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Whether you want to learn how to make pad thai in Thailand, bouillabaisse in France, pasta in Italy, chile rellenos in Mexico, or masala dosa in India I can arrange a unique cooking vacation for whatever your taste and budget. Below are just a few ideas. Contact me today with so we can work on your perfect culinary adventure.
L'Ecole des Chefs
This is for the passionate cook only. A chance to go behind the scenes and into the kitchens of the world's master chefs. You know who we are talking about…culinary luminaries such as Georges Blanc, Thomas Keller, Charlie Trotter. There are over 100 of them, in 17 countries worldwide. All are members of the elite Relais and Chateaux Relais Gourmands. All possess an absolute passion for cuisine, which is reflected in their Michelin and Mobil star ratings. If accepted you will spend 2-5 days with a world famous chef, focusing on either cuisine or pastry. Each stage is unique, but a typical session runs all day and includes staff meals. Upon completion of the program, you will receive a certificate signed by the chef. This innovative internship is only available to amateurs and is subject to acceptance by the school. Contact me for details
Italy
Mouth-watering dishes, exceptional wineries, rolling hills, lush, green valleys, ancient villages, and bustling cities – wonderful, magnificent Italy! Join one of these fabulous Culinary, Gourmet, Winery Tours and you will experience superb sightseeing and authentic meals with menus that have been selected to the specialty of each district.
Tuscan Hills Above Lucca
Length of Stay: 9 Days First Class Fully Escorted
Cities/Regions: Tuscan Hills Above Lucca
Highlights: Tuscan Treasures of Culinary, Wine, & Olive Oil
Cucina Di Lucca blends the simple and savory "cucina povera" of the farms with the elegant and bountiful cooking of the villas. This hands-on program is taught by talented chef Emanuela and is held in a rustic and inviting professional kitchen. Rate includes: 7 Breakfasts, 7 Lunches, and 7 Dinners
9 Days from $2,599 Contact me for more details
 The Eternal City and Magical Tuscia
Length of Stay: 9 Days First Class Fully Escorted
Cities/Regions: Tuscia/Lake Bolsena
Highlights: Culinary, Gourmet, Wine at Lake View
Stay and tour fascinating Tuscia surrounded by vegetation and history. The Farm House is set by the western side of the Volsini Mountains, with the background of Lake of Bolsena. It is surrounded by woods and lush vegetation. Once owned by princes Spada and del Drago, the area enjoys a unique scenario, with the ancient town and Castle of Bolsena below, and villages scattered along the banks of the lake at a distance. Thanks to the wonderful landscape and warmth hospitality of your host, you will definitely enjoy an unforgettable vacation in Tuscia territory. Rate includes: 7 Breakfasts, 3 Lunches, and 6 Dinners, 9 Days from $2,449 Contact me for more details
Finili Gastronomic Tour
Length of Stay: 9 Days Independent
Cities/Regions: Friuli / Carso
Highlights: Castle of Spessa, Wine Road, Cooking Lessons, and Gourmet Dining
Gentle, rolling hills form a lush, green backdrop to the setting of Spessa Castle, which was built in 1200, and whose renovation in 1881 restored it to its former beauty. At the footsteps of Castello di Spessa, in a peaceful silence of the Collios vineyards, find the natural location the Tavernetta al Castello, a small structure created for guests looking for simplicity of surrounding nature. Facing the castle and the golf course is the ideal place to spend time at relaxation. Spessa Castle has 15 rooms and La Tavernetta has 10 rooms overlooking a small lake. Rate includes: 7 Breakfasts, 4 Lunches, and 5 Dinners
9 Days from $3,499 Contact me for more details
Cucina Di Firenze
Length of Stay: 9 Days Independent
Cities/Regions: Tuscan Hills of the Chianti Fiorentino
Highlights: Guided Tours of the Winemaking Cellars, Wine Zone, Cooking Lessons, and Sightseeing
This estate is located in Montelupo in Tuscany in the great Chianti Hills and located 15 km from Florence. There are over 300 acres and 30 acres are vineyards and 20 are olive gardens. The property has apartments, rooms, restaurant and two swimming pools. We can arrange daily or weekly rental, cooking and wine classes. The following itinerary can be used for small and large groups. Rate includes: 7 Breakfasts, 4 Lunches, and 7 Dinners
9 Days from $2,299 Contact me for more details
Gastronomy Del Vino Della Sicilia
Length of Stay: 10 Days First Class Fully Escorted
Cities/Regions: Buseto Palizzolo, Agrigento, Caltagirone, Catania
Highlights: The Personality of Sicily - Gourmet Italian cuisine extends further than just Tuscany and Naples. Take a trip south to Sicily and discover all that this island has to offer. Learn about the old world cultural traditions with the locals while they teach you how to prepare traditional Sicilian recipes. Stroll through farms and botanical gardens, and later on admire a Sicilian Folklore show. Rate includes: 8 Breakfasts, 6 Lunches, and 5 Dinners
10 Days from $2,419 Contact me for more details
Furore Inn
Perched on a cliff overlooking the Amalfi Coast, this five star hotel offers indulgent beauty and spa treatments, hands-on cooking lessons, and incredible views of the sea. Located between Amalfi and Positano, the Furore Inn is in an ideal location to explore the famed Amalfi Coast. Here you can learn to prepare healthy Neopolitan cuisine in the morning, tour the Amalfi coast in the afternoon, and relax at the spa before dinner.
