I am not a glutton – I am an explorer of food
If there’s one thing to know about Asians, it’s that they have a veritable obsession with food. Food, and the act of eating it, has had its significance in their culture since the days of emperors long past, and remains a vital part of their lives today – they are (notoriously) willing to travel far and wide, and spend inordinate amounts of time queuing for a sample of what they believe to be the best food in the world. It’s no wonder that cuisine is as much a crucial part of their travels as history, culture, and adventure. Here, we highlight a few food-themed itineraries that have caught our eye, whether it’s for their strong emphasis on eating local, their fusion of fashion and food, or their significance in uncovering a destination’s heritage. And everybody knows: calories don’t count when you’re on holiday.
Suspended in Time – Sipping on the Fruits of the Old World
Stepping into Venice is like entering a world frozen in time, a dreamscape where romance and mystery are still very’ much alive, and history and tradition are treasures to be revered. And if you’re an oenophile, there’s even more to look forward to! With Belmond Hotel Cipriani, visitors are invited to rediscover the Vineyards of Venice with a tour that will have you uncovering centuries-old estates, sipping on some of the rarest and purest blends in the world, and languishing in lush, sun-drenched vineyards – with wineglass in hand, of course.
The Vineyards of Venice itinerary begins with the “Associazione La Laguna nel Bicchiere” (Lagoon in a Glass Association), where you will find the rediscovered vines of the San Michele in Isola monastery. After much work and patience, these old vines have been meticulously restored to their ancient splendour, yielding Dorana and Malvasia varietals that will eventually be hand-harvested and pressed by foot! Modern methods and chemicals are eschewed for a completely traditional process, exactly like how the peasants used to do it in eras past. The second stop on the Island of Sant’Erasmo is where the French family Thoulouze produces the wine Orto, a blend of three original ungrafted varietals: the Fermentino, Fiano di Avellino and Malvasia Istriana.
Finally, pay pilgrimage to the Venissa estate on the Island of Mazzorbo, one of the last surviving examples of walled vineyards in the world. The entire farm stretches over two hectares, completely surrounded by medieval wall; a commemorative marble stone indicates that it was reconstructed in 1727, while a picturesque 14th century bell tower and an 11th century Roman Catholic basilica church, the Chiesa di San Michele Arcangelo, stand testament to the ground’s ancient roots.
