Who can think of traveling to Italy without picturing a steaming plate of pasta and a glass of chianti? Or have you ever had a faint aroma of a dish and you are suddenly transported right back to where you were on vacation when you ate it? Food has a huge impact on travel and it can help build memories, so we encourage our kids to be open to new dining experiences. I like our kids to have the mentality: “I don’t need to like it but I really should try it.” Who knows…their taste buds might thank them.
Food plays a huge part in culture. Trust me…I’m Portuguese and everything revolves around food. When traveling, we like to try the local cuisine. Ask the waiter what fish is local or if they have a specialty dish from the area. You may be shocked at what your kids will like. Here are a few times my kiddos have been adventurous eaters:
Ameijoas (small clams) in Nazare, Portugal
Octopus in Santorini, Greece
Puffin in Iceland
Queijo (cheese) and fresh figs in Cascais, Portugal
Alligator in Florida
Banana ketchup and Banana BBQ sauce in St. Lucia
Raw oysters on Amelia Island
Cozido cooked in the Hot Springs in Sao Miguel, Azores. (Cozido includes pork, sausage, cabbage, and yes…pig ear!)
What food adventures have you had while traveling?