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Mar 03
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Portugal hot destination

Why Portugal Is the Hottest Travel Destination

By Food, Taste Vacations, Wine No Comments

If you’re wondering why everyone seems to be falling in love with Portugal, you’re not alone — and you’re not late to the party. This magical country is having a moment, and for good reason. Here’s why Portugal is red hot and we’ll give you a recommendation on how best to enjoy it!

1. Portugal’s Natural Beauty Is Irresistible

From the terraced vineyards of the Douro Valley to the rolling plains of Alentejo, Portugal packs a breathtaking variety of landscapes into a relatively small footprint. On our Portugal Wine Food Vacations, you’ll wake up to vineyard views, cruise on the Douro River, and explore historic hill towns — all woven into one immersive journey.

2. Food Is at the Heart of Everything

Portugal’s cuisine is simple, soulful, and deeply rooted in tradition. Think: grilled sardines, bacalhau (salt cod), hearty stews, and of course, pastéis de nata. On our tour, you won’t just eat — you’ll cook alongside local chefs, learn Portuguese recipes in hands-on classes, and dine in hidden gems that only insiders know about.

3. Wine That’s World-Class (and Often Under-the-Radar)

Portugal’s wine regions are having their moment. The Douro Valley isn’t just for port — there are elegant reds, crisp whites, and boutique quintas that feel like they’ve been passed down through generations. We recommend you:

  • Visit family-run vineyards and historic wine estates

  • Taste both port and table wines

  • Learn about wine production from winemakers themselves

  • Take part in blending or cellar experiences

4. Rich Culture — Without the Overwhelming Crowds

Portugal masterfully balances its history and modernity. You’ll wander through Lisbon’s charming neighborhoods, explore Porto’s tile-clad alleys, and even step into the Roman and medieval heritage of Évora.

5. Perfect Weather, Year-Round

Whether you’re traveling in spring, summer, or fall, Portugal tends to deliver. The climate is ideal for outdoor meals, wine tasting under the sun, and exploring villages by foot. However, we recommend Spring and Fall because you’ll still get great weather, but miss the summer crowd surge.

6. Warm, Welcoming People

Portuguese hospitality is genuine and heartfelt. On the Portugal Vacation, travelers repeatedly tell us that the guide, Francisco, was a highlight — deeply knowledgeable about wine, history, and local life. Our guests also bond with each other: as one past traveler put it, “everyone became quick friends … connecting over great food, exceptional wine, and unforgettable experiences.”

Portugal isn’t just trending — it’s a destination that delivers on beauty, flavor, and soul. And there’s no better way to experience it than with a journey that’s designed to awaken all your senses. If you’re ready to explore, taste, and connect, our 2026 Public Portugal Wine Food Vacation is calling your name.

Feb 03
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Yannick

Meet Yannick de Cocquéau: The Heart (and Hop Spirit) of Our Belgium Tours

By Beer, Food, Taste Vacations No Comments

If you’re joining our Belgium Beer, Food & Walking Cultural Adventure, you’re in for a treat before the first sip is even poured. You’ll be exploring Belgium with our longtime local guide, Yannick de Cocquéau, one of the most passionate, knowledgeable, and genuinely fun beer experts in the country.

Yannick lives in Geraardsbergen but grew up in Ghent, a city he still proudly calls home. He embodies what he calls the “Burgundian Lifestyle.” This means living life to the fullest, savoring good food, great company, and the fermented treasures Belgium is famous for. His love of gastronomy runs deep. It shows in every story he tells, every brewery he introduces, and every tasting he leads.

What makes Yannick truly exceptional is his rare combination of expertise and warmth. He’s a certified beer sommelier, has brewed his own beers, guides tasting sessions for groups, and is actively involved in multiple beer associations. He was part of the team behind the renowned Zythos Beer Festival and even organizes international beer competitions. After years in the industry, he knows every Belgian brewer personally — and more importantly, he knows the stories behind their beers, their families, and their craft.

