We all have our own personal reasons for getting out on the road: some folks are eager to check items off their bucket lists, while others return to places that have strong sentimental value, and some of us travel in order to meet new people or visit long-time friends. No matter your reason for traveling, there is one common thread that unites all travelers: food!
Some people view food simply as a necessity, while others relish the opportunity to sample the flavors of a new location. Whether or not you call yourself a “foodie,” eating is an essential part of life on the road, so why not make the most of it? Sometimes you need to put away the pots and pans and allow yourself to savor a luxurious dining experience.
We’ve got plenty of fun and flavorful ideas for how you can immerse yourself in the tastes of a new location while you’re on the road.
Fantastic Food Experiences
There’s nothing wrong with experimenting with a new cookbook or making a reservation at a restaurant during your travels; however, a unique way you can spice up your meals on a trip is by turning them into an experience. Food experiences are a fun way to learn more about your destination, bond with your traveling companions, and meet new people.
What exactly does a food experience look like? Well, the possibilities are endless! Here are some of our favorite ways to enjoy a tasty bite while on the road:
- Farmer’s markets. You’d be hard pressed to find a place without a farmer’s market. Whether they occur on a weekly, monthly, or bi-monthly basis, farmer’s markets are a staple of a strong community. Markets are where artisan food makers and growers gather to share their products directly with consumers. Unlike wandering through bland grocery store aisles, going to a farmer’s market is a pleasant way to spend an afternoon. You’ll be sure to find fresh and ripe fruits and vegetables, homemade delights ranging from cheese to salsa to kombucha, delightful crafts (did anyone say handmade knit sweater or hand bound journal?), and maybe even live music. If you enjoy chatting with friendly farmers and makers, then this is the experience for you.
- Gourmet food tours. Food tours are a wonderful way to experience a city like a local. Instead of committing to a full meal at one restaurant, a food tour will allow you to sample the best item that several restaurants have to offer. You’ll travel from one spot to the next by foot, bus, or even by bike with an insightful guide who will likely share historical information during the tour.
- Culinary workshops and cooking classes. If you’re a fan of hands-on experiences, then consider signing up for a culinary workshop or cooking class during your next trip. Not only will you enjoy a delicious meal or snack, but you’ll be directly involved in creating it, and you’ll gain some new skills to bring home with you too. Whatever you’re interested in, there’s a class for that: bread baking, pasta making, food preservation and pickling, even fermentation! You can also take a genre-specific dining class to learn how to make the style of cuisine that area is known for. Most classes provide recipes that you can use time and time again and encourage you to take leftovers with you when you leave.
- Cheese tastings and pairings. If you’re traveling in an area with dairy farms, then there will likely be cheese tasting and pairing experiences available. You can spend an afternoon learning about the cheese making process and then sample the products with various crackers and toppings. After an experience like this, your charcuterie making abilities are sure to wow your friends and family members.
- Chocolate tours and workshops. Who doesn’t love sweets, especially chocolate? Touring a chocolate factory or attending a chocolate making workshop is an especially sweet way to spend time during your travels.
While the idea of embarking on a food experience may sound intimidating, it is often an easy and convenient process. Websites like TripAdvisor, Yelp, and Groupon allow you to find and book opportunities directly from your mobile phone or laptop. If you prefer in-person interactions, most large cities have a visitor’s center where friendly staff members can educate you about the local offerings and help you make a reservation.
Delicious Drink Experiences
Food experiences aren’t the only ways to fill up while on the road – there are also countless drink experiences to enjoy as well! Here are a few of our favorites:
- Craft beer brewery tours. If you enjoy sipping on local brews, then consider booking a brewery tour! You’ll be able to learn the secrets behind the beer making process while you sample craft brews. If spirits are more your thing, then look into distillery tours instead.
- Vineyard tours and tastings. Vineyards are often beautiful areas that make for a delightful get away. Not only can you enjoy the countryside and walk through the vineyard, but you can also sign up for a wine tasting for a fully immersive experience.
- Coffee roaster tours. If you’re an early bird, then consider exploring a coffee roaster and learning more about how your morning cup gets made. Enjoy the smells and flavors while you learn the history about coffee and the secrets behind the roasting process.
Now that you know about foodie experiences to look out for during your adventures, the only question that remains is what are you going to try first?