A Food and Drink Lover's Guide to the Best Destinations
If you're a foodie or a connoisseur of fine drinks, you may have already come across some of the best places to visit for food and drink. But there are always more tasty and unique foods and drinks to discover all over the world. Whether you're a self-proclaimed gourmand or an oenophile, here's a guide to some of the best destinations to explore and indulge in some amazing food and drinks.
Austria
Austria is a great place to immerse yourself in the traditional European cuisine. Not only is the country renowned for its delicious wines, it also offers a huge range of culinary delights. From roasted meats such as pork knuckle or schnitzel, to various soups and hearty stews, to dumplings filled with meats and potatoes, Austrian cuisine has it all. And, for more adventurous palates, there is also a wonderful selection of international cuisine available. In addition, Austria is also home to some of Europe's best beer and unbeatable wines. Both white and red wine from this region are of superior quality and reflect the country's central European flair.
Japan
Japan is a food paradise for travelers and food and drink aficionados alike. The country boasts a culinary culture that has remained largely unchanged for centuries. From iconic classics such as sushi, miso soup and ramen, to innovative new dishes crafted from centuries-old recipes, Japanese cuisine offers an unmatched gastronomic experience. You won't find any variance in the quality or taste of traditional Japanese dishes, no matter where you go in the country. On top of the delicious food, Japan is also home to some of the best sake in the world.
Mexico
Mexico is food and drink heaven. The country's diverse range of gastronomic offerings make it a must-visit destination for any food and drink lover. Mexican cuisine is all about flavor, combining a variety of spices, meats and vegetables to create complex, delicious dishes. As a food-lover, you'll certainly want to try some of the national dishes, such as huevos rancheros, tacos and sopes. And, of course, who can forget about the incredible tequila, mezcal and beer — all produced in Mexico and unique to the country.
Thailand
The land of smiles treats its food and drink guests to an unforgettable experience. With an incredible selection of street food, world-famous seafood dishes, and a range of traditional Thai recipes, Thailand is perfect for food and drink lovers. Since street food is a staple of Thai cuisine, you'll be able to sample some of the country's most acclaimed dishes without having to break the bank. Likewise, Thai restaurants are a great way to indulge in experienced chefs' dishes and won't cost you a fortune. And, for those looking for nightlife, you won't be disappointed. Thailand has it all — from beach bars to glamorous clubs — that all offer a range of drinks from arak to beer, to fresh lassis.
Peru
Although Peru probably isn't the first place to come to mind when thinking about the best food anddrink destinations, it certainly should be. Peru is a country with a rich culinary history and a myriad of flavors. From hearty dishes such as ceviche, to unique snacks like anticuchos, Peru is a foodie's paradise. In terms of drinks, Peru offers pisco — an entire category of drinks made with distilled grapes — as well as chicha moradas and mate de coca, traditional drinks made from maize and coca leaves, respectively.
Spain
Spain has long been a cultural powerhouse, not to mention a global hub for culinary excellence. Home to world-famous dishes such as paella, churros and gazpacho, Spain has something to offer even the most seasoned food and drink enthusiasts. With ingredients like seafood, fruits, olives, and the well-known Spanish olive oil, Spain dishes are definitely some of the best in the world. And, with tapas, wine and a vast selection of beers, Spain can satisfy anyone's cravings for delicious eats and drinks.
Italy
The land of the Romans, Italy is one of the most popular destinations for food and drink lovers all over the world. Italy is known for its traditional dishes and wines, as well as for its unique regional specialties. With traditional dishes such as pizza and the iconic spaghetti, Italy is sure to surprise any traveler. In addition to the delicious regional dishes, the country also has a variety of wines and spirits produced in many parts of the country.
No matter where your tastes may lie, there is no doubt that these destinations should be on the list for any food or drink enthusiast. From Austria to Mexico, each country offers something unique and delicious. So pack your bags, pick a destination, and plan a great food and drink adventure!