All-Inclusive Trip Packages: Does the trip price match the value?

Booking all-inclusive trip packages can be a great way to simplify your vacation, but it’s important to look beyond the advertised price to understand the true value. 

One Table Less Traveled traveler told us, “At the beginning of the trip, we thought the price was on the higher end (maybe too much). At the end of the trip, we thought the value was excellent. I believe we got more than our money’s worth. At no time did I think I was being short-changed or nickel-dimed to death. That’s a good feeling.” 

We want you to have this feeling before you book your trip! 

Many all-inclusive trip packages come with hidden costs or exclusions—such as meals, activities, or transportation—that can significantly increase what you’ll spend during your travels. 

With so many all-inclusive trip packages available, how do you know which one offers the excellent value that you’re looking for?

In this post, we'll break down the key components of various all-inclusive trip packages, helping you compare offerings and uncover any extra expenses so you can make an informed decision. If crunching the numbers isn't your thing, don’t worry - we’ve done it for you!

We compared our 11-day Inside Japan trip with two other similar small group trip experiences that focus on gastronomy, artisans, and exclusive experiences and that travel to comparable cities.

Number of Days, Group Size and Season of Travel

The first key factors to consider are the number of days, group size, and season of travel. Beyond the total price, it's important to compare value on an equal basis, which is why we calculated the average daily cost by dividing the total trip price by the number of days.

When it comes to group size, smaller is better, especially in Japan. Groups larger than 12 can feel unwieldy and limit access to more intimate, exclusive experiences.

Season of travel also matters. Peak season offers its own advantages (i.e. cherry blossoms and fall foliage) but often comes with a higher price tag and, of course, crowds.

As for trip length, consider how many stops are included and how long you'll spend in each destination. We recommend staying at least two nights in one place to avoid feeling rushed and truly immerse yourself in the destination.

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The results:

When you break down the numbers, while the The Table Less Traveled trip has the highest total price, it’s more affordable per day than Trip 2.

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Inclusions vs. Exclusions

Now that we’ve lined up these comparable all-inclusive trip packages, it’s time to dive into what's included—and what’s not.

A high quality all-inclusive trip package should always have:

• 24/7 tour host

• English-speaking guides

• Boutique accommodations

• All transportation

• All experiences from the moment you meet your group to the time you depart

This is where trips start to differentiate themselves. Many packages leave you responsible for transportation to and from the airport. And while most meals are usually covered, alcoholic beverages are typically excluded unless there's a special event like a sake tasting.

It's not uncommon to see itineraries where you're on your own for a meal or two, and we recommend this as well. It’s your vacation, and having some unstructured time can be refreshing! However, an itinerary with too many meals left on your own is a red flag. After all, no one wants to pay for a trip where they have to hunt down their food half the time or worry about covering the bill.

When we plan The Table Less Traveled Inside Japan Trip, we carefully design dining experiences that add immense value, transforming a meal into a cultural or culinary event. This is why we include as many meals as we do. Food is not just sustenance to keep going - food is a way to deepen our understanding of the culture and tradition, whether it’s ordering ramen using a vending machine or a traditional Buddhist lunch. 

Japan can also present challenges when it comes to accommodating dietary restrictions—especially for vegetarians, vegans, or those avoiding soy or gluten, as shoyu (soy sauce) and dashi (soup stock made from fish and kelp) are commonly used. 

Some tours even specify that they don't offer dietary accommodations for this reason. This can be a deal breaker for travelers who need special meals. Finding a tour that can cater to these needs adds significant value.

Finally, consider taxes and tips. It’s easy to overlook, but city taxes at hotels and tips for guides can quietly add up over a 9 to 11-day trip. Although tipping in Japan is not common in restaurants and hotels, it is becoming acceptable to tip guides and that expense should be included in your trip budget. Rarely will you find a package where all of these are included, but finding one can save you from unexpected costs later on. 

If these services aren’t included in your trip, here’s what you should expect to pay:

• A private transfer and airport meet and greet will typically cost between $200 and $300. 

• Budget around $30 to $50 per meal on average.

• And don’t forget tips—plan on $10 to $15 per tour guide.

These seemingly small expenses can significantly increase the overall cost of your trip if they’re not accounted for in advance. In addition, they can eliminate some of the ease you were looking for when you booked an all-inclusive group trip. If you’re mentally juggling tips, being on time, directions, and transportation, it can distract from being present and relaxed during your trip.

This is exactly why TTLT includes the level of inclusions that it does. You deserve to immerse yourself in your trip without any distractions. 

Once you factor in the additional costs of the trip exclusions, the picture changes.

TTLT trip exclusions:

• Two meals

Trip 2 exclusions:

• Airport transfers

• Tour guide tips

• Additional meals

Trip 3 exclusions:

• Airport transfers

• Tour guide tips

• Additional meals

• Alcoholic beverages

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The results:

When you do the math, including the cost of the exclusions changes Trip 3's per-day cost to be on par with the TTLT trip, even though it initially appeared much cheaper. Plus, Trip 3 is three days shorter! 

And while Trip 2 seemed like a better deal at $1,000 less than the TTLT trip, once you account for all the extra expenses, the total cost ends up being nearly the same. Plus, Trip 2 is two days shorter!

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Types of Experiences and Intangible Value

So far we’ve only taken into account the logistics and numbers when assessing the value of a trip. However, that is not the only thing you should take into consideration when deciding on an all-inclusive trip. 

High-quality all-inclusive trip packages offer much more than just covering the basics. The second part of your evaluation of the value of a trip is to look at what kind of experiences are included and their intangible value. This is where a small group trip adds real value through immersive and exclusive experiences. 

Look closely at how many cultural activities and hands-on experiences are included, versus how much unstructured free time you’ll have on your own. A well-curated itinerary strikes a balance between guided experiences and personal exploration. Too much free time can leave you feeling disconnected from the destination and confused as to why you booked an all-inclusive trip if you were just going to fill your time yourself.

Travel isn’t only about what you’ll do, but also who you’ll meet. Pay attention to whether the itinerary introduces you to local artisans, experts, or community members, and how you’ll engage with them.

Meeting locals and gaining deeper insights into their culture can elevate a trip from a simple vacation to an enriching, memorable journey. We talk about this further in our blog post Red Flags When Booking a Small Group Trip to Japan.

Read through the itinerary and make sure that your goals for the trip are achieved through the experiences you’ll have.

One of our Inside Japan travelers told us that she picked our trip because our itinerary wasn’t stuffed with temple and shrine visits, one after the other. She didn’t want to spend her entire trip to Japan visiting sites. She liked that we had hands-on experiences like a bowl carving experience, cooking classes, knife sharpening workshops, and more. 

Look closely at the itinerary because an itinerary that only highlights the sites you’ll see might be a sign that the tour lacks variety and depth. 

Traveling is about creating memories that go beyond the typical tourist experience (aka sightseeing). A well-rounded itinerary should include a healthy mix and balance of famous attractions and off-the-beaten-path, hands-on experiences. 

In conclusion, when choosing between all-inclusive trip packages, don’t just focus on the total price—consider the overall value. Take into account what's included, from meals and transfers to immersive experiences, and weigh the potential costs of any exclusions. By looking at the full picture, you'll be better equipped to select the trip that offers the best balance of experience and expense for you.

When you look at the final tally, if you’re looking for the best value in terms of money well spent, reducing your mental stress during your trip, and filling your time abroad with immersive and exclusive experiences, our Inside Japan trip is definitely the best fit for you.

For more on small group trips, check out these resources:

• What is social travel and is it right for you?

• Why small group trips are a great fit for solo travelers?

• Is the Inside Japan trip right for me?

Red Flags When Choosing a Small Group Trip to Japan

Planning a trip to Japan can be an exciting adventure, and a small group trip is a great choice because it can open doors to new friendships, unique experiences, and the confidence to know you can rely on a knowledgeable and trusted guide. However, not all small group tours are created equal. 

When comparing small group trips, keep an eye out for these 4 red flags before you take the plunge and commit to a trip. You want to make sure you completely understand what you’re signing up for and that it matches your trip expectations and goals.

1. Group size is more than 12

If a tour group has more than 12 travelers, your trip might feel less like an intimate exploration and more like a large-scale operation.

Larger groups often require bigger buses and are limited to visiting locations that can accommodate a crowd. This is important to pay attention to in Japan where spaces are naturally smaller and more confined than other countries. You might spend more time being shuffled from one tourist hotspot to the next rather than truly immersing yourself in the local culture.

Japan is a country best experienced up close and personal. Smaller groups allow for more flexibility and access to opportunities for meaningful interactions with locals. When the group is too large, the experience can feel impersonal, and you may end up feeling like just another tourist in the crowd.

2. Itineraries that only list temples, shrines, and famous sites

While Japan's temples, shrines, and famous sights are worth visiting, an itinerary that only highlights them might be a sign that the tour lacks variety and depth. 

Traveling is about creating memories that go beyond the typical tourist experience (aka sightseeing). A well-rounded itinerary should include a mix of famous attractions and off-the-beaten-path, hands-on experiences. 

You don't need to see every temple and shrine in Japan to have a fulfilling trip. Instead, seek out tours that offer a balanced mix of cultural, culinary, and local experiences that showcase the diverse and rich culture of Japan.

3. Itineraries that list what you’ll do and see, but not who you will meet

A truly immersive travel experience often involves meeting and interacting with locals who can provide insights into the culture and way of life.

If an itinerary doesn’t specify who you’ll be meeting, it could indicate that the tour is more focused on sightseeing than on providing genuine cultural exchanges.

Meeting locals and engaging in hands-on experiences is what turns a good trip into an unforgettable one. Whether it's a cooking class with a local chef, a visit to a traditional artisan's workshop, or a tea ceremony led by a master, these interactions allow you to connect with Japan in a more meaningful way.

Tours that prioritize these kinds of experiences demonstrate a commitment to offering more than just surface-level sightseeing and supporting the local communities they visit.

4. Itineraries that are not all-inclusive

If the tour price doesn't include tips, meals, and other small expenses, be prepared for costs to add up quickly. 

While a lower upfront cost may seem attractive, the reality is that you might end up spending more than you anticipated once these additional expenses are factored in.

All-inclusive tours provide a sense of financial clarity and peace of mind. When meals, tips, and other expenses are covered, you can relax and fully enjoy your trip without worrying about your budget. 

In many cases, all-inclusive tours offer better value for money, as they often include unique dining experiences and high-quality accommodations that you might not have considered otherwise.

Choosing the right small group trip to Japan requires careful consideration of what each tour offers beyond just the itinerary. While shopping around for your trip, avoid the red flags mentioned above and instead look for these green flags as an indicator of a good choice. 

