"I have always believed that good food and dining involve taking risks. Food has always been an adventure for me. With the rise of culinary tourism highlighted in the year 2024, are Indian travelers embodying Anthony Bourdain's philosophy by embarking on a journey that combines food and travel? From food-centric destinations to immersive culinary experiences, the culinary tourism trend aims to tantalize the taste buds of travelers. Let's delve into why combining food and travel should be part of your plans for the upcoming festive season. According to surveys, 82% of Indian travelers enjoy exploring new and local cuisines during their trips. Priya Ganguly, a graphic designer, believes that the essence of a place lies in its food, citing examples such as savoring a spicy Tisrya stir-fry in the Konkan region or indulging in Thai-style fish dishes in Thailand's Amphawa Floating Market. This culinary exchange not only revolves around food but also involves community engagement, understanding culinary traditions, local lifestyles, produce, and customs. Elina Mukherjee, an associate creative director, reminisces about her flavorful journey in Tuscany and her unforgettable experience with Uzbek cuisine, particularly their Plov dish. Additionally, 51.3% of travelers have specifically visited countries renowned for their cuisine. Entrepreneur Divya Gupta, who embarked on a culinary trip across South East Asian countries, allocated part of her budget to street food carts and Michelin-starred restaurants, showcasing her passion for exploring and savoring dishes at their origins."Embracing their inner food enthusiast, Indian travelers are increasingly drawn to culinary destinations around the world. A significant 24% of travelers are planning trips to countries such as Italy and Japan, where they can not only savor aperitivo and chanoyu but also immerse themselves in the local food culture. According to Arshdeep Singh, founder of a branding and design agency, destinations like Thailand, Italy, and London, known for their diverse culinary experiences, are high on the list for his future travels. Social media and online platforms have made it easier for travelers to discover and explore renowned restaurants before embarking on their journeys. Many travelers meticulously plan their dining experiences in advance, creating detailed lists of restaurants to visit. Additionally, a notable 55% of travelers express interest in participating in culinary workshops to learn how to prepare local dishes firsthand. These workshops offer a deeper dive into the culinary traditions of a destination, providing participants with engaging cooking experiences guided by experts. Travelers like Shrestha Saha appreciate the hands-on approach of these workshops, where they can visit local markets, cook, and enjoy authentic meals. The top international destinations capturing travelers' attention include Thailand, Japan, Italy, Vietnam, and New York, while popular domestic destinations include Delhi, Goa, Lucknow, and Kolkata. Looking ahead, South Korea, Italy, and Middle Eastern countries are among the upcoming holiday destinations that travelers are excited about visiting.According to the results of a Times of India Supplement poll, culinary tourism in India has experienced a 15% annual growth since 2019. Additionally, 59% of Indian travelers have reported visiting a destination specifically to dine at a particular restaurant, while 61% of global travelers are more interested than ever in learning about the origins of a destination's must-eat delicacies. Travelers are seeking traditional or ethnic dishes, local street food, immersive culinary experiences, as well as popular region-specific dishes and specialties in various countries. Popular examples include steaks in London, kebabs in Lucknow, eclectic food in Japan, wine in Italy, and renowned chef-driven restaurants like Pujol by Enrique Olvera and Hell's Kitchen by Gordon Ramsay.