Why Food Tours Are My Family’s Favorite Way to Explore a New City
Traveling to a new city can be overwhelming, especially when you have kids in tow. Between navigating unfamiliar streets and battling jet lag, it’s easy to feel lost. However, my family has discovered a foolproof way to immerse ourselves in the local culture and enjoy every moment: food tours. These guided culinary adventures have become our go-to activity whenever we visit a new city, offering a unique blend of history, culture, and, of course, delicious food.
Discover Hidden Culinary Gems
One of the biggest advantages of food tours is the opportunity to visit under-the-radar spots that tourists often overlook. Whether it’s sampling wild boar salami in Italy or indulging in powdered sugar-topped dunes blanches in France, food tours take us off the beaten path. The best part? We get to skip the long lines at popular spots, thanks to our knowledgeable guides who pre-arrange everything.
For instance, during a donut tour in Seattle, we bypassed a lengthy queue at the Daily Dozen Doughnut Company in Pike Place Market. Instead of waiting, we were promptly served our donuts, which we enjoyed while exploring the quirky Gum Wall nearby.
Encourage Kids to Try New Foods
As any parent knows, getting kids to try new foods can be a challenge. But on food tours, my children are more adventurous with their palates. Perhaps it’s the excitement of being in a new place or the influence of our enthusiastic guide, but they are more willing to taste dishes they would typically avoid.
On a recent food tour in Paris, my 8-year-old surprised us by correctly identifying the scent of truffles in a cheese sample. Moments like these make food tours not only fun but also educational, encouraging kids to expand their culinary horizons.
Let Someone Else Handle the Planning
As the designated family trip planner, I often find myself overwhelmed by the sheer amount of research and organization required for each vacation. Food tours offer a refreshing break from this responsibility. Once the tour is booked, all we need to do is show up. The guide takes care of everything, from selecting the best eateries to arranging transportation.
For example, while in Portland, Oregon, we joined a biking food tour that combined the city’s famous food truck pods with an enjoyable bike ride. It was a perfect way to explore the city without the stress of planning every detail.
Learn Local History Through Food
Food tours are more than just about eating; they offer a fascinating glimpse into the history and culture of a city. Whether learning about the origins of gumbo in New Orleans or discovering the story behind Paris’s Wallace fountains, these tours provide educational tidbits that enrich our travel experience.
Tips for a Successful Food Tour
- Book early: Schedule your food tour at the beginning of your trip so you can use your guide’s recommendations for the rest of your stay.
- Dress comfortably: Wear good walking shoes and bring essentials like water and sunscreen.
- Come hungry: You’ll be sampling a variety of dishes, so save your appetite.
- Be open-minded: Try everything, even if it’s outside your comfort zone.
- Show appreciation: Don’t forget to tip your guide for a job well done.
Food tours have transformed the way my family experiences new cities. They combine our love of food with a passion for learning, making each trip memorable and unique. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or exploring a city for the first time, I highly recommend adding a food tour to your itinerary.