Cooking lessons are taught by Executive Chef Patricia Bottone who will focus on creative Mediterranean cuisine. Chef Bottone began her culinary education with her father, Pio, who was a famous Italian chef. Born in Switzerland and originally from Scala, Chef Bottone enjoys both the technical and creative aspects of taking indigenous ingredients and turning them into gastronomic art. She is also a professional sommelier. Contact me for more details
Chianti Cooking Tour - 5 days
In the heart of Tuscany you will find the wine region of Chianti. Rolling hills, cypress lined lanes, medieval hill towns…these are the quintessential views that come to mind when thinking of Tuscany. Here, you will find a rustic yet refined cuisine--grilled meats, hearty bean dishes, luscious bruschetta, homemade pecorino and fava beans.
Venture to the heart of Tuscany and enjoy a short culinary getaway to learn the local flavors and dishes of the area. Your accommodations for the stay are in Fagiolari, a stone farmhouse originally constructed in 1400. Its owner, Giulietta, has lovingly restored the buildings, adding her own decorative touches. Bedrooms feature original beamed ceilings, whitewashed walls and terracotta floors. All have private bathrooms. Prices from $1075 per person includes breakfast daily, 3 cooking lessons with dinner and wine.
Contact me for more details
Cooking at Villa d'Este
Chef Luciano Parolari has been supervising the kitchens of Villa d'Este for over 20 years. His recipes have been the inspiration for two glorious cookbooks. He is noted for artistic and creative presentation of regional dishes such as risotto Milanese-style with saffron, fettuccine with fondue, tortelli with pumpkin and artichokes, and cotoletta Milanese-style. We invite you to join Chef Luciano for a four night cooking getaway on the shores of Lake Como.
Accommodations for this luxurious trip are at Villa d'Este, one of the most beautiful hotels in the world. Once the residence of European aristocracy, the villa was turned into a grand hotel in the 19th century. Today it is dedicated to providing the most discriminating traveler an unforgettable experience. You'll enjoy the services of this world-class hotel, while learning to prepare regional dishes with one of Italy's top chefs. A beauty treatment in the hotel spa completes the tour. Contact me for more details
Neopolitan Food and Wine Experience
Soak up the sun and warm culture of the Amalfi Coast as you discover the secrets of great Italian cooking! On this seven day culinary experience you will learn all about Neopolitan cuisine, known for pizza  but which also includes more sophisticated dishes such as Il Baccala' in Casseruola con Patate and l'insalata caponata.
Your lessons will take place at the Mama Camilla cooking school where Chef Biagio and his assistants lead hands-on instruction featuring the cuisine of Campania. Chef Biagio's first cooking experiences were in his mother's kitchens where he learned to prepare ancient family recipes passed down for generations. He furthered his passion by leaving home at the age of 17 to attend prestigious cooking schools. Over his 30 year of culinary experience Chef Biagio saw the success of opening three different restaurants. Now he delights in sharing his knowledge with students from around the world.
To augment your lessons in the kitchen, you will go on excursions to local cheese and wine makers. You will also enjoy guided tours of legendary sites such as Pompeii and Capri. Accommodations are either in a tranquil bed and breakfast at the cooking school or in selected hotels in Sorrento. From $2300 per person Contact me for more details
Vegetarian Cooking in Umbria
Country House Montali is the perfect antidote for those travelers looking for an Umbrian retreat where they can learn to cook gourmet vegetarian cuisine. Here, owners Alberto and Malu Masacchio lead hands-on cooking lessons featuring vegetarian Italian dishes. Their love of vegetarian cuisine goes back 20 years, when they opened their first vegetarian restaurant. Today they share their passion with students, teaching them how to prepare Mediterranean dishes with subtle hints of nouvelle and haute cuisine. In fact, the cooking school has been featured on BBC.
With gorgeous views of the surrounding countryside and acres of olive groves, there couldn't be a more idyllic spot to relax and enjoy the Italian countryside. Montali is off the beaten track between Perugia and Lake Trasimeno…quiet and private, yet close enough to be able to explore nearby towns such as Orvieto, Todi, Spello and Assisi. Its ten guest rooms are comfortably decorated and feature modern comforts. All have separate entrances with patios or verandahs where you can enjoy cool evening breezes and magnificent sunsets. From $3595 per person Contact me for more details
Journey to Sicily
Discover the flavors and traditions of this beautiful island. Here you will taste the cuisine of a land that has been influenced by many cultures. The Arabs left their mark with sophisticated pastries and desserts. The Normans brought their love of bacala. From Spain came fancy and ornate dishes.
Your trip begins in Palermo, where you will venture into the ancient Vucceria and Ballaro markets to learn about Sicilian ingredients and food. From there you'll discover the mysterious medieval town of Erice, celebrated in ancient times as the birthplace of Venus. Then it's on to Agrigento to see the great Valley of the Temples. Along the way you'll learn to prepare Sicilian cuisine in hands-on cooking lessons and taste world class specialties which can only be found on the island. From $2250 per person (self-drive) Contact me for more details
The Flavors and Kitchens of Liguria
Liguria is famous for one of the best climates in the world, as well as its exquisite cuisine. Seafood, vegetables, olive oil, garlic and herbs provide the basis for famous dishes such as pesto, foccacia, and minestrone alla genovese. Most travelers have heard or been to the famous coastline, with cities such as Portofino and Genoa. But few have ventured into the hills above the sea, where small villages perched on hills are surrounded by olive groves and tropical plants.
