Beyond the lobby: curated local experiences

As travellers increasingly crave more than a room with a view, hotels are no longer just pit stops – they're a gateway to cultural discovery which extends far beyond the do not disturb sign.

From traditional tea ceremonies and cooking classes to excursions with local experts who know all the best-kept secrets, the world’s top places to stay now focus on giving guests authentic experiences they’ll never forget.

Ultra-luxury hotel brands such as Aman and Raffles are among those pulling back the curtain with bespoke itineraries which grant access to exclusive local experiences. Meanwhile at places like NIHI Sumba and ÀNI Private Resorts, the connection to culture runs even deeper, with extensive programmes run by expert local staff

Here are the world’s best hotels for local cultural experiences, and how you can get there on Cathay Pacific’s global route network.

Rosewood Beijing  

At Rosewood Beijing, discover the ancient rituals of Chinese tea with traditional ceremonies that guide you through the delicate art of selecting, preparing and sipping the finest brews. For a dose of relaxation, indulge in the city’s famous “pat therapy” massage, where velvet sand-filled satchels and hand-carved wooden tools are used to gently lull you into a deep sleep. Afterwards, step outside and go on a tour of historical Beijing’s most iconic landmarks, including the Forbidden City and the tranquil gardens of the Summer Palace. 

Bvlgari Resort Bali  

Perched dramatically on the edge of the village of Uluwatu’s rugged cliffs, the Bvlgari Resort offers a spiritual awakening that feels worlds apart from Bali’s buzzing nightlife and sun-soaked beaches. Step into the resort’s private temple for a sacred Melukat purification ritual, where a local priest walks you through a centuries-old ceremony designed to cleanse the body, soothe the soul and banish negative energy. For a deeper connection with local culture, embark on the Banjar Walk, which winds through nearby villages where life moves at a slower pace. 

Bukchon Binkwan by Rakkojae, Seoul

A single step into Bukchon Binkwan is enough to show you that it's more than just a place to lay your head for the night. This hotel – located in the historic district of Bukchon, close to major tourist site Gyeongbokgung Palace – opened in 2022 with support from the Seoul metropolitan government. Its history, however, stretches far beyond that, with the original structure dating back to the 1930s. This hotel prioritises meditative, restorative stays and offers guest services at affiliated institution Rakkojae Seoul Main Hanok. From mud saunas to makgeolli skincare bath experiences, you’ll truly live and breathe historic Seoul. 

Àni Sri Lanka  

Why share when you can have the whole place to yourself? At Àni Sri Lanka , it's all yours – every villa, every view and a team of local experts ready to make your stay unforgettable. From tuk-tuk rides through colourful villages to curated spa treatments and nutrition plans, experiences at this private resort are focused on connecting guests to the island’s rich heritage. If you want to get hands-on, sizzle up a storm in traditional cooking classes led by local chefs who’ll guide you through the island’s flavours.

Raffles London at The OWO 

Set within one of the UK capital’s most famous buildings, the majestic Raffles London at the OWO has played host to royals, spies and iconic figures for over more than 100 years. Discover the hotel’s rich legacy during a must-visit tour led by resident historian Emiel Danneels, who vividly brings the secrets of this recently renovated London landmark to life, including why Winston Churchill always rubbed the nose of one of the lobby’s lion statues. 

NIHI Sumba 

NIHI is an escape like no other. The 27-villa resort, hidden among hundreds of acres of untouched jungle along the wild western coast of Sumba, puts cultural immersion at the heart of the guest experience. Learn the intricate art of ikat weaving from local women or explore the island’s crowded markets, where you can haggle for handmade crafts and marvel at colourful produce. The Sumba Foundation’s volunteering initiative supports health clinics, school lunch programmes and life-changing water projects that benefit the local community.

Amanfayun, Hangzhou  

Just a short walk from the sacred Lingyin Temple and close to the breathtaking West Lake Unesco World Heritage site, this resort is the ultimate escape for those seeking connection with China’s rich traditions. At Amanfayun, guests can explore the local culture with experiences including calligraphy and tea tasting or unwind to the sounds of local musicians. The resort also hosts insightful talks covering everything from Buddhism to Traditional Chinese Medicine, offering a deeper understanding of the region’s ancient wisdom. 

Madison Taipei Hotel 

The conveniently located Madison Taipei Hotel offers far more than proximity to major tourist sites such as Taipei 101 and the Xinyi shopping district. Its 124 spacious rooms and suites are comfortingly panelled in warm-toned woods, and the hotel offers an ambassador service. Each member of the team has been trained by Golden Key concierges, and are on hand to help you make the most of your stay in the city. Whether you want to learn more about Cloud Gate Dance Theatre or seek out the best spots in the city for bird watching, the team will curate a bespoke experience for you. 

Six Senses Ninh Van Bay 

Six Senses’ Reconnect Journeys are all about unplugging and recharging, with a programme of village visits, guided hikes and watching movies under the stars. Start with a Langur Discovery Hike and spot the rare black-shanked douc primates, then immerse yourself in food with a Vietnamese cooking class, all before ending the day with a traditional Nha Trang hot pot dinner. To give something back, take part in the hotel’s coral restoration programme, where you can sponsor your own coral and contribute to marine conservation. 

Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara, Abu Dhabi 

The journey to Qasr Al Sarab , deep in the UAE’s Empty Quarter, is an adventure in itself – a long drive through the desert that sees Dubai and Abu Dhabi’s futuristic skylines fade into endless sandy dunes. The Arabian-themed resort – one of the country’s most remote – comes with a slate of activities, including high-octane dune bashing and relaxed walks exploring the area's history and heritage. The resort's secluded location means the sky lights up at night, presenting the perfect opportunity for stargazing.