Culinary Vacations
Culinary Vacations
Culinary vacations are a creative way of learning about new foods from different regions. Food and wine lovers get to learn about the local area’s food history and by extension the culture of the place. A culinary vacation may include cooking classes, food and wine tasting and guided tours among other things. Although the vacations are a bit pricey in some cases, they are an interesting departure from the normal approaches we are used to. Having an idea of where you would like to have your vacation is a good way to start; here are a couple of destinations that provide a memorable experience.
Featured Destinations
Puerto Vallarta Vacations
Culinary Trip to Rome
The eternal city, as the ancient Romans called it, is one of the most alluring travel destinations in the world. The cuisine is made up of ingredients that are simple to prepare; most importantly, vegetables. Meat and the Romano and ricotta cheeses are also prominent components of the average Rome meal. In Genzano, a town nearby Rome, the smell of baking engulfs the morning air. At 4 am, the best bread in Rome is prepared. In line with tradition that dates back centuries, the bread is prepared in wood-fired ovens. Some foods that Rome is famous for include; Scaloppine, Bruschetta, Fettuccine Alfredo and Spaghetti alla Carbonara.
Paris for Food Lovers
French cuisine of the medieval times had borrowed a lot from Italian samplings. Their indigenous style developed slowly through the 17 century. However, French cooking criteria has been widely adopted by Western cookery schools. A number of dishes have come to be distinguished as French national cuisine, some of which include; Flammekueche, Andouillette and Quiche.
Seychelles Vacations
Most of the delicacies from the archipelago of 115 islands are centered on fish due to its abundance in the nearby Indian Ocean. Seychellois cuisine uses a lot of exotic spices such as tamarind, lemongrass and coriander. Their dishes have African, French, British, Chinese and Indian influences. Staples include shellfish, seafood and fish dishes. There are many ways to prepare fish dishes for instance wrapping in banana leaves, grilling and steaming. Tropical fruits also feature prominently. Some dishes to try out include Soupe de Tectec, Kat-Kat Banane, Chatini Requin and Bouillon Brede.
Featured Culinary Deals
Find the Perfect Culinary Resort
Hotel Xcaret Mexico
Hotel Xcaret Mexico is more than just a resort, it’s a destination rich in history, art and entertainment. The impressive ecosystem full of colors and textures, sets a perfect communion between man and nature, where the jungle, caves and rivers are the principal ingredient of a luxe and eclectic scenery.
Live an authentic experience that redefines the concept of an all-inclusive resort, and enjoy a unique and outstanding ALL-FUN INCLUSIVE® vacation. The luxury of premium accommodations, combined with a one of a kind experience, that gives you unlimited access to the parks Xcaret, Xel-Ha, Xplor, Xplor Fuego, Xavage, Xoximilco and Xenses, as well as tours to Xenotes and Xichen.
Zoëtry Paraiso de la Bonita Riviera Maya
Zoetry Paraiso de la Bonita is consistently named one of Mexico’s exceptional boutique resorts and is a proud member of the Leading Hotels of the World.
This resort features the first certified Thalassotherapy center in North America. Your suite serves as your very exclusive vacation home. The sunny, spacious living area and bedroom are individually decorated with an eclectic collection of hand selected art and sculptures, artifacts, and fabrics from the far reaches of the world.
Your Endless Privileges® getaway includes limitless top-shelf spirits and gourmet dining, 24-hour private in-room dining, maid service three times per day, one Thalassotherapy Spa Therapy (per guest, per stay), concierge service, daily fitness activities such as yoga and aqua gym, a Temazcal ceremony every other day, and much more to make your stay truly unforgettable.
Indulge yourself in the Art of Life® at Zoëtry Paraiso de la Bonita, a luxurious, secluded retreat combining Endless Privileges® with holistic wellness, tranquility, and romance. Perfectly situated along Cancun’s famed Riviera Maya and offering magnificent ocean views, graciously appointed suites, gourmet dining, extravagant amenities, and personalized service, this resort has been recognized as AAA Five Diamond for 15 consecutive years.
Greening Your Life: Part of the Apple Vacations Greening Your Life initiative, this Rainforest Alliance Verified property has reduced more than 50% of its diesel consumption and lowered electric consumption at peak hours. Pollutant emissions have also been reduced, along with detergent consumption due to laundry equipment replacement.
El Cielo Winery & Resort, by Karisma
Your Sanctuary In Mexico’s Untapped Wine Region
Everyone has their own version of heaven. El Cielo is ours. After our first visit to this region we fell in love with its climate, people, landscapes, but most of all: the high quality of wines grown here. So, we set out to create an extraordinary place that offered everything we wanted: a vineyard, a winery, a restaurant, and a boutique hotel. We made our dream a reality in Valle de Guadalupe and now hope to share our slice of paradise with you.
