Image: Brooke Lark, Unsplash
We all have to eat. However, some people enjoy this pastime more than others and will tailor their travel around the best spots to engage with the edible. Whether you consider yourself a foodie or not, there are multiple cities across the globe that boast about being the perfect destination to indulge in local cuisine and no matter who you are, a good meal is nothing to be scoffed at.
With this in mind, why not create memories with one of Airbnb’s food and drink experiences? Led by locals, these experiences give visitors an inside look and unique perspective on a city.
1. Bali, Indonesia
Ubud, Bali. Image: Patrick Craig, Unsplash
When people imagine escaping to enjoy idyllic island life for a few days, many conjure up thoughts of Bali, which is known for pristine beaches and blue oceans. It is also widely recognised for its fabulous fare – particularly when it comes to street food. With this night food tour, guests will visit the closest night market to their accommodation and try some traditional Balinese cuisine including the popular nasi jinggo.
Cost: R232 per person Airbnb Bali food experience.
2. Amsterdam, the Netherlands
Foodie travel, Netherlands. Image: supplied
Known for beautiful canals and buildings, Amsterdam is a picturesque city, steeped in culture and history. When it comes to food, we can thank the Dutch for many delicious treats, such as the stroopwafel and of course cheese! On this Amsterdam foodie experience, guests will head out with Airbnb host Stephan who, according to a number of reviews, can even show a “Dutchie” some undiscovered cheesy gems. Stephan will highlight some local favourites within the Jordaan neighbourhood community. This includes a visit to a local cheese shop where guests can try out some of the tastiest and most pungent cheeses.
Cost: R879 per person Airbnb Amsterdam food experience.
3. Buenos Aires, Argentina
Buenos Aires, Argentina. Image: Sander Crombach, Unsplash
Dive into the rich cultures of Buenos Aires with this unique cooking experience in one of the city’s most popular suburbs – Palermo. Hosts Marce and Ani will treat guests to a one-of-a-kind gastronomical experience while also feeling that Argentinian hospitality. At the end of it all, guests will know how to make a number of delicious Argentinian dishes. The experience ends off with a moment sharing where guests are encouraged to talk about their customs and traditions of their respective countries.
Cost: R649 per person Airbnb Buenos Aires food experience.
Also read:14 Cape restaurant winter specials
4. Berlin, Germany
Food travel, Berlin. Image: supplied
Here is for those who have a sweet tooth. Although apple studel (apfelstrudel) originated in Austria – the oldest known handwritten strudel recipe from 1697 is housed at the Wienbibliothek im Rathaus, in Vienna – it didn’t take long for this scrumptious dessert to be adopted by it’s European neighbour. On this Airbnb Experience, guests will learn the art of making the perfect apple strudel that will be enjoyed once the class is over. The class takes place in edgy Wedding neighbourhood in Mitte, Berlin, where guests will be able to get a local’s take on this multicultural area. You may want to grab some lunch or dinner at the popular Cafe Pförtner before joining your host to bake the dessert.
Cost: R587 per person Airbnb Berlin food experience.
5. Cape Town, South Africa
Cape Town. Image: Joshua Earle, Unsplash
Cape Town is a melting pot of people. You could walk one block in the city centre and pass by a variety of restaurants and shops that each represent a different culture. This comes through strongly in the food that’s on offer in this sea-side South African city. In this experience, guests will be able to get a sense of African food – not restricted to Cape Town or even South African dishes. Host Naa-Adjorkor hails from Ghana and loves to cook food that represent all parts of Africa. She will talk visitors through each dish – from either South Africa, East Africa or West Africa. At the end, everyone will sit down and enjoy the spoils together.
Cost: R500 per person Airbnb Cape Town food experience.
6. Havana, Cuba
Food travel, Cuba. Image: supplied
Havana is a vibrant city – full of colour, steeped in history brimming with beauty. It a must-see for anyone visiting Cuba, and trying the local food is a must-do. This cooking experience will give you an inside look at what locals eat in Havana and how they enjoy their meals. According to the host, the menu that guests will experience on the day will feature some secret ingredients that gives Cuban foods its unique flavours. Guests will also walk away with some easy-to-make Cuban recipes to cook up at home.
Cost: R632 per person Airbnb Havana food experience.
Also read: 5 local chefs share their favourite foodie escapes
