Discover a country during a festive period like Carnival. Moments of pure joy and colorful traditions. These festivities, held in the four corners of the globe, reveal the spirit and culture of peoples. However, for peace of mind, international health insurance is essential, especially in destinations where medical costs can be exorbitant, such as the USA, Canada or Brazil.
Why do we celebrate Carnival?
Carnival is a Christian religious festival that has existed since the Middle Ages. It begins on Epiphany, January 6, and ends on Mardi Gras. This is a period of festivity before the beginning of Lent, which lasts 40 days before Easter, and during which we must be frugal, for example by not eating chocolate…
When is Carnival and when do we celebrate Mardi Gras?
The carnival calendar fluctuates annually, aligned with the date of Easter, which in turn depends on the lunar cycle. Mardi Gras, then, is always the day before Ash Wednesday, launching the beginning of Lent.
What are the world’s best carnivals?
Carnival in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Without doubt, the world’s best-known, most colorful and most spectacular carnival is that of Rio de Janeiro in Brazil. It’s a must if you’re a traveler drawn to parties around the world. Floats, dancers, troupes, costumes, music and atmosphere create an exceptional spectacle. The finest samba schools parade on the Sambodrôme, where tickets are relatively expensive.
The next Rio Carnival is scheduled to take place between February 28 and March 08, 2025.
Carnival in Barranquilla, Colombia
Since 2008, the Barranquilla Carnival has been recognized by Unesco as part of humanity’s intangible cultural heritage. It is considered one of the three biggest carnivals in Latin America, along with those of Rio de Janeiro and Oruro (Bolivia). Carnival is an event of such magnitude that Barranquilleros eagerly prepare well in advance. The carnival, which lasts 4 days, ends with the “Carnaval de Joselito”, an invented character who dies of exhaustion and drunkenness on the last day of carnival, having celebrated so much.
Carnival in New Orleans, USA
For many years, the carnival in New Orleans, USA, was one of the most beautiful in the world. Everyone was required to wear a costume in keeping with the colors of the event: mauve, green and gold. Brass bands play non-stop in the squares of the old town, boats with music stages cruise the river and soloists take to the sidewalks. Jazz, blues, folk or rock, the music is king!
If you’re planning to visit a carnival in the Americas, whether Brazil, the USA or Colombia, be aware that this continent is notorious for its particularly high medical costs. So take out international health insurance!
Carnival in Venice, Italy
The Venice Carnival is also a must-see, perhaps the most beautiful in the world, but with a different twist: all participants are elegantly disguised. The organization can become more sophisticated in Venice’s many palaces during balls.
Carnival in Cologne, Germany
In Northern Europe, the Cologne Carnival in Germany is one of the biggest. In 2022, the real Karneval will take place from Thursday February 24 to Wednesday March 2. Thursday is dedicated to women who are allowed to cut meeting ties. A highly symbolic gesture… This is the only day on which police officers are allowed to go on duty without wearing one. On Saturday evening, a ghost parade, a sort of joyful celebration of the dead, takes place in the middle of the street. Concerts, street performances, fireworks and shows of all kinds accompany this event, which has been celebrated for over 2,000 years. On Tuesday, every neighborhood, bar and restaurant burns its “Mister Carnival” before the party comes to an end on Wednesday, March 2, when it’s customary to eat fish and start Lent.
Carnival in Nice, France
The Nice Carnival, famous for its Fête des Fleurs, promises once again to be a not-to-be-missed event in 2025. Sparkling illuminations, lively music and spectacular fireworks will fill the air with wonder. For this edition, the organization plans to surpass previous years with over 150,000 flowers distributed to spectators, beating its own record in a dazzling display of generosity and beauty.
Whatever your nationality or destination, traveling abroad for a festival involves various risks, including to your health, which can be due to a multitude of factors. That’s why you need health insurance to make sure you’re properly protected!
Carnival in Barbados, Caribbean
Carnival in Barbados, also known as Crop Over, is a dazzling celebration that marks the end of the sugarcane harvest season. It’s one of the most eagerly awaited festivals in the Caribbean, combining history, culture and unparalleled festivities. From July to August, the island lights up with bright colors, lively soca music, spectacular dances and parades. Participants, locals and tourists alike, dress up in extravagant, sparkling costumes, mingling in an atmosphere of joy and cultural sharing.
One of these destinations has won you over and you’d like to celebrate Carnival abroad? Don’t forget to take out travel insurance to cover you in case of the unexpected! This insurance covers your medical expenses with high ceilings, and offers assistance and reimbursement in the event of lost, stolen or damaged luggage, or accident. Request a travel insurance quote now to explore and discover your options. For guidance tailored to your needs, don’t hesitate to contact our specialists, who will guide you towards the most appropriate coverage.
