Unexpected Holiday Dishes Around the World – with recipes

By: Gina Bang, Director of Marketing, Avanti Destinations

One of the best-loved parts of any holiday is the special food we celebrate with, both savory and sweet. Here, we present 12 holiday specialties – with links to recipes – from countries as diverse as Morocco, Japan, Peru, and Croatia. Interested in sampling them in their native lands? We have suggestions for where to go – usually beyond the capital city to make it even more authentic.

Sponge Donuts (Morocco)

Hanukkah is traditionally celebrated with deep fried foods to commemorate the miracle of one day’s worth of oil lasting eight days. These fluffy ring donuts, “Sfenj” (meaning sponge) have a crispy friend outer layer with a delicate, airy interior, and they are usually dusted with sugar or soaked in honey. Experience them in Casablanca, especially in Jewish communities during Hanukkah. Try this 100-year old family recipe.

Lechon (the Philippines)

Christmas in the Philippines is a grand affair, with Lechon, a whole roasted pig, at the center of festivities. Try it in Cebu, the region known for its distinctive “cebuchon” stuffed with lemongrass, scallions, garlic, and basil. Using a boneless, pork-belly roll instead of a whole pig is easier for most cooks Recipe

Honey Cookies (Greece)

“Melomakarona” are eggless, dairy-free cookies, akin to baklava, enjoyed during the fasting period of Orthodox Christians. Thessaloniki is the ideal place to taste these honey and walnut delights. Recipe

Tamales Criolles (Peru)

Traditional Peruvian Tamales differ from Mexican tamales, using fresh white corn and banana leaves. Another Peruvian Christmas custom called “Chocolatadas” is to distribute gifts and hot chocolate to less fortunate people in early December. Cuzco is the place to go. Recipe

Bûche de Noël (France, Belgium, Switzerland)

This Christmas dessert, symbolizing the Yule log, originated in France’s Brittany. Made with sponge cake, chocolate and heavy cream. Try it in Rennes, capital of Brittany, a city filled with medieval half-timbered houses or Lausanne, Switzerland. Recipe

Mochi Soup (Japan)

“Ozoni,” a New Year’s breakfast soup. Each family has their own special way of making it – with chicken, fish cakes, carrots, taro root, regional spices – but it always features mochi rice cakes. Try it in Kanazawa, known for its traditional districts. Recipe

Fruitcake (Chile)

“Pan de Pascua,” reminiscent of German stollen, is a Christmas staple, rich with spices, cherries, raisins, strong coffee and rum, brandy or pisco for a kick. Enjoy it in Chile’s picturesque Lake District. Recipe

Cabbage Rolls (Croatia)

Croatian “sarma” consists of meat-filled cabbage leaves, a winter comfort food best enjoyed in the gastronomic region of Istria. Recipe

Rice Pudding (Sweden)

“Risgrynsgröt” is a Christmas Eve essential, often a breakfast item on Christmas Day. It comes with a fun tradition of hiding one almond for good luck. On Sweden’s west coast, Gothenburg is a recommended destination for this treat. Recipe

Farofa (Brazil)

This crunchy side dish, made from cassava flour and flavorful additions such as bacon, onions, garlic, parsley and chives, is also commonly used as a stuffing for poultry. A great accompaniment for Brazilian Christmas barbecues. Salvador de Bahia offers an authentic cultural backdrop for this dish. Recipe

Feast of Seven Fishes (Italy)

This Southern Italian tradition involves a meatless Christmas Eve meal. It remains a much-loved custom among many Italian American families. Whether in Sorrento, Palermo, or Lecce, you’ll find various fish dishes to commemorate the occasion. Recipe

Rice Cake Soup (South Korea)

“Tteokguk,” a rice cake soup, is eaten during the lunar New Year, symbolizes purity and good fortune. Toppings for the soup can include beef or other meat, seafood, eggs, nori, and vegetables. Busan, known for its early sunrise, is the perfect place to enjoy this dish and welcome the new year. Recipe

Each of these foods offers a taste of the world’s diverse cultures and festivities, inviting you to explore traditions through culinary delights. Whether you’re cooking at home or planning your next journey, these dishes deliver a connection to global celebrations. For a whole host of holiday recipes, check Avanti’s holiday party e-cookbook: https://www.flipsnack.com/779977E569B/christmas-recipes-2022/full-view.html

About Avanti Destinations

Since 1981, Avanti Destinations has been selling custom-crafted independent travel vacations in Europe, Asia, North Africa/the Middle East, the South Pacific, and Central and South America. The Portland, Oregon-based wholesale tour operator offers a wide range of FIT components to travel advisors only, including air, rail, rental cars, hotels, sightseeing/attractions, transfers and hard-to-find experiential travel options. Avanti specializes in hand-picked, locally-owned hotels in both large and small cities and in connecting all the pieces of complex or multi-destination itineraries. The company also creates complete packages for custom groups of 15 or more passengers. For more information: https://book.avantidestinations.com.

