Culinary tourism continues to expand

One of the hottest cultural travel segments, culinary tourism, is seriously in vogue. Previously regarded as an elite/special interest product in parts of Europe, wine and culinary tourism is going more mainstream and cashing in on the growing consumer trend of appreciating regional wine and food travel experiences.

Last week, Michelin, the tire company famed for its hotel and restaurant guides, launched a new “experience” brand called Michelin Food & Travel. It will offer food-themed vacation packages, giving gourmets behind-the-scenes access to Michelin-starred restaurants. Guests will also be able to participate in activities such as private kitchen demonstrations, sample the goods of local food artisans and take part in wine tastings, truffle hunts and other one-of-a-kind culinary experiences.

If the growth in culinary travel-themed TV shows, movies and books are any indication, it’s a trend that’s at the forefront of travelers’ minds. #1 Amazon.com’s best-selling travel books list this week - Eat, Pray, Love, a novel/ travelogue soul-searching, self-discovery, and of course, exploring the culinary delights of Italy, India and Bali.