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Updated on February 26th, 2025
While I continue my adventure around Namibia, I am dropping into your Inbox to wish you…
Happy World Food Day! 🌍 (for tomorrow that is!). And yes, you’re right, I am a little obsessed with food lately! Last week I shared my top tips for dining alone (if you missed it, hit reply and I’ll resend it to you).
To celebrate this special day, I’ve decided to dive into some of the best foodie travel experiences, as well as how you can recreate the magic of eating in foreign lands, even when you’re not travelling!
So, are you ready to tuck in? Here we go:
Culinary Travel Destinations
Whether you’re an adventurous eater or prefer the comforts of traditional dishes, here are some of the best destinations that every traveller and foodie should explore:
- Tuscany, Italy: Picture yourself walking through vineyards, tasting the finest Chianti, and taking cooking classes that teach you the art of making fresh pasta. Tuscany is a dream for food lovers who enjoy farm-to-table dining.
- Kyoto, Japan: Discover the world of Japanese kaiseki, a multi-course meal that focuses on local, seasonal ingredients. Kyoto’s tranquil teahouses and vibrant markets offer an authentic taste of Japanese culture.
- Lima, Peru: Known as the culinary capital of South America, Lima is home to world-renowned chefs and delicious fusion cuisine. Don’t miss trying ceviche and exploring the markets for fresh, local produce. Check out my blog post HERE for everything else to do in Peru while you’re there.
- Marrakech, Morocco: Step into a world of spices, tagines, and traditional Moroccan bread. Visit bustling souks, take a cooking class with locals, and immerse yourself in the rich flavours of North African cuisine.
Take a Food Tour or Cooking Class
If you have been here for a while, you will know this is one of my favourite travel experiences! One of the best ways to deepen your understanding of a new cuisine is to take a local food tour or cooking class. Not only do you get to taste the best dishes a city has to offer, but you’ll also learn about the cultural significance behind the meals. Check out some of my experiences making chocolate in St Lucia, a cookery class in Hoi An, Vietnam and on a self-drive tasting tour in Tasmania, Australia.
Or how about Wine Tasting?
If you’re more into wine than food, then why not take a wine-tasting tour? Whether you’re exploring the Napa Valley, the Margaret River area of Western Australia, or the Champagne region of France, a wine tour allows you to immerse yourself in the local culture through its flavours. Guided by knowledgeable winemakers, you’ll not only taste a variety of wines but also learn about the history and techniques that make each bottle unique. As you sip, you’ll start to understand the distinct characteristics that the land, climate, and tradition bring to each wine. It’s a wonderful way to deepen your connection to the region and its people.
For a more elevated experience, consider a wine flight while dining. A wine flight is a curated selection of wines that are expertly paired with each course of your meal. This allows you to enjoy a perfect harmony between the flavours of the food and the wine. Imagine starting with a crisp white to complement your appetizer, followed by a bold red for the main course, and finishing with a sweet dessert wine. Each sip enhances the flavours of the dish, creating a sensory journey that’s as memorable as the sights you see while traveling. One of my favourite experiences was THIS ONE in the Mendoza Region of Argentina.
But what about when you’re not travelling?
Here are some simple ways to bring the flavours of your travels into your own kitchen and keep your wanderlust alive!
Cookery Books: Invest in a few cookery books from different regions, or even better, why not bring one back as a souvenir from your travels? Many of these books include not just recipes, but the stories behind the dishes, offering you a cultural connection to each meal. From Italian pasta-making traditions to Moroccan spice blends, a good cookbook can whisk you away on a culinary journey with every page.
Here are a few to get you started:
- Ottolenghi Simple by Yotam Ottolenghi (Mediterranean-inspired)
- Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat by Samin Nosrat (Global cuisine basics)
- The Nordic Cookbook by Magnus Nilsson (Scandinavian flavours)
Ask the Locals: Do you have a favourite dish from a previous trip? Don’t hesitate to ask locals for their family recipes. Many people are excited to share their food traditions, and you’ll get an authentic version of that beloved dish. With social media and online communities, it’s easier than ever to connect with people from around the world. You can even try joining Facebook groups or following food bloggers who specialize in the cuisine of your dream destinations.
Explore Your Local Markets: Part of what makes eating abroad so magical is the freshness of local ingredients. Take the time to explore local markets or specialty stores in your area. You might find international ingredients or rare spices that will elevate your dishes to an entirely new level. Plus, wandering through food markets at home can feel a little like exploring an outdoor bazaar in a distant land. My partner has Nigerian heritage and we spent a fantastic day recently wandering around Shepherds Bush Market in London, picking up ingredients to make a fabulous Jollof Rice that evening.Host a Themed Dinner Night: Why not turn an ordinary weeknight into a cultural celebration? Pick a country, gather your ingredients, and create a full dining experience with music, decorations, and, of course, authentic dishes. It’s a fun way to invite your friends or family to join you on a “mini vacation” without leaving the house.
So, where will your next food adventure take you? What will you do to celebrate World Food Day, even if you’re not travelling? What global cuisine do you enjoy the most and how have you tried recreating the dishes at home? I’d love to hear about your experiences. Hit reply to this email to let me know or connect via your social method of choice (Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Pinterest, Threads or LinkedIn) to give me all the details.
This week, over on YouTube we are back on the walking trail on Day 2 of my Camino de Santiago adventure on the Portuguese Coastal Route. This time, we journey from the charming town of Redondela to the historic city of Pontevedra, covering another segment of the last 100 kilometres. Along the way, we experience picturesque coastal landscapes, peaceful woodland paths, and the rich cultural heritage of Galicia. Whether you’re preparing for your own Camino or simply following along for the experience, this video will immerse you in the beauty and spirit of the Camino de Santiago. Join me via THIS LINK for insights, highlights, and reflections on this incredible pilgrimage!
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Until next time,
Bon appétit and Happy Cooking and Safe Travels
Sue x
PS. If you found this content useful then there is so much more in my upcoming Find Your Way Course: The Ultimate Guide to Starting Your Travel Journey. I have specifically designed it for women who want to travel but find the whole thing overwhelming. Over 6 weeks, I will give you over 30 years of travel experience and advice. I have made the mistakes, so you don’t have to. I will hold your hand as you plan your first adventure and be there (along with a supportive, like-minded community) to cheer you on when you take your first steps. Don’t wait any longer to fulfil the travel dreams you have. CLICK HERE to get on the list to be the first to know when it’s out there and maybe pick up a deal or two if you decide to sign up.
This newsletter may contain affiliate links. By using these, Sue Where Why What may receive a small commission for which I say thank you, but you will not pay any extra charges for this. My opinions remain my own.
More of my Adventures…
Blog – St Lucia Chocolate Tour: The Hotel Chocolat Tree to Bar Experience
Video – What to do in Launceston, Tasmania…If You Love Food!
Portuguese Camino Day 2 Exploring the Camino de Santiago from Redondela to Pontevedra
🏠 For accommodation, I use Booking.com. They have their Genius loyalty scheme which is easy to progress through the levels for better discounts and inclusions.
🚍 For tours and activities, my preferred supplier is Get Your Guide.
🗺️ For multi day or week tours, check out G Adventures. I used them for trips in Costa Rica, Peru, and Galapagos.
🤞 I would never leave home without travel insurance. With Safety Wing you can take out an annual policy and pay monthly. This takes the hassle out of having to remember for us regular travellers.
🛫 For cheap flights, check out Skyscanner or join Jacks Flight Club which scans the internet for error fares (UK only).
🧳 For luggage storage on your travels, I recommend the service by Bounce.
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