Trips around the world are no longer rare - each of us made trips of different durations and at any distance. The next step is the organization of thematic adventures, and what could be better than a trip in search of new experiences from culinary delights.
General information
Gastrotourism is an original way not only to see new countries and regions, but also to imbue their culture. The kitchen is an important element that makes up the originality of the region. Each nation has formed a unique set of dishes that become the hallmark of the ethnic group.
The purpose of gastrotourism is to get acquainted with authentic culinary, its traditions and cooking features.
During the trip, travelers do not just try new dishes, but totally study the characteristics of culture, history, and customs of the people, viewing them through the prism of cuisine.
Today, you can either order a ready-made gastro tour with the elaboration of the route, or independently develop a trip. The latter option is much preferable, because you start an exciting adventure long before you leave home.
Existing varieties of such tourism have their own classification:
- Regional (Italian, Dutch, French, Caucasian, Asian and other options).
- Thematic (wine, cheese, meat, tours with traditional pastries).
- Festive. A special category of tours that are dedicated to specific festivities (example, Oktoberfest).
Why is it worth a try
Everyone should try their own gastrotourism.
There are a lot of reasons that make this format more and more popular:
- You can fully immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the country, and not be limited to staying in a standard hotel.
- Get vivid impressions of the region, as well as make many new friends - it is always nice for local residents to treat the tourist with national dishes.
- Get away from the usual format of rest with a stay in a hotel and standard excursions.
If you are tired of buying tours, if you want to make a real adventure out of your vacation - and if you just like to eat tasty food, then gastronomic tourism was created especially for you.
The basic rules of tourism "in the kitchen"
With seeming simplicity and accessibility, a gastronomic journey requires preparation and planning. The fact is that upon arrival in the country a tourist has a state of euphoria, in which a person simply “rushes around” between different ideas and spends a lot of time on chaotic visits to attractions. In the case of a gastro tour, you should immediately determine that you are striving to better understand the people and the country through local cooking - this is the most important task.
Experienced tourists and travel experts highlight the following rules recommended for those wishing to appreciate the charms of gastrotourism:
- Explore the cuisine of the region, into which you are heading. There is plenty of information today, so before choosing a travel destination, read about cooking - evaluate its features, “try on” the local flavor, you can even watch several videos on how some dishes are prepared (and if you try to make them yourself , then you just can’t resist comparing your own and the original version of the food). If you don’t like spicy writing, then a gastro tour to Mexico, for example, will not suit you.
- Choose places worth a visit. In the era of globalization, it is difficult to find original places where you can try real national food. Therefore, it is worth preparing in advance by compiling a list of restaurants. By the way, more and more establishments today begin to build their menu around traditional dishes, creating an excellent "card" for gourmets.
- Make a list of what you want to try. It is difficult to come to Japan and try the real sushi. And how to visit France and not try foie gras (or frog legs). Do not make a huge list - 5-7 positions will be enough, because local residents will supplement it with several dozens of tips. That's for sure!
- Learn the culture of food intake. In Japan, before you start eating, you will be served a warm, damp towel for your face and hands - if you know this tradition, you will get the most out of your meal. Each culture has its own characteristics of behavior at the table - having studied them, you better understand the people.
Gastronomic tourism is gaining popularity. While it is still developing and you can feel it more vividly and with a local atmosphere. An increase in demand can lead to the creation of “showy” restaurants for tourists, which somewhat destroys the charm of travel.
If you want to eat tasty, unusual and remember this for many years, then sit down to make a gastro tour for yourself right now.
Finally, a few routes
In each country, you can select 3-5 regions (minimum), where to go. For inspiration and task of the vector we will help you - below are a few close and very bright gastronomic destinations for the next vacation.
Italy (Tuscany, Piedmont)
These areas are among the most popular among tourists. The sea, landscapes, colorful locals and unique cuisine. All dishes offered by local establishments have a long history. From what is worth a try - these are fish dishes of all types and sizes, sausages. As a side dish, be sure to order vegetable stews and other mixtures - spices and bright colors of local vegetables make such food a real work of art.
France (Provence)
In Italy and France it is difficult to distinguish specific regions - the whole country as a whole is one solid chance to plunge into a variety of incredible tastes. In the culinary of Provence, the rich aromas of local herbs, a large number of delicious fish, an abundance of vegetables and fresh fruit are closely intertwined - it is not for nothing that it is called the "cuisine of the sun." Be sure to appreciate the real ratatouille, which was created in Provence. And of course, complement your stay with a glass of wine - without it, you simply will not be allowed to leave the restaurant.
Spain (Catalonia)
A lot of meat and vegetables is a distinctive feature of the cooking of Catalonia. This region will offer you to try not just Spanish dishes, but also national Catalan. Beans, snails, plums, pine nuts - the list of components can be listed endlessly.
And there is Georgia, Morocco, Turkey with its incredible sweets and national regions - it seems that you can be a gastronomic tourist all your life!
