story and photos by Cathy Larsen, Departures Travel –
n. (eh-pik-your-ees-tah) A person who enjoys great food, wine, and celebrations with friends and family, anywhere around the world.
Food is one of the most irresistible reasons to travel. It offers a rich, multi-sensory connection to the culture, history, and people of a region. Every dish tells a story, giving you a taste of the local culture that goes beyond what you can see or read. Food engages all of your senses, creating lasting memories. It’s not just about sampling new flavours: it’s about understanding the traditions and customs that shape a place. Through each culinary encounter, travel transforms from mere sightseeing into a profound, authentic journey of discovery. Food, in its most delightful form, becomes a bridge to the heart and soul of the destinations you visit, enriching your experience far beyond the surface. Ultimately, it elevates travel from mere sightseeing to a profound, authentic experience.
Travel memories are often spiced with the flavours and aromas of our adventures. Travelling with friends in Italy, we were in search of the ultimate bruschetta. It was a daunting quest, but we embraced the challenge. After many ports and glasses of rosé, we discovered the holy grail in a quaint café in Olbia, Sardinia. Whether it was the enchanting town, the fantastic company or the bruschetta itself, it brings back the best of memories.
No matter where you travel, one of the best ways to dive into local life is by visiting the fresh markets. These are more than just shopping stops: they’re vibrant hubs where locals come together to socialize, catch up with friends and enjoy a meal. They offer a lively snapshot of daily life, brimming with vendor chatter, the aroma of freshly prepared foods and the colourful display of local produce. It’s a feast for the senses and a golden opportunity to experience a place like a local.
The Marche aux Fleurs in Nice, France, is a dazzling spectacle of brightly coloured flowers, fresh fruits and vegetables, artisanal cheeses and sausages. Stroll through the vibrant stalls, picking up a few treats and a local beverage; you’ll have everything you need to for an unforgettable picnic. Trust me, it’s not just about the food – it’s about soaking in the atmosphere and making memories that will stay with you long after the last bite.
Christmas markets in Europe are another magical experience – equally about food and beverages as they are about the shopping. These take place in charming riverside towns adorned with twinkling lights, festive decorations and the buzz of the holiday season. The markets are filled with handcrafted ornaments and regional specialties, creating pure seasonal magic. Your first purchase should be your refillable glühwein mug, a holiday tradition. Not a fan of mulled spiced wine? There are plenty of other alternatives like eierpunsh (similar to egg nog), feuerzangenbowle (alcoholic punch set on fire), heibe shokolade (hot chocolate), jagertee (warm alcoholic tea) or kinderpunsche (warm non-alcoholic punch). With so many tempting food stalls, it is essential to share! Don’t miss out on the langos (topped with garlic, sour cream and shredded cheese) and some local bratwurst. Oh, and there’s shopping, too.
A lifelong dream came true this year as I experienced a life-changing safari in Kenya and Tanzania, but that’s another story. After an amazing 12 days, we decided to relax in Zanzibar before heading home. Known for its pristine beaches and rich cultural history, Zanzibar surprised us with its street food scene. Who knew? In Stone Town, with its mix of Persian, Indian and Arabic influences, the Darajani Bazaar is a sensory feast. Among the spices and local specialties, the Zanzibar Pizza was the winner. More like a galette (savoury crepe) than a traditional pizza, it starts as a small ball of dough that’s flattened then filled your choice of ingredients – chicken, beef, cheese, vegetables and an egg – before being folded and fried to crispy perfection. It was an unforgettable culinary revelation.
According to the World Food Travel Association, “food travel” is “the pursuit and enjoyment of unique and memorable food and drink experiences, both far and near.” Whether you’re indulging in a Michelin-starred feast in New York, savouring funnel cakes on a Budapest street, or kissing the cod in St. John’s, embrace the flavours of your journey. Bon appétit!
