For many of us, the perfect holiday need only involves white sand, clear water, baking sun, and cocktails aplenty. While there is nothing wrong with this approach, our diverse and colorful world has much to offer beyond simple relaxation.

Even though immersing yourself in a foreign culture may seem daunting or even scary at first, you will never regret making the effort to broaden your horizons by visiting the numerous ethnically diverse locations on offer. Browse this list of recommendations to become further inspired by the unique majesty of our planet.

Cambodia

For those who want the best of both worlds (white-sand beaches and cultural immersion), Cambodia is the ideal destination. It possesses some of Southeast Asia’s most gorgeous landscapes as well as a fascinating and emotional history.

Cambodia also plays host to the largest religious monument in the world – Angkor Wat: a Buddhist temple complex that sprawls over 400 acres and is over 800 years old. Tourists flock to Angkor Wat year after year to take in the impressive sights.

The beauty of the landscape and heritage sites of Cambodia stands in sharp contrast to its recent and bloody history. During the late 1970s, the Khmer Rouge regime claimed the lives of roughly 2 million people. The Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum catalogs and displays many of the heart-wrenching events that took place during the violent rule of the infamous Pol Pot.

Italy

While it is not a particularly large country, Italy is densely populated with people, history, art, and culture. There are obvious attractions such as the Colosseum, the Tower of Pisa, and the Pantheon, as well as several museums and exhibitions displaying the evolution of Renaissance art and architecture throughout the 15th and 16th centuries.

Of course, you cannot mention Italy without discussing the wondrous cuisine. Italian food and wine are famous for being among the best in the world (so much so that you may want to lose a few pounds before heading there just to put them back on again).

Tourists are welcomed here with open arms and enthusiastic hospitality. Even if you decide to travel to Italy alone, you will not be short of friends to look out for you and show you around.

India

India is a nation rich in pride, colour, flavour, and celebration, and a visit is exciting as when you signup at blacklotuscasino.com. Of course, the number one activity on most visitors’ itineraries is to see the historic and breathtaking Taj Mahal. Tourists are enraptured by the physical manifestation of Emperor Shah Jahan’s love for his wife. Be sure to visit this stunning monument during sunrise or sunset as the Taj shifts hues in the changing light.

Like most South Asian countries, India plays host to several culinary wonders – many of which are found in the street markets of the bustling cities. The cuisine varies greatly from region to region, so make sure to sample as much of it as possible while exploring the country.

If you are lucky enough to visit during the Diwali or Holi festivals, you will soon understand why Indian celebrations are so significant. Largely centered around Hindu culture, Indian festivals are epicenters of life, color, human connection, and worship.