Look for a small group trip to Japan with these green flags:

•  small group sizes

• diverse and thoughtful itineraries

• opportunities to meet locals

• all-inclusive pricing

At The Table Less Traveled, we carefully curate our Japan trip to be mindful of each of those green flags. Check out our Inside Japan trip and see if it matches your trip expectations and goals.

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Travel with us around the world on one of our multi-day small group food tours. Check out our itineraries to Italy, Japan, Peru, and more! Join us as we visit tea farms in Japan, sip on limoncello in Italy, and savor ceviche in Peru.

If you’re traveling abroad and don’t know where to start or want to tap into our travel expertise to make the most of your trip, check out our Custom Travel with booking service.  

More Travel Resources

Our Favorite Kitchen Products: Essentials for a Modern Kitchen

Hi there! It’s Christiana, TTLT’s Taste of Peru tour host.

As you can guess, here at TTLT, we love to cook and spend time with our friends and family around the table. 

I’ve spent the last few years researching and testing different kitchen products in my home and I’ve found a few that I absolutely love—items that have made cooking and organizing not just easier but more enjoyable. I hope you love them, too!

GreenPan Pots & Pans Set

GreenPan pots and pans are fantastic! They’re non-stick without any of the harmful chemicals. Everything cooks evenly, and cleanup is very simple. The set comes in so many beautiful colors, and makes cooking feel more luxurious.

Donabe Clay Cookware

These traditional Japanese earthen pots and pans are a great addition to any kitchen and can be used for cooking, steaming, and grilling. It’s a fantastic way to prepare rice!

Lomi Food Recycler

I used to have a curbside composting service when I lived in a large city, but since moving to a small town my only options have been to throw away my food scraps or make my own compost. I tried the traditional composting method but quickly realized it was not for me! 

I’ve had my eye on the Lomi and other brands for a few years but didn’t take the plunge until this year - I’m so glad I did! I collect my food scraps in the bucket provided, and when it’s full I put the bucket in the machine and let it do its thing. The Lomi dries, grinds, and breaks down my food scraps by turning them into “Lomi Earth” in just a few hours, which I can then mix into my soil or simply throw in the woods.

One of my goals in 2024 is to be more mindful of my household waste and reduce it as much as possible, and the Lomi has been a helpful part of that. I’ve had the Lomi for a few months and absolutely love it. If you have any questions about how it works or what my experience has been, leave me a comment below and I’ll be happy to go more in-depth.

Note: If your home is powered by coal, this may not be the best solution for you since the electricity required to run the machine essentially cancels out the environmental benefit. Please research before purchasing.

Vitamix Professional Series 750 Blender

I’ve had a few blenders over the years, but I upgraded to this Vitamix a few years ago and there’s no turning back! Whether I’m making morning smoothies or homemade peanut butter, this blender does it all—and does it well. The power and versatility of the Vitamix make it a true workhorse, and it’s worth every penny.

Digital Kitchen Scale

I do a lot of baking…like, a lot. And as we all know, baking is a science where precision is key. A digital scale makes it fast and easy to get accurate measurements for my favorite recipes, and it can also be a great help with portion control when meal prepping. It’s compact enough to tuck away in a drawer when you’re not using it and is inexpensive. I’ve had mine now for over 5 years and it still works great!

Cotton Produce Bags

I’m still surprised to see how many people use the plastic produce bags at grocery stores when we have so many great alternatives now. I’ve been using reusable produce bags for many years, and they’re awesome. They’re lightweight, easy to clean, and I feel good knowing I’m reducing my plastic waste. It’s one of those little swaps that just makes sense.

Salt & Pepper Grinders

A good set of grinders makes a big difference. After I saw Annie’s and Carly’s sets of Peugeot grinders, I knew I wanted my own! Being able to adjust the coarseness of the seasoning is great, and the freshly ground spices really do make food taste better. It’s one of those small touches that elevates even the simplest dishes. Plus, the grinders look great on the table, adding a bit of style to everyday meals.

Japanese Knives

We can’t say enough about these Japanese knives. They’re a joy to use—so sharp and precise. Plus, they’re beautifully crafted, so they add a touch of elegance to any kitchen. Whether we’re slicing veggies or fileting fish, these knives make the process smooth and effortless.

Spice Rack

I’ve always struggled to find a good organization system for my spices. I’ve been using this spice rack for a few years and it’s been a good solution so far. Many spice racks take up valuable counter space, but I like that this one stays flat against the wall. It’s compact and the print size on the labels makes it easy to glance and grab the jar I need.

TTLT Around the Table Recipe Collection

If you’re like us, you love exploring new cuisines! Our TTLT Global Recipe Collection is a great addition to any home cookbook library. The recipe collection will introduce you to so many amazing flavors from around the world, and you’ll enjoy trying out new recipes and learning about different cultures through the food. It’s a great way to bring some adventure into your daily meals!

These are the products that have made my kitchen a happier, more efficient, and eco-friendly space. I hope sharing them inspires you to find the tools that make your kitchen feel like home, too. Happy cooking!

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Travel with us around the world on one of our multi-day small group food tours. Check out our itineraries to Italy, Japan, Peru, and more! Join us as we visit tea farms in Japan, sip on limoncello in Italy, and savor ceviche in Peru.

If you’re traveling abroad and don’t know where to start or want to tap into our travel expertise to make the most of your trip, check out our Custom Travel with booking service.  

More Travel Resources

Tipping in Japan: Is it rude to leave a tip?

Did you know that showing gratitude in Japan is vastly different from what you might be familiar with in other destinations? It might surprise you that tipping in Japan is not necessarily the right way to show gratitude. This is why it’s important to do a little research on how tipping works in your destination. 

Tipping in Japan is a common question that comes up when we talk with travelers in our Travel Consulting Services. So we’ve consolidated a few “tipping in Japan” tips to know before your upcoming trip.

Do you tip in Japan?

The short answer is no. Unlike many Western countries, tipping in Japan is not a standard practice and can even be seen as rude or confusing.

Why is tipping rude in Japan?

In Japan, exceptional service is considered a part of the job, and employees take great pride in their work. You should not tip regardless of whether you're dining at a high-end restaurant in Tokyo or taking a taxi in Kyoto. Instead, Japanese service culture emphasizes hospitality, known as "Omotenashi," which ensures customers receive the best service possible without the expectation of additional compensation.

You can read more about How to Navigate Japanese Hospitality Etiquette to get a more in-depth understanding of the culture and tradition around Omotenashi.

Do you tip taxi drivers in Japan?

Taxi drivers in Japan do not expect tips (this includes telling them to keep the change). The fare you pay is all that is required.

Do you tip tour guides in Japan?

Professional tour guides and translators in Japan typically do not expect tips, although, with the increase in international tourism, it has been increasingly more common. A heartfelt thank-you or a positive review can also go a long way in expressing your appreciation. 

What to do instead of tipping in Japan?

If you feel compelled to tip, it's essential to do so discreetly and respectfully. Place the money in an envelope and hand it directly to the recipient with both hands and a slight bow. Avoid leaving cash on the table, handing over loose bills, or telling your host to “keep the change.” This can be seen as impolite.

One way that I like to show appreciation when I’m traveling in Japan is by bringing a small gift from my home. This is usually a small food item or snack and I usually give it to tour guides, restaurant owners, experience hosts, etc.

If you want to learn about other Japanese traditions and customs that you should be aware of before your trip to Japan, you can schedule a travel coaching call with Carly, our Japan tour host. She can answer any questions about tipping in Japan or other Japan related items, recommend trip modifications, and build your itinerary. 

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Travel with us around the world on one of our multi-day small group food tours. Check out our itineraries to Italy, Japan, Peru, and more! Join us as we visit tea farms in Japan, sip on limoncello in Italy, and savor ceviche in Peru.

If you’re traveling abroad and don’t know where to start or want to tap into our travel expertise to make the most of your trip, check out our Custom Travel with booking service.  

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Creative Ways to Remember Travels Once You're Home

The post-trip blues are real. 

That’s why we’re sharing four creative ways to remember travels once you’re back home so you can keep your memories alive long after your trip. We’ve found that the best trips are filled with moments that resonate with you and expand your perspective on life and the world around you.

These are a few creative ways to remember travels that encourage you to keep those memories front and center in your life and encourage you to continue to create more travel memories. And it’s a bonus that these travel keepsake ideas are easy and fun too.

Print a photo album

One of our favorite souvenirs you can bring home that takes up zero space in your suitcase is printing the photos you took during your trip once you return home. Photo albums are a great physical reminder of your trip, they make beautiful table decor, and they’re a fun way to share about your trip with others. The photo album companies that we love to use are Zno and Mpix. Here’s an example from one of our trips.

Make a trip video

Similar to having a photo album, if you have a lot of photos and videos from your trip, it’s very simple to piece them together into a trip video or hire someone to piece them together for you. You can do it on Instagram or iMovie.

Make and share recipes from your trip

We love this creative way to remember travels because it’s a way to gather people together and create new memories. We always recommend taking a cooking class when you travel because it’s a great hands-on experience to learn about a destination's cuisine and traditions.

And they often send you home with recipes! Once you’re home break out the recipes, invite friends, and share your dishes and new skills for the evening. If you don’t have any recipes, you can find one on the internet based on something you enjoyed eating or you can check out our Community Classes and see if we offer a cooking class with a chef from your destination. Gather your friends in the kitchen and get cooking and you’ll feel transported back to your destination.

Keep learning the language

Don’t let the learning stop! Travel is supposed to change you in some way, whether it piqued your interest in culture or inspired a new destination. Continuing to learn about the language or culture is one of our favorite travel keepsake ideas because it’s the gift that keeps on giving. Plus, it could potentially help you before your next trip to a destination that speaks the same language. A few of our team members use Babbel and they love it.

Jot down some post-trip thoughts in a journal

We love to self-reflect during and before trips; one way is through 5-minute journals. This is something that you can bring on the trip with you and fill out daily. Or you can jot down a few quick notes on your phone and then transfer them into your journal once you have more time. You don’t want to forget all the small details of your trip.

Let me know other creative ways to remember travels that you like to do when you get home from a trip. And if you’re already ready for your next big adventure, check out our small group trip destinations or reach out and let us know where YOU want to go and we’ll help you plan your trip around the world.

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Travel with us around the world on one of our multi-day small group food tours. Check out our itineraries to Italy, Japan, Peru, and more! Join us as we visit tea farms in Japan, sip on limoncello in Italy, and savor ceviche in Peru.

If you’re traveling abroad and don’t know where to start or want to tap into our travel expertise to make the most of your trip, check out our Custom Travel with booking service.  

