Food. Authentic Food. And lots of it.
You can rarely find a vacation or tour package being promoted anywhere that doesn't list a food "adventure", a behind-the-scenes kitchen tour or a hands-on class.
It allows vacationers to explore the destination's native cuisine and find stories related to food in that country.
Travellers are looking for more unique and authentic-to-the-locale experiences than ever before - and you can't offer this type of trip without a big focus on its culinary scene.
What is driving this new YUMMY trend?
- Disposable income - compared to years past, people are spending more on ready-to-eat foods, restaurant meals and gourmet treats than ever before
- Demographics - Baby Boomers and their older cohorts are looking for something out-of-the-ordinary, a little decadent and less physically demanding than the younger generations who look for eco-tourism and 'extreme' activities.
- Unique-to-me - Tourists are no longer satisfied to having the same meal as the person sitting next to them. They want something different, something than can be called an "experience" and something that has been customized just for them.
- Global citizens - With increased globalization comes increased cravings for ethnic and authentic flavours and ingredients. Travellers now want the best noodles in China, pizza in Italy and curry in India.
- Food is the key to health. We are looking for food to heal us. Fresh, made-to-order and specific to dietary or allergy needs - travellers are choosing destinations with flexible or customized dining options more than ever before.
- Access to experts. With celebrity chefs still ruling a good percentage of our media, tourists are looking for the 'stamp of approval' from their favourite chef and/or winemaker and direct access to an expert to elevate their entire eating and drinking experience.
...ok...that was SIX reasons...
Culinary tourism's focus is about learning about the culture and learning about the people.
Businesses will be keen to wow their guests with...
- unique dining experiences
- private cooking or wine classes
- one-of-kind culinary trips
- homemade or luxurious gourmet gifts
- show-stopping tasting menus
- exclusive access to kitchens, experts or venues
Culinary tourism is not only a delight for your eyes and ears, but for your taste as well.
Ready for some flavour?!?
Looking for a unique getaway idea for this fall?
Celebrating something - or someone - this fall and want to WOW them?
Travelling with Stephanie is new to Northern Ontario and is NEVER THE SAME TRIP TWICE.
For details on what is coming up this season and to reserve your seat(s) today, click here.