Savor the Journey: 5 Immersive Culinary Experiences for the Foodie in You

If the thought of learning to cook a delicious dish in a local kitchen makes your taste buds tingle with excitement, this post is for you.

By Dominique Ferrari, Collette

Ever considered donning a chef’s apron on your next vacation? We’ve curated a menu of five immersive culinary experiences that’ll fill your belly (and heart!) and give you the ultimate souvenir to bring home: fantastic local cooking skills for life.

Because there is truly no better way to travel than by diving in, fork-first, to learn the art of traveling by taste.

1. Cook (and taste!) Paella in Spain

Our first stop takes us to the sun-drenched shores of Spain, where we go behind the scenes of one of the country’s most iconic dishes and learn the art of making it. In Spain, paella is more than a meal — it’s an event. From the first grain of rice to the last garnishes, you’ll learn so much about the history of this beloved dish and the cultural importance it holds. Buen provecho!

2. Discover the Magic of Coconut Candy in Costa Rica

Next up: the breathtaking beauty of Costa Rica, where the vibrant local flavors are as colorful as the country’s diverse ecosystem. Our destination is a small village, once a bustling coconut plantation. And our guide, a local villager, is eager to share the history of his home. Watch as he expertly cracks open a coconut, revealing the treasure within— the foundation for the sweetest local delicacy of all: coconut candy. As you try your hand at making it yourself, the flavor, and the people, will leave you enchanted.

3. Go Truffle Hunting in Croatia

Picture this: You’re in the lush, green forests of Croatia, surrounded by the rustle of leaves and the scent of earth and trees. A troop of eager, friendly dogs are ready to lead you on an adventure unlike any other — truffle hunting. Venture into the forest and become an active participant in a cherished local tradition. Every dig and triumphant discovery of these coveted fungi deepens your connection to this land and its culinary culture.

4. Prepare a Tasteful Toast to Peruvian Fusion

Next, we’re heading to Peru, a land where the fusion of sea and mountain, old and new, all melt together and make for some of the most exciting dishes on the planet. Activate all your senses and step into a local kitchen for an interactive ceviche cooking class. Freshly caught fish, tangy lime, fiery chiles, and aromatic cilantro all come together as you chop, mix, and marinate a sensory explosion that perfectly encapsulates Peru’s coastal spirit. Next, shake things up with a hands-on lesson in making the perfect pisco sour — a refreshing cocktail and testament to the country’s rich viticultural history.

5. Taste Tuscany in a Hands-on Journey into the Heart of Italian Cuisine

Finally, imagine yourself immersed in the rolling hills of Tuscany, where vineyards stretch out as far as the eye can see. Here, under the (ahem) Tuscan sun, we find the quintessential Italian villa. As the aromas of garlic, tomatoes, and fresh basil envelop you, tie on an apron; because in this family-owned kitchen, you’re not just a guest — you’re part of the famiglia. Each slice, stir, and simmer is an immersion in the art of Italian cooking. And as you sit down to savor the fruits of your labor, surrounded by new friends and sweeping views of the Italian countryside, you’ll realize this is more than a meal. It’s the whole point of travel. Buon viaggio e buon appetito!

About Collette

Since 1918, Collette has been a leader in guided travel. Today, Collette offers tours on all seven continents in a variety of travel styles, plus a comprehensive travel protection plan, flexible tour pacing, and unrivaled industry expertise. This third-generation family-owned business is dedicated to giving back in both local and global communities through their social responsibility platform.  For more information, visit www.gocollette.com or call 1(800) 340-5158.  

Wine Experiences Beyond the Tasting Room

By: Audley Travel

From rustic tables in a South African vineyard to ultramodern bars in Napa Valley, tasting rooms are the classic way to sample new vintages and learn more about the wine’s terroir. But what if you want something a little different? The country specialists at Audley have scoured the world for unusual ways for you to enjoy your wine — here are five of their favorites.

La Rioja, Spain: stay at a hotel with a wine spa

Nestled among the seemingly endless vineyards of La Rioja, the avant garde Hotel Marques de Riscal is a shimmering oasis of luxury. The hotel, which was designed by celebrity architect Frank Gehry, is home to SPA Vinothérapie Caudalie, where all the treatments on the menu draw from elements of the wine-making process. You can indulge in a pomace massage or relax in a bath spiked with red-wine extracts.

Photo of the Hotel Marques de Riscal
Photo Courtesy of Audley Travel

California, USA: ride the Wine Train

All aboard this fully restored historic train, which runs through California’s renowned Napa Valley. Burnished brass, buttery leather, plush upholstery, and gleaming woodwork set an elegant stage for your journey through the heart of the valley, with stops at various wine estates for tastings and tours. You’ll also enjoy an exquisitely prepared meal (with wine pairings, of course).

