Best destinations to sample local cuisine

From the lush green coffee region of Armenia to the modern, bustling city of Medellin, Colombia boasts numerous ways and places to enjoy local dishes. As you explore the contrasts of Colombia you’ll observe the production of aromatic coffee from planting to harvesting, and finish off with a cup of local brew. Nearby to Solento you’ll also make fiambre (rice, potatoes, egg and meat wrapped in plantain leaf) under the guidance of a local chef.

With an award-winning food scene spanning tangy seafood to hearty stews, Peru is a perfect destination for gastro tours. During a Peru Food Adventure you’ll head to Surquillo Market to find an abundance of fresh seafood, piles of purple corn and vibrant tropical fruits. Next, you’ll see some of these ingredients in action at a local restaurant. Learn about how the zesty flavours combine to make classic ceviche (raw fish cured in lime juice, onions and chilli) as well as pisco sours (an alcoholic cocktail of pisco, lime juice, egg white and syrup, garnished with Angostura bitters).

From the fine wines of the Douro Valley to catch of the day in Mercado de Matosinho, the northern regions of Portugal are home to abundant fresh produce and delicious local dishes. During a Portugal Food Adventure, get stuck into a cornbread-making workshop in a quaint village before sampling fresh bakes with Serra D’Arga honey. Next, spend an afternoon cooking traditional Portuguese specialties at a cosy wine estate on the Douro river, before tucking into a rustic three-course lunch.

Embark on a Vietnam Food Adventure and you’ll go straight to the source of fantastic ingredients and big flavours. In the remote village of Ninh Binh, start your day with com chay (crispy rice combined with meat, vegetables and spices) before heading outdoors to learn about the ancient Vietnamese farming practices used to produce this delectable cuisine. In the city of Hue you’ll step it up a gear with a 10-course Royal Banquet. From preparation to presentation, every dish is traditional and elaborate, such as the nem cong (a starter styled as a peacock) and Tom ngu thuyen ron (shrimp in a tangy passion fruit sauce).