More Travel Resources

Gathering for Pachamanca in Peru

Told by Christiana Jones, Taste of Peru Tour Host

A pachamanca is more than just traditional food in Peru, it’s an experience full of history and tradition focused on gathering together.

A pachamanca is a meal often found at special events and celebrations, which is fitting for our Taste of Peru trip. I’ve enjoyed a handful of pachamancas during the time I lived in Peru, including one at my wedding in Ollantaytambo. My family had never experienced this traditional food in Peru before and it was a special way to blend families and cultures. Now as I sit around the table and share a pachamanca with travelers on our all-inclusive trips to Peru, it feels full circle. I always enjoy seeing our travelers experience this piece of Andean heritage.

To make the moment even sweeter, on our Taste of Peru trip we have our pachamanca at one of my favorite spots in the Sacred Valley: The Albergue.

To get to The Albergue, we walk past strawberry farms and along a quiet dirt path. The surrounding Andes Mountains rise around you, and without any crowds or city noises it’s easy to simply be and enjoy the peace and simplicity of the Sacred Valley. 

Upon our arrival, we make our way through the large wooden door and into the organic farm bursting with flowers, plants, and lush vegetation. We meander our way around the property until the cooking hole and covered outdoor tables are in sight. Besides the cooking and dining area is a small distillery and coffee roasting facility where local spirits are crafted and coffee beans are hand-selected and toasted to perfection. 

Surrounding the wooden structure and outdoor table, the lush, green vegetation is a nod to the tradition behind the pachamanca. Pachamanca is often translated to “earth oven" or “earth pot” from the Quechua language. Sharing a pachamanca is a time to come together and enjoy the bounty from Pachamama, or Mother Earth.

We gather around the chef and his team as he explains the process - from how to properly heat the rocks to all the different native ingredients that are included, from potatoes and tubers to chicken, pork, lamb, and sometimes guinea pig. Finally, he seasons all of the ingredients with locally sourced herbs and spices.

The rocks have been heated in a fire for hours in preparation for our pachamanca so that they’re hot and ready for use. We gather around the hole and watch as the team carefully assembles a layer of hot rocks, then a clean sheet on top of the rocks, and then all the food on top of the sheet. They wrap the sheet around the food so that it is enclosed and protected from the final layer of rocks they add to the top. Once the food is wrapped and the rocks are in place, they shovel dirt on top so the heat stays inside, creating an earth oven. 

In the 20 to 30 minutes it takes to cook, we explore more of the farm and pop our heads into the distillery to see how they make their spirits. Often, I like to enjoy a cocktail and simply be outdoors surrounded by the awe-inspiring mountains and soak in the celebration that has become so familiar to me while simultaneously sharing in the uniqueness of a first-time experience with travelers.

Once the food is ready, we gather around the outdoor table for the unveiling of the perfectly cooked Pachamanca. We pass dishes family-style around the table and savor the delicious experience together.

Learn more about the other traditional food in Peru that travelers have on our trip to Peru!

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For more on traveling to Peru, don’t miss…

• Tipping in Peru : How much to tip in Peru?

• Best non-outdoor activities in Peru

• 4 Souvenirs in Peru: What to buy in Peru

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Travel with us around the world on one of our multi-day small group food tours. Check out our itineraries to Italy, Japan, Peru, and more! Join us as we visit tea farms in Japan, sip on limoncello in Italy, and savor ceviche in Peru.

If you’re traveling abroad and don’t know where to start or want to tap into our travel expertise to make the most of your trip, check out our Travel Coaching and Private Trips with booking service.  

No matter where you travel, we always recommend purchasing travel protection to safeguard against sudden changes or cancellations. If you don’t already have a preferred vendor, you can check out ours - Travel Insured - which offers a “Cancel for Any Reason” policy. 

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Returning to a Japanese Tea Farm

Told by Carly Dela Cruz, Inside Japan Tour Host

There are many sites and experiences to have in Japan’s cities, but one of the most unique experiences in Japan is 40 kilometers southeast of Japan’s ancient city of Kyoto, in the remote town of Wazuka. What brought me to live in a town of fewer than 4,000 people and a single karaoke bar? Why do we bring travelers here on our all-inclusive trip to Japan?

The answer is simple and delicious: tea. I came to Wazuka to sip, study, and steep myself in the world of Japanese tea as an intern on a traditional tea farm. And I can’t wait to introduce travelers to the same unique experience in Japan.

Wazuka prides itself on preserving the traditional art of making tea. With over 300 families dedicated to this craft, the town drinks, eats, breathes, and dreams of tea. As we arrive, the sweet scent of freshly harvested tea leaves intertwines with the crisp mountain air, promising an adventure that will awaken your senses in ways you never could have imagined.

In May, when we travel to Wazuka, it’s the most coveted time of year for tea farmers as the most prized tea leaves are ready to harvest. Still, rice paddies dotted with freshly planted seedlings reflect the panoramas hovering above them – crisp blue skies, soft pink cherry blossoms, and quaint farmhouses. The town springs to life as farmers uncover their harvesting machines and blow the tea dust off their processing machines in their factories in preparation for the spring harvest. 

The world of Japanese tea is often unknown to a lot of travelers and it’s easy to get lost in the vastness of it all. I recall the first time I learned how creative one can be with Japanese tea. Some fellow interns and I made our way to d:matcha, the closest local cafe (about a 45-minute walk) for lunch together on one of our days off.

D:matcha is first and foremost a tea farm. They also run a cafe that specializes in making sweets and savory dishes using different types of Japanese tea. 

As I perused the menu, my heart whispered to my senses after moving to Wazuka from Italy, guiding me to the sencha pesto pasta—a choice that would forever linger in my memory like a sweet refrain. It was like nothing I had ever tasted before! As I indulged in each forkful, the delicate grassy aroma of the green tea leaves mingled with the fresh basil's herbaceous perfume transported me to sun-kissed Italian gardens juxtaposed with misty Japanese tea fields. 

We sat there savoring our food in a shared silence punctuated only by content sighs and hums of satisfaction. Gazing out the window at the rows of tea fields across the river we folded origami cranes, talked about our home countries, and enjoyed our desserts made from d:matcha’s freshly harvested tea.

It was months filled with moments of discovery like this that transformed Wazuka into a cherished chapter of my life making Wazuka a home away from home. 

Fast forward four years, and I find myself, nestled in the same cozy café, savoring the familiar aroma of sencha pesto pasta that changed my world. Each bite feels like a reunion with an old friend, perhaps even better than I remembered, as the flavors evoke memories of past encounters and distant dreams.

Only this time, I’m joined by Daiki, the passionate soul behind d:matcha, whose eyes twinkle with tales of his Tokyo origins and his courageous journey to the countryside. As he shares the story behind d:matcha's inception and the reasons for relocating his café even deeper into the tranquil wilderness, I can't help but marvel at the serendipity of our reunion and imagine our Inside Japan travelers hearing his story and experiencing Wazuka the way that I have. 

Back in 2019, when I bid farewell to Wazuka, little did I anticipate my swift return, let alone the joy of introducing Wazuka and its people to fellow travelers from The Table Less Traveled. 

It's a moment suspended in time, where nostalgia mingles with newfound connections, and every sip of tea holds the promise of another chapter in our shared adventure.

Learn more about the other unique experiences in Japan that travelers have on our all-inclusive trip to Japan!

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Travel with us around the world on one of our multi-day small group food tours. Check out our itineraries to Italy, Japan, Peru, and more! Join us as we visit tea farms in Japan, sip on limoncello in Italy, and savor ceviche in Peru.

If you’re traveling abroad and don’t know where to start or want to tap into our travel expertise to make the most of your trip, check out our Travel Coaching and Private Trips with booking service.  

No matter where you travel, we always recommend purchasing travel protection to safeguard against sudden changes or cancellations. If you don’t already have a preferred vendor, you can check out ours - Travel Insured - which offers a “Cancel for Any Reason” policy. 

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A Market Visit in Kota Kinabalu

Told by Annie Sim, Discover Malaysia Tour Host

Throughout our journey you’ll develop a deepening love of tropical fruits, oodles of noodles, roti canai, teh tarik, satay for days, and more… but truthfully the most outstanding part of the trip will be the relationships and connections that flow so naturally and stepping into that loving community. This is what creates the best place to travel in Malaysia.

One of those relationships that feels like reuniting with long-lost friends is when we’re in Kota Kinabalu (a small town on the island of Borneo) and I get to introduce you to my friends Adam and Joanne. They emanate welcomeness, sharing their passion for food, flavor, and their home with others. 

We meet them at the crowded front of the market bustling with people walking in and out as they shop for their daily ingredients. Adam and Joanne welcome everyone with smiles and then walk us through the market introducing us to the Aunties and Uncles from whom they purchase their normal provisions. 

You’ll quickly learn that ‘Auntie’ and ‘Uncle’ are terms of endearment, not reserved for family members, but to show warmth and respect to those you encounter in everyday life.

As we walk through the market, we open the doors to curiosity and fire off questions to Adam and Joanne. Pointing out different fruits, asking about what they are used for, and of course, buying them so we can give them a try later in the day. Try and keep up with Joanna and Adam while simultaneously trying to drink in everything the stalls have to offer. 

We’ll stop at the stall filled with slippery, fresh-caught fish, stingrays, and squid, and ask questions about all the different kinds of fish and seafood. Make sure to watch the way that the vendors divide their responsibilities, some scaling fish on large wooden chopping boards on the floor, wielding butchers’ knives larger than you’ll ever see. 

We walk through the fruit stalls, spotting myriad different shapes, colors, and sizes of fruits that are completely foreign to you. If we’re lucky, the vendors might just open a mangosteen on the spot for you - and I promise you’ll immediately fall in love with its sweetness and tang. A flavor and smell that reminds you of a mixture of a clementine and a kiwi, infused with some other magical, unique flavor. 

After a stroll through the market, we settle in at a local’s local kopitiam (coffee shop). We gather around a table in the signature Malaysian orange plastic chairs and begin our ordering. This is an education in itself as Joanne explains the numerous different ways coffee (and tea!) can be ordered like a local…putting even the masters of coffee in Italy to shame. 

Sipping on your preferred variety - iced? Hot? Sweetened condensed milk? With water? You get to choose. We all recognize the ‘bingo card’ of coffee options we have to explore over our next few days in Malaysia. 

While the options abound for our next foodie stop (and Adam & Joanne are the pros, running the foodie site ‘Sabaheats’), there isn’t anything available to the public quite like having a snack at their own home. As Adam & Joanne open their doors, the warmness I previously mentioned is apparent.