*Photo of the Wine Train*
*Photo Courtesy of Audley Travel*

Bordeaux, France: learn to blend your own wine

As oenophiles know, Bordeaux wine is a blend rather than a single grape. If you want to learn the gentle art of wine blending, we suggest this workshop, held in a reclaimed Bordeaux townhouse. You’ll start with an introduction to the nuances of Bordeaux wines and a refresher course in how to taste wine like a professional sommelier. Finally, you’ll mix your own bottle, using your preferred ratios of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot to create the perfect blend for you to take home as a souvenir.

Barolo, Italy: visit a wine museum in a castle

The history of wine is deeply entwined with the history of Italy, and nowhere is this more apparent than at the WiMu Museo del Vino a Barolo. Tucked inside a 1,000-year-old castle in the Langhe, the museum explores the history and culture of wine through emotive, interactive exhibits. In the cellar, Regional Enoteca of Barolo (a wine bar) offers a chance to sample the local goods. And just outside, the whimsical Corkscrew Museum displays more than 600 examples, ranging from the historic to the hilarious.

Franschhoek, South Africa: wine tasting on horseback

A little over an hour west of Cape Town, South Africa’s Winelands make a great destination for a daytrip. But, there’s so much to see (and sip) that we recommend spending a few nights. One of the best places to base yourself is Franschhoek, home of Paradise Stables. Here, you can mount purebred Arabian horses for an ambling ride through the valley’s vineyards and over the mountains, with plenty of stops to admire the views. And, of course, you’ll pause at wineries for tastings and tours.

About Audley Travel

At Audley Travel, our passion is creating trips that change your world by helping you see the world your way. For 25 years, we’ve listened to you, and crafted individual trips designed to help you experience destinations in a way that feels most meaningful to you.

Our specialists travel regularly to their destination to renew their passion and keep their knowledge up to date. They’ll draw on this first-hand experience to shape your trip around what interests you, sharing tips and advice you won’t find in a guide book, whether that’s their favorite local vineyard or the restaurant with the best wine cellar.

Slovenia – Sustainable Diversity on a Plate

Slovenia is a Central European pocket-sized country, where short distances speak in its favor and reveal an outstanding diversity which reflects also through gastronomy. Believe it or not, but as many as 24 gastronomic regions and three wine-growing areas with 14 wine-growing districts will welcome you here. But what is it that makes Slovenian cuisine so special and why has this boutique country evolved into one of the most recognizable European foodie destinations?

*Photo Courtesy of www.slovenia.info/TomoJesenicnik*

The secret behind: fresh, locally grown and diverse ingredients

Wherever you try authentic Slovenian cuisine, you can be sure it comes straight from nature. Here, foraging and sourcing fresh ingredients from nearby fields and gardens is not a trend, but part of tradition and sustainable development, which has been present for centuries. Next to locally sourced ingredients, which are the true heroes of Slovenia’s authentic culinary stories, an abundance of tastes will also surprise you. It is thanks to the fact that Slovenia lies at the crossroads of four geographically and culturally very different areas that no fewer than 400 local traditional dishes and drinks await you here. Another reason is that Slovenia borders on four countries: Austria in the north, Italy in the west, Hungary in the east and Croatia in the south. While the Alpine Slovenia boasts goods from mountain pastures, Mediterranean and Karst Slovenia feature the flavors of salt and charcuterie aged by the Bora wind. In addition to healthy water, Thermal Pannonian Slovenia offers different farinaceous foods and bread, and Central Slovenia with Ljubljana will surprise you with authentic dishes with cosmopolitan influences.

*Photo Courtesy of www.slovenia.info/SuzanGabrijan*

Excellence on a plate – trust recommendations, rely on your own experience

To find the very best when it comes to food and wine in Slovenia, the internationally acclaimed culinary guides, such as Michelin and Gault&Millau, will come in handy. The ratings prove that Slovenia is an intriguing gastronomic destination, offering a plethora of exceptional culinary experiences in restaurants led by top chefs, who masterfully combine traditions with modern trends. In 2021, when Slovenia held the European Region of Gastronomy title, the Michelin Guide listed as many as 53 Slovenian restaurants and awarded 6 of them with Michelin stars. Ana Roš’s Hiša Franko, which also ranks 21st among the World’s 50 Best Restaurants, received an astounding 2 stars. Pretty amazing for a country half-a-size of Switzerland, don’t you think?

*Photo Courtesy of www.slovenia.info/CirilJazbec*

Restaurants with the Slovenia Green sustainability label and Michelin Green Star

Many restaurants in Slovenia have their own circle of local suppliers or even own gardens or fields where they obtain fresh and local ingredients for their dishes. In doing so, they respect tradition and present it to the guests in a new, original way. Restaurants that are particularly devoted to sustainability have gained the Slovenia Green Cuisine label. Currently, there are as many as 40 holders.

