Food tourism is on the rise, prompting tour companies and cruise lines to provide culinary experiences led by chefs, on both land and sea.
Travel agent Black Tomato began Tasting Notes, a series of journeys led by Michelin-starred chefs and personalities from Chef’s Table, whereby travellers can explore foodie destinations that range from Spain and Slovenia to Peru and Argentina.
In the Basque country, Daniel López takes guests into the private world of members-only cooking clubs, on a tour of his favorite pintxos bars, and into his critically acclaimed Restaurante Kokotxa for a cooking class. This trip is offered year-round with five-night itineraries starting at $5 135 (R74500) per person, based on double occupancy.
Roar Africa has teamed up with chef Dan Kluger, of Loring Place, to offer a South African journey to Cape Town, the Cape Winelands and Kruger National Park. From October 27 to November 5, guests will visit artisanal shops, farmers’ markets, breweries, wineries and top restaurants. The trip culminates in a wilderness excursion and hands-on training session with Kluger. Prices range upwards from $15 600 per person, based on double occupancy.
Kanthi Kiran Thamma, an award-winning Indian chef, leads guests on culinary sojourns to cities in southern India and Sri Lanka through his tour company, the Spice Circuit, from November 17-25. Prices start at $2 325, based on double occupancy.
Windstar Cruises joins with the James Beard Foundation to create gourmet-themed voyages, accompanied by all-star chefs and sommeliers. These include chef demonstrations, trips to local markets and producers, and dinners with beverage pairings. Pastry chef Emily Luchetti will travel with guests from November 26 to December 6 through Polynesia, escorting them to a family-owned vanilla plantation in Tahiti. Tickets start at $3 399 per person, based on double occupancy.
Top Peruvian chef Pedro Miguel Schiaffino hosts a limited-edition culinary trip on the Amazon River with Aqua Expeditions, from October 29 to November 2 (prices are from $4 050 per person, based on double occupancy). -New York Times