The Universal Language of Food

You know that moment when you take a bite of something, and it feels like the world makes sense? That’s what travel tastes like. Food isn’t just about filling your belly—it’s a crash course in culture, history, and a whole lot of flavor.

Whether you’re slurping noodles in a bustling market or clinking glasses of wine in a sun-soaked vineyard, every dish tells a story. And the best part? You don’t have to be a Michelin-starred chef to enjoy it—just bring an appetite and a little curiosity.

On our tours, food isn’t an afterthought; it’s the main event. Because let’s be honest, is there a better way to connect with a new place than through its food? (Spoiler: there isn’t.) So, grab your fork— you’re in for a delicious ride.

Thailand: Flavors That Dance on Your Tongue 

If there’s one place where food feels like a party, it’s Thailand. Every dish is a celebration of flavor—sweet, salty, sour, and spicy all working together like a choreographed dance. One bite, and your taste buds will be doing the cha-cha.

The street food is where the magic happens.

Picture yourself strolling through a bustling market, the air filled with the sizzle of woks and the aroma of grilled skewers. Grab a bag of mango sticky rice, slurp on some tangy tom yum soup, or sink your teeth into a flaky, savory roti. Each bite is a love letter to fresh ingredients and bold flavors.

Thai food isn’t just about eating—it’s a window into the culture.

Every dish reflects family traditions and a knack for making simple ingredients extraordinary. By the time you leave, you’ll find yourself dreaming of those perfectly balanced flavors long after your plane touches down.

“CROATIA’S FOOD IS LIKE ITS COASTLINE — STUNNING, FRESH, AND IMPOSSIBLE TO FORGET. “

Croatia: Where Every Bite Tells a Story

Croatia’s food is like its coastline—stunning, fresh, and impossible to forget. Nestled along the Adriatic Sea, this country knows how to work its natural bounty into mouthwatering dishes that feel like sunshine on a plate.

But Croatia isn’t just about the ocean.

Venture inland, and you’ll find hearty dishes like peka—meat and vegetables slow-cooked under a bell-shaped lid—or truffles hidden in rich, creamy sauces.

These flavors reflect the country’s unique blend of Mediterranean charm and Balkan heartiness.

And don’t even get me started on the markets. Fresh figs, olives, and cheese that could rival any French fromage await you.

Each meal in Croatia isn’t just food—it’s a celebration of tradition, regional pride, and the pure joy of sharing good food with great company.

“THE COLORS, THE AROMAS, THE FLAVORS — IT’S LIKE STEPPING INTO A LIVE CULINARY SHOW.”

Morocco: A Feast for the Senses 

In Morocco, food isn’t just something you eat—it’s an experience that awakens all your senses. The colors, the aromas, the flavors—it’s like stepping into a live-action culinary show. And the best part? You can be part of it.

Step into a bustling market, and you’ll feel like a treasure hunter.

Towering piles of spices, sweet dates, and freshly baked msemen (flaky Moroccan pancakes) tempt you at every turn.

Don’t leave without sampling a bowl of harira, the hearty soup that’s a Moroccan staple, or nibbling on sticky-sweet pastries like chebakia.

The beauty of Moroccan food is how it brings people together.

Whether it’s sharing a tagine around a communal table or learning recipes passed down through generations, every meal is a reminder that food is about connection as much as flavor.

“EVERY DISH TELLS A STORY, REFLECTING THE CULTURE, HISTORY, AND DEEP CONNECTION TO THE LAND AND WATER THAT SHAPES BOTH COUNTRIES.”

Vietnam & Cambodia: A Tale of Two Cuisines 

In Vietnam and Cambodia, food isn’t just a meal—it’s a way of life. Every dish tells a story, reflecting the culture, history, and deep connection to the land and water that shapes both countries.

Start in Vietnam, where flavors are all about balance.

Think of a steaming bowl of pho, where savory broth, fresh herbs, and a squeeze of lime.

Wander the streets of Hanoi, and you’ll find banh mi stalls dishing out crusty baguettes stuffed with pickled veggies, meats, and a dash of chili heat.

And let’s not forget the crispy, sizzling joy of banh xeo, a turmeric-laced pancake that’s rolled up with herbs and dunked in dipping sauce.

Then, cross into Cambodia.

Amok, the country’s signature dish, wraps tender fish in a fragrant coconut curry, steamed in banana leaves for a melt-in-your-mouth experience.