Their house is a place of love and of living - photos of family and friends adorn the walls, books live on the shelves and Adam’s mom’s favorite music plays from a distant room. Truly, one of the best places to travel in Malaysia. They tour us around their garden, sharing the pursuits and experiments they’ve tried growing. Then we gather in the kitchen as Joanne unwraps the recent newspaper to use as a covering for the table. And - we dig in. 

Our earlier purchases of fruits are poured onto the table, making space for Joanne to demonstrate how to peel, open, or eat each new piece. Tea is poured and sipped. Those feeling brave and bold, are welcome to try their hand at hacking the durian open with a butcher’s knife outside the front door. If they’re successful, we’re all made abundantly aware as the pungent fruit’s smell fills the home. 

You’ll sit back at the table sampling little bites of fruits and process the newness of the market mixed with the familiarity and warmth of friends you experienced during the day. It gives you an insight into the loving community of Malaysia and a fuller picture of what Malaysia has to offer. 

Learn more about the other best places to travel in Malaysia that travelers visit on our Discover Malaysia trip!

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Travel with us around the world on one of our multi-day small group food tours. Check out our itineraries to Italy, Japan, Peru, and more! Join us as we visit tea farms in Japan, sip on limoncello in Italy, and savor ceviche in Peru.

If you’re traveling abroad and don’t know where to start or want to tap into our travel expertise to make the most of your trip, check out our Travel Coaching and Private Trips with booking service.  

No matter where you travel, we always recommend purchasing travel protection to safeguard against sudden changes or cancellations. If you don’t already have a preferred vendor, you can check out ours - Travel Insured - which offers a “Cancel for Any Reason” policy. 

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An Unforgettable Lunch in Capri

Told by Kathryn Bogley, Heart of Italy Tour Host for our culinary trips to Italy

There is something incredibly special and, dare I say, magical, about the Island of Capri. Many go for the shops, celebrity-spotting (or if you’re a celebrity, to be seen), the handmade sandals, the views, the blue grotto–but what makes Capri special to us, are our friends Domenico, Maria, and sharing lunch with three generations of their family. 

To reach Domenico and Maria’s home, we wind our way up the mountain from the charming Marina Grandeto to the picturesque town of Capri, then on to our final destination of Anacapri. With each step, the world around us falls quieter and quieter. 

Domenico guides us through the glamorous shop-lined streets of Capri before whisking us away on an intimate tour of the lush Augustus gardens. Amidst the flourishing greenery and overlooking the majestic cliffside, we find ourselves lost in the ethereal panorama of sparking turquoise waters and the famous Faraglioni rocks.

 Our journey continues with a private drive up the hillside to Anacapri. Domenico leads us through the quaint streets of Anacapri and we end up on a residential street, where our presence draws gentle glances from the locals, intrigued by the rare sight of travelers venturing this far off the path.

We arrive at the gate to Domenico’s home which opens up to their beautiful patio and garden. Here, amidst the fragrant blooms and dappled sunlight, awaits a feast for both the senses and the heart.

As we arrive, we are embraced by the warmth of Domenico's wife, Maria, carrying their child on her hip, while her parents, extend their heartfelt welcome.

Together, we are ushered into their garden patio and begin sipping on cool, crisp white wine, a perfect respite after spending the day in the warm island sun. A delectable spread of fresh mozzarella, olive oil, and crostini is laid out on the table for us to snack on while Maria gracefully demonstrates how to make her cherished family lemon cake recipe. We enjoy our own live private cooking show while Domenico and their daughter look on to supervise! We feel right at home as we gather around Maria, asking questions to ensure we don’t miss a single step, all while soaking up the shade from the leafy canopy and lemon trees overhead.

To our surprise, Maria lets us in on a secret: the cake reaches its peak perfection after a day of rest. With mischievous glee, she reveals that she has already prepared one in advance, tucked away in the kitchen, ready for us to enjoy after lunch.

When you dine with an Italian family, you’ll quickly learn there’s never a moment when the food runs out. Seconds are always available and readily given despite half-hearted protest attempts.

Our lunch on the island of Capri with Domenico, Maria, and their family is no different.

Generous helpings of ravioli, manacone pie, and lemon cake are passed around their patio table until everyone has had their fill of the best Caprese comfort foods.

For lunch, Maria hand-made ravioli which is a recipe specific to Anacapri and their family. It’s arguably one of the best bites of the whole trip and it takes a lot of willpower

not to fill up on the ravioli alone while there are more delicious dishes to come. To be exact, manacone pie. A savory, meaty, carby dish that feels like the ultimate comfort food. In between bites, Domenic and Maria share stories about growing up and falling in love on the island. 

Maria then brings out her famous lemon cake, delicately dusts it with powdered sugar on the table, and puts the final touch of fresh sliced lemons on top. You can smell the fresh citrus from the lemons mixing with the sweetness of the cake.

No matter how full you may be from lunch, a subtle longing stirs within as you realize that perhaps, just perhaps, there is still a hint of space reserved for a slice, perfectly complemented by a glass of crisp, white wine.

Even though you’ve only been on Capri a day, you get a true sense of the spirit of the place. Sure there are the glitzy polished shops and bejeweled handmade sandals, but the heart lies with our new friends and their generations of family welcoming us into their small island town. 

Visit Domenico, Maria, and their family with us on our culinary trips to Italy!

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Travel with us around the world on one of our multi-day small group food tours. Check out our itineraries to Italy, Japan, Peru, and more! Join us as we visit tea farms in Japan, sip on limoncello in Italy, and savor ceviche in Peru.

If you’re traveling abroad and don’t know where to start or want to tap into our travel expertise to make the most of your trip, check out our Travel Coaching and Private Trips with booking service.  

No matter where you travel, we always recommend purchasing travel protection to safeguard against sudden changes or cancellations. If you don’t already have a preferred vendor, you can check out ours - Travel Insured - which offers a “Cancel for Any Reason” policy. 

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The 3 best travel apps for navigating a new city

Getting lost in a new city may sound romantic but it doesn’t feel that way when you’re on a tight schedule trying to get a specific destination. 

In that case, getting lost can feel overwhelming, stressful, and not fun at all. In the instances where you’re trying to get from point A to point B, these are the best travel apps to help you navigate a new city on foot or public transportation.

Uber

…but not for the reason you think. Uber is a great resource for finding on-demand local bike companies. So if you’re in a city with good bike lanes and you’d like to explore by bike check out Uber. You can either book your bikes through Uber or find out which company is local, download their app, and then book through them.

Citymapper

One of the best travel apps for public transportation mapper! You can filter for walking, taking the bus, underground, ferries, and other modes of transportation. The app also updates you on travel times and lets you know if your ride is running behind. This is a must-have when navigating a new-to-you city. Our team member, Kathryn, found it more detailed and reliable than Google Maps when navigating London and New York.

Moovit

Another great public transportation app to try out. Our team member, Christiana, used it in Lima and found it very useful. It gives very detailed instructions like how to walk to the bus stop, which bus line to go to, which bus to get on, which stop to get off at, and walking directions to the final destination.

The best travel apps we mentioned above are a great choice if you’re trying to get somewhere specific and avoid getting lost in the process. But we want to be clear that getting lost isn’t something that should be completely avoided while traveling. We agree that having an itinerary with a variety of scheduled experiences is an important part of making the most of your time. But rigidity in your itinerary doesn’t leave room to stumble upon something unexpected. Getting lost in a new city is a romantic notion for a reason. 

A well-rounded itinerary allows for wiggle room to wander. In the article, The Art of Being a Flâneur, Stephanie Rosenbloom writes, “To walk a city led by your senses rather than a destination is to awaken to the city and, possibly, to yourself. It’s an opportunity to expand your capacity for wonder, to discover and delight in things you might have missed had you been aiming to get somewhere.”

Those moments of being led by your senses rather than a destination can result in some of the most special moments because you never know what you might discover. When you’re focused on getting to a destination, your mind and eyes are zeroed in and might miss the little cafe or the small shop. When you’re not distracted by a destination, your mind is open to noticing everything around you.

If you need guidance on how to incorporate both of these styles of travel into your upcoming trip, check out our travel coaching and we can help you build an itinerary that provides you with thoughtful experiences and makes sure you get lost only when you want to. 

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Travel with us around the world on one of our multi-day small group food tours. Check out our itineraries to Italy, Japan, Peru, and more!

If you’re traveling abroad and don’t know where to start or want to tap into our travel expertise to make the most of your trip, check out our Travel Coaching and Private Trips with booking service.  

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The 4 best food travel apps for finding the best local bites

Do you ever get stuck scrolling through restaurant reviews on Yelp when you’re traveling? Let us stop you right there. There is a better way to find reliable reviews and good eats on your journey. Our team at The Table Less Traveled compiled a list of the best food travel apps that we use when we’re traveling in Japan, Italy, and beyond. 

From finding local dishes or the best off-the-highway stops, these are the best food travel apps to give you a starting point for a great meal. We’d still recommend that you do a little research to make sure that the restaurant you choose matches the goals for your meal whether you’re eating for enjoyment or eating for energy. But these best food travel apps are a better kick-off point than a last-minute Google search.

Ramen Beast

This is the best food travel app for finding ramen in Japan. It covers dozens of different cities and provides numerous options, so you should be able to find a place regardless of the city you’re visiting. Bonus, it’s free to download and use!

Fuoricasello Guida Ristoranti

If you’re road-tripping across Italy, check out Fuoricasello Guida Ristoranti. This is the best food travel app for road trips because it recommends restaurants with good eats all near highway exits to make pausing for meals way less of a hassle. 

Osterie d’Italia

This app was created by Slow Food Editore and is a lifesaver when you’re traveling through Italy and looking for the best local and traditional venues near you. You can search by what you’re in the mood for whether it’s a specific dish or drink. The app is primarily in Italian so be prepared to do a little translating if you’re less familiar with the language. You can read more about it in - “Your Guide to Italy’s Osterie, an app from Slow Food Editore”. 

World of Mouth

One of our favorites and the best food travel app is World of Mouth because it covers so many places. This food-finding app has hundreds of recommendations for thousands of destinations around the world. It’s a restaurant guide that was created and is continually updated by a global community of experts. You can find everything from pizza places recommended by locals in New York to the best street food in Tokyo and much more. You’re covered no matter where you travel.

For food-loving travelers, these are the best food travel apps that we use personally on our travels. We’d recommend them to anyone who wants a leg up in finding local and delicious meals while on a trip. If you think that your best food travel app is missing from our list, let us know and we’ll get it added.

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Travel with us around the world on one of our multi-day small group food tours. Check out our itineraries to Italy, Japan, Peru, and more!

