Table of Contents
Introduction
Everyone talks about their travel journey, but you really hear people ranting on about starting out their very own travel food journey, right?
If you enjoy travelling for food like me, and want to kick-start your travel food journey today? Or maybe you’re someone who loves to eat and explore, but you’re still figuring out how to combine the two? Becoming a travel foodie is one of the best ways to discover the world, and I’m here to show you how to start your very own travel food journey.
I’ve always had a passion for travel, and oh, I love to cook. From my early Cooking Travel Talks days on Instagram to later buying my own place just so I could host friends and whip up dishes from scratch, food and travel have always gone hand-in-hand for me.
Since then, I’ve taken cooking classes in different countries, gone on food tours, and planned entire trips around what I wanted to eat. And you can too.
If you’re still reading, then you’re clearly intrigued and I’m here to tell you that blending your love for travel and taste is easier (and more delicious) than you think.
Related post: 5 Amazing European Destinations for Food Lovers
10 Ways to Start Your Travel Food Journey
1. Take a Food Tour When You Travel
Food tours are one of the easiest ways to explore a destination’s local history and cuisine in one go. They combine storytelling, walking, and food tasting. All a perfect combo for cultural travellers.
In Cartagena, I tried everything from chicha to seafood cocktails!
👉🏽 [Read about my food tour in Cartagena here]
Book your next one via Viator, GetYourGuide, or EatWith
2. Do a Local Cooking Class
There’s nothing like cooking with locals to understand a place. Whether in someone’s home or a restaurant, cooking classes show you the how, why, and flavour of a culture.
🥘 I’ve done cooking classes in Cape Verde, Morocco, and more, and I always learn something new.
📚 [Read about my cooking class experiences here]
🛒 Search for classes on EatWith, GetYourGuide or Viator
3. Explore Global Cuisine at Home
Not travelling right now? Start your food journey in your own kitchen. During lockdown, I hosted Cooking Travel Talks live on Instagram, where I made dishes from suya to banana bread!
Tip: Try recreating dishes from countries you want to and plan to visit. It’s cheaper than a flight and just as flavourful. You can then invite your friends over to taste your cooking.
4. Try Street Food Confidently
Street food is one of the most authentic ways to taste a country, but it can be intimidating. Ask locals where to go and observe what places have a queue.
Carry Imodium in case you need and just in case – trust me, been there!
5. Plan Trips Around Food Events & Festivals
Food festivals are everywhere, from pistachio celebrations in Europe to African food festivals in the Netherlands.
I’ve been to the National Geographic Food Festival, and my list is growing.
Consider looking up events before choosing your destination.
And if you want a more detailed guide to help you find festivals then my Taste the World eBook. This is a 59 pages of foodie tips, cultural insights, and itinerary inspiration.
6. Eat at One Local Spot Per Trip
Skip the chain restaurants. Eating at a local place not only gives you an authentic experience, but it also supports the local economy.
That’s money going to the chef, the farmers, and the community.
Plus, the food is usually better.
7. Learn Food Phrases in Another Language
Being able to say “Je voudrais du pain” (I’d like some bread) or ask for water in the local language goes a long way.
French has been my food superpower across francophone countries, and living in Morocco.
Add key food phrases to your notes before each trip!
8. Create a Food Travel Journal
I have a separate journal just for food and travel. I write down the flavours, ingredients, and restaurants I visit. It’s like a memory book for my stomach!
You can jot yours down too, and who knows, it might turn into a blog or book one day.
9. Watch Food Documentaries Before You Travel
There are so many good ones from Street Food on Netflix to High on the Hog or even Is It Cake? (not really helpful, but fun).
Pre-watching YouTube videos and Netflix shows can help shape your entire travel food itinerary.
Try watching a documentary or foodie series before you fly!
10. Start in Your Own City
Don’t underestimate home! Visit restaurants by continent, alphabet, or cuisine.
For example, try an Albanian restaurant one weekend, then Thai the next.
Exploring global flavours locally is the easiest way to begin.
Final Views
Travelling for food has completely transformed how I see the world. It’s not just about eating, it’s about connecting. With people. And culture. With history. Every bite tells a story, and if you’re willing to listen (and taste), it can lead to some of the most unforgettable travel experiences.
Whether you’re just getting started or already consider yourself a travel foodie, I hope these tips gave you some inspiration to start your travel food journey today or in the future.
👉🏽 Don’t forget to grab your copy of Taste the World: A Beginner’s Guide to Global Gastronomic Adventures. This has 59 pages of foodie tips, travel insights, and planning tools for just £10.99.
Let’s keep the conversation going.
What dish or country surprised you the most with its flavours? Or where do you think you will start your travel food journey?
Let me know in the comments below.
Speak soon,
MBV x
