Context Travel, Hiptipico & More Help Travelers Connect with Local Artisan Workshops

The explosion of immersive, experiential travel continues to hold steady as more people look for unique excursions. Instead of generic tours and cooking classes, more travelers are looking toward locals to provide a hands-on approach to area customs and traditions.

Local artisan workshops welcome travelers of all ages looking to capture the heart of the cultural heritage of skilled craftsmen and artisans. Companies like Context Travel and Hiptipico connect travelers to weaving lessons, ceramics and natural dye seminars, among dozens of other workshops. Look for opportunities in the Florence neighborhood of Oltrarno, or the Mayan communities in Guatemala and beyond.

Travelers who want to get up close and personal with the artisans without digging into the craft themselves also have options. Some workshops also blend artisan connections with a tour. Curious Appetite’s own Florence Artisan Workshops of the Oltrarno with Aperitivo provides an afternoon with a local expert, an opportunity to meet the artisans, an overview of the history, leather tips and a craft aperitivo and food pairing.

One of the best parts about an artisan workshop is the opportunity to get a more in-depth look at the community you’re traveling to, as well as the opportunity to create a souvenir. Instead of splurging on airport trinkets, support a local artisan and embrace the craft.