If you’re traveling abroad and don’t know where to start or want to tap into our travel expertise to make the most of your trip, check out our Travel Coaching and Private Trips with booking service.  

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3 Culinary Destinations for 2024

It comes as no surprise to us that 27% of US travelers say indulging in local cuisine ranks high on their activity lists when exploring a new destination (Hilton). 

As a boutique travel company that specializes in food-focused travel, our small group trips highlight local cuisines and how to enjoy them in the most authentic way possible. This means eating regional and seasonal fare, getting our hands dirty in cooking classes, joining our friends for a home-cooked meal, and so much more. 

We’ve done extensive research on the best restaurants, street food, and food tours in destinations around the world and we could confidently recommend the best places to eat in dozens of cities. All that said, these three culinary destinations for 2024 have our stamp of approval.

Emilia-Romagna, Italy

Sometimes we lump all Italian food together and don’t recognize that different regions of Italy have been specializing in specific Italian dishes and products for hundreds of years. Emilia-Romagna is a culinary destination for 2024 because it is home to some of the most iconic and delicious Italian dishes - oh, and some of the best wines in the world. 

Did you know that Emilia-Romagna is home to the factories and farms of DOP Parmigiano-Reggiano, balsamic vinegar, and Prosciutto di Parma? DOP acts as a legal guarantee by the European Union that you are getting the real authentic stuff. It’s only given to the farms and factories that are family-owned and have been doing this for generations, are still passing down the traditions associated with these ingredients, and are producing the most authentic versions.

Not only are they producing the best of the best when it comes to those ingredients, but Emilia-Romagna is also home to famous wines, ranging from Lambrusco to Sangiovese. These wines complement the food that you’ll eat here and we recommend adding a wine tasting to your itinerary.

If you’re looking to taste the best that Emilia-Romagna has to offer, join our Heart of Italy Food Tour in 2024. You’ll visit family-owned farms, factories, and vineyards and sample each of their delicious offerings right there where they’re being made. You’ll talk to the owners and families and hear about their history, culture, and the process that goes into production. It’s an educational and mouth-watering experience.

Foods to Try in Emilia-Romagna: Parmigiano-Reggiano, Tagliatelle, Tortellini, Ragù Bolognese, Lambrusco

Lima, Peru

Lima might be a surprising addition to our list of recommended culinary destinations for 2024, but you are in for a treat. With flavors crafted from the freshest Pacific Ocean and Andean ingredients and a fusion of Peruvian, Spanish, African, and Asian influences, Lima is home to some of our favorite dishes.

We encourage you to explore not only the culinary dishes of famously renowned chefs like those at Central, Maido, and Astrid & Gastón, but also sample street food to experience famous Peruvian foods.

Another foodie experience that puts Lima on the map as a culinary destination for 2024 is the Andean tradition of a Pachamanca. Pachamanca often translates to “earth oven” or “earth pot” from the Quechua language and is a traditional Inca meal cooked on hot rocks in the ground. What is included in a Pachamanca varies depending on who is preparing it, but often there will be two to three different types of meat (pork, chicken, and lamb are common), sweet potatoes, different varieties of Andean potatoes, Andean corn, and fava beans. Pachamanca is more than just a meal, it’s an experience full of history and tradition.

We designed our Taste of Peru small group trip to intertwine these two different culinary experiences. We love to show travelers the home style of Peruvian cooking AND the creative genius at restaurants from Pellegrino's list of "The World's 50 Best Restaurants".  

Foods to Try in Peru: Ceviche, Anticuchos, Picarones, Lomo Saltado, Choclo con Queso

Check out our blog post “5 Favorite Peruvian Foods and Easy Places to Find Them” for a more detailed description of each dish and our favorite places to enjoy them.

Osaka, Japan

Did you know that Osaka is known as the "Kitchen of Japan"? That is definitely a culinary destination for 2024 criteria. There you will find a unique blend of traditional and modern cuisine, from street food culture to Michelin-star restaurants. 

We recommend taking a walking food tour through street markets like the Kizu Market which is a real market for retailers or Tenma Shopping Street which is the longest shopping street in Japan to try iconic Japanese dishes and to sample cuisines that you might not find on your own. Osaka is also home to a thriving sushi and seafood scene in the Dotonbori district. 

The perks of traveling to Japan with a 24/7 tour host means that you have someone to guide you through all your culinary choices. In fact, on our Inside Japan tour, we have strategically planned out each meal and experience to give you the most well-rounded culinary experience while exploring the country.

Foods to Try in Osaka: Tamago Kake Gohan, Shabu Shabu, Yoshoku, Shojin Ryori, Okonomiyaki, Kushikatsu

Check out our blog post “5 Foods to Try in Japan that Aren’t Ramen, Sushi or Tempura” for a more detailed description of each dish, how to eat them, and where you can find them. (And we do think you should also try ramen, sushi, and tempura while you’re there, but don’t be afraid to try something you’ve never heard of before!)

Honorable Mention

Florence, Italy is another culinary destination for 2024 that we have to include. There are so many good bites that you should check out our blog post “6 Foods to Eat on a Florence Food Tour”. That article will ensure that you don’t waste a single bite on something that’s not delicious, local, and highly recommended.

As a boutique travel company that specializes in food-focused travel, culinary destinations for 2024 are our expertise. Travel with us on a small group trip where we take you to some of the best culinary destinations in the world and ensure that every bite is highly curated and unique. (Seriously, every meal except for two is included in your trip.) Check out all our 2024 small group trips.

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Travel with us around the world on one of our multi-day small group food tours. Check out our itineraries to Italy, Japan, Peru, and more! Join us as we visit tea farms in Japan, sip on limoncello in Italy, and savor ceviche in Peru.

If you’re traveling abroad and don’t know where to start or want to tap into our travel expertise to make the most of your trip, check out our Travel Coaching and Private Trips with booking service.  

No matter where you travel, we always recommend purchasing travel protection to safeguard against sudden changes or cancellations. If you don’t already have a preferred vendor, you can check out ours - Travel Insured - which offers a “Cancel for Any Reason” policy. 

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6 Foods to Eat on a Florence Food Tour

Our #1 tip when traveling to a foodie destination like Florence is to book a Florence Food Tour. You don’t want to waste a single bite on something that’s not absolutely delicious, local, and thoughtfully recommended. 

Incorporating food tours into our itineraries is something we do on each of our small group trips. Our travelers rave about the Other Side of Florence Food Tour which is a part of our Heart of Italy small group trip. They love the variety of Florentine dishes they get to sample and getting to hear about the culture and process behind each dish.

On our Heart of Italy trip, our travelers are led by a local guide through the Oltrarno district which is a hidden gem just outside of Florence that rarely is visited by tourists, and feels ultra-local and cool. No seriously, Lonely Planet rated it one of the coolest places to hang out in the world recently. 

Here are the six dishes we eat on our Florence Food Tour, that we and our Italy travelers recommend you try while you’re in Florence. Or come eat and explore with us on our Heart of Italy trips in 2024.

Cantucci and Vin Santo

This is what we would call biscotti and a very sweet dessert wine. The best way to eat the biscotti is to dunk it once or twice in your Vin Santo. We stop at a family-owned historical artisan bakery and get to go behind the counter to watch the biscotti-making process and chat with the owner who has been baking there since 1973 when the shop was passed to him from his father. 

Wine window!

What’s a Florence Food Tour without stopping at one of the unique wine windows in Florence? If you’re not looking out for one you might miss it. There are small arched windows in the wall along the street. You can order a variety of different wines and they’ll pass you a glass through the window.

Lampredotto

A classic Florentine dish that you can’t skip, although it often has a polarizing reaction. Lampredotto is made from stewing the lining of a cow’s fourth stomach. This dish is made into a sandwich with salsa verde. This dish is very popular and traditional in Florence, so if you want to eat as the locals do then don’t skip the Lampredotto. 

Gnudi

So many delicious ways to enjoy gnudi and Florence is the place to try them. During our Florence Food Tour, we stop at a small, family-run trattoria to enjoy gnudi that is made right in front of us. We recommend gnudi in a butter sage sauce but you really can’t go wrong with any type of gnudi.

Charcuterie

Enjoy a variety of delicious and locally sourced cheeses. A few of our favorite bites include Parmigiano Reggiano, Pecorino, and Asiago. You can find them in some restaurants or bars. Our travelers love that we stop to enjoy charcuterie in a wine cave. 

Gelato

You can’t leave Florence without enjoying a cone of gelato. But be on the lookout to avoid gelato impersonators and ensure you’re getting the authentic stuff. Avoid gelaterias where gelato is piled in tall towers. This is not real gelato because it would fold under its weight. The best gelato is typically “hidden” within the counter, kept cold, and has lids that must be removed to serve.

Make sure every bite counts on your trip to Florence! And if food is one of the biggest reasons you’re traveling to Italy, our Heart of Italy Food Tour is perfect for you. This 9-day food tour explores the cuisines of a variety of regions, introduces you to owners of local factories, farms, and vineyards, and you even get to experiment in the kitchen and cook some of these dishes yourself!

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Travel with us around the world on one of our multi-day small group food tours. Check out our itineraries to Italy, Japan, Peru, and more! Join us as we visit tea farms in Japan, sip on limoncello in Italy, and savor ceviche in Peru.

If you’re traveling abroad and don’t know where to start or want to tap into our travel expertise to make the most of your trip, check out our Travel Coaching and Private Trips with booking service.  

No matter where you travel, we always recommend purchasing travel protection to safeguard against sudden changes or cancellations. If you don’t already have a preferred vendor, you can check out ours - Travel Insured - which offers a “Cancel for Any Reason” policy. 

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Wineries Not to Miss in Walla Walla

If you’re headed to the heart of Washington's wine scene, the number one thing you should know is which wineries not to miss in Walla Walla. In a region overflowing with wineries, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. So, we've narrowed it down for you. We’ve planned an entire weekend of Walla Walla wine events to introduce you to our friends who are also owners of some of the best vineyards in the area. If you don’t want to plan your weekend trip to Walla Walla and make arrangements, join us for exclusive experiences only available with The Table Less Traveled on our Walla Walla Wine Weekend.

In the meantime, we’ll cut through the noise and point you straight to the wineries not to miss in Walla Walla that we will be visiting on our weekend of Walla Walla wine events.

Check out the three best spots to sip and savor at wineries not to miss in Walla Walla.

Devison Vintners

The owners, Peter and Kelsey, have spent most of their entire adult careers in the wine industry (37 combined years). Devison Vintners brings to life small lot native wines with complexity, depth and character that showcase the typicity of Washington’s best vineyards.

