By: Miriam Bribiesca
Is it just us, or is nowadays a typical travel bucket list a little… overplayed? You know, the Eiffel Tower, Machu Picchu, the Tower Bridge. But what if your next adventure was less about what you’ve seen on socials and more about joining in on centuries old traditions that happen once a year?
If that sounds exciting, then welcome to the wild, wonderful world of unexpected traditions you can actually join in on, even if your travel budget is instant ramen for dinner again (hey, we are not judging!). Here are 5 global traditions that are safe, affordable, and ready to give your FOMO a run for its money.
La Tomatina in Buñol, Spain
Ever dreamed of chucking tomatoes at strangers in the middle of a town square and not getting in trouble for it? Meet La Tomatina, Spain’s juiciest and messiest food fight. Held every August in the tiny town of Buñol, this hour long tomato toss attracts thousands of travelers who want to paint the town red, literally!
It’s a no excuse experience where you are able to let loose, wear goggles, and post tomato soaked selfies that will have everyone back home wondering what in the world you are doing.
Tickets cost around €12 to €15, and you can snag cheap hostels in Valencia (just a 45 minute train ride away). We hear many backpacker tours bundle transportation and tickets for under $50 USD so do look into that when booking. Of course, don’t forget a change of clothes unless you like that marinara scent or are having pasta for dinner (just kidding).
Holi in Mumbai, India
Coachella can’t compete when you have Holi, the real Festival of Colors. Celebrated in March, this celebration is less about a religious ceremony and more about community celebration, creativity, and connection.
Imagine streets filled with people dancing, throwing color, and laughing like it’s the last day of finals. At this celebration, you’ll see everyone (from aunties to artists to college students) covered head to toe in powder and joy.
The best part about Holi is that it is free to join in most cities, but many hostels and event companies throw ticketed Holi parties with DJs, organic colors, and rain dances. These are usually safer, organized, and come with perks like food and drinks. A few popular ones include:
- Zoom Holi Fest
- Holi Reloaded
- Rang Barse
Prices range from $6–$18 USD, depending on the event and what’s included. Of course, make sure you wear white clothes you don’t mind sacrificing AND bring a bandana and sunglasses for eye protection.
Monkey Buffet Festival in Lopburi, Thailand
We know what you’re thinking. “Monkeys and a buffet?” Yes, it’s exactly what it sounds like. Every November in Lopburi, the locals throw a banquet for the local monkeys, complete with fruit towers and sticky rice pyramids. Lucky them!
This tradition is quirky, chaotic, and the definition of a core memory waiting to happen. Also, where else can you share a snack with a monkey and call it cultural immersion? EXACTLY!
Lopburi is just a few hours from Bangkok and accessible via cheap train rides (around $2). Entry is free, but hold your snacks close, those monkeys are fast and always hungry! And when it comes to Thailand, you already know how affordable it can be for stay and food, so your goal should solely be making it to the location on time and in one piece!
Day of the Dead in Oaxaca, Mexico
Forget everything you think you know from Pixar’s Coco, Día de los Muertos is a more beautiful, livelier, and unforgettable experience for culture lovers. Every November 1st and 2nd, the city of Oaxaca transforms into a colorful celebration of life and death. Locals honor loved ones with intricate altars, marigolds, sugar skulls, and processions that feel more like joyful parades than mourning rituals.
We promise that after visiting Oaxaca during this season, you’ll leave feeling emotionally moved and like your photo gallery got an upgrade.
Now when it comes to accommodations, hostels in Oaxaca go for $10–$20 a night, and many celebrations are public and free. If you are on a tight budget we recommend skipping the guided tours and instead wander the candlelit cemeteries and public plazas on your own or with fellow travelers. And it goes without saying, but tacos there are cheap and life changing. You’re welcome!
Inti Raymi in Cusco, Peru
Yes, summer solstice yoga retreats are cool and all, but Inti Raymi, the Festival of the Sun, is THE OG way to celebrate the longest day of the year. Held every June 24 in Cusco, this traditional Incan ceremony honors the sun god with live reenactments, vibrant costumes, and performances that’ll give you goosebumps, even if you don’t speak the native language.
Witnessing this tradition is for those that love drama, history and want to feel like they are stepping into a real life History channel. The main events are free to watch from the streets (get there early for a good spot). And you can stay within your budget by renting guesthouses ($15–$25 per night) and fueling up on street food and local bakeries. Not a bad deal for such an immersive and unique experience!
Now it’s the time to make a decision on whether you would like to spend your summer watching TikToks from your couch, or throwing tomatoes at strangers in Spain or sharing fruit snacks with monkeys in Thailand. The answer is pretty obvious, and these traditions prove there’s more to life than the rectangle in your pocket.
So take advantage now of our affordable and exclusive flight deals, pack your weirdest outfit, and go become part of something ancient. You’ll come back with worn out shoes, blurry photos, and a new sense of what life truly is about.
