Culture seeker travel is all about experiencing a culture different than your own, whether that’s through physical products like museums and archaeological sites, food and tea, or intangible elements like rituals and performances.
Culture seekers must immerse themselves in the local way of life.
Turkey and the Wolf
Turkey and the Wolf, named America’s best new restaurant by Bon Appetit in 2017, is a quirky sandwich joint filled with 90s nostalgia, affordable cocktails and an unbeatable fried bologna sandwich. While not everyone will be interested in visiting, those who appreciate a fun atmosphere and eclectic menu should definitely stop in for a visit.
From Mason Hereford, owner of Turkey and the Wolf in New Orleans and James Beard Award nominee, comes this cheerful book filled with modern takes on Southern favorites. From chicken pot-hand pies with buttermilk dip to decadent fried bologna sandwiches, deviled egg tostadas with salsa macha and his mom’s burnt tomato casserole, this vibrant cookbook offers nostalgic yet indulgent recipes in abundance.
Hereford’s inventive take on Southern staples is inspired by his childhood in rural Alabama, where formative meals were found at small country stores and around the holiday table. His vibrant interpretations of down-home dishes quickly gained national recognition – now you can relive all the fun with this irreverent cookbook!
Elizabeth’s
If you’ve read Elizabeth Gilbert’s acclaimed Eat, Pray, Love book, you know she traveled the globe in search of “everything.” Her adventures included India, Italy and Bali – destinations which have since inspired countless travelers around the globe.
Becoming Elizabeth, a new Starz series premiering this weekend, chronicles Queen Elizabeth I’s early years as she attempts to balance religious convictions with political interests. This creates an intense courtroom environment in which many parties vie for power and influence.
Becoming Elizabeth attempts to tell a unique tale about the Virgin Queen that differs from most Tudor dramas you may be familiar with. It picks up several years after Henry VIII’s passing, placing Elizabeth in an uncomfortable situation: should she follow her Catholic beliefs or accept marriage with Edward VI – who is staunchly Protestant?
Backstreet Cultural Museum
Established decades ago, Backstreet Cultural Museum showcases New Orleans’ African American culture and Mardi Gras traditions through photographs and artifacts. Situated in Treme neighborhood, it houses memorabilia related to jazz funerals, second lines, social aid organizations, pleasure clubs as well as local Mardi Gras Indian groups.
Decades worth of photos, magazine covers and newspaper clippings adorn the walls; they honor pioneers and culture bearers in New Orleans. There’s also a section with artifacts honoring groups such as Skull and Bones Gang who wake up the neighborhood every Mardi Gras morning with drum beats and chanting; and Baby Dolls, who were the first women’s masking group to participate in Mardi Gras.
In addition to its permanent collection, Backstreet Museum also hosts traveling and featured exhibits as well as music events. Dominique Dilling Francis – daughter of founder Sylvester Francis – serves as executive director and is passionate about preserving the cultural heritage of her hometown.
Southern Food and Beverage Museum
Foodies or those simply appreciating the flavors of Southern states should visit the Southern Food and Beverage Museum to uncover its fascinating culinary heritage. This non-profit institution examines, documents and celebrates all cultures that have contributed to New Orleans’ distinctive culinary scene.
In 2014, SoFab opened its 30,000 square-foot doors to celebrate two of South Carolina’s greatest passions: eating and drinking! Visitors can discover the rich culture and history behind these traditions through exhibits, demonstrations and tastings.
SoFAB boasts a permanent collection of food and beverage artifacts from across America, with an emphasis on Louisiana and Southern states. You can also learn about the diverse culinary influences that have shaped New Orleans’ signature dishes and cocktails through ongoing exhibits, lectures and cooking classes.