Returning to nature and care for future generations is also becoming increasingly important in haute cuisine. This is why Michelin awards special Green Stars to the restaurants that follow the principles of sustainability. Currently, there are as many as 5 holders in Slovenia: Gostišče Grič in Horjul, Hiša Franko in Kobarid, Gostilna Mahorčič in Rodik, Gostilna za Gradom in Koper and Gostilna Krištof in Predoslje.

Authentic Slovenian dishes revealed

Wherever you go in Slovenia, you will find special local dishes. Many of them are also protected. Among the most well-known and distinctive specialties of Slovenia are potica, Prekmurska gibanica, idrijski žlikrofi, and belokranjska pogača. The queen of Slovenian festive dishes is definitely potica, a rolled cake with various sweet or savory fillings, usually served for the most important holidays. Since the written records of this festive dish date from the 16th century, potica has become a true ambassador of Slovenia throughout history – it has, for example, even been brought to the Pope for Easter breakfast.

All in all, it can be said that Slovenia is home to an array of splendid authentic and fresh tastes which are based on the sustainable use of resources and an integrative approach. Pair this with top chefs and excellent award-winning local wines and you will get a perfect gastronomic destination that will impress even the most demanding foodies.

Find your dream vacation to Slovenia with a USTOA tour operator here https://ustoa.travelstride.com/trip-list/slovenia

For further information visit:

Taste Slovenia

Slovenian Gastronomy: You can’t spell Slovenia without love

Slovenia.info

About Slovenian Tourist Board

Slovenian Tourist Board (STB) is the central national agency for the promotion of tourism, one of the most successful and promising industries in the Slovenian economy. Systematic planning, development and promotion activities and a modern approach to the placement of Slovenia on the global tourist map – particularly in recent years, this is what has helped the STB to increase the visibility and reputation of the country as an authentic boutique destination of five-star experiences, which is committed to sustainability.

Top 5 Extraordinary Culinary Experiences with Luxury Gold

By Chelsea Todaro of Luxury Gold

If you’re traveling with Luxury Gold, expect unforgettable delicious high-end dining. You may find yourself indulging in Michelin-star fare one evening and then diving into the street food scene the following day on a foodie tour. From private cooking classes with culinary masters to marvelous lunches at vineyards, dining is a highlight of the journey, rather than just a standard mealtime.

Food is a huge part of travel, and you’ll truly discover the culture of a destination through Luxury Gold’s carefully selected dining experiences. In addition to renowned Michelin-star restaurants, you’ll also visit fine-dining restaurants acclaimed by other leading industry guides such as Zagat, AAA Diamond and Forbes.

Prepare for the meal of a lifetime with Luxury Gold’s top 5 extraordinary dining experiences below.

Exclusive Views of the Gulf of Naples at Michelin-Starred Mammà

Italy is known for its exceptional cuisine, and you will not be disappointed on Luxury Gold’s Ultimate Italy. While visiting the gorgeous Isle of Capri, you’ll take in beautiful, exclusive views of the Gulf of Naples from the privileged perch of Michelin-starred Mammà for lunch. You’ll indulge in a delectable meal of Mediterranean flavors in perfect Caprese style, created with passion from fresh, local produce by chef Salvatore La Ragione.Mammà is in the heart of Capri Island, an iconic spot from Dolce Vita, and is just steps from the famous square.

Tour the Best Bites in Paris from a French Food Connoisseur

While exploring one of the most iconic food capitals of the world, you’ll join a passionate food connoisseur for a small-group gourmet foodie walk through the streets of Paris on Luxury Gold’s French Vogue. You’ll visit a variety of patisseries, boulangeries and chocolatiers, taste delicious specialties and meet passionate foodies along the way. After visiting Paris, enjoy a high-end lunch at the Michelin-starred Maison Prévôt, nestled in the heart of Provence. This restaurant embraces contemporary, gourmet cuisine and follows the changing of the seasons with locally sourced ingredients.

A Taste of Modern Cuisine at Cusco’s Top Restaurant

While exploring Peruvian culture on Luxury Gold’s Treasures of the Incas, you’ll enjoy an intimate candlelight dinner at MAP Cafe in Cusco, one of the city’s most prominent restaurants. MAP is situated on the lively, modern courtyard of the Museum of Pre-Colombian Art. This small, glass-enclosed, elegant café delivers contemporary Peruvian haute cuisine with an artistic dining experience, and candlelit for a dazzling evening ambiance.

Dine at Renowned 1135 in Jaipur, Enjoy High Tea in the City Palace

In India, there are two unforgettable VIP culinary experiences on Luxury Gold’s Essence of India. While visiting Jaipur, you’ll dine at the historic Amer Palace on centuries-old recipes, once made exclusively for royalty. Condé Nast consistently names 1135 AD in their top restaurants of India, and the tantalizing dishes on offer make you realize why. In addition to having dinner at this one-of-a-kind restaurant, you’ll also get to savor a locally inspired high tea in a private living room of the Maharaja, within the Jaipur City Palace. You’ll explore rooms that are not open to other visitors and see the spectacular crystal table handcrafted by renowned artisan René Lalique.

