Lifestyle
Immersed in Culture

Explore these far-flung destinations that for centuries have served as global crossroads for a rich tapestry of cultures, cuisines and people.

1
Seek Wisdom Along the Tibetan Plateau

Locally known as Jiuzhaigou, Chinese for "nine village valley," the elbow of the Tibetan plateau that gives rise to Rissai Valley, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve is home to nine Tibetan villages and an extraordinary national park teeming with emerald lakes, towering waterfalls and snowcappped Himalayan peaks. The surrounding villages present an opportunity to connect with centuries of Tibetan culture through home visits, incense workshops and other immersive experiences — and a chance to carry some of the valley's wisdom home.

Lifestyle
2
Immerse Yourself in Aloha

The spiritual significance of aloha is palpable at The Ritz-Carlton Turtle Bay, O'ahu, nestled amongst the tranformative beauty of Hawaii's North Shore. More than 70 experiences beckon to immerse guests in local culture, from surf and ukele lessons to paddling the tranquil waters of Kawela Bay with Rocky Canon, a native North Shore Hawaiian ocean expert. 

North Shore Hawaii water Adventures
3
Experience Mexico's Healing Rituals

At Sensei Spa at Zadún, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, treatments are performed in secluded settings amid rich foliage, body scrubs are created from native ingredients, and ancient rituals are used to cleanse the body and clear the mind. At the heart of it all is the temazcal, an ancient sweat lodge ceremony that originated with pre-Hispanic peoples in Mesoamerica. The gradual heat generated in the space promotes detoxification, while the cooling outdoor shower enhances blood flow and stimulates the immune system, fostering improved health and a holistic energy shift.

Spa staff guiding temazcal experience for guests
4
Discover Ancient History in the Desert

Just north of Dubai, this desert oasis combines history with modern Arabic culture for a mixture that’s hard to replicate. With a culture dating back thousands of years, archaeological sites sit next to traditional markets known as souks, and camel tracks meander through the terracotta sands. The Experience Concierge at The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Wadi Desert can arrange a desert trek on camel or horseback, a private falconry lesson or an evening of stargazing. Take full advantage of your proximity to nature with dinner at the property's Al Wadi Tower, which the property's architects modeled after traditional Al Wadi desert watchtowers. 

Al Wadi Tower Destination Dining
5
Savor a Turkish Hammam

The tradition of Turkish bathing dates back to the Ottoman Empire, when hammams were places where the community came together for rest and relaxation. The ritual endures, and can be experienced at The Ritz-Carlton, Istanbul, where the spa's hammam — with separate spaces for ladies and gentlemen — is modeled after the 16th-century domed baths built for the empire's most revered woman: Roxelana, the wife of Sultan Süleyman the Magnificent.

Ritz Carlton Hotel image
6
Connect to Nature in Malaysia

Natural beauty takes center stage on this tropical island, where you can hike through mountains to swim in hidden waterfalls or explore more than 100 Malaysian islands by Jet-Ski. Named a UNESCO World Geopark in 2007 because of its luscious, tropical fauna, opportunities for both peaceful solitude and outdoor adventure abound. After a day spent outdoors, enjoy an oceanfront performance of the traditional Dance of Thanks to the Sea at The Ritz-Carlton, Langkawi as the sun dips below the horizon.

Ritz Carlton Hotel image
7
Get Lost in the Music of New Orleans

Visiting this Southern city is like stepping into a world apart — a place alive in its own culture, traditions and bon-vivant lifestyle. Soulful jazz music is the thumping heart of the city, and you'll hear it everywhere from the street corners of the French Quarter to historic venues like Preservation Hall. Order a sazerac — one of the city's trademark libations — and sway to the sounds of jazz legend Jeremy Davenport, who headlines at The Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans' third-floor lounge.

Brass band on the sidewalk in New Orleans
8
Honor Japanese Traditions

Revered for its scenic beauty and UNESCO-designated  shrines, Japan's Nikko National Park has beckoned mountain worshipers since the eighth century. Today, visitors can revel in the region's beauty by sitting zazen with a monk, touring centuries-old sanctuaries or witnessing a dynamic fire ceremony at Chuzenji Temple. Back at The Ritz-Carlton, Nikko, guests can learn the Nikko-bori style of woodcarving from local artists before relaxing in the world’s only Ritz-Carlton-branded onsen.

Japanese traditional wood carving
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