Come and taste the flavors and meet the people of undiscovered Liguria. You'll take hands-on cooking lessons, visit olive oil mills, and visit unspoiled villages with incredible views. Best of all, you will meet people who love good food and are interested in sharing how to prepare old recipes handed down from generation to generation. From $1285 per person Contact me for more details
Discover Cinque Terra
The five tiny villages known as Cinque Terre comprise one of the Italian Riveria’s most stunning attractions. Linked by a railroad and  walking paths, these charming towns cling to steep cliffs and offer incredible views of the Liguria Sea. Here the cuisine is influenced by an abundance of all types of seafood, vegetables and aromatic herbs. Pesto and focaccia originated here, along with lesser known dishes such as torta pasqualina (vegetable pie) and cima alla Govese (breast of veal stuffed with eggs and vegetables.)The wines are light and refreshing, the perfect accompaniment to the region’s cuisine.
Join us for a four day discovery of the Cinque Terre and the Riviera di Levante, learning about its cuisine and villages. Your accommodations for the stay are at the Hotel Canali , a beautiful four-star hotel in Rapallo. Cooking lessons take place at one of the area's most well known restaurants.From $2650 per person Contact me for more details
France
The Art of Living Bordeaux Style
This is a real voyage of initiation and enjoyment; a warm, personal and relaxing way to get to know
Bordeaux's famous wines and its fabulous cuisine.
It is not always easy for a simple tourist to penetrate this unique world. Pascal MELI and Michèle ROUSSEAU offer you more than a simple wine tour. They will open doors to you that are often closed. They will be your guides, share their knowledge and enthusiasm and uncover the treasures of this prestigious region. Moreover, they both speak English.
Surrounded by the vines of Château BUJAN, in a vineyard of the Côtes de Bourg, you will live in the charming 17th century home of the winemakers. Nestled in a small green valley and restored with talent, the "Maison des Vignes" (House in the Vines), with its large fireplaces, oak beams and old books have retained a feeling of true authenticity.
Cooking lessons take place each night in the chateau and focus on the freshest ingredients, along with how to pair them with wines of the region. Michele is your instructor, bringing 20 years of experience and passion to the kitchen. Contact me for more details
Chateaus and Kitchens of the Loire
The Loire Valley is best known for its magnificent chateaus, which line the Loire River and its tributaries,
 creating some of the most beautiful sights in France. Built hundreds of years ago by kings as private hunting estates and getaways, today many have been transformed into world class hotels with award winning chefs. Surrounding these architectural gems is a lush countryside with some of the most loved wines the country has to offer.
We invite you on a luxury getaway, in which you will enjoy the cuisine, wine, and chateaus of the Loire Valley. Your personal guide for this tour is Pascal Mineau, who was born and raised in the Loire Valley. Pascal degreed in tourism and worked as a manager at a Michelin star restaurant in Bristol, England before returning to his native region to lead tours for Epiculinary. He will accompany you to private vineyards and fairytale chateaus, where top chefs will teach you classic French dishes in private cooking lessons. From $2750 per person Contact me for more details
Le Mas des Oliviers in Provence
This luxury villa in Provence overlooks the Mediterranean on the Côte d'Azur, French Riviera. The breathtaking views towards the Bay of Cannes, Les Iles de Lérin's and Cap d'Antibes help to make your cooking vacation one you'll never forget. Situated just fifteen minutes from the glamour of Cannes, yet only ten minutes away from the wonderful walks along the wild red cliffs of the Esterel, the villa offers you the sophistication and excitement of the Riviera in a tranquil and relaxed environment – perfect for the ultimate culinary holiday!
Some of the finest chefs of France have come from this region, and the kitchens of Provence are legendary the world over. Our teaching chef has a passion for regional produce. The market stalls of this sun-drenched area of Provence offer some of the finest selections of seasonal fruit and vegetables in the Mediterranean. This is the rich palate and foundation for our cooking courses.
Théoule-sur-Mer, known as ‘the writers village’, has been a source of inspiration and creativity for countless artists, writers and chefs. A combination of hands-on cooking classes and demonstrations held in our own well-equipped kitchen will give you the opportunity to create your own culinary masterpieces during your cookery holiday and when you return home. From $2995 per person Contact me for more details
Truffles and Foie Gras
Perigord is THE place to go if you love truffles and foie gras. This little corner of Southwest France is home to the black truffle, one of the most famous and expensive luxury foods of France. It is also the land of foie gras-- that typical French delicacy made from fattened goose or duck liver. We invite you to learn to cook these gastronomic delights, along with other regional French dishes in a four-day trip to Perigord. Your stay includes cooking lessons, visits to truffle markets and a duck farm, along with wine tastings and gourmet meals. This tour is seasonal and runs during the truffle season, early December to mid-March. From $1775 per person Contact me for more details
Meet the French in Paris
This culinary tour offers the unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the life of real Paris. Venture inside
 the city as only locals know it, going to local markets, cooking in a private home, and dining with a French family or couple.
You will stay in a private apartment in the heart of one of Paris' chic neighborhoods. Each bed and breakfast is carefully selected to ensure a comfortable and pleasant stay in the capital. You will be welcomed warmly in a family atmosphere and you will enjoy a quality room, in prime location and close to public transport. Your apartment features a private bathroom and kitchen along with your own entrance.
Each day in Paris will offer its own culinary discoveries...In the dreamlike background of Paris' most beautiful neighborhoods you will go on a gourmet walking tour, tasting and learning about the city's culinary past and present. Then it's on to the market with a professional chef to select ingredients for your hands-on cooking class in a private home. Finally sit down to a home cooked meal with a French family and share warmth and laughter over a four course meal. Contact me for more details
Spain and Portugal
Authentic Andalusian
The Andalusian kitchen can trace its roots to Mediterranean and Arabic cuisine. It is the result of simple abundance--succulent seafood from the coast, mountain cured hams and meats from the country, olives, nuts, fruits and vegetables. The Andalusians have an uncanny knack of combining these fresh ingredients and making them special.
