Eating your way through new cultures has long been an essential part of any great holiday experience.
Now more than ever, passionate travellers are stepping out to discover and savour some of the most delicious dishes from around the planet.
For anyone looking for a deeper dive into these experiences, it is time to become a true gourmet globetrotter.
According to Original Travel, the popularity of food tourism is on the rise with 53% of people who travel for leisure describing themselves as food tourists.
The food tourism market nearly hit $US 1 billion by the end of 2023 with 81% of travellers saying eating local food allowed them to learn about the local culture.
Here are five top tips on how to plan a culinary-based holiday:
Do Your Research
It’s easy to get swept away once you arrive and there’s always room for spontaneity, but a little research goes a long way. Learn about the cuisine of the country you’re travelling to and don’t forget to look into any specialties in the area you are staying in.
Many regions have their own interpretations of classic dishes.
Look At Reviews and Recommendations
Chances are once you’ve begun your research, you’ll soon have a list of mouthwatering food you want to try. This is the time to look up restaurants, markets and street food vendors in your destination so you can decide where you might like to eat — a simple Google search will offer up a plethora of information.
You can also read about other diners’ experiences on review sites and social media platforms to help inform your decision. Don’t forget to make reservations at the must-visit restaurants on your list.
Save Locations on Google Maps
Found a place you want to visit? Save the location on Google Maps. You can do this on desktop or mobile, though mobile is more convenient when you’re out and about.
Know About Customs and Etiquette
In some places, the dining customs will be similar to your own. In others they’ll be completely different and may even contradict each other. For example, in India it’s polite to eat all the food on your plate, while in China it’s polite to leave a little.
Either way, knowing local customs means you’ll be able to show respect to other diners while eating and it will also put you at ease, as you’ll know what to do (and what not to do).
Don’t forget to look at timings. The normal time for dinner can vary hugely between countries — anytime from 4 pm to 11 pm.
Leave Space in Your Itinerary
No matter how carefully you plan, there’ll be some experiences that you just can’t schedule. Leave space for them. Sometimes the best memories are of unexpected joys.
There’s no sign of food tourism slowing down. While the pandemic may have led to a slight pause, many people have a renewed sense of adventure and motivation to travel after months or even years spent in one place.
They are prioritising sustainability and authenticity over generic mass market experience with 63% of millennials preferring to eat at places that are committed to social responsibility.
