FOOD FOR THOUGHT 

Vietnam – The Riverside Resort, Hoi An

The picturesque port of Hoi An is an UNESCO declared World Heritage Site and a lovely place to explore the narrow streets on foot. Located in an idyllic location on the banks of the river, The Riverside Resort offers a special experience: You will accompany the chef to the market by cyclo rickshaw or bicycle where you will be guided through the wide variety of local produce on sale. After you have made your purchases, return to the hotel where you will learn, under the guidance of the chef, how to prepare and cook your lunch Vietnamese style. An early start is required to get the freshest produce at the market! Similar experiences can also be arranged at the Evason Ana Mandara Resort in Nha Trang and the Sofitel Metropole Hotel in Hanoi.

The Shangri-La Hotel, Bangkok

A fun and fascinating insight into Thai cuisine, which is a real highlight when visiting this exotic country. The day begins with a visit by skytrain to the Or-Tor-Kor Market, a traditional Thai fruit and vegetable market, where the chef explains the local produce. Return to the hotel for a demonstration on Thai spices and herbs before cooking a delicious 3 course luncheon with the assistance of the chef. The cost of £33.00 includes the meal, souvenir apron and a set of menus, which is excellent value.

 

Kerala – India - The Spice Village, Thekaddy

Food in India is wide ranging in taste and flavour. Being so geographically diverse, each region has its own cuisine and style of preparation. As well as translating as “land of the coconut”, Kerala also produces more spices than anywhere else in the world. In Thekkady, a guided visit to one of the regions spice gardens will introduce you to the wide variety grown and their uses. This is followed by a hands-on lesson in cooking with spices so you can take home a few Keralan tips and tricks.

Petra Kitchen, Jordan

Although not as well known for its cuisine as neighboring Syria and Lebanon, Jordanian food is closely related to both and is very tasty. At the Petra Kitchen you are given the opportunity to prepare an evening meal, working alongside local women under the supervision of the house chef. Bales offer this experience for a supplement of £31 on our “Treasures of Jordan” tour, good value when you take into account that it includes the cuisine course, meal and all non-alcoholic beverages as well as takehome recipes for all dishes.