Enjoy Colonial-Style Tea in Egypt’s Famous Historic Hotel

Discovering the ancient lands of Egypt calls for a relaxing afternoon tea, British style. On Luxury Gold’s Elegance of the Nile, you’ll enjoy a British past time in Aswan with a colonial-style afternoon tea at sunset in the elegant Victorian surroundings of The Old Cataract Hotel. Thi9s hotel was famously visited frequently by Agatha Christie and Winston Churchill. You’ll enjoy gorgeous views of the Nile River and Elephantine Island as the hotel sits on a pink granite cliff. To end the day on a high note, you’ll enjoy dinner on your luxurious river cruise ship, The River Tosca, accompanied by a Nubian folklore show and live music. The River Tosca presents world-class cuisine made from fresh ingredients, locally sourced from Egypt.

Luxury Gold sets an unmatched standard with its worldwide collection of award-winning small group luxury journeys. Guided by a Travelling Concierge, guests can indulge in the ultimate guided vacation, discovering exclusive VIP Experiences and savoring exceptional dining on every curated itinerary. They will stay at magnificent hotels and travel in absolute comfort, with their Well-Being Director who is always a step ahead to ensure the places visited, adhere to the high standards of excellence. As the global leader in luxury travel with expertise accumulated over 101 years, Luxury Gold epitomizes extraordinary exploration to some of the world’s most spectacular destinations. To find out more, please visit www.luxurygold.com.  

What’s New in Culinary?

By Chef Bernhard F. Zorn, Culinary Director for Uniworld Boutique River Cruises

Over the last year, cooking at home has become more popular than ever before. Online recipe sharing and food deliveries have taken off since the start of the pandemic began. As a chef myself, not much has changed, though I do miss cooking for others. One thing I am happy to see, however, is how much more people seem to pay attention to what they’re eating and care about ingredients.

The culinary industry, in recent years, has seen a trend towards healthier eating. Plant-based food, vegetarianism, fresher ingredients, knowing where and how our produce is grown, have all increasingly become part of the definition of fine dining. I think we’re definitely going to see that movement pick up even more speed in a post-COVID world.

The team of chefs I work with in the Uniworld kitchens bring together the freshest ingredients sourced from local farmers’ markets and other regional suppliers to best guarantee mouth-watering culinary journeys to accompany our guests’ travels.

We collaborate deeply with our vendors, considering limits on delivery ratios and selecting the most seasonally and regionally appropriate ingredients. Transparency is always a top value, and the focus is always quality. We’re shifting away from “exotic foods,” which need to be transported from far distanced parts of the world, in favour of more home-grown options that taste fresher and are less wasteful.

The result of this is a return to comfort food and the basics, classics with a modern twist that remind guests of a refined version of their mothers’ own kitchens.

Favorites of guests from the Uniworld Kitchens:

Wiener Schnitzel with Homemade Potato Salad (served in Austria and Bavaria)
Simmered beef brisket—Tafelspitz—with horseradish sauce, pumpkin seed oil, cranberries and bouillon potatoes (served in Austria)
Traditional Rhineland beef roast—Sauerbraten—with braised red cabbage and potato dumplings (served on Rhine river cruises)
Alpine River Trout with almond butter, parsley potatoes and local lamb lettuce (served in the south of Germany)
Gratinated onion soup (served in France)
Oven-fired pizzas and handmade pasta (served in Italy)
Desserts like caneles (served in France) and stuffed vanilla cannoli (served in Italy)

Chef Bernhard F. Zorn grew up working in his parents’ restaurant in Germany. Cooking alongside his mother prepared him well for a series of jobs across Europe, South Africa, the Maldives and on a variety of international cruise lines. Now, he is the Culinary Director for Uniworld Boutique River Cruises and has been honored as a Global Master Chef by the World Chefs Association and as an Officier Chef Rotisseur with the Chaine des Rotisseurs.

Uniworld Boutique River Cruises features distinctively designed ships with an average capacity of 120 guests, exclusive excursions, gourmet cuisine, and one of the highest staff-to-guest-ratio in the river cruise industry. offers truly all-inclusive itineraries in Europe, as well as voyages in Russia, China, Vietnam and Cambodia, India, Peru and Egypt—a total of 20 rivers in 28 countries worldwide. Uniworld is a member of The Travel Corporation (TTC) family of companies, which celebrated its 100^th anniversary in 2020.