But Yannick’s palate doesn’t end with beer. His passion originally began with wine, leading him to become a wine sommelier as well. He remains involved behind the scenes of one of the world’s largest wine competitions, making him a true “pluralist” when it comes to all things fermented. Whether it bubbles, barrels, brews, or ages, Yannick can talk about it — and make you fall in love with it, too.

He’s guided Taste Vacations guests for many, many years, and his presence is often a highlight of the entire trip. Guests consistently rave about his enthusiasm, generosity, and ability to make everyone — from total beer newbies to seasoned enthusiasts — feel welcome and included.

Here’s what past travelers have said about him:

“Yannick was very attentive to all our needs and shared his time with all – always with a smile. He was so full of knowledge about both the culture, the areas we were visiting, and history of beer. Very impressed!”

“Yannick brought so much to the table with beer knowledge, local knowledge, and extraordinary energy and patience.”

When you travel with Yannick, you don’t just taste Belgian beer — you experience Belgium through the eyes of someone who loves this country deeply and wants to share that love with every guest. With him leading the way, you’ll gain insider access, meet the brewers behind your favorite pours, and leave with a deeper appreciation for Belgium’s beer culture than you ever thought possible.

If you’re thinking about joining us in Belgium, just know: you couldn’t ask for a better guide.

Jan 15
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Bordeaux wine

What to Expect on a Bordeaux Wine Tour: A Complete First-Timer’s Guide (2026)

By Taste Vacations, Wine No Comments

What to expect on a Bordeaux Wine Tour… if you’ve been dreaming of swirling a glass of world-class red while gazing over centuries-old vineyards, there’s no better place to start than Bordeaux. As one of the most prestigious wine regions on Earth, Bordeaux offers an unforgettable blend of grand châteaux, charming medieval towns, gourmet cuisine, and—of course—phenomenal wine.

But what actually happens on a Bordeaux wine tour? What should first-time visitors know before they go? Whether you’re planning your first tasting trip or joining our Taste Vacations Bordeaux Food & Wine 2026 Tour, here’s everything you can expect from the experience.

1. You’ll Taste a Wide Variety of Wines (Not Just Reds!)

Bordeaux is famous for its bold, structured red blends, but your tastings will likely include:

  • Elegant Left Bank Cabernet-forward blends

  • Silky Right Bank Merlot-driven wines

  • Crisp whites from Graves

  • Refreshing rosés

  • And even sweet Sauternes made from grapes touched by noble rot

2. You’ll Visit Both Grand Châteaux and Smaller Family Estates

Bordeaux is home to some of the most recognizable wine estates in the world—but the real magic often comes from visiting a mix of properties. Expect:

  • Legendary châteaux with ornate architecture and expansive barrel rooms

  • Smaller family-run estates where the winemaker pours your tasting

  • Historic cellars that date back centuries

  • Modern wineries experimenting with organic and biodynamic methods

Our Bordeaux Food & Wine 2026 tour combines both iconic names and intimate hidden gems.

3. You’ll Learn How Bordeaux Wine Is Made

Even if you’re not a wine geek, watching the process from grape to glass is fascinating. Tours often include:

  • Vineyard walks

  • Barrel cellar visits

  • Production explanations

  • Demonstrations of blending techniques

By the end, you’ll understand why Bordeaux wines taste the way they do—and you’ll be able to describe them with confidence.

4. You’ll Explore Charming Towns Like Saint-Émilion

A proper Bordeaux wine tour is about more than wine. Expect cultural experiences like:

  • Wandering the medieval village of Saint-Émilion

  • Touring its famous underground monolithic church

  • Enjoying local markets and riverside walks in the city of Bordeaux

  • Climbing the stunning Dune du Pilat, Europe’s tallest sand dune

5. You’ll Enjoy Spectacular Meals Paired With Local Wines

One of the highlights of any Bordeaux trip is the food. You can expect:

  • Multi-course meals

  • Fresh oysters from Arcachon Bay

  • Foie gras and artisan cheeses

  • Local specialties like canelés

  • Wine-paired dining experiences

On our tour, guests enjoy carefully selected restaurants and curated pairings designed to highlight the best of the region.