Located in the heart of the Wine Route in Valle de Guadalupe, Baja California, we are proud to produce award-winning wines led by the talented and visionary winemaker Jesús Rivera. Our carefully crafted wines use different concepts and varietals to create new blends. Ranging from light to full-bodied wines with a strong character, our four lines of wine – Astros, Astrónomos, Constelaciones and Estrellas (The Reserved Collection) – are designed to surprise the palates of both novice and expert wine-enthusiasts. Enjoy an intimate tasting experience in our underground Wine Cellar and indulge your palette with creative degustation menus paired with our wines.
The property’s landscape is picturesque with two beautiful lakes, views of the surrounding mountains and vineyards in perfect harmony with nature. Characterized for its nontraditional hotel concept, the innovative and exclusive experience allows guests to take full advantage and enjoy the pleasure of just being.
The El Cielo winery produces wines of the highest quality, both for novice and wine connoisseurs. Our wines have a strong character and contribute to the recognition of Guadalupe Valley as a prestigious wine-growing region, in Mexico and worldwide.
Stunning sunsets, scenic backdrops and distinctly unique settings make El Cielo a heavenly place to celebrate any occasion. From a wedding to remember to corporate retreats, or simply hosting a group gathering of sorts, we’re here to make your event come together perfectly.
The Level at Meliá Punta Cana Beach Resort
Located in the heart of the Caribbean, this adults-only resort is ideal for enjoying relaxation and exclusive attention. All-inclusive hotel with personalised service and stunning views.
With 4 pools (one private pool for The Level guests), YHI Spa, gym, 7 bars (one private bar for The Level guests), 6 restaurants (including a buffet and a private The Level restaurant), plus access to 6 more restaurants at Meliá Caribe Beach Resort.
Discover all the incredible facilities this resort offers to create unforgettable vacations.
- The Level: Superior quality services taking care of even the tiniest details to make your stay in Punta Cana a magical experience
- Magnificent international cuisine and theme nights in our restaurants. Guests can enjoy an even more outstanding dining experience with access to the Meliá Caribe Beach restaurants
- The Level Lounge combines modernity and elegance with spectacular ocean views
- Enjoy maximum relaxation and well-being at YHI Spa & Wellness, offering the best massages and treatments
- Entertainment and fun with endless activities for adults
- Cocotal Golf & Country Club is a fantastic place for golf fans to enjoy their sport in paradise!
The Level at Melia Caribe Beach Resort
Melia Caribe Tropical sets the standard for all-inclusive resorts with The Level, where we take care of everything down to the smallest details in order to make your stay a magnificent experience. Set on the spectacular Bavaro Beach, this resort offers impressive facilities to help you make the most of your family vacation, friends’ getaway, or romantic retreat.
Guests of The Level can enjoy this massive resort as a whole, or the smaller feel of this resort-within-a-resort. Enjoy access to ten fabulous swimming pools, a casino, golf course, and gymnasium. Enjoy access to the VIP Lounge, where you will enjoy continental breakfast, complimentary Internet access, coffee and tea service, premium drinks, and snacks throughout the day. Experience the GABI Club, which features its own swimming pool, bar, and restaurant exclusive to guests of The Level. On the beach, you’ll enjoy a private section with Bali beds and drinks service on the beach.
Let our skilled staff take care of your every need, with butler service, concierge service, and an aromatherapy menu. For a quieter vibe, book The Level Adults Only section, where you will enjoy a privileged location exclusively for adults.
Enjoy fine dining every night, with preferred status when booking a reservation. Ten a la carte restaurants offer everything from Mediterranean to French to Asian cuisine. Guests of The Level Adults Only enjoy exclusive a la carte dining with International cuisine at Cuatro, while guests staying at The Level (not including The Level Adults Only) enjoy exclusive access to a la carte dining at GABI Restaurant.
Activities are in full supply at Melia Caribe Tropical, with non-motorized watersports, mini-golf, aerobics, and dance classes. Children can participate in a variety of supervised activities throughout the day, while parents unwind at the YHI Spa. Allow The Level at Melia Caribe Tropical to make your vacation memorable!
