Do you enjoy discovering regional foods wherever you travel? This is one of my favorite things to do. Each destination I visit, I like to try their local cuisine. Most of the time the food is absolutely amazing, other times not so much. But those experiences only add to your stories you share with your friends when you return home.
I studied abroad in Spain right after college. I was lucky enough to find some amazing friends from all over the world, all studying in the same school in Spain. Every weekend, we would travel across Spain. We would always share a meal. Our absolute favorite food to share was Tapas.
Tapas are a variety of small, flavorful dishes or snacks that originate in Spain. They are typically served as appetizers but can also be combined to make a full meal. Tapas can include a wide range of foods, from simple items like olives and cheese to more elaborate dishes like patatas bravas (spicy potatoes), gambas al ajillo (garlic shrimp), and albondigas (meatballs). We liked to share multiple tapas while we talked and enjoyed our conversation. It is all about trying different flavors and dishes with friends.
You can go to a sit-down restaurant and order just tapas, passing them around the table so everyone can try. Or you can also go to walk-up counter that is dedicated to only tapas. Which is an affordable way to sample tapas. One time we decided to order all the tapas available. One was a round white ball that had a clear film around it. We were all hesitant to try it. The gentleman behind the counter assured us that it was a local favorite. I was the only one brave enough to try it, it was chalky and just gross! Afterwards, he said it was the reproduction system of a fish.
Another favorite Spanish dish is paella. Paella is a traditional Spanish dish that originates from the Valencia region. It is made with a base of rice, typically cooked in a wide, shallow pan over an open flame. The key ingredients of paella include short-grain rice, saffron, and a variety of proteins and vegetables. You can add whatever meat that is your favorite and add vegetables. My host mom would put seafood and/or pork along with vegetables she had on hand.
Another funny memory centered around food in Spain, my host mom made these small fried fish. To me they looked like minnows (bait for fishing). They had the head, tail and fins. I was not interested in trying these little guys! But I didn’t want to be rude. I thought if I just throw it in and swallow quickly, I could do it. I threw the little fishy into my mouth, but I aimed poorly, and the tailfin was sticking out of my mouth!
A surprising thing about Spain, some restaurants don’t open until late. We arrived at a pizza place at 8:30pm and had to wait because the restaurant didn’t open until 9:00pm!
On our travels through Spain, we were able to go to also go over to Morrocco. We partnered with another language learning school for a weekend tour of Morrocco. We had a wonderful cultural night and were served the most wonderful food! The couscous was delicious!
I love making memories, trying new foods, and immersing in the culture wherever I travel. Food is a pivotal way to make these memories. I have countless stories just like these! Here is a list of countries and their unique cuisine to give you travel inspiration.
- Italy - Pasta, pizza, risotto, and gelato.
- Japan - Sushi, ramen, tempura, and sashimi.
- Thailand - Pad Thai, green curry, tom yum soup, and mango sticky rice.
- Mexico - Tacos, enchiladas, mole, and guacamole.
- India - Biryani, samosas, butter chicken, and dosas.
- France - Croissants, escargot, coq au vin, and ratatouille.
- Spain - Paella, tapas, gazpacho, and churros.
- Greece - Moussaka, souvlaki, tzatziki, and baklava.
- China - Dim sum, Peking duck, hot pot, and dumplings.
- Morocco - Tagine, couscous, harira, and pastilla.
- Vietnam - Pho, banh mi, spring rolls, and bun cha.
- Turkey - Kebabs, baklava, mezze, and Turkish delight.
- Brazil - Feijoada, pão de queijo, acarajé, and brigadeiros.
- Lebanon - Hummus, tabbouleh, kibbeh, and baklava.
- Ethiopia - Injera, doro wat, tibs, and kitfo.
Eat, Travel, Experience!
About Me
Hi! I am Amber Johnson, a travel advisor based in Ottawa, Kansas, specializing in European getaways, family vacations, domestic travel, and all-inclusive packages. What began as planning trips for my own family and friends has grown into a career I love, helping clients design stress-free, memorable adventures all over the world.
