 - Allie D'Almo
Think you’ve heard everything there is to know about Sweden between IKEA, Dancing Queen and Avicii? Like the rest of the Scandi-cool collection of islands Norway, Finland and Denmark, Sweden is rich in unique traditions, rituals and superstitions. Let’s dig in. [...]
May 17, 2022 - Aleyna Yilmaz
Traditions in Turkey are a big thing. The country is steeped in old-age rituals and superstitions. In Turkey, there’s nothing more important than family, respect, hospitality, and food. These values have turned into ancient traditions which have been passed down for generations. Here are some unique traditions in Turkey that [...]
April 18, 2022 - Allie D'Almo
Headed off to Spain? From practical jokes to pelting tomatoes, here are a few unique traditions in Spain that might surprise you. [...]
April 13, 2022 - Allie D'Almo
Greece is no stranger to traditions, the country is crammed full of centuries-old superstitions, religious rituals and quirky observations. From evil eyes to pomegranates at New Year, here are seven unique traditions in Greece that you might not be familiar with. [...]
December 20, 2021 - Allie D'Almo
New Year is one of Russia’s most important holidays. When Christmas was banned during the Soviet era, many of its associated traditions were transplanted to New Year. It became a dedicated day for getting family and friends together around the (New Year) tree, gift-giving and eating too much. Today, while [...]
December 8, 2021 - Allie D'Almo
When most people think about their tropical island fantasy escapes, they’re normally conjuring up an image that looks an awful lot like Hawai. Between its cobalt blue sea, white sandy palm-fringed beaches and technicolour coral reefs, Hawaii is most people’s idea of paradise. But there’s more to Hawaii than bliss [...]
September 8, 2021 - Allie D'Almo
They know how to celebrate in the Philippines. The festivities kick off in September, so by the time New Year’s Eve comes around, the party is already in full swing. As the new year approaches, we’ve cherry-picked some of the most common and more unusual traditions people in the Philippines [...]
September 6, 2021 - Allie D'Almo
Like most of South America, they like to party in Ecuador – and what better time to celebrate than New Year? There’s no time for sitting down and watching the countdown on telly either, New Year in Ecuador is a community event, and even the smallest villages throw parties that [...]
September 6, 2021 - Allie D'Almo
Greece is no stranger to traditions, but this really comes to a head at New Years’. The two day period is crammed full of centuries-old superstitions, religious rituals and quirky observations. From cakes and carols to pomegranates and pebbles, here are seven New Years traditions in Greece that you might [...]
August 18, 2021 - Allie D'Almo
It might be flip flop and sunglasses weather, but a traditional Brazilian Christmas doesn’t look too different to most Christmas in Western Europe or America. The first Portuguese settlers came to Brazil over five centuries ago, so many of the country’s Christmas customs, traditions and superstitions were inherited from Portugal. [...]
August 18, 2021 - Allie D'Almo
The Lunar New Year, known as Tết or Tết Nguyên Đám, is the most important festival of the year in Vietnam. It falls on the first day of the Lunisolar calendar, usually at the end of January or the start of February. Each year is dedicated to a sacred animal [...]
August 16, 2021 - Allie D'Almo
Christmas is a popular time to visit Russia, when its onion-shaped domes are capped with snow and its cities sit under a canopy of twinkling lights. But while it’s undeniably pretty, there’s probably a thing or two you don’t know about this holiday. From 1929 until the fall of the [...]
August 16, 2021 - Allie D'Almo
Christmas isn’t a national holiday in China and most people work on December 25 like any other day, but that doesn’t mean there’s no festive fun. The country’s Christian population – which accounts for around 5% of the country – tend to celebrate the special day quietly, but in the [...]
August 14, 2021 - Melanie May
In , Christmas is a festive and fun time. In Japanese culture, a lot of customs are practised around this time of year, many of which aren’t observed in other countries. Curious to know more? Here are some unique Christmas traditions in Japan. [...]
August 3, 2021 - Allie D'Almo
In the United Kingdom, Christmas is a time to come together to celebrate and have intense disputes with your siblings over board games you would never play at any other time of year. It’s also a time for food comas, hangovers, Love Actually and Michael Buble’s Christmas album. The Christmas [...]
July 23, 2021 - Melanie May
Christmas is a special time in Norway full of celebrations and gatherings, therefore, it’s a wonderful place to spend Jul. The season has a rich history of distinctive customs, ones that Norwegians still practice today, for instance, making julekurver decorations. To help you celebrate Christmas Nordic-style, here are some of [...]
July 23, 2021 - Melanie May
There are plenty of Swedish festivities, holidays and events over the festive season which sees the Swedes practice many distinctive customs. From Lussebullar to St. Lucia, here are some unique Christmas traditions in Sweden that you may not have known about. [...]
July 23, 2021 - Melanie May
The Spanish love to celebrate the festive season with lots of unique customs. There is almost a full month of celebrations, holidays and feasts. There are also lots of different events, for instance, a ‘fat’ lottery, a Christmas April Fool’s Day and a festive pooping log. Intrigued? Here are some [...]