Stroll through Phnom Penh’s night markets, and you’ll discover skewers of grilled meats, fried crickets (if you’re feeling adventurous), and nom banh chok, a refreshing rice noodle dish lovingly referred to as “Khmer noodles.”

The food in both countries isn’t just delicious—it’s a connection to tradition and resilience.

Whether you’re slurping, scooping, or savoring, every bite is a reminder of how these cuisines have been shaped by centuries of history and an enduring love for fresh ingredients.

Mexico: Bold Flavors and Good Company

Mexico’s food is full of personality—simple, hearty, and packed with happiness.

Start with tacos. Not the kind you get from a fast-food chain, but the real deal you find on street corners.

Warm tortillas filled with carnitas, al pastor, or grilled vegetables, topped with fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lime, and a bit of salsa.

They’re quick, easy, and hard to forget.

Then there’s mole.

This thick, savory sauce combines chiles, spices, and sometimes chocolate, poured over chicken or pork, creating a balance of deep, complex flavors.

Tamales, wrapped in corn husks and filled with anything from pork to cheese, are another must-try, as is ceviche along the coast, where fresh seafood is marinated in citrus and served cold.

Markets in Mexico are an adventure on their own, with piles of fresh produce, herbs, and spices calling your name.

You’ll find street vendors grilling corn on the cob, filling tortillas with slow-cooked meats, or serving up freshly baked pan dulce.

The food here isn’t just about eating—it’s about coming together, sharing a meal, and making memories.

“THE KIND OF FOOD THAT LEAVES A LASTING IMPRESSION”

Japan: Simple, Elegant, and Must-Try

Japan’s food is all about simplicity, precision, and respect for ingredients.

It’s not just a meal—it’s a work of art.

Every dish, from sushi to ramen, is made with care, and it’s the kind of food that leaves a lasting impression without ever needing to shout.

Start with sushi. The freshest fish, thinly sliced, paired with perfectly vinegared rice. It’s all about balance—subtle, yet satisfying. And don’t skip the sashimi, where the delicate flavors of raw fish really shine.

Then there’s ramen, which ranges from rich, savory broths to lighter, refreshing bowls.

Each region in Japan has its own take on ramen, with toppings like crispy pork, bamboo shoots, and soft-boiled eggs. One bowl can be a deep dive into local tradition.

But Japanese food isn’t just about the obvious. Try tempura, where shrimp and vegetables are lightly battered and fried to perfection, or kaiseki, a multi-course meal that’s like a tasting menu of Japanese culture.

And let’s not forget matcha—the powdered green tea used in everything from sweets to lattes, with a flavor that’s a little earthy and very calming.

The beauty of Japan’s cuisine is how it celebrates the seasons, using the freshest ingredients to highlight what’s available at any given time.

Whether you’re in a bustling Tokyo market or a quiet Kyoto tea house, the food is always simple, refined, and delicious.

Peru: A Culinary Adventure at Every Turn

Peruvian food is all about mixing bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and ancient traditions.

With a history that’s deeply rooted in indigenous cultures and the influence of Spanish colonization, the food here is a true reflection of Peru’s diversity and spirit.

Start with ceviche, Peru’s national dish. Fresh fish, marinated in tangy lime juice and spiced with chiles, served with onions and a side of crispy corn. It’s fresh, zesty, and totally addictive.

Then there’s the famous lomo saltado—a stir-fried dish that blends Peruvian and Chinese flavors. Tender beef, tomatoes, onions, and fries tossed together in a savory sauce, served over rice.

It’s a comfort food with a twist.

 If you’re in the Andes, don’t miss quinoa, which has been a staple here for thousands of years.

It’s served in soups, stews, or as a side dish, often paired with potatoes, another Andean gift to the world.

And speaking of potatoes, Peru is home to over 3,000 varieties—so whether mashed, roasted, or fried, you’ll always find something new to try.

Finally, for dessert, indulge in a slice of tres leches cake, suspiro limeño, or enjoy a sweet drink of chicha morada, made from purple corn and spiced with cinnamon and cloves.

Peru’s food is an experience, combining the flavors of the land, the sea, and centuries of culture into one memorable meal.

“IN ARGENTINA, FOOD IS SERIOUS BUSINESS”

Argentina: Where Meat Meets Tradition

In Argentina, food is serious business—and by business, I mean meat. Argentina is famous for its beef, and it’s easy to see why. The country’s wide-open pampas produce some of the finest cattle in the world, and they’re cooked to perfection on the parrilla (grill).

