With their enticing blue waters, white-sand beaches and lush scenic views, the Caribbean islands easily attract vacationers to their paradisiacal shores. But there’s much more to explore in this region than just the gorgeous natural sights.
From colonialism and slavery to times of war and independence, there’s much to learn about the Caribbean’s history, and food can be an ideal vessel for discovery. Through the following culinary tours, clients will gain a new appreciation for the Caribbean, all while helping the islands rebuild in the wake of Hurricane Irma.
Jamaica Culinary Tours
A lively port town celebrated for its stunning and well-preserved Georgian architecture, Falmouth, Jamaica, is an essential stop when visiting the Caribbean. Although the city’s history has been rather tumultuous, there’s no better way to understand Falmouth than by walking its historic streets and exploring the vibrant cuisine that has shaped its past.
The Falmouth Food Tour, operated by Jamaica Culinary Tours, allows clients to do just that. During this informative culinary excursion, clients can expect to learn about the city’s iconic sites and participate in at least five different food tastings — with some taking place as “sidewalk tastings” on the street and others in a restaurant or private home. The tour lasts around 2.5 hours and requires lots of walking, so comfy shoes are a must.
www.jamaicaculinarytours.com
Caribbean Culinary Food Tours
Caribbean Culinary Food Tours immerses clients in the diverse culture of the islands, offering a multitude of experiences in Antigua, Barbados, Belize, St. Lucia and other destinations throughout the region. Depending on the area and focus of the excursion, the itineraries range from a weekend getaway to a two-week culinary event. Most of the tours are all-inclusive and involve a variety of exciting activities, from cooking lessons and visits to the local farmers market to hiking and enjoying a spa day.
Additionally, some revolve around a specific theme, such as Dominica Eco Adventure. While exploring Dominica’s unspoiled natural beauty, clients will become familiar with the history of the indigenous Carib Indians who still inhabit the island. They will also have the opportunity to dine on dishes such as Dominican frog legs and Creole crayfish, while staying in an eco-accommodation similar to a private treehouse.
www.caribbeanculinarytours.net
Tru Bahamian Food Tours
Tru Bahamian Food Tours’ gastronomic exploration gives clients a chance to discover areas of Nassau, the Bahamas’ capital and largest city, that have yet to be overrun by tourists. The three-hour tour provides a comprehensive introduction to the local cuisine, with more than six tastings of both savory and sweet Bahamian classics. Clients will also meet local chefs and artisans — whose recipes will be featured in Bites of Nassau Recipe Collection, a complimentary cookbook for tourgoers — and learn about Nassau’s historical landmarks. With a maximum of 12 guests, the tour allows for a cozy and personal experience. Kids are welcome to join but must be accompanied by an adult.
www.trubahamianfoodtours.com
Flavors of St. Martin
Clients interested in a tour of St. Martin’s booming culinary scene will be delighted with one of Flavors of St. Martin’s detailed excursions. During the 4.5-hour Culinary Road Trip, for example, clients will taste dishes on both the French and Dutch sides of the island, from escargot and Amsterdam-style cheese to island-influenced barbecue and handcrafted rum infusions.
Flavors of St. Martin also offers the Philipsburg Foodie Walking Tour, a three-hour excursion focusing on St. Maarten’s capital city. Clients can try the best local eats in town while becoming familiar with the fusion of Dutch, French and Creole cooking techniques that characterize local cuisine. However, the operator also provides private tours for clients looking for a more intimate experience.
www.stmartinfoodtours.com
St. Kitts Food Tours
Through one of St. Kitts Food Tours’ many day trips, clients can delve into the local gastronomy and powerful history of this small-yet-captivating Caribbean island. Each tour differs in its cultural focus, with options to concentrate on St. Kitts’ capital, Basseterre, or to take a full island tour.
For clients with a sweet tooth, the company’s one-of-a-kind Chocolate Factory and Rum Tour is a great option. On the 3½-hour tour, clients will be able to emulate St. Kitts Chocolate Factory’s spice-, nut- and fruit-infused chocolate with their very own chocolate delights. The rum segment of the tour allows clients to sample rum punches. Nonalcoholic drink options make this tour great for families, too.
www.stkittsfoodtours.com
