Food is not just something that you swallow for sustenance… it can be an intricate and divine art form. All over the world, passionate chefs are dedicated to experimenting with techniques and flavours so that they can create the ideal taste experience.
If you love sampling new flavours on your travels, consider planning your next trip around the theme of food. Here are some of the best places on the globe for foodie holidays that will have you licking your lips and begging for another bite.
The Black Forest, Germany
This region of southern Germany is known for more than just chocolate cake and ham. It has a long standing tradition of providing high quality gourmet cuisine. In fact, there are more Michelin starred restaurants here than anywhere else in the country. From award winning luxury dining rooms to simple and welcoming country inns, this beautiful region provides delicious and authentic German cuisine.
The German Culinary Escape package offered by Truly Experiences includes a two night stay at a five star hotel in Baiersbronn, Germany and a tasting menu dinner of freshly prepared local cuisine at a three Michelin star restaurant.
Vietnam
Vietnam has a diverse culinary tradition, which includes one of the much-loved noodle broth soup “Pho” and the soft French baguette sandwiches known as “Banh Mi” stuffed with juicy meat and vegetables. Vietnamese cuisine is crisp, creative and fragrant, with each ingredient adding a distinct note to the dish – from the lemongrass to the coriander and the ginger. The culinary tradition here relies on incredibly fresh ingredients and a healthy balance between herbs, vegetables and meats – so it’s not only delicious but also good for you! Best of all… it’s incredibly cheap to eat in Vietnam and some of the tastiest meals can be found at humble local street stalls.
Image: pelican, Flickr
New Orleans, USA
On the opposite end of the healthy-meter, head to New Orleans for sinfully delicious food that may not be good for your waistline but is certainly good for your soul. With French and Creole influences, New Orleans offers a sumptuous feast. Dig into a spicy jambalaya, a hearty gumbo, a crawfish étouffée or a simple and filling portion of red beans and rice. Fill your belly with a Po’boy, a juicy sandwich made with soft French bread and filled with anything from lobster to beef. Of course, finish it all off with a coffee and a beignet from Café du Monde – these famous fried pastries dusted with powdered sugar are synonymous with the Big Easy.
Tuscany, Italy
Fall in love with the hearty and simple cuisine of the Tuscan countryside. There can’t be many better foodie holidays in the imagination than Italy, and Tuscany’s near the top of the list. Filling soups and stews with peasant origins, homemade pasta, high quality beef from the Chiana Valley and rich game including wild boar, roe deer and pheasant. Complement the flavours with a glass of regional wine such as Chianti, Brunello di Montacino or Sassicaia.
These are just a few of the best destinations in the world where foodies can enjoy fantastic gourmet getaways, so make sure you pack your appetite!