What gives a city a unique “melting pot” status? The presence of diverse races, religions, cultures and ethnicities. The people create diverse cultural environments full of incredible restaurants, festivals and art scenes. Here are numerous cities that are highly regarded to be the cultural hubs of their respective regions.
Taipei – Taiwan
Taiwan has a rich and varied culture composed of elements taken from many different ethnic groups, including the indigenous people, the Dutch, the Spanish, the Japanese, the Han Chinese, as well as more recently – the Americans. Start from Taipei, the cultural center of Taiwan where you’ll find plenty of mixed cultures, which shifts towards traditionalism as you head further south of the island.
Auckland – New Zealand
Auckland has more than 220 recorded ethnic groups residing there. Set between two harbours and coastal expanses, this city offers a blend of urban sophistication and traditional cultural experiences. The Auckland Museum is key to discovering the indigenous Māori, who inhabited the country more than 1000 years ago. Rated among the world’s 10 most liveable cities, it also boasts plenty of entertainment, nightlife and dining options.
Kolkata – India
Kolkata, previously known as Calcutta, is the capital of India’s eastern state of West Bengal. Its roots date back to the 18th century, when the city was British East India Company’s most important trading post. Here, you can experience the fusion of cultures between Buddhists, Hindus, Muslims, Jains, Sikhs and various tribal populations in India. The city is the birthplace of modern Indian arts, which sparked a cultural renaissance throughout India.
Saint Petersburg – Russia
Saint Petersburg, formerly known as Leningrad, is Russia’s “window on Europe,” with the unofficial status of Russia’s cultural capital and “most European” city. Cultures of the West, the East and the Slavs are closely intertwined here, forming a peculiar Petersburg style. There is plenty to discover here: Russia’s history, architecture, citizens and a mixture of nature and art of building the Northern Capital.