A Taste of Southern Cooking

Hospitality on a Plate

By Cindy Clarke, senior travel writer for Tauck

Culturally diverse with a storied history that speaks volumes about the people who created it, southern cooking is best described as “hospitality on a plate” alluding to the abundance of comfort food you’ll find on menus in Savannah and Charleston. Think shrimp and grits, an iconic dish in the coastal Carolinas and Georgia, buttermilk biscuits smothered in gravy, she-crab soup and fried chicken that only southern cooks have mastered, cornbread, collard greens and crustaceans perfectly prepared, and you’ll be in the right food aisle. And forget counting calories. We’re talking pure indulgence here, with taste trumping will power in every bite.

Aptly nicknamed the “Hostess City,” it is no surprise that Savannah is home to some of the South’s best dining experiences, with recipes passed down and refined through the generations. Dressed in American history and draped in Spanish moss, Savannah is awash in cobblestone charms, antebellum mansions and gardens full and fragrant that make the city eye candy all by itself. Art, in all its incarnations, enhances the cultural feast showcased here.

You can stroll down streets your eyes walked first in films like Forest Gump or Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil. You can wander in wonder in museums, cemeteries and squares – 22 of them – dating back centuries, and you can ride trolleys and horse-drawn carriages past stately homes, parks and landmarks that chronicle the city’s storied past from the Revolutionary and Civil wars. And while you’ll cover a lot of ground – and history – during your explorations, you won’t go hungry.

Parties are a favorite pastime in Savannah, both inside gracious dining rooms and outdoors in springtime gardens abloom with flowering azaleas. Brunch and picnic menus typically boast sweet succulent oysters, locally harvested, and roasted to perfection. Savannah red rice, fried chicken, ham sweet potato biscuits and jalapeno cornbread often follow, with traditional favorites like Georgia peach cobbler with blueberries, peach ice cream and pecan praline bars sweetening the line up. Evening menus may include old-time favorites like Corn Pudding, Rice and Peas, Fried Green Tomatoes, Jumbo Lump Crabmeat and Beef Tenderloin with Madeira Sauce, all Savannah staples you may find at a number of great eateries all over the city.

Local seasonal ingredients reflect Charleston’s “sense of place” in the Lowcountry, where the roots of southern cooking run deep and the fertile fields, forests and waterways that surround the city provide ample sustenance all year long. Its food heritage reflects the cultural influences of its residents, African slaves and their Gullah descendants, French Hugenots and English aristocracy from centuries past, and culinary stars and rising chefs from around the world today. Award-winning restaurants, housed in historic homes and repurposed buildings, have creatively blended lowcountry cooking with high-brow haute cuisine to tempt taste buds with the complexity of flavors and spices that make this multicultural city one of the top food destinations in America – and the “#1 Top City in the US in 2020” by the readers of Travel + Leisure.

The irresistible allure of Charleston, palmetto-lined streets, ballast-stone alleys, rainbow row houses, grand mansions and carriage rides, inevitably whets your appetite for discovery in more ways than one. So while you’re here soak up the tales of the town with its golden rice, a mainstay from its colonial day economy; a bowl of gumbo, a.k.a. okra soup to the folks who live here; fresh from the sea oysters, served raw, stewed and steamed; and its signature she-crab soup, created in a private home when dining in was in fashion. Then raise a timeless toast to its culturally infused cuisine with the city’s magnificent Madeira wines, long aged and locally produced, as you drink in history with every sip.

Founded in 1925, Tauck is a world leader in upscale guided travel, with more than 150 land tours, safaris, river cruises and small ship ocean cruises to 70+ countries and all seven continents. In each of the last 23 years, Tauck has been honored in Travel + Leisure magazine’s annual “World’s Best Awards” celebrating the very best in luxury tours, cruises, hotels and more. Tauck resumed operating its Southern Charms – Savannah, Hilton Head & Charleston itinerary in March 2021.

The 10 Tastiest Dishes and Drinks in Spain

*Paella dish of rice, seafood, vegetables and spices from a Europe Express tour*
*Photo courtesy of Europe Express*

Spain is world-renowned for its wine culture, olive oil farms, and traditional dishes like tapas and paella. Famous Spanish restaurants and chefs are experts when it comes to the healthy Mediterranean diet, and each region boasts its own specialty. Here are ten gastronomic experiences to check off your foodie bucket list on your next trip to Spain.

*A small tour enjoying wine and pintxos in Spain with Europe Express*
*Photo courtesy of Europe Express*

1. Volcanic Wine

While travelers can experience Spain’s distinct wine culture through tastings, tours, and even yoga classes in a vineyard, they can also visit a volcanic winery in the Canary Islands. Farmers have built these vineyards by carving out holes in the volcanic gravel, where the vines flourish and eventually produce sweet and white varieties.

2. Calçots

These long, white, mild onions are barbecued and served with a sauce called salvitxada. It is a culinary tradition in Catalonia to throw on a bib and dig in by eating with your hands. On the last Sunday of January, the Great Calçotada festival takes place in Spain’s northeastern region of Catalonia as a sociable and delicious ritual.

