One great cultural asset of any foreign society is their music. When traveling, you should never miss a chance to delve into another’s local music. Here are a few places that have given the world great pleasures with their innovation in music.

Chicago Blues. This melancholic genre has its roots in African native music. From oral tradition, African-American slaves turned their indigenous music into blues. The genre became popular around America until it evolved into various styles. Chicago Blues is particularly characterized by amplified electric and bass guitars, with saxophones and harmonica played in front of microphones. Blues evolved into a louder and more dynamic genre in this city. So the next time you visit Chicago, don’t forget to sit in a bar and listen to a local blues band.

Jamaican Reggae. It’s probably the soothing Caribbean atmosphere of Jamaica that inspired the world’s favorite peace lover to create reggae. Bob Marley, with a strong hold on Rastafarian philosophy, wrote the steadiest lyrics about redemption, peace and love to accompany the soothing melodies of reggae. Aside from the glorious beaches, the world thanks Jamaica for introducing Reggae.

English Punk. In the 70’s America and the UK both witnessed the birth of punk music. New York had its first taste of anti-establishment punk rock from the Ramones. In London, audiences were also witnessing not only a musical but also a social revolution with the music of the Clash and the Sex Pistols. With distaste of authority and the mainstream, punk bands upheld countercultural ideologies of rebellion and DIY (do-it-yourself). London, with a reputation for elegance and discipline, also has a rebellious and untamed side!

World Music of the Pacific. The term world music is actually so broad it’s almost only used to separate Western pop music from the non-Western. Basically, World music is identified as the fusion of traditional musical elements and the modern. This is usually found in the Pacific where modern musicians use native instruments together with modern guitars and drums. Hawaii, for example, uses a lot of their traditional Ukulele with amplifiers and electric guitars.

Mexican fusion. This can also be classified as World Music. The native drumming of Latin America is accompanied by some sexy guitar riffs and groovy bass lines producing a musical fusion with elements of blues, jazz and salsa. No other band perfected this craft than Santana, a group led by the extremely talented Mexican Carlos Santana. So when traveling to Mexico, don’t forget to learn a few steps and dance to beautiful Mexican fusion.

There’s nothing like listening to a local band play their local music. You can go to these countries and get the subliminal musical experience! With just one click, you can get free flights!

Chill to Chicago Blues in a local bar.

Relax on fine Caribbean sand while listening to reggae.

Explore London’s wild side with punk rock. Fly to London for free!

Unwind in a Luau with local Hawaiian musicians.

Dance to some sexy Mexican fusion.

Your flight is on us!

Traveling without music is like spaghetti without the sauce – edible but bland. Traveling is not just about sightseeing and exploring, it’s also a journey for the mind and soul. And what better way to enrich your experience than listening to the world’s geniuses of music? So here are a few CDs you should never forget to include in your backpack.

The Beach Movie Soundtrack. I know you think this is such a clichéd, predictable choice, but you have to admit, it’s perfect. The CD has 14 tracks of various genres but all guaranteed to create that good travelling mood. The beats of Leftfield’s Snakeblood create an exciting adventurous feeling, and that’s how you should feel at the beginning of your trip. There are also tracks in the CD that can help you wind down. Voices by Dario G featuring Vanessa Quinones is a perfect background to a pensive view. So if you just want to sit in front of a serene beach, just like in the movie, this should be in your player. This soundtrack is perfect for a trip not so much because of the lyrics, but because of the incredible mood it creates. Listening to it will have you drowned in whatever paradise you choose to visit, making you literally forget about the hassles of the city.

Ramones Mania (Ramones). If you’re still starting your journey and you’re still pumped up with adrenaline, this punk band will suit your mood. This CD is a compilation of 30 songs from the legendary punk band. With the rebellious rock and roll lyrics and guitar riffs typical of a punk song, this album will surely make you want to roll your windows down and shout the lyrics. This is great to keep the excitement in the trip. The common theme in the CD is quite relevant to escapism, which is an ideal mindset for traveling.

The Concert in Central Park (Simon and Garfunkel). This is the recording of the 60’s folk-rock duo during their reunion at Central Park in 1981. The legendary Paul Simon and Art Garfunkel wrote timeless profound lyrics to match great folk guitar playing. It is difficult to turn away from this 19-track CD because of the feel-good tunes. As with the Beach soundtrack, this also creates a carefree ambience perfect for travelling. But don’t let the folk melodies fool you. As I’ve mentioned, their lyrics are profound and deep, mostly perfect for a spirited and vigorous youth.

“I’m on my way,
I don’t know where I’m going but I’m on my way
I’m taking my time but I don’t know where”
-Me and Julio Down by the Schoolyard

“Got no deeds to do, no promises to keep
I’m dappled and drowsy and ready to sleep
Let the morning time drop all its petals on me
Life, I love you, all is groovy”
-59th Street Bridge Song (Feelin’ Groovy)

Bob Marley. Any Bob Marley CD will be great. You cannot go wrong with his laidback and feel-good reggae sound. This man is just full of love and he shares it perfectly through his music. Just like Simon and Garfunkel, it’s very easy to forget about the foolishness of urban pressure while listening to this iconic genius. He will bring you back to your roots and tell you what really matters. With great lyrics and music, Bob Marley is a perfect company when traveling in the wide road, away from the superficial and routine city life. He will surely make your travel a spiritual one.

Bob Dylan. An exemplary lyricist and guitarist, I don’t think I even have to explain why Bob Dylan should be a staple artist in your player. Just like the other Bob, any album will be perfect. His indescribable voice agrees with his almost melancholic lyrics. His songs are a great finale to your trip. While looking back on what you have seen and pondered on, it is good to listen to the words of this wise man.

So go out there with these records and make the most out of your trip! Click here to get a $750 Airline Gift Card.