Mouthwatering, soul-finding, tastebud-igniting foods are one of the many simple pleasures of traveling.
From the start of our travels, we trek through the airport in search of a meal to satisfy us while we wait for our journey to begin…
“Should I order a danish for the road, because airport calories don’t count? Or, treat myself to a savory 2-for-$25 meal from that pop-up Chili’s where I’ll pretend I’m working from my laptop so no one will disturb my affair with my burger?”
While inflight, we wait breathlessly for the snack cart…
“Salty pretzels, crispy chips, decadent cookies, and mini alcohol bottles for the taking? Excuse me, Flight Attendant? I think I need a larger seat.”
Shortly after taking our first steps onto new land, we encounter a never-ending lust for delectable zest. Our palates desire fresh vegetables, tangy chocolates, and jolts of decadence. And as travelers, we honor our taste buds with the exquisite flavors they deserve. We travel to explore new flavors of the world and with that, we experience meals that truly descend from heaven and beg us for more.
Upon my travels to Europe, the meals that usually piqued my interest were usually carb-induced, calorie-layered, button-popping dishes. Here are my absolute favorite plates that are sure to have you booking your next trip to ease the endless stomach gurgles:
1. Paella Perfection – Barcelona, Spain
This classic Spanish dish has everything you will ever need and desire. This colorful mixture of rice, seafood, and vegetables creates a warm, savory meal after a long day of exploring the Gothic Quarter.
2. Captivating Chocolate Crepes – Paris, France
Marie Antoinette might have said “Let them eat cake” but I truly believe you should let them eat crepes instead. You can’t go to Paris without treating yourself to a lustful chocolate crepe. Sticky, luscious, and syrupy, expect to walk away with a little splurt of dessert on your shirt.
3. Bewitching Butterbeer Ice Cream Cones – London, England
Harry Potter fans, unite. These butterbeer ice cream cones will give you the magic powers you so wish you possessed. If your sweet tooth is pining for your attention, satisfy it with this butterscotch-esque dessert. Explore the Warner Bros. Studio Tour in London, learn about the making for Harry Potter, and give your sweet tooth everything it desires.
4. Scrumptious Schnitzel – Berlin, Germany
Schnitzel and beer is a tale as old as time in Germany! Grab a knife, tighten your lederhosen, and “Prost” your neighbor. This German delicacy will have you fueled with enough energy to take on any and all drinking festivities.
5. Outrageous Oktoberfest Hot Dog – Munich, Germany
These enormous hot dogs are the perfect snack to indulge in while guzzling beer at Oktoberfest. Large enough to share with two people (although we won’t judge you if you eat the whole thing yourself!) this sausage is sure to satisfy.
6. Tantalizing Tortelloni – Bologna, Italy
My favorite meal of all has to be this creamy, velvety tortelloni from Bologna, Italy. Be prepared to melt in the cheese-stuffed pasta, complete with crisped to perfection prosciutto, and lightly sprinkled with chives. I can still remember the satisfaction after the meal and the desire for more. Never has a pasta compared to this dish, even after traveling throughout all of Italy!
7. Kick-Ass Kebabs – Paros, Greece
This Mediterranean meal was fresh, filling, and fit for the Gods. Found at a delightful little beach-side restaurant, the chicken shawarma kebab combined with a crisp Greek salad, hand-cut french fries, and a dollop of tasty tahini sauce provided all the excellence that Greece has to offer in one hefty plate.
8. Blissful Baklava – Athens, Greece
The sticky-sweet classic Grecian treat known as baklava is an acquired taste that normally I am not inclined to try. However, when in Greece, you must taste everything you can get your hands on! The pleasure you experience when you taste a flaky, honey-soaked bite of a real Grecian dessert is one that you will never forget. I can now officially say that Baklava (despite my hesitation) was one of the most surprising delicious treats I tried in Europe.
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