3. Queimada

Queimada is a drink based on marc, a liquor distilled from pomace leftover from winemaking, that is accompanied with a ritual preparation. At Galician bars, the bartender will light the liquid on fire while stirring the drink with a wooden spoon and speaking a spell out loud to ward off evil spirits.

*People sharing pintxos on an Insight Vacations trip*
*Photo courtesy of Insight Vacations*

4. Pintxos

Similar to Spanish tapas, pintxos are the types of snacks from Northern Spain, particularly the Basque County, that are eaten as an appetizer before dinner. The difference in pintxos from tapas is that the food is spiked through a skewer, typically with a piece of bread as well. Pintxo translates to “spike” or “skewer” in English. An insider tip: it is pronounced pinchos.

5. Sardines

The best way to try sardines is either on a boat or at a beach bar on the Costa del Sol, where the fish is skewered onto bamboo sticks and grilled over a fire. This delicious way of preparing, serving, and eating sardines has been popular since the 19^th century.

6. Manchego

This delicious cheese is made with sheep’s milk and matured over a long period of time, ranging from one month to two years. Local cheesemakers produce it in three varieties: soft, semi-cured, and cured.

7. Olive Oil

The province of Jaén is home to 60 million olive oil trees that produce 20% of the world’s olive oil. Visit an oil mill or a museum, hike through the groves, join a tasting, or even spend the night on an oil estate.

*A paella cooking class on an Insight Vacations tour*
*Photo courtesy of Insight Vacations*

8. Paella

This Spanish rice dish, paella, originated in the city of Valencia. Travelers can grab a seat at a seaside restaurant and taste the seafood, vegetables, and spices. Cooking classes are a fun and interactive way to learn about the dish that often include boat rides and local market visits to find the ingredients yourself.

9. Cocido

The comforting and warm Cocido is a long-simmered stew. Each region has its own twist on the classic recipe, but famously, there are four main ingredients: broth, chickpeas, vegetables, and meat. A celebration of the dish is held throughout Madrid in February and March when restaurants come together to offer an entire Cocido Madrileño Route.

10. Caldereta De Langosta

Also known as a casserole of spiny lobster, the Caldereta De Langosta is a Mediterranean dish that is best found in the village of Fornells, known as the temple of this recipe. It is so popular that making a reservation at a restaurant that serves it is recommended.

Learn to make your own paella on the Collette Spain’s Classics & Portugal, which includes a visit to a traditional fisherman’s home, known as a barraca, for a paella-making demonstration and authentic lunch.

Nadine, a local guide for Collette, takes travelers virtually to a traditional paella lunch
Video courtesy of Collette

Globus offers tapas tastings and wine pairings on their 14-day Spanish Fiesta itinerary, bringing travelers along the Costa Del Sol, through Madrid, and more. Or, go to a traditional paella dinner in Valencia on Globus’ 9-day Best of Spain itinerary from Madrid to Barcelona.

Travelers dine like a local in Torremolinos, Spain with Insight Vacations
Video courtesy of Insight Vacations

Spain is a destination filled to the brim with hidden gems in nature, culture, and cuisine. Mediterranean beaches, green National Parks, historic towns filled with contemporary art, and fresh seafood paired with world class wine make it a top pick for American travelers. When travel resumes, it is at the top of our bucket list.

Find more travel tips, news, and inspiration by visiting the Tourist Office of Spain.

Plan your visit with a tour operator by visiting www.ustoa.com/dream-vacation/Spain

15 Must-Have Food Experiences In 15 Countries

15 must-have food experiences in 15 countries

By Bex Shapiro of Intrepid Travel

Do you love food so much that you would literally travel… for food?

You’re not alone.

There’s nothing more exciting (and tasty!) than eating your way through a destination. And there’s no easier way to do it than on a food tour that uncovers a world of authentic culinary experiences – complete with local guide, bucket-list sites and small group of like-minded adventurers.

In honour of the above – Intrepid Travel’s range of Real Food Adventure trips – we’ve collated a definitive list of must-have foodie experiences all around the world. They’re a little different, they’re culturally immersive, oh, and they’re delicious. Obviously.

So, what are you waiting for? Get drooling… and get browsing the delectable food trips.

15. Tour Phnom Penh’s markets with a local chef

14. Sit down to a home-cooked meal (with vodka!) with a family in St Petersburg

13. Try the real KFC (Korean Fried Chicken) paired with maekju (Korean beer)

12. Learn all things coffee on a local Peruvian farmstay

11. Visit a tahini factory and learn how to make knafeh (a traditional Arab dessert)

10. Enjoy Iranian cooking at a local family’s home

9. Enjoy Vietnamese home-cooking with a local family in the Mekong Delta

8. Make pasta from scratch like a local in Italy

7. Explore the local farms and cooking of Rajasthan

6. Learn the art of khachapuri, Georgia’s irresistible cheese bread

5. Harvest your own spring onions to make Taiwan’s iconic scallion pancake

4. Sample port in… you guessed it… Porto

3. Browse a Sri Lankan fish market for the freshest seafood around

2. Dive into spicy Szechuan hotpot like a local

1. Take a taco (and tequila!) crawl in Mexico City

Born in London and based in Toronto, Bex is happiest anywhere she can connect with interesting people over good food. She’s passionate about sustainable travel and powerful storytelling, and her favourite cities are New York and Shanghai. Follow her adventures on Instagram @BexShapiro.