You can book a private seated tasting with Peter and Kelsey and get a tour of their current releases.

On our Walla Walla Wine Weekend Event, we will meet with Peter and Kelsey at their vineyard. They will guide us through their vineyard and lead a tasting for us in their cellar (an experience not available to the public.) We’ll sip on a handful of wines and snack on charcuterie bites, while we learn about the wines and what makes them unique.

Valdemar Estates

Valdemar Estates is led by fifth-generation Owner & CEO Jesús Martínez Bujanda. Valdemar Estates is the first international winery in Washington, along with Pintxo by Valdemar, a vibrant destination for tapas, wine, and cocktails. 

You can visit the winery and restaurant during the week and sample the wines and Spanish-inspired food. You can also book a tour and tasting at the winery.

In our weekend of Walla Walla wine events, we will visit Valdemar and have an exclusive TTLT wine-blending class experience with Devyani Gupta, winemaker and viticulturist, recognized by the Seattle for “guiding the future of Washington’s wine industry”.  During this hands-on educational experience, you’ll blend your very own wine to take home. This class includes a brief lecture on the philosophy of wine blending, a sensory tour through common aromas found in wine, and of course, crafting your own wine. When you are finished, you will have one bottle of wine you made, with a custom label.

Force Majeure Vineyards

Force Majeure is an ultra-premium winery that specializes in estate-grown, single-vineyard Bordeaux and Rhône-inspired wines. Their wines are meticulously crafted by former Bryant Family Vineyard Winemaker, Todd Alexander. Force Majeure has been defined by unwavering commitment to outstanding viticulture and exemplary winemaking. 

You can join a seated tasting of a selection of Force Majeure estate wines. 

In our weekend of Walla Walla wine events, we’ll have lunch and a tasting at Force Majeure’s private salon. The Terroir tasting will feature two side-by-side comparative flights of the same varietal wines produced in different AVAs within Washington and Oregon to show the differences in terroir.

We hope this helps as you plan out your trip to Walla Walla. If you want someone to do all the logistics for you and arrange an exclusive experience for a weekend, check out our Walla Walla Wine Weekend. Visiting these wineries is just the beginning of the unique experiences you’ll have when traveling with us.

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Travel with us around the world on one of our multi-day small group food tours. Check out our itineraries to Italy, Japan, Peru, and more! Join us as we visit tea farms in Japan, sip on limoncello in Italy, and savor ceviche in Peru.

If you’re traveling abroad and don’t know where to start or want to tap into our travel expertise to make the most of your trip, check out our Travel Coaching and Private Trips with booking service.  

No matter where you travel, we always recommend purchasing travel protection to safeguard against sudden changes or cancellations. If you don’t already have a preferred vendor, you can check out ours - Travel Insured - which offers a “Cancel for Any Reason” policy. 

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The Best Non-Outdoor Activities in Peru

We recently wrote about adventurous outdoor experiences in Peru but Peru also offers a wealth of experiences beyond outdoor adventures. While Peru's natural wonders are undeniable, the country also boasts a vibrant cultural scene and historical sites. So if you’re worried Peru only has high-energy hiking, rafting, and kayaking to offer, fear not! Here are some of our favorite low-key activities anyone will enjoy. 

Explore the Historic Centers of Lima and Arequipa

Start your journey in Lima, Peru's bustling capital city, and explore its historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the Plaza de Armas, where you can admire colonial architecture and the Government Palace and explore the catacombs of the San Francisco Monastery.

Arequipa, known as the "White City," is another gem for history and architecture lovers. Explore the Santa Catalina Monastery, which offers a glimpse into the city's colonial past. Wander through the narrow streets and admire the ornate facades of buildings constructed from sillar, a volcanic stone that gives the city its distinctive white appearance.

Discover Museums & Ancient Ruins

Visit the Larco Museum in Lima, which houses an extensive collection of pre-Columbian art and artifacts, including impressive ceramics and gold treasures. If you prefer to learn more about Peru’s recent history, check out the Lugar de la Memoria (LUM) Museum, or The Place of Memory, Tolerance and Social Inclusion, also located in Lima. LUM tells the story of the Peruvian government’s struggle against the Shining Path terrorist group in the 1980s and ‘90s.

In Cusco, explore the ancient Inca ruins of Sacsayhuaman and Qorikancha, and the Chavín de Huántar archaeological site, known for its intricate stone carvings and underground passageways. These historical sites offer a glimpse into Peru's ancient civilizations and their impressive architectural achievements.

Indulge in Peruvian Cuisine

Peru is renowned for its diverse and flavorful cuisine, making it a paradise for foodies. Dive into the culinary scene and indulge in traditional dishes like ceviche, anticuchos (grilled skewers), and causa (a layered potato dish). Explore local markets and sample exotic fruits, such as lucuma and chirimoya.

Consider taking a cooking class in Lima or Cusco, where you can learn to prepare Peruvian delicacies under the guidance of skilled chefs. Discover the secrets of creating a perfect Pisco Sour, Peru's national cocktail, and gain insights into the unique flavors and techniques that define Peruvian gastronomy.

Try one of the incredible and unforgettable tasting menus at any of the best restaurants in Peru or have a laid-back brunch at one of the many cafes in the Miraflores and Barranco neighborhoods of Lima. 

Insider Tip: Some of our favorite brunch spots in Lima are Pan Atelier, Mo Cafe, and Colonia & Co. 

Savor Peruvian Wines & Pisco

Add a visit to a winery or pisco distillery to your culinary journey. Peru produces excellent wines and pisco, a grape-based brandy. Visit wineries in the Ica region, such as Tacama or Santiago Queirolo, and embark on a wine-tasting tour to sample exquisite Peruvian wines.

Alternatively, visit a pisco distillery in the Pisco region, like Viñas de Oro or La Caravedo, where you can learn about the production process and enjoy tastings of this iconic Peruvian spirit.

Experience Traditional Arts and Crafts

Peru is full of rich artistic traditions, including textiles, pottery, and silverwork. Explore the artisan markets in cities like Cusco and Pisac, where you can find intricately woven textiles, handmade ceramics, and unique jewelry.

Visit museums and workshops dedicated to preserving and promoting traditional Peruvian crafts. Learn about the intricate process of creating textiles using natural dyes and ancient weaving techniques. Engage with local artisans, and even take home a unique handmade souvenir as a memento of your journey.

Insider Tip: If you want to experience a hands-on weaving workshop with local indigenous artisans, get in touch with us! We have the most amazing experience in store for you.

Peru offers a diverse range of indoor or low-key activities for those who prefer cultural experiences or are not particularly inclined toward outdoor adventures. So, whether you're strolling through Lima's colonial streets, marveling at ancient artifacts in museums, or savoring the flavors of Peruvian cuisine, there's no shortage of experiences awaiting you in this country.

Want to visit Peru but don’t want to do any of the planning? Join our all-inclusive trips to Peru and taste your way around the country with us. 

If you’re traveling to Peru on your own and don’t know where to start or want to tap into our travel expertise to make the most of your trip, check out our customized travel coaching and optional booking service.  

Written by Christiana Jones, Administrative Assistant and Taste of Peru Tour Host

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For more on traveling to Peru, don’t miss…

• 71 Things to Know When Traveling to Peru

• Favorite Peruvian Foods and Where to Find Them

• Peru Packing List

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Travel with us around the world on one of our multi-day small group food tours. Join us as we visit tea farms in Japan, sip on limoncello in Italy, and savor ceviche in Peru.

If you’re traveling abroad and don’t know where to start or want to tap into our travel expertise to make the most of your trip, check out our Travel Coaching and Private Trips with booking service.  

No matter where you travel, we always recommend purchasing travel protection to safeguard against sudden changes or cancellations. If you don’t already have a preferred vendor, you can check out ours - Travel Insured - which offers a “Cancel for Any Reason” policy. 

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When to Book a Spring Tour of Italy - A Complete Guide

Shoulder season is a great time to travel to Italy because you get to try some of our favorite seasonal cuisines, avoid the tourist crowds, and beat the summer heat or winter chill. 

It’s our preferred time of year to travel for these very reasons, and we host two different tours of Italy during this time of year.

Heart of Italy Food Tour

This trip is an all-encompassing 9-day tour of three different regions of Italy. You’ll start on the Amalfi Coast exploring charming cliff and island towns eating fresh mozzarella, limoncello, and seafood. You’ll make your way through Naples and Florence, enjoying walking tours, market visits, and cooking classes where you’ll learn to make authentic recipes alongside Italian chefs.

You’ll end up in the hills of Emilia Romagna where you’ll taste aged Parmigiano Reggiano straight from the factory, balsamico from a family-run acetaia, and incredible local wines. A delicious insider look at what Italy has to offer!

Treasures of Tuscany Tour

This small group trip is a 6-day deep dive into the heart of Tuscany and everything it has to offer, from food and wine to hand-crafted artisan products. This incredible experience is full of a variety of experiences, including a tour and tasting at a cheese farm, a market tour, and hands-on cooking class in our friend’s home, a tour of the amazing Busatti textile factory, a tour and tasting at a local winery, a watercolor class led by an artist, and more.

This is a brand new trip and we only have four spots left on our spring trip! Join us as we savor the Tuscan treasures. 

If traveling in the spring is on your calendar, how far in advance should you start planning a spring trip to Italy?

Travel is getting booked further and further in advance. Here’s the timeline we recommend to make sure you are getting the best deals on your flights and are securing the highest quality experiences that match your trip goals before they sell out. 

Book your trip a minimum of six months in advance.

Six months ahead of time is the minimum length of time you should give yourself to secure your spot on a group trip. For example, a May 2024 trip should be secured at the latest by the end of December 2023. (This would make a great gift for the holidays!)

We have travelers secure their spots on small group trips or start planning their customized private trips more than a year in advance. By the time we’re six months out from a trip, we usually only have a few spots available, and that’s if the trip is not already sold out.

Within the six-month timeframe, you should still be able to get the experiences you want, but we wouldn’t recommend going too far past that.

After you’ve secured your spot on a trip, we recommend purchasing trip protection. It's critical you research your trip protection options and know when you need to purchase a policy. If you’re not sure what to get, we recommend purchasing trip protection, as well as “Cancel for Any Reason” coverage.

You can get a no-obligation quote through our preferred provider, Travel Insured. They require you to purchase a policy within 21 days of paying your trip deposit in order to qualify for the "Cancel for Any Reason" coverage.

Purchase airfare three to four months before your trip.

We’ve found that purchasing airfare three to four months before your trip allows you to find the best deals for your flights. One insider tip is to set an alert for the specific flights you’re looking at. This way if the price drops unexpectedly or a great deal comes along, you’re able to act quickly.