- The Level: exclusive superior services, taking care of every detail and making your stay in Punta Cana a magical experience
- Magnificent cuisine offered by the Riviera Restaurant
- Spectacular gardens full of tropical vegetation making the outdoor space a fantastic ecological environment
- Enjoy maximum relaxation and wellbeing at the YHI Spa & Wellness with its superb massages and treatments
- Entertainment and fun for the whole family with countless activities for adults and children
- The fantastic Cocotal Golf & Country Club where golf fans can enjoy this sport in paradise
Zoetry Montego Bay Jamaica
WELCOME TO ZOËTRY MONTEGO BAY JAMAICA
Experience a new kind of island getaway with Zoetry Montego Bay Jamaica. Located in the upscale neighborhood of Ironshore, this luxurious, boutique resort offers guests Endless Privileges including premium amenities, gourmet dining options with an assortment of organic food and beverage selections, and highly personalized services.
This extraordinary property boasts a private stretch of white sand beach aside turquoise Caribbean waters. Cool off in a sparkling, two level infinity pool or grab a bite to eat at the authentic Jamaican jerk hut on the beach. Enjoy a variety of activities that even include a complimentary 45-minute snorkeling tour. For the ultimate relaxation experience, the full-service Zoëtry Spa by Pevonia offers a plethora of spa treatments. Guests can enjoy a complimentary 20-minute wellness experience or fitness consultation during their stay.
Indulge in gourmet a la carte dining that features a variety of cuisine to suit all dietary needs, such as gluten-free, organic, vegetarian, vegan, and locally grown products. Additionally, guests can take advantage of the Sip, Savor and See Dining Experience at Secrets St. James and Secrets Wild Orchid.
Each of the 49 suites at Zoetry Montego Bay features premium Bvlgari bath amenities, 24-hour, private in-suite dining, maid service three times daily, and a private balcony or patio with a Jacuzzi. Even more, guests receive free WiFi, 24-hour laundry service, and a bottle of sparkling wine daily.
Guests staying five nights or more can revel in an Elevated Escape, which includes a complimentary sunset boat cruise to enjoy the Sip, Savor and See Dining Experience at select resorts, complimentary **Club Mo-Bay access, and VIP Airport Lounge Bundle Service.
Exceptional Values!
Extra Value: Unlimited Connectivity: Free calling to U.S. and Canada, Free WiFi throughout the resort and more. Apple Exclusive: Free non-stop transfers.
Honeymoon: Receive the Art of Romance Honeymoon Package complimentary. This package is complimentary with a seven-night stay in a Deluxe Swim Out Ocean View Suite or higher. (restrictions apply*)
Nickelodeon Resort Punta Cana
At Nickelodeon™ Hotels & Resorts Punta Cana, a Karisma Gourmet Inclusive® Resort, we invite you to discover a new kind of all-ages vacation. From the Aqua Nick™ playground to our luxurious spa, we make sure that every guest has the experience of a lifetime. The first resort of its kind in the Caribbean (and the world!) this five-star vacation destination brings the spirit of infinite play to every minute of the day. The resort features 208 oversized suites filled with comfortable amenities to cater to every taste and need. Our glamorous and spacious Swank Suites, the one-of-a-kind Pineapple Villa, and a wide variety of upscale accommodations all feature playful décor that brings out the inner kid – or the actual kid – in every guest. Personalized service is at the heart of the Karisma philosophy. Our friendly staff is waiting to indulge your every whim and will make sure your stay is filled with happy surprises. So join us on the golden sands of Uvero Alto Beach, just 25 miles north of Punta Cana Airport. Your family (or family of choice) will never forget the colorful waterslides and pools, hanging out with their favorite Nickelodeon characters, hilarious Slimings and the famous Karisma Gourmet Inclusive Experience!
When Karisma does the all-inclusive concept, it becomes the Karisma Gourmet Inclusive® Experience. That’s because this unique and unrivaled level of “everything’s included” goes beyond delicious food. At Nickelodeon™ Hotels & Resorts Punta Cana, it’s about redefining your family’s luxury resort vacation with complimentary gourmet cuisine, premium drinks, personalized service and unforgettable activities hand-selected for our guests.
GOURMET CUISINE
We’ve designed our Karisma Gourmet® Inclusive dining experience to offer more than typical resort meals. Treat your palate to the freshest and finest ingredients in the Dominican Republic prepared by world-class chefs. Combine gourmet à la carte restaurants and lavish food displays. And enjoy the convenience of room service* at any hour of the day or night. *Note that Room Service may be suspended during heavy rain or weather contingencies.
PREMIUM DRINKS
The Gourmet Inclusive adventure starts with a Nickelodeon-style welcome. Upon arrival, kids get a Slime Smoothie, while a server hands the adults their choice of sparkling wine or a Slime beverage of their own. Because a family vacation isn’t just for the kids, we believe in presenting our guests with a wide selection of fine alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks and juices. Mixed cocktails, wines, and beers are served to satisfy and surprise every taste. Award-winning and downright delicious, our all-inclusive offerings will not disappoint.