Join us for a week in Eastern Andalusia, learning all about this beautiful region of southern Spain-its cuisine, its culture, and its people. Your adventure begins in Granada and its spectacular Alhambra palace. Then you go to the country to learn all about the recipes and ways of Andalusian cooking. Visits to artisan bakeries, goat cheese producers, and olive mills are included, along with excursions to some of the most stunning places on the peninsula. From $2995 per person Contact me for more details
The Best of Sevilla
Sevilla and Western Andalusia are a gourmand's dream. Hams from Huelva, langostinos from Sanlucar, olive oil from the hills, sherry in Cadiz. These are just some of the products for which Sevilla and its surroundings are famous. Discover the culinary world of Andalusia on a four or seven day tour based in the region's largest and most colorful city. You'll visit local markets and enjoy hands-on cooking lessons, visit the best tapas bars in town, and go on excursions to nearby towns to taste and learn about Spanish culture and food. Accommodations are at charming three star hotels in the historic heart of the city, such as Las Casa de Las Mercaderes or Las Casa de la Juderia. From $2885 per person Contact me for more details
Castles, Cuisine and Classical Wines
The extraordinary vitality of Castilla y León's cuisine makes it possible to map out this spectacular
 cooking tour which takes you to the ancient kingdoms of Leon and Castille, giving you the chance to discover their unique gastronomic and historical heritage.
On this trip you will learn to prepare authentic recipes in hands-on cooking lessons with our friendly Segovian chef. We will try dishes and pastries whose presentation and ingredients have remained the same for over 300 years. You will also discover the classical wines of the Rivera del Duero, visiting beautiful and ancient wine cellars and tasting some of Spain's most sophisticated and celebrated wines.
Our splendid rustic chic hotel gives you the opportunity to discover all the beauty of the region. Situated in a beautifully preserved village just ten minutes from Segovia , the hotel offers a splendid home away from home. When you are not wine tasting or cooking, you will be able to explore castles, Roman & medieval monuments & picturesque villages set in a stunning landscape. From $2885 per person Contact me for more details
Cooking in Barcelona
Vibrant and artistic, Barcelona offers the traveler a feast for the senses. From its Gothic quarter to its modern architecture it is a visual wonder. Artists such as Miro, Dali and Picasso spent time here and left their mark on the city’s history. Now, as the capital of Catalonia, it is at the epicenter of a renewal of Catalan cuisine. Restaurants celebrating local products from the sea and mountains abound. Dishes such as mar y montany, (surf and turf), habas a la catalana(broad bean stew), and pa amb tomaquet (bread with olive oil and spread with tomato) are finding renewed popularity.
Join us for a culinary discovery of Barcelona and Catalonia, learning all about its culture, cuisine, and history. Your home base for the journey is Barcelona, where you will stay in a charming, three star hotel in the city center. Cooking lessons take place at the city's top cooking school located in the heart of the city on La Rambla. Market visits, tours of the Catalonia coast, and private guided tours complete your Spanish culinary holiday. From $3495 per person Contact me for more details
Food and Wine of in the Heart of Portugal
The Alentejo region stretches from the Tagus River at Lisbon, south to the Algarve. Its terracotta earth is covered in wheat fields and bordered by rows of olive trees. Here and there white washed villages and towns appear, crowned by castles. The ancients left their megaliths, the Romans their aqueducts, the Portuguese a wealth of architecture from Gothic to Baroque.
Here too cooking and winemaking reflect a rich culinary tradition. The cuisine is simple, characterized by a rich variety of regional dishes. Its history and heart are preserved and taught at the Refugio de Vila Cooking School in the small town of Portel outside Evora. Gathering herbs and produce from the local markets and paring them to timeless recipes, cooks of all levels can roll up their sleeves in the Vila kitchen and learn to prepare a variety of succulent Mediterranean dishes influenced by this region. Excursions to nearby towns and markets compliment the lessons. Non cooking participants are encouraged to attend with their partners. Contact me for more details
A Taste of Spain
You are invited to take a culinary journey through Spain, savoring the flavors and contrasts of a country with a cuisine as varied as its history. The discovery begins in Barcelona where you will savor a cuisine that is unique, imaginative and varied. Through combinations of surf and turf Catalan chefs are able to marry both worlds with dishes that are among the most sophisticated of Europe. Then it's on to Madrid, the center and melting pot of Spain, where you will find dishes like cocido madrileno (chickpea stew) and tortilla de patatas (omelet with potatoes). Along the way you'll learn about Spain's rich wine region of Ribera del Duero and its cultural traditions. From $3275 per person Contact me for more details
Croatia
Secret Flavors of Dalmatia
Croatia is a land of many different cuisines…each with a distinctive personality & history. Along the
 Dalmatian Coast the cuisine has a definite Mediterranean flavor, world class olive oils dress freshly caught and grilled fish. Pastas & gnochis are served, along with delicious red wine from the Pelješac peninsula. Travel a short distance into the hinterland where you will find meats, vegetables & bread cooked under the peka. On the islands, cheeses & lamb grilled on a spit are served in family owned konobas or taverns.
