What better way to spend your free time than indulging in
the finer things in life? Make the most of your holiday
overseas with our
guide to the top 5 food and wine holidays
. We'll help you experience the best the world has to
offer.
1. Tuscany
In Florence, Sienna or Lucca, enjoy superb restaurants and
delicatessens among stunning historic architecture. Or
venture into the beautiful vineyards of Chianti and
Montalcino to sample outstanding Sangiovese-based reds.
It's best to travel with a guide who can arrange
tastings for you.
2. Paris
For many, Paris is the gastronomic capital of the world,
offering an overwhelming choice of bistros, brasseries and
fine restaurants. Try Bofinger for traditional fare in
belle-époque surroundings, or for the modern approach,
head for the top of the Centre Pompidou. There are also some
amazing food shops. Fauchon and Hediard are both
spectacular, and for chocoholics, la Maison du Chocolat has
several 'boutiques' across the city.
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3. Napa Valley, California
In the heart of California's wine country, Napa Valley
contains more than 250 wineries. Many are visitor-friendly,
so you can just turn up and enjoy a tasting - for
example, Robert Mondavi Winery offers guided tours all year
round in its Mission-style estate complete with sculptures
and paintings. Yountville is an excellent base: the US arm
of Moet et Chandon is there, as well as the renowned
restaurant, The French Laundry.
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4. Thailand
If you want to make your Thai cooking as authentic as
possible, there's no substitute for some hands-on
tuition in the country itself. A number of holiday packages
enable you to combine a culinary course with cultural
experience - based in Bangkok or historic rural areas.
You'll find more information at
http://www.essentialtravelthailand.com/
DFAT advice for Thailand >>
5. Oxfordshire, England
If you're planning a trip to the UK, and want to do a
cookery course, Le Manoir aux Quat' Saisons, in Great
Milton, is the place to do it. Michelin-star chef Raymond
Blanc oversees a range of courses, from dinner party menus
to children's cookery - all in the luxurious
surroundings of this beautifully restored manor house. Find
out more at
http://www.manoir.com
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