6. You’ll Get Insider Access With a Knowledgeable Guide

The right guide transforms a good trip into a great one. On a guided tour like ours, you’ll:

  • Meet winemakers

  • Access private tasting rooms

  • Learn about Bordeaux’s complex classification systems

  • Discover estates most travelers never get into

  • Receive personalized recommendations

A local expert removes the guesswork and opens doors—literally.

7. You’ll Leave With a Deeper Appreciation for Bordeaux

By the end of your trip, you’ll not only understand the wines—you’ll feel connected to the region. Most first-timers say they leave wanting to come back… and with a few bottles in their luggage.

If you’re ready to experience Bordeaux in an immersive, delicious, and culturally rich way, explore our Taste Vacations Public Bordeaux Food & Wine 2026 Tour for the ultimate first-timer-friendly itinerary.

Jan 09
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frequently asked questions

Frequently Asked Questions About Taste Vacations Culinary Tours

By Taste Vacations, Travel Tips No Comments

If you’re considering a culinary tour, it’s natural to have questions—especially if you’re comparing different tour companies or wondering what the experience will actually feel like. At Taste Vacations, we believe clarity builds confidence, so we’ve answered some of the most frequently asked questions travelers ask when planning a food, beer, or wine-focused trip with us.

Whether you’re curious about group size, pacing, or whether our tours are right for you, this guide will help you decide if Taste Vacations is the right fit for your travel style.

What makes Taste Vacations culinary tours different?

Taste Vacations specializes in small-group culinary travel designed to feel personal, relaxed, and thoughtfully hosted. Rather than packing each day with nonstop activities, our tours focus on meaningful food and drink experiences, regional culture, and time to savor the journey.
Guests choose Taste Vacations because they want:

  • Authentic food and wine experiences rooted in place
  • Small groups that encourage connection
  • A calm, well-paced itinerary
  • Real hosts who care about the experience

Our tours are about quality, not quantity—and that difference is felt throughout the trip.

Are Taste Vacations tours good for solo travelers?

Yes. Many Taste Vacations guests travel solo and find our tours especially welcoming. Small group sizes make it easy to connect with fellow travelers, and shared meals and experiences naturally create conversation and camaraderie.

Solo travelers often appreciate that our tours feel inclusive without being forced, allowing relationships to form organically.

How large are the tour groups?

Taste Vacations intentionally limits group size on public tours. Smaller groups allow for:

  • Better access to guides and hosts
  • More meaningful conversations
  • Greater flexibility during the trip
  • A more relaxed overall experience

This approach also helps create groups that travel well together, enhancing the experience for everyone.

Do I need to be a food or wine expert to join a tour?

Not at all. Taste Vacations tours are designed for curious travelers, not experts. Whether you’re passionate about food and wine or simply enjoy learning through experience, our tours meet you where you are.

Our hosts and partners provide context and insight without overwhelming guests with technical detail.

Are Taste Vacations tours highly scheduled or rushed itineraries?

No. Pacing is a core part of our philosophy. While each tour includes thoughtfully planned food, wine, and cultural experiences, there is also time built in to relax, explore independently, or simply enjoy where you are.

This balance helps travelers feel engaged without feeling exhausted—a common concern with traditional group tours.

Is a Taste Vacations tour worth the cost?

Travelers often tell us that what makes Taste Vacations worth the investment is the overall experience: the care, the pacing, the quality of experiences, and the relationships formed along the way.

Rather than paying for volume or extras you don’t need, you’re investing in:

  • Thoughtfully curated experiences
  • Expert hosting and local insight
  • Small groups and personal attention
  • A trip that feels meaningful and memorable

Can I ask questions before booking a tour?

Absolutely. We encourage it. Planning-stage travelers often have questions they don’t see listed on a website, and we’re happy to talk things through before you commit.

Whether you’re deciding between destinations, wondering if a tour fits your travel style, or simply comparing options, our team is easy to reach and happy to help.

Are Taste Vacations tours right for me?