We invite you to explore the secrets of Dalmatia…a land of thousands of islands, of history, beauty and mystery. And yes, a land with a rich culinary history which many people have yet to discover. On this gastronomic journey you will taste and learn all about the dishes and wines of Croatia’s region known as Dalmatia. From Split to Dubrovnik and points between you will experience one of Europe’s incredible culinary locations, meeting people and traveling down back roads on a journey you won’t forget. From $3195 per person Contact me for more details
Ireland
Belle Island School of Cookery
Cross over a bridge from the mainland and enter a world apart. Situated on the northern tip of Upper Lough Erne, Belle Isle is a 470 acre estate spread over eight picturesque islands. Inhabited since the 12th century, the estate today offers a state of the art cooking school.
Here you will be introduced to Ireland’s most innovative and exciting culinary ideas. The aim is to provide simple, flexible and practical instruction whether your goal is to prepare a gourmet dinner for your family or host a dinner party for friends without fear and trepidation. Courses vary in duration from one day to four weeks and are designed for every level of cooking ability. Each course involves a hands-on approach as well as practical tips and demonstration.
Accommodations are in beautiful apartments in the castle’s 19th century courtyard building, all having been restored with character and style. Each features en suite bathrooms and have been award four stars by the Northern Ireland Tourist Board.
Guests are invited to extend their stay to enjoy the many outdoor activities offered in the area. The lakelands surrounding Bell Isle are renowned for their beauty. Salmon fishing and golf are a short drive away. Walks and rambles along the numerous designated scenic walks and hills are also popular. For the less active, there are several outstanding National Trust properties nearby, many ancient monastic sites and the renowned Ulster American Folk Park offering excellent genealogical service. Contact me for more details
Morocco
Dar Liqama
Rich in both history & flavor, Morocco cuisine is one of the most exotic in the world. The sophisticated
Moroccan palate arose as the country played host to travelers and rulers from such disparate lands as China, India, Spain and Persia and then, finally, from serving for 40 years as a French protectorate. In particular, the French influence remains. French is the second language of Morocco, and an air of French sophistication infuses the Saharan oasis with a European flavor. The Rhode School of Cuisine in Marrakech captures this richness in its Moroccan cooking holidays.
 It is in this oasis and in our customized kitchen that you will join other cooking enthusiasts for a unique culinary vacation. Our local staff will pamper you and escort you to the market, lead you on a trek in the nearby Atlas or take you camel riding. During the hands-on cooking lessons our expert chefs will introduce you to the exotic combination of ingredients and techniques that exemplify traditional Moroccan cuisine. You will learn first-hand how the fascinating history of this country has influenced its cuisine, and we will also introduce you to some of our own fusion recipes.
Both the cooking classes and accommodations are in the luxury villa Dar Liqama, aptly named the ‘house of green mint.’ Our luxury palazzo, set against the backdrop of the majestic Atlas and Jbel Ette Mountains, was constructed to reflect the traditional style of Moroccan architecture while offering modern conveniences. Magnificent Moroccan antique doors open from the grand columned entrance, as well as in the great hall and dining room. The graceful archways of the villa create a calm and elegant ambience surrounding an interior courtyard filled with scented flowers and the calming sounds of a bubbling fountain. From $2395 per person Contact me for more details
Vietnam
Taste of Vietnam
Vietnam offers the culinary explorer one of the most exciting journeys possible. This small country of 77 million packs a culinary punch, offering as much diversity and history as that of larger nations. From the colonization by the French to the influence of India and China, the Vietnamese culinary map is marked by many cultures.
We invite you to join us on a culinary and cultural discovery of Vietnam. From the historic city of Hanoi where you will stay in a world class hotel with its own cooking school, to a two day trip on a Vietnamese junk in Halong Bay you will discover first hand the delights of the North. Then it’s on to Hoi An, a Unesco designated village, where you will learn to farm the Vietnamese way. Finally you end your tour in Saigon, the vibrant and cosmopolitan city of the South. All along the way you will visit local markets, enjoy hands-on cooking lessons, discover back roads by cyclo and learn about a country uniquely tied to our own. From $2395 per person Contact me for more details
Thailand
Thailand Discovery
The art of food has a special place in Thailand’s culture. For thousands of years, families have sat on rice
 mats around a low table, sharing dishes which represent the history and culture of their country. Thai cuisine offers the food traveler a taste of history…stir fried dishes are the result of the introduction of the Chinese wok; curries have their start in India; spices were introduced by the Arabs. The cuisine also offers an insight into Thai culture; here, eating is a celebration. Lunches can be long affairs, in which multiple dishes are shared and enjoyed. In fact, unlike in the West, all the dishes are served at once so that diners can choose what they like. In Thailand, it is unlucky to eat alone.
Join us on a discovery of Thai cuisine and culture, exploring this fascinating country on a week long adventure. From Bangkok to Chiang Mai you will get to know the people, their history, and their culinary heritage. From $2295 per person Contact me for more details
South Africa
12 Days South Africa, Wine, Wildlife & Culinary Impressions Vacations and Luxury Tour Packages
Duration: 12 Days / 11 Nights
Priced From: $8595
Dates: Jan – Sep
Explore the viticulture of South Africa and step back in time, as you taste wine born of vine cuttings smuggled over by the French in the 1600s. Savor award-winning vintages as you marvel at the beauty of Cape Dutch architecture. The epicurean delights to be discovered include the ultimate mix of exotic spices, game meats and fresh seafood complemented by the dramatic sights of Africa. The recipe for this perfect adventure starts in Cape Town at a luxury residence with butler and chauffeur, and then continues with stays at a beach estate and exquisite wine chateaux. Enjoy the veritable feast for the eyes, before the program concludes at a dream game lodge. Take your pleasure in a cooking demonstration, gourmet starlit dinners and abundant wildlife viewing with skilled rangers and a master tracker. The flavors of Africa will remain on your palate for years to come.
