If you had told me a few years ago that I’d plan entire trips around food, I might have laughed and then nervously glanced at my growing list of bookmarked Michelin-starred restaurants.
Fast forward to today, and culinary-focused travel has become my ultimate passport to adventure. Forget landmarks and beaches (okay, maybe not entirely) – for me, it’s all about tasting the soul of a destination, one bite at a time.
Last summer, I found myself foraging for wild garlic and chanterelles in the picturesque woodlands of the Scottish Highlands. Guided by a local chef with an encyclopaedic knowledge of edible plants, I felt like a modern-day (and slightly less glamorous) Bear Grylls. Later, my finds transformed into a glorious feast in a cosy lodge – a tart, garlicky pesto spooned over freshly baked bread, paired with local craft beer. Divine doesn’t even begin to cover it.
The adventure didn’t stop there. A short hop to Tuscany led me to a vineyard plucked straight from a postcard. The highlight? A private lesson in making gnocchi from scratch, followed by an unforgettable dinner amidst rows of vines, illuminated by fairy lights. It was the kind of meal that made me wonder how I can ever tolerate store-bought pasta again. Oh, and the wine? Let’s just say my suitcase came back a few kilos heavier, all thanks to “souvenirs.”
Then there was that time in Japan where I donned an apron and attempted to master the delicate art of sushi-making in Tokyo’s Tsukiji district. Spoiler alert: My sashimi cutting skills may never make the grade, but I left with a newfound respect for the precision and dedication behind Japan’s culinary heritage – not to mention an obsession with wasabi plus collateral damage of a cut or two, those knives are super sharp!
Culinary-focused travel isn’t just about the food. It’s about connecting with people, culture, and the stories behind the ingredients. Whether it’s rolling up my sleeves for a cooking class in a bustling Moroccan souk or savouring a farm-to-table dinner on a quaint French island, every meal has left an indelible mark on my wander lusting heart.
So my advice: Follow your appetite. It might just lead you to the most unexpected (and delicious) adventures of your life. Bon appétit!