If you’re hungry for a different type of adventure, a chance to explore world cultures through their authentic tastes is the perfect vacation for foodies. Opting to go on a food and drink vacation can immerse you directly in with the locals, giving you the chance to taste authentic cuisine away from mainstream restaurants. If you would like the chance to explore local artisan markets, take a cooking lesson from a local chef, and see some of the best views and wildlife the world has to offer, one of these group vacations may be for you.
Choosing a food and drink vacation is all about visiting during the peak time of year for the location of your choice. You can explore open air markets, see beautiful coastlines, blooming trees, and attend festivals. We’ll go through a few of our favorite trips available to feed your appetite for adventure.
Probably one of the best known locations for robust flavor and feel-good food is Sicily. The experiences of a Sicilian food tour will show just how diverse the cuisine really is. You’ll be able to sample authentic Italian staples like pizza or exotic foods like skewered and grilled goat intestines in Palermo, one of the world’s top street food locations. You’ll get to visit the Trapani province and sample their well-known arancini (fried rice balls stuffed with a savory filling). You’ll get your hands dirty with a local chef and sample delicious wines in Marsala and Etna. Imagine telling all of your friends what it was like to eat authentic pizza, cannolis, and gelato in the heart of Sicily while viewing the baroque cities of Agrigento and Syracuse and other unique heritage sites.
For a completely different experience, explore the vast coastline of South Africa, known as the Garden Route, spanning from Port Elizabeth to Cape Town. The best time of the year to visit is August to November, when you can see elephants, lions, penguins, and even dolphins, visit beaches and rainforests, and taste wines from the many vineyards surrounding Cape Town. A trip to South Africa lends a diverse experience, from exploring nature, witnessing wildlife in its natural habitat, and tasting top-rated wines.
In a trip to ancient and modern Japan, you can experience a mix of old-world and modern cities, with anything from ancient wooden temples and zen gardens to the high-speed bullet train and space-age metropolis of Tokyo. In Japan’s rarely visited mountains, you can enjoy the beauty of castles and spas set along blooming Cherry Blossom trees or the rich colors of fall. You’ll enjoy authentic meals during your stay at traditional Japanese guest houses called ryokans and get to experience the neon lights and modern buildings in Tokyo on this tour.
If you’re looking for a more tranquil getaway, a trip to Authentic Andalucia Spain, where Greek, Phoenician, Carthaginian, and Roman culture collide may be more your style. This leisurely getaway includes incredible views and a rich history behind the white villages and rural countryside. You’ll be able to stay in a converted farmhouse, enjoy authentic Spanish food, and take gentle walks through Seville and Granada by day.
Taking a food and drink vacation is all about authentic experiences, with the chance to eat, drink, and laugh alongside the locals. Sicily, South Africa, Japan, and Spain are just a few of the remarkable destinations where you can wine, dine, and experience a unique history and culture. A travel agent can help you find the perfect food and drink vacation for your group’s unique tastes, or pair you up with other travelers who want a similar experience if you don’t have a group. Call me, Aiste Foreman with Trabeona Travels at 302-648-5050 or visit www.trabeonatravels.com to find the perfect vacation package to satisfy your appetite for adventure.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Aiste is also a member of Leadership Delaware, a program focused on developing leaders and impacting communities in the first state.
