Culture, History & a Little Homework: Why It Makes Travel Better

Today, let’s talk about culture, history and doing just a little homework before you travel—because understanding where you’re going can make a good trip so much more interesting.

Why Bother with History & Culture?

I’ll admit it: sometimes I arrive in a country knowing far more about where I’m going to eat than I do about its history!

But a little background knowledge can make such a difference.

On a recent trip to the Balkans, our tour guide tried to explain the complicated political history of the region, including the history of Yugoslavia, the breakup of the country and the conflicts that followed.

Honestly? What a minefield!

There were so many countries, borders, political changes, ethnic groups and historical events to get your head around that I found myself thinking, I really should have done some homework before I came!

And that’s the thing about the Balkans. You can visit beautiful cities, stunning coastlines and historic buildings, but behind so much of what you see is a fascinating—and sometimes incredibly complicated—history.

It made me realise that doing a little research before a trip isn't just about being knowledgeable. It helps you understand what you're actually looking at.

Europe and the UK are perfect examples. Every city, every town and sometimes every cobblestone seems to have a story involving the Holy Roman Empire, the Ottomans, World War I and II, the Cold War or centuries of changing borders and rulers.

These aren't just dates in a history book. They have shaped the buildings, food, traditions, languages and even the attitudes of the people you meet today.

My Favourite Way to Learn

I'm definitely not suggesting you sit down and read a 500-page history book before every holiday!

Sometimes the easiest way to learn is to watch something entertaining.

On a previous trip through Eastern Europe, our guide kept referring to the Ottomans. I realised I had either completely forgotten that lesson at school—or perhaps I never paid enough attention in the first place!

When I got home, I discovered the Netflix series Rise of Empires: Ottoman.

Suddenly, history became much easier to understand. Watching a dramatised version of the events helped put the pieces together—and it has already inspired me to learn more about Istanbul and the fascinating history of the Ottoman Empire.

Easy Ways to Do Your Homework

You don't need to become a historian before you go.

Try:

• A quick browse through Wikipedia or a reliable travel history website

• Watching a historical documentary or period drama

• Listening to a podcast about your destination

• Reading a historical novel set in the country you're visiting

• Asking your tour guide questions when you're there

Even 30 minutes of research can make a difference.

Then, when your guide says, "This castle dates back to..." or starts explaining why a particular border exists, you have some idea of what they're talking about.

And believe me, it makes those guided tours much more interesting!

Culture Isn't Just About History

Understanding a country isn't only about wars, kings and political events.

It's also about the everyday customs that can sometimes catch travellers out.

Before you go, have a quick look at:

• Tipping – Is it expected? How much?

• Dress codes – Particularly when visiting churches, mosques or other religious sites

• Greetings – A handshake, a kiss on the cheek or simply a smile?

• Dining customs – Are there particular traditions around meals?

• Local etiquette – Are there things visitors should avoid doing?

Knowing these little things shows respect for the people and culture you're visiting—and can often lead to much warmer interactions with locals.

Learn a Few Words

You don't need to become fluent in the local language.

But learning hello, good morning, please, thank you and goodbye is well worth the effort.

Even if your pronunciation is terrible, most people appreciate that you've tried!

One of my favourite tools is Duolingo, which makes learning a few basic phrases surprisingly easy—and a little addictive!

I've linked it on the Travel Hints 60 website if you'd like to give it a try.

A Little Homework = A Better Trip

Travel isn't just about seeing places and taking photographs.

It's about understanding them.

The more you know about a destination, the more you notice. A building becomes more than a pretty building. A monument has a story. A local tradition makes sense. And suddenly, something your guide says isn't just another historical fact—it's part of a much bigger story.

You don't have to know everything.

Just do a little homework before you go.

And if you're heading somewhere with a particularly complicated history—like the Balkans—maybe do a little more!

Happy Travelling!

For more travel tips, ideas and handy resources, visit Travel Hints 60 and follow me on Facebook and Instagram @travelhints60 for more travel inspiration and destination highlights.

And I'd love to hear from you:

Have you ever visited somewhere where the history or culture completely surprised you?

Or, like me, have you ever arrived somewhere and thought, "I really should have done my homework!"?

Share your stories—I’d love to hear them!