The Epicurious Traveller dates for 2024

As the Epicurious traveller, I am the embodiment of a globetrotting food enthusiast. For me, being a traveling foodie means that my journey is as much about savoring the world's flavours as it is about exploring new destinations. I find joy in discovering culinary gems beyond traditional restaurants—whether it's navigating vibrant artisan markets, engaging in cooking demonstrations, or visiting farms to meet the artisans behind the delicacies.

My palate serves as a compass, guiding me through off-the-beaten-path tapas trails in Barcelona, sheepdog demonstrations in Ireland's Ring of Kerry, or foraging beach walks in County Waterford. I thrive on immersing myself in the local culture through its cuisine, creating a tapestry of memories woven with the tastes and aromas of each destination.

As the epicurious traveler, I understand that food is a universal language that transcends borders, connecting me with the heart and soul of a place. It's not just about satisfying hunger; it's about experiencing the world one bite at a time, leaving an indelible mark on my travel adventures.

A Culinary Prelude:

Travel back to the late '70s, a time when my father, not a  trained chef but a culinary enthusiast, opened a country restaurant in the UK. In those early days, he imparted a lesson that transcends time—the importance of fresh, locally sourced ingredients. His, ahead of his time, approach laid the groundwork for my culinary pilgrimage, an odyssey drenched in the essence of flavour and quality.

Playing with Food Adventures:

In the vivacious chapters of my Epicurious Traveller's saga, "playing with your food" isn't just a phrase; it's an ethos that transforms meals into experiential adventures. Imagine the scene on the banks of the Irrawaddy in Bagan, Myanmar, we're sharing a laid-back picnic, soaking in the post-hot air balloon ride vibes. Chef Massimo Capra's with us, and our tribe of food enthusiasts enjoy the breakfast together that's more about joy than just food.

Fast forward to a market just outside of Lisbon, where we're not just having Pasteis De Nata, but watching these heavenly treats being born, right from the oven in Belem. And then there's Barcelona, where we ditch the touristy spots for a backstreets tapas tour, unraveling hidden gems of Catalonian flavours.

See, as Epicurious travellers, it's not just about good food; it's about turning every meal into a story, hunting for the best markets, and seeking out experiences that redefine our Epicurean journey. These immersive experiences redefine the culinary landscape, turning each meal into a journey, and every dish into a cherished memory.

From their family to mine

When I think of my most treasured memories of my adventures my mind takes me back to when, in late 2019, my family visited the family-owned Relais Chateau Hotel, Villa Francheschi near Venice. We arrived as guests and left feeling as if we had been adopted! In the heart of that kitchen, a simple tomato sauce revelation occurred—a culinary epiphany that continues to echo in the flavours of my kitchen today, a timeless connection cooked in this family kitchen a simple recipe passed through generations and a gift from their family to mine.

Love, Passion, and Culinary Symphony:

For me, food is an expression of love, and love is synonymous with passion. It's this passion that infuses every dish, every adventure, and every shared experience. It's the common thread that weaves through the culinary tapestry of my life.

So what’s coming up in 2024?

South Africa extends a gracious invitation, luring us to indulge in meals curated by none other than Nelson Mandela's private chef—an extraordinary opportunity to taste history. Our Epicurean expedition takes a thrilling turn along the sun-kissed coasts of Spain and Morocco, promising not just culinary delights but an immersive experience in vibrant markets, sensory overloads of colours and aromas, and a rendezvous with delectable flavours that dance on the taste buds.

But the melody doesn't end there; Ireland, with its enchanting seafood delights, whispers of a culinary adventure along the shores. Picture this: beachside seaweed foraging, a hands-on exploration of the coastal treasures, and the rhythmic art of oyster shucking in Conemara—a captivating prelude to unparalleled culinary explorations. Each destination on this journey is a note in the Epicurean symphony, resonating with the promise of discovery and indulgence, creating a crescendo of flavours that will echo in our memories long after the last bite is savored. Get ready, fellow travellers, for an odyssey of taste that transcends the ordinary and elevates our Epicurious adventures to new heights!

As we embark on another year of delectable discoveries, I extend an invitation to savour the richness of life through the lens of food and travel. Here's to the ongoing crescendo of flavours—a love letter to the extraordinary, penned with each bite and every adventure!