Taste Vacations tours tend to be a great fit for travelers who:

  • Love food, wine, and cultural discovery
  • Prefer small groups over large tours
  • Value pacing and flexibility
  • Want a hosted experience that still feels personal

If that sounds like you, a Taste Vacations culinary tour may be exactly what you’re looking for.

Planning a future Culinary Tour?

Taste Vacations offers a curated selection of public culinary tours in Portugal, France, Belgium, and Italy, all designed for travelers who want to experience Europe through its food and drink—without rushing or crowding. And, we offer even more choices for private food, wine, and beer tours—gather your friends and family and you pick the dates—we do the rest.

Exploring your options early allows time for thoughtful planning and the best availability.

Jan 05
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The Taste Vacations Difference: Small Group Culinary Tours You’ll Never Forget

By Beer, Food, Taste Vacations, Wine No Comments

When it comes to food and wine travel, not all culinary tours are created equal. At Taste Vacations, we believe a great trip should go beyond checking off sightseeing boxes—it should immerse you in authentic, local flavors, warm hospitality, and memorable moments shared with like-minded travelers.

With over 30 years of experience in the travel industry (including our sister companies Zephyr Adventures and Travel Montana), we’ve crafted a unique approach to culinary tours that food, wine, and beer lovers keep coming back for.

Here’s what makes Taste Vacations the best choice for your next delicious escape:

1. Small Group Culinary Tours With Big Flavor

We keep our groups intentionally small—typically 15 guests or fewer—so you enjoy more personal attention, flexibility, and access to places larger tour groups can’t go. Whether you’re exploring a vineyard in Tuscany or sharing a meal in a local’s home in Georgia, our intimate group size fosters deeper connections and more authentic experiences.

2. Start in the City, Stay in the Storybook

While we often start or end our tours in major cities like Bilbao, Lisbon, or Florence for convenience, we spend the heart of the trip in charming, lesser-known towns that offer both tranquility and character. These hidden gems let you slow down, unwind, and truly taste the culture—without the crowds.

3. Real Local Experiences You Can’t Google

Our itineraries are built around hands-on, immersive moments—not lines and landmarks.

  • Cook a regional dish alongside a local chef

  • Visit small, family-run wineries you won’t find on TripAdvisor

  • Savor meals at under-the-radar restaurants the locals actually eat at

  • Enjoy private tastings, chef-led dinners, or visits to artisan producers

These aren’t your average culinary tours. They’re personalized, curated, and full of flavor—literally and figuratively.

4. Comfortable Luxury in Every Destination

From boutique hotels in French wine country to stylish guesthouses in Portugal’s coastal towns, we prioritize comfort, charm, and local flair. You’ll stay in unique accommodations that reflect the personality of the region, all while enjoying the level of luxury you deserve on vacation.

5. Local Guides Who Feel Like Friends

Every Taste Vacations tour includes a professional local guide who travels with you throughout the experience. Think of them as part concierge, part cultural translator, and part storyteller. Whether you need help ordering a regional dish, finding a quiet wine bar, or understanding a local custom—they’re there to support you.

6. Where We Go: Food & Wine Destinations Worth Traveling For

We lead culinary tours in some of the world’s most delicious destinations, including:

  • Italy – We start our tour in Florence, capital of the Medici, and hit major areas including Chianti, Arezzo, Assisi, and Montepulciano, with a side trip into Umbria.

  • France – We’ll taste a wide range of Bordeaux wines from both the Left and Right Banks

  • Spain & Portugal – Discover tapas, paella, vinho verde, and ginjinha

  • Chile, Argentina, South Africa, Australia & More

Explore all our destinations here →

💬 What Guests Are Saying

“It felt like traveling with friends—without the stress of planning. The meals, the people, the wine… it was perfect.” – Taste Vacations Guest

“Every day included something I never would have discovered on my own. You can’t put a price on that.” – Spain Taste Vacation Guest

Ready to Savor Your Next Vacation?

Whether you’re celebrating a milestone or simply craving an unforgettable escape, we invite you to join us on a tour that feeds your appetite for travel.

Don’t miss our special public tours that are open to everyone: