Taking a vacation to new lands is an exciting ordeal. Not only are you able to get away from the routine on your everyday life, but also you get to discover a part of that amazing world that is waiting to be discovered. Going on a trip means waking up in a different place, having meals so perfectly arranged that you just want to take pictures instead of eating and becoming someone completely different who enjoys the occasion and lives for the moments.
One of the best parts of going on holiday to an exotic location is soaking up the local culture, learning about their traditions, language and way of life. Here we present some of the most amazing local carnivals you cannot afford to miss on your next trip abroad.
Merengue and Caribbean Rhythm Festival
Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
July – August
If you want to talk about Dominican identity, you must talk about merengue. This contagious Latin rhythm is characteristic of the Dominican people without a doubt, and this particular festival can attest to that relationship since 1967, when the ministry of tourism approved of this colorful initiative.
Merengue was born around 1844 and it has always presented lyrics that speak of the everyday life of regular folks-, their hopes and dreams and in some instances provocative thoughts that were responsible for getting this music banned in some regions of the country. Eventually merengue was recognized as patrimony of the Dominican people and an iconic piece of their identity, so it has been celebrated throughout the years with much pride.
The festival lasts for a whole week and displays not only the best dancers of Latin American who visit to showcase their amazing talent, but also enchanting local food, musical shows and traditional markets for regional arts and crafts.
BPM Festival
Playa del Carmen, Q.R., Mexico
January
The state of Quintana Roo is located in the heart of the Mayan Riviera, about 60 km away from Cancun. This beautiful destination was nothing more than a small fishing village a few years ago is considered today one of the most beautiful beaches in all of Mexico and one of the most sought after cosmopolitan destinations in the Yucatan peninsula. Playa del Carmen combines the best of two worlds, the folkloric small fishing town atmosphere of peace and stillness and the cultural clash of mixed external influences that have turned this location into a fashion and glamour paradise.
The BPM Festival was first celebrated in 2008 and since then it has become one of the number one destinations for partygoers and electronic music lovers of the world. The festival brings together more than 60,000 people every year from 60 different countries to enjoy the beats of some of the world’s biggest DJs. the BPM Festival features more than 80 official events, split into day and night shows hosted by record labels and promoters.
Tango BA – International Tango Festival of Buenos Aires
Buenos Aires, Argentina
18 to 31 August of 2016
If there’s one thing Argentina is known for, it’s tango, a rhythm that has transformed since its humble origins in dark brothels and bordellos, to a passionate representation of the Argentinian culture and its core principles. The International Tango Festival of Buenos Aires draws more and more followers every year, who enthralled by the notes of this magical music, flock to this capital city to experience this melding of culture, art, music and dance. The festival is officially 18 days long. It begins with La Festival, a 9-day celebration of tango shows, recitals, classes, milongas and film screenings at locations across the city. In 2015, more than 8,000 people were present at the Mundial de Tango (Tango World Championships) to cheer as the world’s greatest performers face off in order to obtain the prestigious distinction of being recognized for their talent. Don’t miss this beautiful event and give tango lessons a try.
Annual Calle Ocho Festival
Little Havana, Miami
March
Image courtesy of Wally Gobetz at Flickr.com
Even though Miami is not a city that needs an excuse to party, you will have trouble finding a better time to visit and learn about the real Miami, than during carnival.
With 23 blocks to walk and experience the food, the music, the people and the amazing weather, you will fall in love with the city once again. Other events during the festival of Carnaval Miami and Calle Ocho include a Miss Carnaval Miami pageant, a Carnaval Miami run, cooking contest, domino tournament, golf classic and plenty of soccer games for fans and curious alike.
If you want to experience these amazing festivals first hand with you and your loved ones, check out our exclusive deals in these destinations and many more, here.