Cultural Diplomacy

At the heart of CLE Abroad’s mission is the drive to create enriching, once-in-a-lifetime travel experiences that promote mutual understanding, lifelong learning, and cultural diplomacy across the globe. The Cultural Diplomacy (or "Citizen Diplomacy") series is designed to foster meaningful international connections, allowing travelers to experience a destination through the eyes of the people who shape it.

Why Cultural Diplomacy?

Our specially designed Cultural Diplomacy programs explore a nation's rich cultural heritage and go beyond standard tourist corridors. Rather than merely observing, delegations engage directly with local scholars, government officials, industry experts, grassroots activists, and change makers. These interactions offer in-depth, nuanced commentary on the host country's political system, international relations, economics, history, environmental justice, and important issues impacting contemporary society. By facilitating open dialogues and direct cultural immersion, we replace stereotypes with profound, lived experiences.

Who This Is For

These itineraries are frequently organized by invitation of local Diplomacy Councils, Global Ties chapters, and civic groups. However, they are well suited for any mixed audience of curious professionals, academics, and their companions who are passionate about international affairs and cross-cultural exchange.

What to Expect

Cultural Diplomacy journeys feature thoughtfully curated, context-rich experiences. Participants can expect:

• Meaningful Local Engagement: Dynamic conversations with local academics, entrepreneurs, industry experts, public officials, and influencers who provide an contemporary look into the country's daily life and evolving society.

• Diplomatic & Institutional Access: Exclusive briefings at Embassies, Ministries, Universities, think tanks and NGOs (subject to approvals and scheduling) to discuss issues impacting international relations, trade and human rights. 

• Community Support & Service: Opportunities to directly engage with and support local communities, such as interacting with female entrepreneurs, meeting indigenous groups, or participating in solidarity programs.

• Deep Cultural Immersion: Authentic regional dining, private musical performances, and curated explorations of art, architecture, religion, and historical landmarks.

While the Cultural Diplomacy theme can be customized for most of our global locations, some of our most highly requested programs in this series include:

• Panama: Discover the intersection of global trade and incredible biodiversity, featuring briefings on U.S.-Panama relations, discussions on the environmental challenges facing the Panama Canal, and visits to indigenous communities like the Embera.

• The Netherlands: Make home base in The Hague—the political heart of the Netherlands and the global center of International Law—to engage with international tribunals, explore U.S.-EU trade relations, and dive deep into Dutch history and political activism.

• Cuba: Travel on a legally compliant "Support for the Cuban People" delegation at a pivotal moment in U.S.-Cuba relations, exploring the evolving socialist model, the rise of private entrepreneurship, and a vibrant, world-class arts and music scene.

• Morocco: A deep dive into the unique confluence of African, Arab, and European influences, focusing on Morocco's role as a regional leader in diplomacy and security, exploring its long history of religious tolerance, and engaging with the dynamism of its civil society, from bustling marketplaces to ancient Fes.

The CLE Abroad Experience

CLE Abroad’s Cultural Diplomacy programs connect rigorous inquiry with lived culture, leaving participants with a broadened worldview and a lasting connection to the people, places, and institutions they visit.