July 23, 2021 - Melanie May
Christmas is a big deal for Italians and they love to celebrate Natale all across the country! The season starts on 8th December, the Day of the Immaculate Conception. The official end of the Christmas season isn’t until 6th January, the Day of the Epiphany. Though customs differ from region [...]
July 21, 2021 - Allie D'Almo
Colourful, chaotic Cuba is a country rich in heritage, culture and traditions. The 1959 Cuban Revolution stopped the clocks and turned everything topsy turvy – and as a result, many of the country’s traditions have survived. Looking to learn more? Here are seven interesting and unique traditions in Cuba. [...]
July 6, 2021 - Allie D'Almo
Mexico is a country with a rich and colourful history, influenced by ancient Aztec customs and Hispanic rituals. Popular culture is every bit as vibrant, with dancing, street art and some of the best cooking in the world. Beyond the tacos and tequila, the country is home to some truly [...]
July 3, 2021 - Melanie May
China is a fascinating country with a rich history and culture. It is one of the world’s largest countries with one of the world’s oldest civilizations. As a result, the Chinese practice a wide range of wonderful customs, some of which are centuries old. Ready to learn more? Here are [...]
July 3, 2021 - Melanie May
Japan is a remarkable country with a rich, deep history and culture. For a period of 214 years, Japan was a closed country. This goes some way towards explaining our fascination with this intriguing archipelago. Whether you are planning a visit or just want to know more, here are some [...]
March 23, 2021 - Melanie Hamilton
When most people imagine Spain, the vibrant cities of Barcelona and Madrid, crystal clear shores of the Mediterranean, and alabaster white villages come to mind. However, there’s even more to Spain than that. Centuries of Islamic rule lent the nation a plethora of Moorish sites and unique cultural blends in [...]
February 16, 2021 - Melanie Hamilton
Long, long ago in the ever-lovely renaissance town of Florence, a small group of writers, musicians and artists known as the Florentine Camerata, banded together to recreate Greek dramas in musical form. Et voila, opera was born in all its glory. A handful of centuries later, it’s still one of [...]
February 3, 2021 - Sarah Clayton-Lea
Edinburgh is a treasure trove when it comes to independent stores for the written word. Bookshops in Edinburgh range from modern stores to old school shopfronts with dusty piles of antique books. Basically, it’s the dream. Writer’s workshops, storytelling events and more are also a regular occurrence on the city’s [...]
January 20, 2021 - Melanie Hamilton
With roughly 30 million visitors per year, Paris is one of the world’s most sought after and beloved tourist destinations. From the charming cafe culture, countless historical landmarks and unbelievable romance, it isn’t really hard to see why. Whether you’re planning to visit the City of Lights or are just [...]
October 26, 2020 - Melanie Hamilton
Cultures all around the world have honoured the dead since the dawn of time. From Ireland‘s ancient Samhain festival, Barriletes Gigantes in Guatemala and India‘s Mahalaya Amavasya, honouring ancestors is nothing new. Easily one of the most recognizable and popular celebrations of the dead is Dia de los Muertos aka [...]
April 6, 2020 - Melanie Hamilton
Spanish is such a beautiful language. Warm and flowing, fast and interesting, there are many ways to describe what it sounds like to a native English speaker. Because of the difference in culture, there are plenty of words that lack an English translation and vice versa. That’s why we’ve compiled [...]
March 16, 2020 - Elizabeth Thorn
Whether you’ve been quarantined due to exposure to coronavirus or are doing your part to self-isolate to present the further spread of the virus, you’ll likely find yourself bored after day two or three. And, you’re not the only one. The lockdown in China has led to record-breaking numbers of [...]
November 19, 2019 - Elizabeth Thorn
Whether you’re just visiting for the Christmas holidays or you find yourself settling into ex-pat life in France, you’ll want to familiarise yourself with some of ’s most interesting Christmas traditions. [...]
November 12, 2019 - Elizabeth Thorn
Mexico might be famous for its wonderful celebrations, but they also put their own unique spin on Christmas. [...]
November 12, 2019 - Elizabeth Thorn
Germany is home to some of the in Europe. But, what else do you know about Christmas traditions in Germany? Sure, markets originated in Germany, but there’s a lot more to this festive winter holiday in Germany than mere markets and mulled wine. [...]
October 27, 2019 - Sarah Clayton-Lea
Christmas traditions vary across the world, from roller skating in Venezuela to pints of Guinness left out for Santa in Ireland. Whether you’re looking to incorporate a new and unique tradition to your own family gathering or simply curious, these are some of our favourite Christmas traditions from continent to [...]
September 16, 2019 - Elizabeth Thorn
If you’re headed to Cuba, then you’ll have plenty of things to do in Havana, especially if you’re a big fan of history and stunning architecture. [...]
April 15, 2019 - Sarah Clayton-Lea
All the way west in Ireland is one of the country’s most scenic counties. Kerry’s mountains, lakes and coasts are postcard-perfect, and that’s before you add in Killarney National Park. The unique small towns such as Dingle add to its charm. It’s no wonder Kerry is so many Irish people’s [...]
April 1, 2019 - Big 7 Travel Team
Florence is one of the great tourist cities of the world, with beautiful things to see around every single corner. [...]