Photo credit: Georgian Agro Market MIR travel
Explore MIR Destinations Through Food and Drink
Culinary Adventures from the Mediterranean to the Silk Road
Are you the kind of traveler who loves to explore countries through their kitchens? Do you want to discover the world one bite at a time, immersing yourself in local cultures, people, and traditions? There’s no better way to deeply understand the origins, history, evolution, and current lifestyle of a place and its community than through its food. Can’t wait to dig in and experience it firsthand? Explore MIR destinations through food and drink. From tasting Mediterranean magic and traveling through the oldest winemaking region to learning about ancient recipes, here are 5 gastronomic destinations worth checking out.
1. Mediterranean Bliss in Croatia & Slovenia
Think of a place where the art of cooking enhances both the palate and well-being. Countless articles and studies celebrate the health benefits of the Mediterranean diet. Even back in the early 1950s, Minnesota physiologist Ancel Keys, known for linking saturated fat to heart disease, studied Mediterranean countries. He sought to understand why heart disease was nearly nonexistent there. His research confirmed that the Mediterranean diet, rich in wholesome, nutritious ingredients, was key to superior health.
Despite their geographic proximity and cultural exchanges, Mediterranean countries have distinct differences. Take Croatia and Slovenia. Croatian cuisine varies between Mediterranean seafood dishes and inland meat stews influenced by Central Europe. Slovenian cuisine blends Alpine, Mediterranean, and Central European flavors.
Now, picture yourself strolling among Croatia’s stunning Adriatic coastline, where the turquoise waters meet a brilliant blue sky. Here you can enjoy the fresh seafood and locally grown produce that form the heart of Mediterranean cuisine. In Slovenia, you’ll find a cohesive culinary tradition along the vibrant markets and charming villages. Here nearly every meal is a celebration of health and flavor.
2. Oldest Wine Making Region – South Caucasus
Surprise! The birthplace of winemaking isn’t France or Italy, but the captivating South Caucasus. In Georgia (Sakartvelo), wine residue on ancient pottery reveals an 8,000-year-old tradition, making it the true cradle of winemaking. Neighboring Armenia boasts one of the world’s oldest wineries, further cementing the South Caucasus as an ancient hub of viticulture.
But the allure of this region goes beyond its venerable wines. The South Caucasus offers a distinctive culinary heritage that is even more magical when savored during a traditional feast, accompanied by the harmonious strains of polyphonic music. Are you ready to dive into the wine, cuisine, and culture of this remarkable region? Join our small group tour to experience A Taste of Georgia, or explore the Treasures of the South Caucasus with MIR.
3. The Dish that Unites Silk Road Nations in Central Asia
Food is more than mere sustenance; it can be a cultural expression deeply rooted in history, a touchstone of community, a lens for regional pride, and even elevated to an art form. Plov, Central Asia’s signature rice dish made with meat, vegetables, and spices, is a perfect example. It is a staple pillar of Central Asian cuisine – nutritious and hearty enough to sustain people through labor-intensive activities and harsh climates. At the same time, it is made and shared communally, often featured as the literal and figurative centerpiece of important gatherings and celebrations. Each country (or even region, or sometimes city or village!) has its own variation of plov, showcasing local ingredients and techniques. Taste the differences and similarities throughout the ’Stans by sampling plov on a MIR trip through Central Asia. Explore cultural treasures beyond cuisine as well, such as Tamerlane’s architectural legacy and the nomadic heritage and traditions that have survived into the modern day.
4. Vegetarian-Friendly Poland
Would it surprise you to learn that Poland, renowned for its hearty culinary traditions, is swiftly becoming a haven for vegans and vegetarians? Leading the charge is Warsaw, consistently ranking among the world’s top vegan-friendly cities. The city’s vibrant food scene offers modern takes on traditional Polish dishes. Examples include a vegan version of beetroot soup (barszcz) and vegan pierogi filled with mushrooms or potatoes. Krakow, Gdansk, and Wroclaw are also embracing the plant-based movement, providing diverse options that showcase the deep culinary heritage of Poland with a contemporary, health-conscious twist.
Want to experience Polish food in a truly traditional way? Join a Polish family in their Warsaw home for the intimate Christmas Eve feast called Wigilia, where you can sample 12 different traditional dishes on MIR’s small group tour Christmas Traditions of Poland.
5. Sweet Escape for Dessert Lovers to Turkiye
Are you a sweet treat enthusiast, eager for delightful experiences that leave unforgettable tastes and memories? Then Turkiye is the perfect destination for you, with its array of sweets including Turkish delight, baklava, halva, nougat, and many more. Beyond its diverse variety of desserts, Turkiye is as vibrant as the Ottoman tilework adorning the Topkapi Palace. From Islamic architecture juxtaposed with modern infrastructure, to lively bazaars and Cittaslow towns like UNESCO-listed Safranbolu, Turkiye offers a haven for experiencing diverse cultures through its cuisine. Join MIR on a guided exploration of lesser-known parts of Turkiye or design your own experience with us.