Complete Checklist 

For a complete list of everything you should do months, weeks, and days before your trip, check out our Know Before You Go Travel Checklist. This will make sure you don’t forget anything before your trip. 

Contact us about our spring Treasures of Tuscany or Heart of Italy trips. We have a few spots available on both of these April and May trips. 

Want to chat with a past traveler? Contact us and we’ll put you in contact with someone who has traveled to Italy with us before!

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Travel with us around the world on one of our multi-day small group food tours. Check out our itineraries to Italy, Japan, Peru, and more! Join us as we visit tea farms in Japan, sip on limoncello in Italy, and savor ceviche in Peru.

If you’re traveling abroad and don’t know where to start or want to tap into our travel expertise to make the most of your trip, check out our Travel Coaching and Private Trips with booking service.  

No matter where you travel, we always recommend purchasing travel protection to safeguard against sudden changes or cancellations. If you don’t already have a preferred vendor, you can check out ours - Travel Insured - which offers a “Cancel for Any Reason” policy. 

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The Best Personal Travel Bags for 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Rounding up the best personal travel bags for 2024, was a feat of style, functionality, and personal expression. In this tested and reviewed roundup, we filtered through a handful of bag options to decide which bag is best suited for different scenarios depending on the functionality of each bag. 

Whether you're seeking sleek sophistication or a minimalist bag for only the bare necessities, check out the bags that our team tested and let us know if there is another bag we need to test and add to our list. 

Our Top Picks

Best for Minimalists:

Fjallraven High Coast Hip Pack ($46.16)
↓Jump to Review

Most Durable:

Baggu Medium Nylon Crescent Bag ($52)
↓Jump to Review

Best for Everyday Exploring:

Lo & Sons Pearl Crossbody Bag ($89.40) Currently on sale!
↓Jump to Review

Most Stylish:

Lo & Sons The Nouvelle Crossbody Bag ($105)
↓Jump to Review

Best for Long Trips:

Patagonia Black Hole Mini MLC 30L Backpack
↓Jump to Review

Best for a Bag in a Bag:

Kate Spade Fanny Pack + Lo & Sons Seville Tote
↓Jump to Review

Best for Minimalists: Fjallraven High Coast Hip Pack

Shop here!

Why we love it: It’s for the minimalist. Small, lightweight, and not overloaded with pockets and zippers, AND you can fold it into itself to be even more compact. It’s versatile – I wear it as a crossbody when walking around the city or as a hip pack on a morning run and it stays put! My favorite feature is the small loop on either side of the pack, perfect for hanging my sunglasses or a water bottle. 

What to be aware of: Pick the right color, it gets dirty easily. 

Tested and reviewed by Carly, Operations Manager

Most Durable: Baggu Medium Nylon Crescent Bag

Shop here!

Why We Love It: It’s like the Mary Poppins bag of personal travel bags. The bag is large enough to carry more than just the essentials but isn’t abnormally large enough that it starts to hurt your shoulder or get in the way. On one particularly long travel day, I was able to easily fit a water bottle, umbrella, wallet, phone, and more in the bag. It has two interior zipper pockets which makes it easy to keep the little items in your bag organized. It’s also machine washable so it’s easy to clean!

What to Be Aware Of: It’s a very casual bag and it can easily become a black hole that’s hard to find things in if you’re not careful. 

Tested and reviewed by Emme Parrish, Marketing Manager

Best for Every Day Exploring: Lo & Sons Pearl Crossbody Bag

Shop here!

Why We Love It: It has lots of pockets to accommodate everything from notepads and receipts to hand lotion and chapstick, ensuring that your essentials are always easily accessible, yet secure. The bag sat comfortably at my hip, eliminating the annoyance of excessive bouncing during walks—a testament to its ergonomic design. Its blend of style and functionality makes it a great day bag for those who crave both fashion and practicality in their bags.

What to Be Aware Of: As a minimalist, I felt like I wasn’t making the most of the space available in the bag. The main middle pocket is kept closed with only snaps, so this section didn’t feel as secure to me as the zipper sections.

Tested and reviewed by Carly Dela Cruz, Operations Manager

Most Stylish: Lo & Sons The Nouvelle Crossbody Bag

Shop here!

Why We Love It: This is my go-to everyday bag. I feel like it goes with everything–I wear it with workout clothes on walks, when I want to look cute on coffee dates, and would also wear it on our Italy trips when traveling light. When traveling, I like a bag that zips close on the top so this one fits the bill. It’s also water-resistant, so I don’t think twice about taking it out on rainy days.  The organizational features like the front zipper pocket, inner mesh pockets, and the card holders inside (I like to ditch the weight of my wallet) make it so handy. The bag itself is super light, which is great, and the cushioned strap and hardware have that nice weight to them that feels more luxe. Highly recommend it for those who like a versatile crossbody bag and traveling light.

What to Be Aware Of: To help give an idea of the size, the bag can hold my kindle, a small notebook, phone, sunglasses, keys, chapstick(s), and a granola bar. 

Tested and reviewed by Kathryn Bogley, Experience Advisor and Italy Tour Host

Best for Long Trips: Patagonia Black Hole Mini MLC 30L

Shop now!

Why We Love It: This backpack has stood the test of time; I took it on my 10-day trip to Cuba (as my only piece of luggage!) and have used it on my travels between Peru and the US. You can fit quite a lot in this bag; it’s roomier than it looks! I love how it opens up like a suitcase - it makes packing easy and I like that I don’t have to take everything out to find the one thing I need at the bottom of the bag. The separate laptop compartment on the back is really handy for quickly pulling out my laptop when going through airport security. It’s really easy to clean and it’s Patagonia, so you know it’s going to last a long time! 

What to Be Aware Of: Depending on the airplane size and how full you stuff the bag, it will sometimes fit below the airline seat in front of you; otherwise, it will have to go in the overhead bin. The straps aren’t as padded as I would like so if you’re planning on wearing the bag for hours on end, don’t pack too heavily. 

Tested and reviewed by Christiana Jones, Administrative Assistant

Best for A Bag in a Bag: Kate Spade Chelsea Fanny Pack + Lo & Sons Seville Tote

Shop Fanny Pack here or Shop Seville Tote here

Why We Love It: Call me split personalities - I’m somewhere between a minimalist and a maximalist. I’m also varying on the spectrum of fashion, but I'm ALWAYS high on function. My fanny pack is my go-to travel item where I carry all my valuables. In airports, I can easily clip it around my body, and when I’m boarded on the plane I can slip it into my tote. I love my Seville Tote (which I just took to Costa Rica) because (1) it has a padded laptop compartment and organization pockets, (2) it adds a touch of adultness to carry a proper bag for a nice dinner, instead of my fanny pack, and (3) it has an interchangeable shell which slides over my suitcase handle. These two together make the perfect combo of minimal (grab the essentials in the fanny pack go bag), or maximal (bring the laptop, snacks, charger cords, etc.).

What to Be Aware Of: If you want to look extra chic, the more ‘polished’ leather shell doesn’t have the suitcase handle slot, only the ‘travel shell’ so it’s not quite as convenient. Additionally, if you’re an over-packer like me, there are only so many bulky items you can fit in and be able to still zip it closed.

Tested and reviewed by Annie Sim, CEO & Founder

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Travel with us around the world on one of our multi-day small group food tours. Check out our itineraries to Italy, Japan, Peru, and more! Join us as we visit tea farms in Japan, sip on limoncello in Italy, and savor ceviche in Peru.

If you’re traveling abroad and don’t know where to start or want to tap into our travel expertise to make the most of your trip, check out our Travel Coaching and Private Trips with booking service.  

No matter where you travel, we always recommend purchasing travel protection to safeguard against sudden changes or cancellations. If you don’t already have a preferred vendor, you can check out ours - Travel Insured - which offers a “Cancel for Any Reason” policy. 

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Tips for International Travel (plus #1 bonus tip!)

International travel is our specialty especially when it comes to making travel as seamless and thoughtful as possible. It’s how we prefer to travel personally and it’s how we help our travelers explore new destinations. With these quick and easy five essential tips for international travel, we’ll provide you with a compass to navigate the potential hiccups of airports, the best ways to navigate Customs and luggage, and ensure a thoughtful and confident expedition. 

Here are the five tips for international travel from a team of experienced international travelers.

1. Passport holders might look stylish but they can end up being more cumbersome than anything else.

Everyone you hand your passport to at the airport will want you to remove it from the holder, so you’ll end up getting your passport in and out of it over and over again or your passport holder will sit empty next to your passport in your bag. I used to have a passport holder and stopped using it for this very reason. Now I just carry my passport as is and it makes travel a little more seamless. - Emme, Marketing Manager

2. If you’re checking a bag for international travel, make sure you know what to do to make sure your bag gets to your final destination.

When you enter a new country, sometimes you have to pick up your bag and recheck it in between flights. This varies from destination to destination so do some research and figure out what’s expected for your destination. Also if you’re checking a bag, make sure to pack extra clothes, toiletries, and anything that you can’t live without in a carry-on in case your checked bag gets lost or delayed. The more transfers you have, the more likely your bag will miss a flight, so be prepared! - Christiana, Administrative Assistant

3. Know the Customs requirements of your destination!

For example, each destination has different rules about what food you’re able to bring and not bring into the country. Also, most Asian countries have Customs forms that you can fill out online so you don’t have to worry about filling it out on the plane or once you arrive. - Carly, Operations Manager

4. Get Mobile Passport Control (if you don’t have Global Entry).

It’s a free and easy app to use for U.S. Citizens. Another great option is Global Entry, and if you live in a Canadian-border state like Washington or Michigan, Nexus is an even better option which is less expensive and includes Global Entry and TSA Precheck. Both of these options make getting through customs and the airport significantly easier. - Annie, CEO 

5. If I have more than two flights to catch I break up my flying day so I’m not taking three straight flights with over 24 hours of travel.

I usually do this on the way back home to Hawaii. I  find a destination in the middle of the trip, often on the mainland, so I can leave the airport and spend a bit of time there or see friends or family. Then I finish the last leg of the trip to get to my final destination. - Carly, Operations Manager

6. Bonus Baby Tips!

Always have a baby carrier for navigating the airport. On international flights, I’ve found that each airline and airport have varying knowledge of what happens when you gate-check a stroller or car seat. We’ve had three car seats lost based on bad information communicated from our departing airport. As such, on international flights we no longer gate check; instead, we check our stroller like a normal bag and use carriers in the airports. - Annie, CEO

These six tips for international travel will help make your time navigating the airport, customs, and flights smoother and more efficient. If you want more help understanding the best ways to navigate the airport, which airports to fly in and out of, and how to plan your trip we can help you figure out your entire journey. Travel Coaching is a way for you to talk to a destination expert and answer any questions you have about your trip from airport and transportation questions to the best restaurants to eat at and where to shop.