Intrepid Travel gets you off the tourist track and onto the road less traveled. With average group sizes of 10 people and itineraries in over 120 countries, their local-led trips are all about experiencing the world with sustainability and authenticity front of mind. Follow Intrepid Travel on Instagram @IntrepidTravel.

How to Eat and Drink Like a Local in Rome

By Tanveer Badal

I’ve visited Rome twice before, so I’ve already experienced much of the city’s treasure trove of sights—though seeing mind-blowing ancient structures like the Colosseum never gets old. But for my third visit, I was determined to experience Rome like a local. My goal was to literally live out the classic phrase “when in Rome, do as the Romans do,” for over a week. So I based myself in the cuore (heart) of Rome’s centro storico at Hotel Rinascimento, where I could fully immerse myself in the culture and lifestyle of this timeless city.

To kick things off, I joined Perillo’s Learning Journeys’ immersive “Live Like a Roman” tour. Italy has a rich tradition of food and Rome is filled with some of the country’s best gastronomic delights, so eating and drinking is of a major part of the hands-on experience. On the itinerary was a Twilight Trastevere Food Tour, a cocktail crawl of Rome with local expert and influencer Maria Pasquale (a.k.a. Heart Rome), lunch at the Palazzo with the Italian countess Violante, and even a pizza- and gelato-making class. And, of course, in between activities I had plenty of opportunities to try every kind of Italian delicacy—from delectable supplì (fried risotto balls stuffed with mozzarella) to the city’s famed gelato—all on my own.

The following is a photo journey of some of my favorite dining and drinking experiences in Rome:

Da Enzo Trattoria, a busy Trastevere neighborhood restaurant frequented by both locals and in-the-know tourists, served up one of my favorite dishes of the trip: Pasta Amatriciana. Hungry Romans arrive in droves for lunch, as you can see here. I went on a weekday without a reservation and was fortunate snag a table after waiting only about 15 minutes.

An Italy fact I’d never known: Different types and shapes of pastas come from different regions of the country. Da Enzo Trattoria’s Pasta Amatriciana is a classic dish named for the Italian town of Amatrice with a spicy sauce based on guanciale (cured pork cheek). The cured meat has a taste similar to bacon–and is absolutely delicious.

At the counter stands Stefania Innocenti, the fourth-generation owner and baker behind Biscottificio Innocenti in Trastevere. At one point, as our group surrounded her while sampling a platter of delicious cookies, she almost seemed to tear up while talking to us. Our guide, Rishad Noorani from Eating Europe Tours, translated: “Seeing all you people enjoying my food just makes me so happy. I don’t do it for the money. I do it for this!”

Sipping an Aperol spritz while people-watching at a sidewalk cafe became my daily indulgence in Rome.

I learned to make Roman-style pizza via InRome Cooking classes–and I can’t wait to test out my new skills at home.

On the Trastevere Twilight Food Tour, we stopped at the Antica Caciara salumeria (delicatessen) to sample buttery porchetta washed down with beer. This old-school deli has been operated by the Polica family since 1900 and is a Trastevere institution.

During one magical afternoon, lunch was served up with one of the best views of Rome. This airy terrace tops Palazzo Taverna, the family house of chef and entertainer, Violante Guerrieri Gonzaga.

One of the most exciting nights out on the town was with Rome local expert Maria Pasquale, also known as Heart Rome. Here, Maria sips an experimental cocktail served in a tea cup at the boutique hotel DOM.

If you’re looking for nightlife away from the well-trodden tourist path, head across the river to Trastevere and follow the crowds–Trastevere locals party late into the night.

The Jerry Thomas Project, an intimate speakeasy that’s been named one of the 50 best bars in the world, capped off our tour. Reservations are a must and it’s worth it, I promise!

Interested in learning more about Tanveer’s journey? Read more about it on AFAR.com, the USTOA Blog, and check out Perillo’s Learning Journey Live Like A Roman itinerary.

Tanveer is a travel, hotel, and lifestyle photographer who has explored more than 50 countries. Some trips have led him to photograph luxury hotels on the Amalfi Coast or the Riviera Maya, while others have taken him on long treks in the Bhutanese Himalayas or in search of lemurs in Madagascar. Follow his ongoing travels on Instagram or check out his travel portfolio.