Visits: Cape Town, Hermanus, Franschhoek, Limpopo Province Private Game Reserve, and Johannesburg
Highlights:
- Enjoy Cape Town private touring including wine tasting along with olive, cheese and chocolate tastings, with an expert local guide
- Savor a sumptuous lunch at the Relais & Chateaux, Le Quartier Francais, experiencing award-winning cuisine from Margot Janse, 2004 Top Chef South Africa
- Discover impressive gourmet cuisine at Royal Malewane under the direction of leading chef John Jackson, Chaine des Rotisseurs Blazon for Cuisine
- Relax in your private outdoor sala or reserve the professional masseuse for a rejuvenating rubdown
- Be pampered at the ultra-chic accommodations at the Saxon Hotel, the hideaway for presidents, sheikhs and movie stars
- Dine in style at the prestigious Belle Gables, located in a stylish farmhouse outside of Johannesburg, with food created by top chef Errol Gobey, Chaine des Rotisseurs Blazon for Cuisine
Inclusions:
- Three nights at the Bishop's Court in Cape Town with champagne on arrival
- Half day private touring of Cape Town and Table Mountain
- Home host dinner
- Full day private car/driver sightseeing of the Cape Peninsula, with a private lunch at Colona Castle
- Two nights at Birkenhead House in Hermanus
- Full day whale watching excursion
- Two nights at La Residence, a private country villa, in Franschhoek
- Full day private car and driver sightseeing the Cape Winelands, with lunch at Le Quartier Francais
- Full day experiencing the tastes of Franschhoek, including local foods, beer, wine, champagne, chocolate and cheese, with lunch at Chamonix Wine Estates
- Three nights at Royal Malewane including daily wildlife viewing activities
- One spa treatment of choice at Royal Malewane
- One night at the Saxon Hotel in Johannesburg
- All transfers from/to arrival and departure flights via private vehicle
- Meals included: eleven breakfasts, eight lunches and seven dinners
- Charter flight arrangements Johannesburg/Royal Malewane/Johannesburg
- Pre-departure destination information including suggested readings
- Specially designed travel bag
Australia
Chic Wine Meets Stunning Outback - (SBV)
Duration: 3 Nights Contact me for more information
A 4-day self-drive excursion combining Australia's most famous wine region – the Barossa Valley with its stunning Outback – the Flinders Ranges, plus real Aussie characters (and free wine!)
Highlights:
In the Barossa Valley you will stay in a luxury vineyard retreat surrounded by hundreds of acres of vines at Peppers The Louise.
With your Cellar Door pass you'll be able to take advantage of exclusive offers including premium wine tastings and free tours for the ultimate cellar door experience.
Choose 6 free bottles of wine up to the value of $120 as you travel through the Valley.
Travel to Melrose, South Australia and the boutique Northstar Hotel in the southern Flinders Ranges to enjoy a taste of the country life.
Travel further into the Flinders Ranges to the Prairie Hotel for 2 nights, the perfect touring base. You are within easy reach of spectacular scenery and special Australian Outback experiences.
Take a day trip into the desert, into gorges, up mountain ranges, fly, walk or ride a horse over the landscape, discover ancient art, fossils, colorful wildlife and even more colorful characters.
Pack a Prairie lunch, drive to Wilpena Pound in the Flinders Ranges National Park and take one of the walking trails to St Mary's Peak or take a walk around the historic mining town of Blinman. Find a secluded waterhole in Brachina Gorge for a swim during a mild winter or hot summer day.
Inclusions:
- Accommodation at Peppers The Louise retreat (1 night)
- Cellar Door pass, including 6 bottle of premium wine FREE
- Accommodation at the Northstar Hotel (1 night)
- Accommodation at the Prairie Hotel (1 night)
- 4 day rental car
Mexico
Rancho La Puerta Spa & Cooking School
Talk about the ultimate getaway, this place tops the list of spas to visit. The Rancho La Puerta Spa has
 opened a cooking school, so now in addition to hikes and hot-stone massages, you can also enjoy and learn about healthy low-fat and vegetarian recipes. La Cocina Que Canta's generous, 4,500-square-foot layout comprises a large hands-on classroom/kitchen, cookbook library, and culinary gift shop - all set in the heart of the spa’s famous 6-acre organic farm “Tres Estrellas” (Three Stars), where fruits, herbs, and vegetables thrive beneath a mountain still held sacred by native North Americans. Guests enjoy a progressive series of hands-on classes where everyone learns the techniques behind a great “Mexican-Mediterranean” meal before sitting down to a delicious fresh-from-the-garden feast. Guests delight in making the connection between their new-found cooking skills from La Cocina Que Canta, and their heightened understanding of mind/body/spirit fitness from the rest of their visit to the spa. Guests have the option to purchase a four-class package, a demonstration cooking class, or individual classes. Ranch rates are based on 7 nights and include all fitness classes, meals, guided hikes and walks, evening programs, and use of all facilities. Taxes are additional. Service fees are optional.
Weekly rates at the Ranch start at $2690 per person
Cooking classes - Four Class Package $425, Individual Classes $125, Demo Class $60
La Cocina de Oaxaca
Named by Forbes Traveler as one of the "World's Best Culinary Trips"
Oaxaca can boast having one of the finest and most elaborate cuisines in all of Mexico. This is the land of seven moles, of incredible chocolate, of tamales stuffed with all sorts of ingredients and of mezcal, an alcholic drink derived from the blue agave cactus. Here, the cooking techniques are ancient and steeped in tradition. Ritual is as important as excellent raw ingredients.
