Culinary tourism, also known as food tourism, is a new and dynamic category of specialized tourism that consists of visiting places to taste authentic cuisine and immerse oneself in the experience of life in these
Culinary tourism, also known as food tourism, is a new and dynamic category of specialized tourism that consists of visiting places to taste authentic cuisine and immerse oneself in the experience of life in these places through food. Very often, this also includes local drinks, cheeses, chocolates, etc. Food and tourism play a significant role in the new experience economy. Food is a critical element of all cultures, a substantial part of the world’s intangible heritage, and an increasingly important tourist attraction. The links between food and tourism also provide a platform for local economic development. Food experiences help promote and market destinations while supporting the local culture that is so attractive to tourists.
Food tourism is about exploring food from different places, whether near or far from where you usually live. It includes food carts and street vendors and local (gastro) pubs, spectacular wineries, or unique restaurants. It is a unique type of tourism, famous all over the world. In recent years, food tourism has grown considerably and has become one of the most dynamic and creative kinds of tourism. There is something for everyone in the food tourism industry.
Food tourism is not just about traveling far away to enjoy an exquisite dish. But traveling close to your region or neighborhood to savor recipes that have already been tried and tested or traveling in search of new and unique cuisine is also considered food tourism. It contributes to the promotion and marketing of local products, employs the local chef, and allows local communities to generate income and employment. Many countries promote their country’s cuisine through food tourism. Malaysia, Moscow, Spain, Korea, Kazakhstan, Georgia, Egypt, Brazil, and Azerbaijan are world-famous gastronomic destinations. These countries attract visitors’ admiration with their art of combining food and seasonings and preparation rituals. France is a country that has been strongly associated with culinary tourism, with international visitors and French citizens traveling to different parts of the country to taste local food and wines.
Dedicated tours and culinary experiences
Popular among professional chefs, wine connoisseurs, and food lovers, culinary tourism has grown exponentially in recent decades. As a result, cities mainly known for their excellent food and drink have begun to offer organized tours that take people to the best places to eat and drink.
These tours may also include sightseeing tours and other fun activities. They take groups of tourists to places they might not otherwise have known. Therefore, a gastronomic tour is an excellent idea for those who want to escape the tourist traps and enjoy a gastronomic experience in the manner of a resident. Besides, the gastronomic tour groups also introduce like-minded people who are all there to get an unforgettable taste of the place.
Culinary tourism combined with cooking classes
Many enthusiasts take their love of food to a whole new level by combining food tourism with local cooking classes to take home valuable recipes and cooking techniques. These courses can be offered by renowned cooking schools, resorts, in-house clients, and individual chefs specializing in local cuisine.
Countries known for their fantastic offers to food industry tourists
Although all cultures have a unique cuisine that identifies them, some are particularly famous worldwide for excellence in their products and cooking techniques. The biggest names in this respect are France, Italy, Thailand, Mexico, Greece, and Japan.
Each of these countries has a rich culture associated with food and boasts recipes that have been around for centuries. Also, they incorporate recent changes and fusion cuisine that further adds to the travel experience for the pleasure of eating.
While cuisine reigns supreme, many tourists travel the world to taste the best liqueurs from around the world. These include delicate French wines, Scottish Highland whiskey, Japanese sake, and spectacular port tasted in the vineyards’ very heart.
Culinary tourism is a tailor-made activity for those who love travel and gastronomy. It marvelously combines gastronomic delights with culture, legends, and amazing sights to create an immersive experience. No wonder more and more tourists are getting a taste for it and traveling the world, searching for divine food and drink.