How far are you willing to travel to sink your teeth into the freshest sea bass, the most beautiful jewel-tone Italian meats, or the juiciest strawberries? An increasing amount of vacationers say they’re willing to devote their entire vacations exploring different culinary hot spots in search of the best meals.
A recent study by the Travel Industry Association of America found that 27 million Americans have made culinary activities a part of their travels within the last three years. Basically, the research says more people are basing their travel around food and wine than ever before. The study also showed that of the 160 million U.S. residents who travel for leisure, about 1 in 6 have recently taken a food tour, enrolled in a cooking class, toured a winery or otherwise participated in culinary activities as part of a vacation. And, of that group, nearly half took a trip or chose a destination because of the food and wine-related activities they would find there.
Foodies won’t be surprised to learn that New York State is one of the most popular destinations for food travel. I’ve blogged about some of my favorite Big Apple eateries, though I have never participated in one of the many culinary tours offered there. When I find the time to formally eat my way through the city I plan to sign up for New York Chocolate Tours. For $70 you get a tasting tour of the city’s high-end sweets shops. YUM! Another food expedition I’ve heard a lot about is run by Foods of New York Tours Inc., which charges $40 for a tour of Chelsea Market and other popular food attractions around the city.
New York may be one of the most popular destinations for food travel, but it is not the top draw. That spot goes to California, followed by Florida and Chicago. Ah, Chicago. Regular readers of this blog have endured the drooling I’ve done over the Windy City’s many epicurean delights. If you plan to stuff yourself silly there I would suggest signing up for Chicago Food Planet tours, which offers tours that alternate walking, talking and tasting. If you are interested in spending your vacation doing more than just eating you may consider looking into options offered by The International Kitchen. The Chicago-based enterprise offers cooking-class vacations to Europe.
Have you ever taken a food tour?
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