Venture to Oaxaca and learn the secrets of what Food and Wine magazine called "Mexico's best cuisine." Hands-on cooking lessons will be taught by Susana Trilling, whose recipes are featured in a PBS special that followed her popular cookbook, Seasons of My Heart, A Culinary Journey Through Oaxaca, Mexico. You'll also visit local markets, mezcal factories, chocolate makers, and archeological ruins. From $1325 per person. Contact me for more details
Yucatan: A Culinary Expedition
There is Mexico – and then there is Yucatán. These two worlds share much, yet their histories diverge at many points – and at times have collided. Yucatán is the land of the Maya – one of the world’s largest intact indigenous groups. The food is different, too, characterized by the infamous habanero, the world’s hottest chile. The region shares more here with the Caribbean and Europe than with the rest of Mexico. Pit smoked meats, plantains, Dutch cheeses, Portuguese sausages and Lebanese specialties are some of the typical foods of the region that may surprise you.
Culturally, the Yucatan has its own music, dance and literature, and of course the many otherworldly
 Mayan archaeological sites. Mérida – the capital of Yucatán state and cultural center of the entire peninsula – was once home to the world’s largest per capita population of millionaires, due to the production of henequen, a fiber made from the agave plant. Now Mérida is experiencing a resurgence, attracting thousands of foreigners from many countries who are discovering its charms, purchasing ruined mansions and restoring them to their original splendor. In such a setting is Los Dos – the cooking school devoted to 100% comida yucateca and owned by former New Yorker David Sterling, who will be your chef and guide during your stay. Los Dos has been featured in Travel and Leisure, The New York Times, ELLE Mexico and in many other publications and television programs including Rick Bayless’s “Mexico: One Plate at a Time.” Join us and see why Yucatecan cuisine is finally landing on the gourmet radar! From $2795 per person Contact me for more details
Colonial Cuisine and Culture in Puebla
For gastronomes, Mecca is Puebla when it comes to authentic Mexican cuisine. This colonial gem, located 60 miles southeast of Mexico City, is known as the gastronomic capital of Mexico. Two of the country’s most popular dishes were created in Puebla: mole and chiles en nogada. In fact some of the best chefs in the world hail from this area. It is here, not France, where chef and author Anthony Bourdain ventured to find a chef for his New York City restaurant.
Because of its location on the coastal road from Veracruz and Mexico City, Puebla is a melting pot of Mexican history. Spanish conquistadors, French Bourbons, Oriental traders all contributed unique tastes and influences. Combined with indigenous ingredients from the Aztecs, Mayans and other locals, the cuisine is unique in its complexity and richness.
We invite you to join us for a week- long discovery of Puebla and its culinary traditions under the tutelage of Alonso Hernandez, chef and instructor at the elegant boutique hotel Mesones Sacristia in the heart of Puebla. Chef Hernandez began his culinary studies in Puebla and perfected them as he worked in top restaurants in Europe and Mexico. He will lead hands-on lessons each morning focusing on Mexican and Pueblan cuisine. The daily lessons are complimented by market visits and tours of the colonial city.
From $1200 per person Contact me for more details
United States and Canada
Bounty of Sonoma
Sonoma County…some call it the “Provence of the U.S.” because of its mild weather, artisan food, scenic vistas, family farms, and outstanding wines. But this “Provence” is a little closer to home and its bounty is waiting for you to discover in a 4-day culinary tour featuring cooking workshops, wine tastings, tours, and dining experiences.
Your base for the tour is in the stylish and charming town of Healdsburg located at the convergence of three distinguished wine appellations—Dry Creek Valley, Alexander Valley, and Russian River. The tours and the three cooking workshops are organized by Relish Culinary School at a different wine country kitchen and feature a different local chef, exposing you to a variety of local flavors and culinary personalities. Contact me for more details
Flavors of Napa Valley
In the northern end of Napa Valley lies the charming, quaint town of Calistoga. Since its founding as a hot spring resort over 130 years ago, Calistoga has come to be known for its award winning restaurants,  delightful shopping, and of course, its wineries.
Join us for a culinary getaway to Napa Valley, learning the best of Northern California cuisine. Your instructor for the stay is Chef Lana Richardson, owner of Casa Lana, a charming bed and breakfast. Here, hands-on cooking lessons are taught in a professionally equipped kitchen. The lessons are geared to avid home cooks and food enthusiasts. Enrollment is limited to 8 people, ensuring plenty of individualized attention. Excursions to nearby food related events and sites compliment the lessons
Accommodations are in the Casa Lana Bed and Breakfast or other nearby B&Bs, where you will enjoy plush comfort in Old World Style. Rooms feature king or queen size beds, luxury linens, and large bathrooms. Delicious continental breakfasts are served every morning. From $1975 per person Contact me for more details
Wine Country Weekend
Located just 45 minutes north of San Francisco, the charming town of Sonoma offers the best of California food and wine. With its shaded central plaza lined with adobe buildings, the town is filled with boutiques, restaurants, and galleries.
If you are looking for a short culinary getaway, this is the trip for you. Accommodations for the weekend are at MacArthur Place, an intimate 19th century inn and spa situated just minutes from Sonoma's historic plaza. Each of the inn's 35 "designer showcase" guestrooms has been individually decorated with beautiful furnishings, oversized comforters and original artwork. The inn's spa features the latest in massage and treatments.
