The exposition's buildings turned out to be mostly neo-classical pastiche, but the fair did bequeath a sense of cultural pride and, more tangibly, the makings of a new home for the Art Institute.

ECONOMIST: To natural assets add art, learning and fun

The International Book Fair is one of the most important cultural events held in Cuba and attracts millions of Cuban and foreign visitors every year.

UNESCO: XXI International Book Fair Cuba '2012

As with any Antarctic winter crew, we have had our fair share of challenges - language difficulties, cultural misunderstandings, problems from home and accidents on the ice.

BBC: Surviving the worst winter in the world

During the November 2012 Abu Dhabi Art Fair, Louvre Abu Dhabi architect Nouvel extolled the planned cultural district.

BBC: Abu Dhabi takes on the art world

For instance, the promotion of an ethnic street fair creates more inclusive public space, generates economic inclusion, and encourages cultural inclusion along with civic participation.

UNESCO: Social and Human Sciences

This rapid cultural development has made Shanghai an important destination on the international art circuit: The Shanghai Art Fair, Shanghai Biennale, Museum of Contemporary Art and countless new private galleries, though young, are turning it into a contemporary arts hub to rival China's capital, Beijing.

CNN: Shanghai bids to be 'Paris of the East' once more

New cultural endeavors such as the Design Museum in next-door Holon, the annual Fresh Paint contemporary art fair and the biannual Art TLV festival are placing Tel Aviv on the global art map.

WSJ: Insider's Guide to Tel Aviv: Middle Eastern Promises | Journal Concierge