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5 Unique Cultures to Explore in Regional USA

8th May 2017

You could travel on a USA holiday a hundred times and still feel like you’ve discovered a new country on your next visit.

The many regions of America are as captivating as they are unique, each inviting you to delve into a fresh culture that is rich with distinct nuances. Experience these regional cultures in a way that allows you to fully savour every element that makes them one-of-a-kind.  

Wildcatter Ranch Texas.jpg

Wildcatter Ranch Texas
If you've ever dreamed of riding off into the sunset then add Texas to your bucket list. Photo: Wildcatter Ranch

Texas: Cowboy country

Wide open spaces, grazing cattle and lasso spinning cowboys... it’s easy for your imagination to paint a romantic picture of Texas and the real deal is within easy reach of Dallas.  

Venture out to Wildcatter Ranch and plunge you into your very own Western, where trail rides, chaps and camp fires are on the daily agenda. Every cowboy needs a hearty feed, so fill up on Mesquite grilled steaks, chicken-fried steak and peach cobbler before bunking down to a lullaby of cicadas.   

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New Orleans French Quarter
Don't miss the imposing shadow of the Jesus Christ statue projected on the back of St. Louis Cathedral

New Orleans: Bewitching culture

The intriguing heritage of the African-Americans and French settlers in Louisiana culminates in the city of New Orleans. The cuisine alone is reason to visit; Cajun, Creole and African-American influences have created a menu that overflows with spicy jambalaya, deep fried oysters, and flaky beignet pastries.  

A rich history of supernatural happenings makes a ghost tour through the French Quarter a fabulous way to pass an hour or two. Pick a tour that runs at night - there’s nothing like wandering through the quaint, close streets and browsing the wares of a voodoo supply store in the twilight!

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Muscle Beach Santa Monica
Muscle Beach was established in 1933 by a group of dedicated gymnasts, acrobats and athletes

Santa Monica: A wealth of health

With over 300 days of sunshine per year, it’s little wonder that Santa Monica locals are in love with the outdoors.

Surfing and paddleboarding in the sparkling Pacific Ocean are just the beginning; why not shake things up with a trapeze lesson, an aerial yoga class or an outdoor calisthenics session at the original Muscle Beach?

Fresh, wholesome dining is available at an abundance of inventive cafes and restaurants, where ingredients such as kale and hempseed are as commonly found as vegan menu options. Munch on delights such as leaf-wrapped burritos, fantastically fresh poké and pumpkin tofu cheesecake to complete your vacation health kick. 

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Memphis Tennessee Beale Street
Memphis is mentioned in more songs than any other city in the world, according to Billboard Magazine

Memphis, Tennessee: Musical magic

A rich heritage of musical milestones has forever flavoured the city of Memphis. Music lovers will be in heaven, but everyone will enjoy a tour of the charismatic Tennessee city that Elvis once called home.

A visit to Graceland is a must: the Memphis mansion has been kept just as it was during Elvis Presley’s residence, granting you humbling insights into the lifestyle of The King.

Sun Studios or Stax Museum of American Soul Music are also must-sees; after all, it was these studios that introduced the world to legends such as Johnny Cash, B.B. King, Jerry Lee Lewis and Elvis Presley.

The Rhythms of the South self-driven tour incorporates Memphis on a 12-day itinerary that also includes Nashville and New Orleans in a comprehensive tour of the USA’s musical heartland.

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Broadway New York
These days only four Broadway theatres are actually located on Broadway

New York: It’s show time

Among the Big Apple’s many charms is the world-famous theatre district of Broadway, which takes the ‘dinner and a show’ experience to a whole new level.

Start the night out right by tripping into New York’s glorious Times Square and enjoying some good ol’ fashioned diner food at Ellen’s Stardust Diner. The waiters are aspiring Broadway stars, and are likely to serenade you with a 50s classic after dishing up your burger.

After you’ve been dazzled by some of the best stage performances in the world, take a behind-the-scenes or walking tour to see a different side of The Great White Way. Hear stories of the big names and famous shows that have graced the Broadway arena from industry professionals; a history that is garnished with delicious gossip, spine-chilling ghost stories and quirky superstition.