TORONTO — Luxury Gold is launching new and exclusive 2020 Culinary & Cultural Discoveries Themed Journeys to meet growing consumer demand for high-end, niche market trips.
Today’s traveller focuses on the ‘how to eat’ aspect of their culinary travels and seeks immersive experiences, full of learning in unique settings, says Brad Ford, president of Luxury Gold Canada
Specializing in luxurious and thoughtfully planned small group adventures, Luxury Gold is continuing to lead on this gastronomy trend, he adds.
“With our ability to connect to the culturally curious tastemakers, we know that one of the best ways to get to know a destination is through its memorable and unique cuisine along with the sharing of personal and historical stories,” says Ford.
“Food is no longer a simple pleasure, it connects travellers to local culture and traditions, fosters deeper appreciation and understanding, and creates memories and associations of visceral impact. That’s why we’ve introduced these new, exclusive, highly in-demand Themed Journeys, and with only one or two 2020 departures, space is limited so clients need to book soon or risk missing this opportunity.”
Mandy Kalitsis, groups manager for Luxury Gold Canada as well as South America and Greece expert, adds: “We are delighted to introduce these new journeys taking guests to South America and Greece, treating their palettes to exotic flavours and exposing them to cultural treasures. We hope clients will join us and inspire their senses with immersive experiences, local wines and culinary wonders in South America and Greece.”
Highlights of the new collection include …
. Peru Culinary Experience
This eight-day trip focuses on a bucket-list country that holds two of the world’s top 10 restaurants, including Central by Virgilio Martinez, the owner of Mil Restaurant, in the Sacred Valley. Guests will have the opportunity to experience the renowned restaurant and experience Peru’s culinary diversity. There’s also a fresh farm-to-table meal at a working hacienda and a Celebration Dinner in Cusco at Chicha por Gaston Acurio. Luxury Gold works with The Travel Corporation’s The TreadRight Foundation and travellers also visit the Center for Traditional Textiles of Cusco (CTTC) to meet local artisans including Nilda Callanaupa, a weaver, and bring home hand-made creations.
. Chile & Argentina Wine Experience
This eight-day trip includes a tango performance in Argentina, vineyards and wineries, the best Chilean restaurants and vistas from Valparaiso, the UNESCO World Heritage city centre. The journey “pairs the cuisine, wine and culture of Argentina and Chile perfectly.”
. Culinary & Cultural Greece
Seaside dining at Greece’s first Michelin-rated restaurant located on a land-based boat is just one of the standouts on this eight-day itinerary. Travellers also learn the art of making the perfect Greek coffee at a local kafenio (Greek café) in Athens before enjoying a VIP Experience in the afternoon, where they meet a Athenian scholar and philosopher in the Ancient Agora. Guests also travel to the island of Delos for a private guided visit to the birthplace of Apollo, a traditional farmstead experience and a freshly prepared organic meal.