PERSONALIZED SERVICE
Our Personalized Service sets a whole new standard in luxury resort hospitality. Combining all-inclusive fun with unmatched exclusivity, we bring you Karisma’s Gourmet Inclusive® experience. Your every vacationing need will be fully catered to by our friendly, attentive staff. Your desire is our delight.
Inclusive Special Conveniences:
- Amenities for kids: Baby and kid essentials, including Gerber baby food, strollers, cribs, bottle sterilizers and warmers, step stools, bathrobes, bath tubs, changing tables, baby monitors, beach toys and more
- Complimentary Internet Access and WIFI
- Complimentary International Calls
Royalton Riviera Cancun Resort & Spa
Experience an All-In Luxury vacation in Mexico’s Caribbean paradise of Riviera Cancun, with fabulous world-class cuisine, luxurious accommodations, and endless entertainment. The Royalton Riviera Cancun sits in a convenient location, close to great fashion, shopping, and nightlife of Cancun, and only 15 minutes from the airport.
1183 luxurious guest rooms and suites provide stylish decor and beautiful views of the gardens or the ocean. Relax in Dreambeds exclusively designed for Royalton Resorts, and enjoy 24-hour room service and complimentary WiFi. Rooms feature a private balcony or terrace, rain shower, and Jacuzzi.
Activities abound each day, with twelve pools and a children’s splash park, in addition to non-motorized watersports. Stay in shape at the fitness center, or unwind at The Royal Spa with a hydrotherapy circuit and a full range of massages, facials, and beauty treatments.
Treat your palate to a variety of eclectic cuisines from ten restaurants with local and international menus served buffet-style or a la carte. Enjoy a mid-afternoon coffee and pastry at the cafe, and for dinner, choose from Japanese Teppanyaki and Sushi, authentic Italian, a steak house, and more. 16 themed bars are available where you can grab a signature cocktail and mingle with other guests.
Travaasa Hana
Long considered one of the most remarkable resorts in Hawaii, Travaasa Hana (formerly known as Hotel Hana Maui) is now even better. Located in the town of Hana on the eastern tip of Maui, Travaasa Hana is the first resort on the island to greet the rising sun. Set amid rolling grass fields and palm trees above Kaihalulu Bay, Travaasa Hana will immerse you in the real Hawaii.
Geographically, Hana is bookended by spectacular tropical wilderness. To the north and west lies the serpentine Hana Highway (also known as the Road to Hana), where each bend of the journey reveals ravines draped in waterfalls and lush rainforest. To the south and west, the road continues and delivers travelers to the outskirts of Haleakala National Park, where Ohe’o Gulch tumbles to the ocean in a series of magnificent cascades and swimmable pools.
The town of Hana feels like it is a world away from the rest of Maui. So it is only appropriate that these accommodations envelop you in a similar state of mind. Whether you are staying in one of the luxurious bungalows or checking into a spacious suite, you will find the peace and quiet you deserve. Rooms are free of radios, clocks and TVs, so you can fully embrace the low-key vibe of Heavenly Hana.
Experience the heart of Hawaii through diverse course offerings called “Travaasas.” There are five different pathways for you to explore: Adventure, Culinary, Culture, Fitness, and Spa & Wellness. You won’t have any trouble finding something unique. Travaasa is all about experience, even when it comes to dining. From our open-faced Smoked Chicken Salad Sandwich on homemade bread with locally grown sprout salad, to fish wrapped in Ti leaves and Lilikoi Mahi with Hawaiian sweet potato and ginger lime coconut sauce, every meal you enjoy is a reminder that life is for living.
The Spa at Travaasa Hana was voted the “No. 1 Resort Spa in Hawaii” in Conde Nast Traveler’s 2012 Reader’s Choice Awards. A deeply relaxing sanctuary of peace and tranquility, a visit to the Spa at Travaasa Hana is sure to restore feelings of balance and wellness to your body, mind, and spirit.
Picturesque views of spectacular waterfalls, a beautifully rugged shoreline, and some of the best beaches on Maui can only begin to describe what awaits you in Hana. The charm of this peaceful town is the fact that little has changed over the last 20 years. It is truly the last undeveloped tropical paradise on Maui.
Exceptional
Family: Kids 15 and under stay free.
Extra Value: No resort fee. Free parking. Inclusive package (ocean bungalows) available featuring all meals and $125 daily spa or activity credit.
