Whether its a traditional beans bunny chow in Durban, greasy fish and chips in Hout Bay or freshly made ginger beer in Port Elizabeth, food experiences is by far one of the many reasons to travel. There is nothing better than immersing yourself in the culture than tucking into a meal that is unique to that particular place.
Food tours, over the years, have become a firm favourite for travellers hoping to sink their teeth in the food and experiences of that particular country.
Hanli Fourie, the founder of Bites and Sites in the Western Cape, shares 5 reasons why you should try a foodie tour on your next holiday:
Food and culture go hand in hand:
Fourie believes that food is an expression of a country. She said learning about the country’s dishes will help provide insight into the country that you are visiting.
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Unique and memorable:
Food tours are shaping the way people travel because it does not stick to the ordinary tourist spots.
Whether its an Instagram post of you indulging in a meal in a world famous eatery in Paris or sipping wine at a vineyard in Italy, the experience is bound to be memorable.
You get to meet other foodies:
These tours are a great way to connect with other foodies from around the world. Who knows, you may exchange recipes from a fellow foodie in the US or learn a new cooking method from a chef at a small eatery in India.
“Meeting with other foodies not only allows for the discussion of the food and the culture of a destination but also a platform to network with the foodies when you visit their country,” she said.
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It showcases the destination through local eyes:
Locals can enhance a travel experience. They are the ones who will share the destination’s hidden gems and places to places to avoid.
“People who go on foodie tours get a glimpse of a place through the locals. That restaurant owner or chef may have interesting information of the town, its landmarks and its early people,” she said.
Helps to support local business:
Foodie tours also help to boost local business. Fourie said many small businesses, be it cafes, artisanal stores or local markets can do wonders on a travel experience- and also benefit them in the long haul.
“Supporting local business will help the local economy and sharing the experience with people back home will actually create a further awareness,” said Fourie.
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