Culinary travel has been around for a long time. Given that food and travel go together like bread and butter, it’s going to remain popular for a long time. Culinary travel has always been the best way to explore new cuisines and cultures. 

Although the global pandemic has impacted travel, things still haven’t changed. People are still as excited as ever to go on culinary trips. However, COVID-19 has brought restrictions and thrown wrenches in people’s plans. As a result, you’ll have to prepare accordingly.

Tips for Planning an Unforgettable Culinary Travel Experience

Here are some things to consider when planning a culinary travel experience. They include:

Selecting the Right Destination

Selecting the ideal destination is easier said than done. If you’re a travel enthusiast, you’ll find all the options alluring. However, you’ll need to create a shortlist. Consider what you want from your trip. Do you wish to go off-the-beaten-path? Or are you looking to go to a metropolitan city with vast offerings? Both options pose different rewards.

Once you’ve decided what you want from your trip, it’s time to proceed to the next stage. You’ll want to assess the activities you can do in your potential destinations. For instance, if you’re going to a coastal location, you might want to try surfing or kayaking. On the flip side, if you’re going to the countryside, maybe consider hiking. Considering these factors will help you devise a suitable shortlist.

Once your shortlist is ready, it’s time to create a budget. Your budget will influence your destination choice. If your budget is limited, you might want to go to a nearby destination with readily-available flights. Air travel can be expensive. Consider the lodging and transportation costs too before choosing your destination.

Understand the Local Culture

Culinary travels aren’t only about experiencing new cuisines. They also entail immersing yourself in the local culture. Take time to see how people from different cultures live. Put yourself in their shoes and see life from their perspective. Doing so will help you get closer to them. In addition, it will help you forge a bond with people during your travels.

Create a Food List

No culinary travel experience is complete without food. After all, if you’re a gastronome, you’ll be looking forward to having delicious food the entire trip. For instance, let’s assume you’re going to Italy. You wouldn’t want to return without having tried the local pizza. Consider creating a list of foods you want to try. You’ll want to check off your food checklist before leaving your destination. Creating a food list helps you plan your trip to accommodate food. 

Learn More About Culinary Travel Trips with Irina Bukatik

IrinaBukatik is a licensed sommelier, travel enthusiast, and gastronome. She has extensively traveled the world, combining her passion for food and travel. Her love for food led her to discover more about different cultures and countries. She aims to share her experiences with her readers on her food blog, Wanderlust Food.