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Travel with us around the world on one of our multi-day small group food tours. Check out our itineraries to Italy, Japan, Peru, and more! Join us as we visit tea farms in Japan, sip on limoncello in Italy, and savor ceviche in Peru.

If you’re traveling abroad and don’t know where to start or want to tap into our travel expertise to make the most of your trip, check out our Travel Coaching and Private Trips with booking service.  

No matter where you travel, we always recommend purchasing travel protection to safeguard against sudden changes or cancellations. If you don’t already have a preferred vendor, you can check out ours - Travel Insured - which offers a “Cancel for Any Reason” policy. 

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Dinner Party Hosting Tips: 5 Ways to Create an Italian Inspired Dinner with Dalla Fonte

If you’re looking to host a dinner party and aren’t sure where to start, look for inspiration from Italy. Both Dalla Fonte and the Table Less Traveled can attest that the Italians know best how to cook, eat, and spend quality time with friends around a table with good food and wine. And the more good food and wine the better. 

Olivia told us how her family is constantly feeding those around us and their home is typically filled with various friends, neighbors, and family members. One way we both treat those we love is with items we squirreled away in our suitcases when we worked and visited Italy. It’s true, we can both relate to coming home with olive oils, jams, salts, balsamic vinegar, and so much more. 

Those Italian products we carefully bring back from Italy are always meant to be shared with others which leads to dinner parties with friends that bring us back to the dinner parties we had in Italy. All this to say, that you’re in good hands if you want to host a dinner party and need a few tips to get you started. Here’s how we create an Italian-inspired dinner party. Hint: It’s really not that hard!

1. Invite your dearest friends and family members.

In Italian culture, we show our love through food. There is no greater gift we can provide than a homecooked meal for the people that we care about. This of course includes making sure that there is way too much food and you better be prepared to ask for seconds if you are sitting down at an Italian’s table.

Like it or not, the amount of gratitude shown correlates with the amount of food you eat. Invite those you love to your dinner party. It doesn’t have to be fancy, just a quick text, a holler across the lawn to your neighbor, keep it simple and genuine.

2. Antipasto before the meal even begins as people gather.

One of our favorite antipasto to set out before guests arrive is a charcuterie board. Having an antipasto helps direct people to cozy places to gather and keeps people out of the kitchen while you put the final touches on the dinner. For Olivia, this is on an out-of-the-way countertop or the coffee table in the family room.

If you were in Italy, you would see antipasto as a section on the menu. This translates to “before the meal” and includes all the delicious bites you would enjoy before the main course. 

For us, this includes four key elements: cheese, meats, crackers, and accompaniments that bring it all together. Building the perfect fall charcuterie board isn’t that hard when someone tells you exactly what to put on it! 

3. Make sure you’ve got the best kind of wine!

Whenever we host friends and family, we love to offer three wines: something bubbly, something red, and something white. The bubbles are a perfect way to start the night. Pour a glass for each guest as they arrive to sip and graze your charcuterie boards. There are a lot of rules around pairing red and white wines (eg if you are serving fish - only white will do!) but we have found that there are red wine people and there are white wine people - regardless of what is on the table! We love Italian wines because there is always a new varietal to discover. 

A few of our go-to crowd pleasers are a Pecorino from Abruzzo (named not for the sheep cheese so many of us know and love, but for the Pecorino grape varietal that grew along the routes of Abruzzese sheep herders) and Friuli, a fruit-forward wine from Northern Italy. When serving red, we can never pass up a 100% Sangiovese or a rich Chianti Classico Riserva.

If you want to course out your wine, the white would typically be served with the lighter courses of your meals like a salad or soup to start or even pasta if you are serving a Primi (or first course in Italian). The red should be held for the Secondi (the second course, typically the meat).

If your guests are really adventurous, end the night with a small sip of Sambuca with three coffee beans. This is a traditional way of serving this after-dinner drink that offers your guests blessings of happiness, good health, and great prosperity. Keep that Sambuca in the freezer so it is nice and chilled at the end. 

Check out our cheat sheet for finding the best Prosecco.

4. Serve your dinner the way Italians do.

Dinner is divided into primi, secondi, and dolci for optimum eating and chatting during the meal. Remember your dinner party is the experience, don’t rush through it.

Primi is the first dish that you serve and is usually pasta, risotto, or soup. There are a lot of different dishes that you could make. One of our favorites is Orrechiette Pasta and Tomato Sauce. It’s light and yummy.  

Secondi is your main dish and is commonly meat, fish, or vegetable base. Chef Alain is teaching a Lamb Dinner class on December 10th which would be an incredible recipe for your dinner party.

And of course, you can’t miss Dolci which is the dessert portion of your dinner party. You can keep it as simple or as complicated as you’d like. Dolci can be achieved by sharing a few cookies and candies. It can also be elaborate like Tiramisu or gelato. For the caffeine lovers, our current favorite dessert is affogato which is espresso poured over gelato. Throw a biscotti or small cookie on the side to complete this sweet treat.

5. Embrace la dolce vita

Don’t forget, in Italy, it’s all about savoring every moment and bite. Enjoy your dinner party to the fullest by letting go of any worries about what might go wrong or trying to time everything perfectly. It’s okay if dishes sit for a minute while everyone sits around and chats after dessert has been served. Italians know how to make dinner parties last hours because they’re not in a rush. Sit back and enjoy being surrounded by good food and friends.

Now you’re ready for dinner party success! If you’re looking for yummy additions to your dinner, check out Dalla Fonte’s shop for our favorite Italian products. And if you’re ready for a dinner party in Italy hosted by our dearest Italian friends, then check out our Heart of Italy trip. This 9-day culinary journey feels like a nightly dinner party with friends.

Written in collaboration with Olivia Becker, Owner of Dalla Fonte

Want to participate in the ultimate Italian Dinner with Olivia, from Dalla Fonte, and Annie, from The Table Less Traveled?

Come with us on a 6-day journey to Italy where you’ll meet the local makers behind your favorite Italian foods and wine.

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Travel with us around the world on one of our multi-day small group food tours. Check out our itineraries to Italy, Japan, Peru, and more! Join us as we visit tea farms in Japan, sip on limoncello in Italy, and savor ceviche in Peru.

If you’re traveling abroad and don’t know where to start or want to tap into our travel expertise to make the most of your trip, check out our Travel Coaching and Private Trips with booking service.  

No matter where you travel, we always recommend purchasing travel protection to safeguard against sudden changes or cancellations. If you don’t already have a preferred vendor, you can check out ours - Travel Insured - which offers a “Cancel for Any Reason” policy. 

More Travel Resources

International Travel Safety Tips - 4 Ways to Stay Safe!

Navigating unfamiliar destinations requires a balance of curiosity and caution. We often encourage exploration off the beaten path but we also stress the importance of keeping safety top of mind. That’s why we’re sharing a few international travel safety tips to help you travel confidently to new destinations. The best way to achieve a sense of security while traveling is by having accurate information and being prepared. Next time you’re traveling internationally, apply these four international travel safety tips.

Explore new destinations on small group trips.

The well-known phrase 'safety in numbers' has some truth to it when traveling, which is why joining a small group trip is a great way to travel. Venturing into unfamiliar destinations with a group provides a built-in support system and sense of security, whether it’s your first time out of the country or in a new destination. 

From navigating bustling markets to exploring hidden gems off the beaten path, shared experiences in a small group create a safety net and reduce the likelihood of encountering unforeseen challenges alone. In the company of like-minded individuals, small group trips not only amplify the joy of exploration but also provide an additional layer of safety for international travel.

If you’re looking for a small group trip to join and explore a new destination with, check out our small group trips for 2024. We’re traveling to Japan, Peru, and Italy! These small group trips give you complete peace of mind because every itinerary detail and transportation arrangement is handled for you. Without the worry of safety nagging at the back of your mind, you’re able to be fully present in every experience and relax while exploring with your newfound travel friends.

Travel with a 24/7 tour host. 

Traveling with a 24/7 tour host is like having a seasoned and experienced friend by your side every step of your journey. This is why each of our small group trips is led by a knowledgeable tour host. They are equipped with an extensive network of connections and know how to successfully navigate the intricacies of your destination. From recommending the safest neighborhoods to orchestrating seamless transitions between locales, a tour host provides a reassuring presence for your travel experience. 

In addition to general safety, your host’s familiarity with local traditions and customs will steer you away from potential pitfalls and foster a deeper understanding of the destinations you explore. Your tour host is your ally and will ensure a seamless and thoughtful experience where you feel comfortable and confident. 

One of our guests on the Heart of Italy tour said that traveling with their tour host, Kathryn, was like traveling with family.

Invest in travel protection.

We recommend to all travelers to invest in travel protection for their trips. It's not just a safety net, it's a peace-of-mind policy that cushions you against unforeseen circumstances. From medical emergencies to trip cancellations or lost baggage, travel insurance spares you from unexpected financial burdens that can accompany any journey. 

Purchasing travel protection ensures that even if you have to deal with the unexpected on your trip, you can still focus on the joy of exploration rather than worry about the what-ifs. Travel Insured is our preferred vendor. We recommend them to all our travelers. We’ve worked with them for years and highly recommend them because of their 25 years of experience. 

Keep your personal items close.

One quick and easy tip that you can start implementing immediately on any trip is to make sure that you keep your personal items close. From passports to smartphones, these essentials would make traveling very difficult if lost or stolen.

When our team travels, a few of us use fanny packs in order to keep our personal items close. You can check out our favorite fanny packs. They’re tried and true and we don’t travel without them. Some of them are on sale for Black Friday!

We know safety is top of mind when picking a destination. If you have any concerns about traveling to Italy, Peru, or Japan on a small group trip, jump on a call with the tour host and they will give you accurate and up-to-date information about the destination and the safety measures we take during our travels.

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Travel with us around the world on one of our multi-day small group food tours. Check out our itineraries to Italy, Japan, Peru, and more! Join us as we visit tea farms in Japan, sip on limoncello in Italy, and savor ceviche in Peru.

If you’re traveling abroad and don’t know where to start or want to tap into our travel expertise to make the most of your trip, check out our Travel Coaching and Private Trips with booking service.  

No matter where you travel, we always recommend purchasing travel protection to safeguard against sudden changes or cancellations. If you don’t already have a preferred vendor, you can check out ours - Travel Insured - which offers a “Cancel for Any Reason” policy. 

More Travel Resources