10 eccentric cultural destinations

There’s no shortage of cultural travel destinations but what of those that offer something different? From street art and witches’ markets to spirituality and yoga, here are the top ten destinations for alternative culture, according to global travellers.*

Mysticism in Glastonbury, UK

With a high street of alternative healers, vegan-friendly cafés and shops selling incense and mystical literature, the unassuming Somerset town of Glastonbury isn’t just a hub for alternative culture during its world-famous music festival. It’s a place that’s deeply historic and swathed in mysticism, attracting all kinds of counter-cultural groups. Visit the Glastonbury Tor, a tower atop a hill linked to King Arthur, and Glastonbury Abbey, a ruin where Arthur’s remains are allegedly buried. Stay at Sacred Garden Retreat, a short walk from both the Tor and the Abbey.

Street art in Valparaíso, Chile

The port city of Valparaíso was once the home of poet and Chilean national treasure, Pablo Neruda. And this illustrious connection – combined with brightly coloured architecture that’s covered in murals and street art – has long attracted a bohemian crowd. During the last week of each year, the city hosts a carnival of theatre, music and performance arts, featuring fireworks and delectable fresh seafood. Puerta Escondida Bed & Breakfast is a colourfully decorated, traditional Chilean townhouse in central Valparaíso.

Alternative healing in La Paz, Bolivia

La Paz – the Bolivian capital and the world’s highest city – is a distinctive destination. Thanks to the altitude, ubiquitous multicoloured Peruvian traditional dress and coca-leaf chewing, it’s a place that feels frenetic and fun. Then there’s the witches’ market, where row upon row of alternative healers peddle natural remedies, shamanic rituals and mind-body healing. You’ll need a few hours to really explore all of the stalls and shops where shelves are covered in potions, spell books, hand-woven clothes and artisanal jewellery. Check in to the budget-friendly 3600 Hostel or splash out at the Casa de Piedra Hotel Boutique.

Poetry in Konya, Turkey

For a truly alternative cultural experience, join the pilgrims who head to the city of Konya to visit the turquoise tiled tomb of Sufi mystic, Rumi. One of the world’s most-read and revered poets, Rumi’s work revolves around love. And his tomb, covered with embroidered gold cloth and calligraphy murals, is a deeply spiritual place. While you’re here, be sure to check out a whirling dervish performance (formerly known as Mevlevi), whereby Sufi dancers spin on the spot for hours on end wearing billowing white cloaks and fezzes (tasselled hats made popular during the Ottoman period). This dance is a form of meditation that’s intended to bring the dancers into a trance and closer to God – and it’s quite the spectacle. Hich Hotel Konya is the highest-rated hotel in the city.

Indigenous art in Alice Springs, Australia

Visit the small Outback town of Alice Springs to access the mythical, ancient red rock of Uluru, and you’ll be astonished by over 30,000 years of history. There’s plenty of alternative culture to explore here, from eccentric boutiques and markets to creative spaces like The Mbantua Gallery, where you’ll find a noteworthy collection of indigenous art. Enjoy some of the best views of the area from a boutique canvas tent.

Yoga & spirituality in Varanasi, India

As one of the world’s oldest living cities and one of India’s most sacred places, Varanasi is imbued with spirituality and culture. It’s situated on the holy Ganges River and is the spiritual home of India’s sadhus (holy men who have renounced all worldly possessions). Thus, the ghats (riverfront steps) that lead down to the water are always filled with devout Hindus cleansing and baptising themselves, as well as funeral pyres where bodies are cremated in the sacred eternal fire, before their ashes are tossed into the Ganges. The sight of smoke rising through the hazy, hot air in front of ancient, ochre-coloured buildings while flower garlands float across the river is all the more magical at sunset or sunrise – boat trips at dawn and dusk are deservedly popular, as well as yoga, temples and museums. Nadesar Palace is a palace set amid mango orchards and jasmine fields, not far from the Ganges River.

Art & creativity in Kathmandu, Nepal

Though it’s still recovering from a major earthquake, the capital of Nepal is still as captivating as ever. It’s an ancient city, with the UNESCO-listed Durbar Square featuring temples containing elaborate carvings. But it’s also a centre of contemporary Nepalese art and culture. The dust-choked, rickshaw-filled streets are often thronged with ceremonial processions and festivals, not to mention shops selling artisanal scarves, crafts and knick-knacks directed at spiritual travellers. This artfully designed guest house is ideal for creative-minded travellers.

Music in Austin, USA

‘Keep Austin Weird’ is a slogan you’ll see all over town. Intended to encourage small businesses and creatives, it’s not surprising modern-day nomads and culture vultures feel such an affinity to the place. Sixth Street in Downtown Austin is where you’ll find all the street performers, while SXSW music, film and tech festival in March is a showcase of the city’s welcoming, artistic culture. Year-round, Austin feels offbeat and liberal, with many other festivals, parties and good food. Guild East 6th has an outdoor pool, rooftop terrace and is a short walk from Sixth Street.

Cat obsessions in Kuching, Malaysia

Kuching, the capital of Borneo’s Sarawak province, is obsessed with cats. Feline statues can be found all over the city, plus there’s a cat museum and the city’s name is derived from the Malay word for cat – kucing. Aside from that, it’s a beautiful, tropical city, brimming with cultural attractions. The riverside area is home to food vendors, shops and an attractive esplanade with views of a palace and fort. Take in some of the city’s street art, take a sunset boat trip and finish up with dinner at restaurant, The Junk. Marco Polo’s Guesthouse is a short walk from Kuching waterfront.

Flea markets in New York City, USA

Brooklyn’s reputation as a fashionable, forward-thinking, cultural district of New York City no doubt precedes it. But it’s certainly not resting on its laurels, with new openings and projects still cropping up constantly. To explore Brooklyn’s alternative treasures, the Brooklyn Flea Market is a good place to start, where artisans, designers, chefs and all manner of creatives gather to showcase their work every Saturday on the Williamsburg Waterfront. In a traditional Brownstone Brooklyn building, this Penthouse boasts a sun terrace and an enviable location.

**The data analysts at Booking.com looked at the most highly rated destinations for ‘alternative culture’, based on endorsements from Booking.com customers.