For travellers who are after more than just sun, sea and sand, there are a whole host of cultural experiences on offer across the globe, but where to start? We gathered our i-to-i culture vultures and asked them to put their heads together and come up with 5 top destinations to get you going on a more interesting travel path, notepads at the ready, here they are...

1. India

With thousands of years of history the world's largest sub-continent is home to a myriad of cultures! From the hectic pace of life in Delhi to the tranquil backwaters of Kerala travellers can get caught up in the rich culture and traditions as well as wondering at the amazing architecture and landscape!

http://www.i-to-i.com/India/

2. Thailand

There's much more to Thailand than it's stunning beaches! Golden temples, Buddhist monasteries and world famous cuisine await explorers who want to do more than just work on their tan! A trip away from the bright lights of Bangkok and onto smaller islands will give you the chance to get away from the tour buses and get a glimpse of normal Thai life!

http://www.i-to-i.com/Thailand/

3. Kenya

Africa is a wonderfully eclectic mixture of old and new, where ancient traditions and beliefs are still very much alive in modern culture and Kenya is a brilliant example. Friendly locals will be glad to introduce you to 'Africa time' where plans and schedules go out the window and help you get to grips with one of the many languages! Or take a trip to the Masai Mara to experience real tribal culture.

http://www.i-to-i.com/kenya/

4. Peru

It may not be the home of tango, but Peru has plenty to offer those who want to immerse themselves in the Latin American lifestyle! From the Incan wonder that is Machu Picchu to the beauty of Lake Titicaca there are plenty of ancient sites to see as well as sampling a bowl of Ceviche in the local restaurant! Lima is a hubbub of activity and no trip would be complete without bringing a traditional woolly hat home!

http://www.i-to-i.com/Peru/

5. Vietnam

From watching locals speeding by on mopeds with luggage 3 times their size strapped to their backs to a trip among the traditional rice paddies or along the waters of the Mekong Delta, a journey to Vietnam will be a voyage of discovery! This Asian jewel is one of the lesser travelled of Asia's jewels so there'll be more room to look around too!

http://www.i-to-i.com/Vietnam/

• africa
• asia
• latin america
• Kenya
• Vietnam
• Thailand
• peru
• india
• cutlure
• travel
• volunteer