Zambia Joins Ireland And More As Anantara Celebrates Global Cultural Travel Experiences

Anantara Hotels & Resorts showcases storytellers, cultural guardians and heritage keepers from Zambia, Ireland, Maldives, Thailand and China. The emphasis is on local experts who help Anantara to transfer guests’ experience beyond regular holiday activities and initiatives and offers a way to experiential learning on local traditions and culture.

As World Tourism Day 2026 highlights the growing influence of artificial intelligence in shaping the future of tourism, Anantara Hotels & Resorts is marking 25 years of protecting the human side of hospitality. While advanced technology continues to improve the way destinations are discovered, managed and experienced, the brand continues to emphasise that authentic travel is built on human connections, cultural traditions and stories passed through generations.

Across its global destinations, Anantara is recognising individuals who act as guardians of local identity, helping travellers experience places through the eyes of the communities that call them home. These cultural storytellers bring history, rituals and traditions to life, creating deeper encounters that go beyond conventional tourism.

From the powerful landscapes of Victoria Falls in Zambia to the ancient storytelling traditions of Ireland, the island heritage of the Maldives, the sustainable communities of Thailand and the spiritual traditions of China, these individuals demonstrate how people remain at the heart of unforgettable journeys.

Zambia’s Victoria Falls Revealed Through The Power Of Local Storytelling

At The Royal Livingstone Victoria Falls Zambia Hotel by Anantara, storyteller Edward Minyoyi introduces visitors to the breathtaking beauty and cultural importance of Victoria Falls, locally known as Mosi-oa-Tunya, meaning “The Smoke That Thunders.”

Through his storytelling, Edward helps travellers understand that the waterfall is not only a natural wonder but also a place filled with history, traditions and spiritual significance.

A member of the Lozi tribe, Edward shares stories connected to his heritage while wearing ceremonial Siziba attire, representing cultural identity and belonging. His narratives introduce guests to local legends, including the story of the river spirit Nyami Nyami, while connecting the landscape with the beliefs and traditions of the communities that have lived alongside the Zambezi River for generations.

His storytelling transforms a visit to one of Africa’s most famous attractions into a deeper cultural journey where nature and heritage come together.

Ireland’s Dublin Heritage Comes Alive Through Traditional Storytelling

At Anantara The Marker Dublin Hotel, storytelling remains a powerful way to reveal the hidden history of Ireland’s capital city.

The hotel’s cultural experiences highlight Dublin’s Docklands through the country’s famous oral storytelling tradition, allowing visitors to explore the transformation of an area that has evolved into a major centre for business, technology and innovation.

Through carefully selected stories, guests discover the cultural roots, historic moments and local character that shaped the district. The experience reflects Ireland’s long tradition of preserving memories and identity through spoken narratives shared from one generation to another.

By combining history, local knowledge and personal storytelling, the experience allows travellers to explore Dublin beyond its modern architecture and discover the heritage that continues to influence the city today.

Maldives Traditions Preserved Through Generational Cultural Knowledge

At Anantara Dhigu Maldives Resort and Anantara Veli Maldives Resort, cultural preservation is being strengthened through the work of father-and-son duo Sambe and Rilwan.

Dedicated to protecting Maldivian heritage, the pair introduce visitors to traditional practices including Boduberu drumming and palm weaving, offering travellers a closer connection to island culture.

Sambe began his hospitality journey as a gardener nearly 18 years ago and gradually became a guardian of local traditions. Over time, he passed his cultural knowledge and skills to his son, ensuring that these important practices continue among future generations.

Together, they represent the spirit of sagaafee — people who carry their culture with pride and share it with others.

Through music, craftsmanship and personal interaction, guests experience a side of the Maldives that extends beyond its famous beaches, discovering the traditions and values that shape island life.

Thailand’s Yao Yai Island Showcases Authentic Sustainable Travel

At Anantara Koh Yao Yai Resort & Villas, travellers are introduced to a quieter and more authentic side of Thailand through the knowledge of local insider Smithy.

Located away from some of Thailand’s busiest tourism destinations, Yao Yai Island offers visitors an opportunity to experience nature, community life and sustainable traditions.

Having spent years supporting local communities, Smithy provides guests with experiences rooted in environmental respect and cultural understanding. His knowledge allows travellers to explore everyday island life, including village coffee shops, rubber plantations and fishing communities.

These encounters reflect the changing expectations of modern travellers who increasingly seek authentic experiences, responsible tourism and meaningful connections with local communities.

Rather than simply visiting a destination, guests are invited to understand the people, landscapes and traditions that make Yao Yai unique.

China’s Xishuangbanna Connects Travellers With Dai Cultural Heritage

At Anantara Xishuangbanna Resort, cultural experiences are guided by Yan Penghan, who combines hospitality with deep knowledge of the region’s spiritual traditions.

A former Theravada Buddhist abbot, Yan leads the resort’s sunset ceremony and helps international visitors understand the cultural values of the Dai people.

Drawing from his years of spiritual training, he shares insights into local customs, beliefs and rituals, creating a meaningful connection between travellers and the community.

During the ceremony, lanterns drift across the river carrying personal wishes, creating a symbolic moment of reflection and cultural exchange.

The experience demonstrates how protecting traditions and creating memorable guest experiences can exist together, allowing visitors to discover the deeper identity of a destination.

Human Stories Continue To Shape The Future Of Tourism

Anantara Hotels & Resorts’ celebration of these cultural ambassadors highlights the continuing importance of human connection in global tourism.

As technology and artificial intelligence become increasingly influential in travel planning and destination management, authentic storytelling, local knowledge and cultural traditions remain essential elements of meaningful journeys.

Across Zambia, Ireland, the Maldives, Thailand and China, these individuals represent the communities that preserve heritage and help travellers experience destinations through genuine local perspectives.

The future of tourism may continue to evolve through innovation, but the stories, rituals and relationships shared by local people will remain at the centre of experiences that inspire, educate and connect travellers around the world.

Explore the ‘People Who Inspire’ series:

Anantara Marks International Astronomy Day by Spotlighting the Guardians of the Maldivian Night – Shalli and Saji (Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas)

Tasting Sri Lanka with Anantara’s Tea Expert– Jeeva (Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort)

A Garden of Spirits: Ryan Dela Vega’s Craft at AQUA Bar– Ryan Dela Vega (Anantara Siam Bangkok Hotel)

From City Streets to Jungle Paths: Dr Nissa’s Life Among the Giants– Dr Nissa Mututanont (Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort)

Inside Anantara’s Human Approach to Wellness – Made Warnata (Anantara Ubud Bali Resort) and Kornpathu ‘Earnt’ Lipikorn (Layan Life at Anantara Layan Phuket Resort)

Oriana Migliaccio and the Blue Heart of the Maldives – Oriana Migliaccio (Anantara Anantara Dhigu Maldives Resort, Anantara Veli Maldives Resort and Naladhu Private Island Maldives)

Jason and the Golden Chalice: Pouring New Meaning into Indigenous Luxury – Jason Wang (Anantara Guiyang Resort)

Anantara Celebrates World Heritage Day by Honouring the Cultural Custodians Protecting the World’s Storied Landmarks– Likong Huy ‘Yuki’ (Anantara Angkor Resort), Tamás Gebei (Anantara New York Palace Budapest Hotel) and Fra Marcus (Ananytara Convento di Amalfi Grand Hotel)

Anantara Launches ‘People Who Inspire’ to Mark 25 Years of Meaningful Journeys– Yingsuphat ‘Alex’ Wrarapho (Anantara Hua Hin Resort)