You'll also enjoy two cooking lessons at Ramekins Culinary School in Sonoma. Highly acclaimed chefs, famous restaurateurs, cookbook authors and TV personalities teach both demonstration and hands-on classes for all levels of home cooks. The classes last about three hours and include recipes and a generous sampling of all the dishes prepared. From $995 per person Contact me for more details
Taste of New York
New York City is known for its unique neighborhoods, each with a flavor and character of its own. One of the most famous is Greenwich Village, home to artists, intellectuals, and entertainers. It is a treasure trove of gastronomic delights, from Italian joints to new and undiscovered places off the beaten path. We invite you to discover this little corner of New York on a three night culinary getaway with Epiculinary.
Your accommodations are at the Washington Square Hotel, located in the heart of Greenwich Village. This historic hotel is but a short stroll from the ethnic delights of Little Italy and Chinatown. The 165 charming guestrooms offer comfortable lodging for savvy travelers and the Art Deco-style lobby café is a great spot for a cup of coffee or people watching. Your cooking lesson takes place at the Institute of Culinary Education, where your class choices include Great New York Restaurants' Signature Dishes, Essentials of Provencal Cooking, or Pasta Workshop. You will also be treated to a tasting and historical walking tour of the Village, discovering hidden treasures and local spots few visitors ever find, along with a tasting tour of Chinatown. From $995 per person Contact me for more details
Niagara Wine and Cooking
On the south shore of Lake Ontario you will find the Niagara Peninsulaa unique microclimate ideal for growing grapes and spectacular produce. Here, they have been producing wine since the early 19th century. Today, chefs in this region use the bounty of local farms to create recipes that change with the  season and match perfectly with Niagara wines.
Take a weekend to discover this beautiful corner of North America, discovering ways to cook with as well as match, wine with food. You'll take hands-on lessons at the Wine Country Cooking School at Strewn, Canada's only winery cooking school. The format is simple: cook, eat, drink. Repeat! School Proprietor Jane Langdon leads students through the preparation of a three course menu using seasonal ingredients, while her winemaker husband Joe will demystify food and wine paring.
Accommodations will be at the Prince of Wales or Pillar and Post hotel, both historical landmarks in the heart of Niagara-on-the-Lake. In your free time, enjoy carriage rides down the town's tree shaded streets, visit local wineries, see Niagara Falls, or play a round of golf! From $995 per person Contact me for more details
Santa Fe Weekend
Red or green? That's a question often heard in Santa Fe. It refers to whether you want your sauce made with red (dried)or green(fresh) chiles. Chiles are a passion here and can be found in everything from beer to ice cream! In fact, the chile is the one ingredient that is essential to Santa Fe cuisine, which is influenced by Hispanic and Indian cultures. Whether you are making carne adovada, Navajo tacos, or even shrimp satay with red chile syrup, the chile is what unites them all.
Take a weekend to savor the flavors of Santa Fe, from nuevo New Mexican to traditional. You'll enjoy demonstration lessons at the Santa Fe School of Cooking, learning the secrets of New Mexican cuisine. Accommodations are at the Inn of the Anasazi, voted consistently by travel guides as one of the top hotels in the country. Your stay includes a visit to the luxurious Avanyu Spa, where you'll be treated to a massage. From $1365 per person Contact me for more details
New Orleans Culinary Adventure
Just minutes from the excitement of New Orleans’ French quarter is an enchanting oasis of calm and history. Built in the late 1700’s for a Spanish colonial diplomat, House on Bayou Road Inn welcomes  guests with its West Indies Creole charm. The petite plantation is set on two lush acres and features inviting antique-filled rooms, a pool and hot tub, relaxing screened porches, and true Southern charm.
The B&B is the setting for one of New Orleans’ most exciting cooking schools, featuring authentic Creole cooking and highly personalized hands-on classes. The teaching staff is composed of some of New Orleans’ top chefs and food personalities. We invite you to join us on a culinary journey to revitalized New Orleans. Your stay will feature cooking lessons, food tours, and dinner at what many consider to be New Orleans’ best restaurant. From $945 per person Contact me for more details
Jane Butel's Southwestern Cooking
Often credited with starting the Tex-Mex cooking craze, Jane Butel published her first cookbooks on New Mexican and American Mexican food in the 1960s. Sixteen cookbooks later, Jane now operates her own cooking school. In fact Bon Appetit has named her school one of the "Best in the U.S."
Join Jane for a weekend or five nights of cooking fun, learning hands-on to prepare traditional and innovative Southwestern dishes. From tortillas, moles, and posole to menu development and presentationJane teaches her students in a thorough, yet fun manner.
Cooking classes are taught in a variety of locations, from Jane's lovely Corrales home to a professional kitchen in Santa Fe. All feature a team approach, with Jane discussing the recipe's history and ingredients then everyone breaking off and making the dish for the group to enjoy. From $900 per person Contact me for more details
Cajun Country
Named by Forbes Traveler as one of the "World's Best Culinary Trips" Featured on The Food Network's The Best of Culinary Vacations!
West of New Orleans is a region known as Cajun Country. Here you can hear the sounds of Cajun French spoken in small, sleepy towns. You can taste the robust flavors of dishes like jambalaya, boudin, and file gumbo. And you can dance the night away to the tunes of Zydeco and Cajun music.
Go deep in the heart of Cajun Country on this four-day culinary tour with Epiculinary. You'll stay in a historic bed and breakfast in Lafayette. Hands-on cooking lessons will be taught by Patrick Mould, award-winning chef, cookbook author, television personality and a leading authority on Cajun and Creole cuisine. At night, dine in local Cajun restaurants and visit dance halls to hear Cajun and Zydeco music. From $1595 per person
Prices are based on land only double occupancy and are subject to change.
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