Secrets Capri Riviera Cancun
Secrets Capri Riviera Cancun, an adults only, all-Preferred Club resort in Riviera Cancun, exudes Mediterranean charm and romance in a villa-style setting. Just 35 minutes from Cancun and five minutes to the shopping and fun of Playa del Carmen, this unique, concierge-style resort was designed to connect your mind, body, and soul. Intimate surroundings set the tone for achieving ultimate rejuvenation. Start the day with a yoga lesson or seaside spin class, indulge in soothing treatments at the Secrets Spa by Pevonia, or learn deep breathing meditation techniques, all at your leisure as part of your Unlimited-Luxury® stay.
The experience continues right outside your door where you can take a heart-healthy cooking class, discover new photography techniques with the in-house photographer, or learn about local culture from visiting Mayan community members. 291 luxurious guestrooms and suites are designed to reflect the romance and charm of a Mediterranean villa, each featuring a four-poster canopy king-size bed (or two double beds), private terrace or balcony, full marble bathroom with Jacuzzi, complimentary mini-bar, and much more, plus enhanced Preferred Club amenities including in-suite internet access.
Savor international cuisine at any of five gourmet restaurants, complete with dishes to satisfy every taste. Delight in health-conscious, gourmet cuisine including gluten-free, sugar-free, vegetarian, and organic options. Feel like a night out? Enjoy drinks, dinner, and live entertainment at select neighboring resorts with Sip, Savor, and See, available from 6 p.m. to 1 a.m. (transportation not included).
Secrets Capri Riviera Cancun is where rejuvenation and enrichment meet intimate charm, all for you.
Crystal Award Winner: Best Hotel Chain 2011, 2012, 2013, and 2014
Crystal Award Winner: Best Destination, 2013
Golden Apple Award Winner, 2013
Honeymoons: Receive the Secrets Eternity Honeymoon Package complimentary when booking the minimum required room category for a minimum of seven nights. Restrictions may apply.
Weddings: Free symbolic weddings. Receive the “Secrets Wedding in Paradise Package”. Restrictions apply.
Extra Value: Unlimited Connectivity: Free calling to US and Canada, free WiFi throughout the resort, and more.
HIDEAWAY at Royalton at Riviera Maya
Your All-In Luxury™ adults-only vacation starts in Mexico’s Caribbean paradise. Cancun is one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations because of its great fashion and shopping, ecological tours for the more adventurous, fabulous bars and restaurants, world class golf and so much more. Hideaway at Royalton is located just a 15 minute drive from the Cancun International Airport.
A warm reception and chilled cocktail set the tone for a week of extravagance. After a day of indulging in our extensive and unlimited reservation-free dining and drink services and partaking of our activities, sports, and entertainment program, guests will appreciate the comfort of our modern and spacious rooms.
The Hideaway at Royalton is a hotel within a hotel. This 340-room boutique adults-only resort is a tranquil property that caters to guests over 18 years of age only. It features everything necessary to create a relaxing and private moment to enjoy the comfort of a kids-free haven including an exclusive à la carte restaurant and a bar, and a crystal clear, adults-only pool. Hideaway guests may enjoy access to all of Royalton Riviera Cancun’s restaurants, bars, activities, and health and wellness facilities.
Paradisus Playa del Carmen La Perla
Located in a stunning little bay, Paradisus Playa del Carmen La Perla is a superior adults-only (18+) luxury resort in the Riviera Maya, combining a prestigious Caribbean setting with world-class facilities, Royal Service, the ultimate in spa treatments, and a relaxed ambiance. Nearby is famous Playa del Carmen’s 5th Avenue as well as archaeological sites such as Tulum, Chichén Itzá and Coba.
Take your senses on a culinary tour through 12 remarkable restaurants serving delicious cuisine from all around the world. Enjoy fine, elegant meals by 7 Star Michelin Chef Martin Berasategui. The eight bars serve unlimited international premium brand drinks.
Enjoy life-enriching experiences such as tango dance classes, sushi-making, and sensorial experiences. YHI Spa is a 19,267 sq. ft. full-service indoor spa with a beauty salon and a state-of-the-art Health Club. There are also one-on-one wellness programs designed to meet your mind and body goals.
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Culinary Travel Planning
Our travel specialists have stayed at or visited most of the vacations we recommend (unlike most online agencies). In order to best match your requirements with the array of resorts, packages and options available, we believe it is best for us to speak with you personally by phone about your vacation.
If you can’t call us now or our office is currently closed, please schedule a personal one on one consultation below with one of our travel specialists when it is convenient for you and let us take all the stress out of planning your vacation. Thank you for considering Traveloni!
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