A classic meal often begins with an asado, where cuts of beef, sausages, and sometimes even whole lambs are cooked over an open flame. It’s more than just a meal—it’s a social event. Sitting around the grill with family and friends, sharing stories, and enjoying perfectly cooked meat is a way of life here.

But it’s not all about the grill.

Try empanadas—flaky pastries filled with everything from spiced beef to cheese, then baked or fried to golden perfection. For something sweet, try dulce de leche-laden chocotorta, a no-bake dessert made with chocolate cookies, cream, and a generous layer of the rich caramel treat.

 And then there’s yerba mate, the traditional tea that’s enjoyed by nearly everyone, all day long.

It’s a ritual, passed around among friends and family, that connects people as much as it hydrates.

In Argentina, food is about connection—whether you’re bonding over a perfectly grilled steak, sharing an empanada on the go, or sipping mate in the park. Each meal is an invitation to savor life.

Brazil: Flavor, Fun and Everything in Between 

Brazil’s food is as diverse and lively as its culture. From the beaches of Rio to the heart of the Amazon, every region has its own twist on flavor.

Start with feijoada, Brazil’s national dish.

This hearty black bean stew is made with a variety of meats—pork, sausage, and beef—all simmered together to create a comforting, flavorful dish. It’s traditionally served with rice, collard greens, and slices of orange to balance out the richness.

Next, head to the coast for some fresh seafood. Try moqueca, a fish stew made with coconut milk, tomatoes, and palm oil, giving it a sweet, savory, and slightly spicy flavor that’s as tropical as the country itself.

And no trip to Brazil is complete without tasting a pastel—fried pockets filled with cheese, meat, or shrimp, perfect for snacking on the go.

Don’t forget about Brazil’s beloved street food scene. The coxinha, a crispy, chicken-filled pastry, and the pão de queijo, a chewy cheese bread, are the perfect pick-me-up for any time of day.

And of course, there’s the drink—caipirinha. Made with cachaça, lime, and sugar, it’s the kind of cocktail that’s meant to be sipped while listening to music and soaking in the sun.

In Brazil, food isn’t just sustenance; it’s an experience.

It’s about celebrating good company, and enjoying the bold, bright flavors of life.

Colombia: A Taste of Tradition and Comfort

Colombian food is all about heartiness and comfort. It’s the kind of cuisine that makes you feel at home, whether you’re sitting in a bustling Bogotá café or a quiet coastal town.

Start with arepas, a versatile cornmeal cake that’s either grilled or fried.

Whether topped with cheese, eggs, or meats, arepas are a beloved Colombian snack, often eaten for breakfast or as a side with almost any meal.

Then there’s bandeja paisa, the national dish, which is a feast of epic proportions.

It’s a plate piled high with rice, beans, ground beef, chicharrón (crispy pork belly), avocado, and a fried egg.

It’s the kind of dish you’ll find in the heart of Colombia’s coffee region, where the food matches the laid-back yet hardworking vibe.

If you’re near the coast, don’t miss the fresh fish and seafood.

Try arroz con coco (coconut rice) served with fried fish or ceviche, a refreshing dish of marinated seafood with lime and spices.

Street food is also a big deal here. Empanadas, golden and crispy, are filled with everything from beef to potatoes, and are perfect for a snack while exploring the colorful streets. And for dessert, indulge in a serving of arequipe—a rich, caramel-like treat that will quickly become your guilty pleasure.

In Colombia, food is a reflection of its people—warm, welcoming, and full of flavor.

“IN INDIA, EACH MEAL IS PACKED WITH BOLD SPICES AND HEARTY INGREDIENTS”

India: A Feast of Spices

In India, each meal is packed with bold spices and hearty ingredients, making every bite a new discovery.

Take biryani, for example. It’s a hearty, fragrant rice dish layered with meat or vegetables, and it’s usually slow-cooked to perfection. You’ll often find it paired with a refreshing side of raita to balance out the spice.

Next up, curries.

India’s curry scene is massive, from the rich, creamy varieties found in the north to lighter, coconut-based versions in the south.

Whether it’s butter chicken, dal, or a spicy vindaloo, you’ll be diving into a world of spices that each bring something different to the table.

And don’t forget all things rice!

Street food in India is something you don’t want to miss.

Chaat is a fun, crunchy snack that mixes crispy dough with potatoes, yogurt, chutneys, and plenty of spices—it’s like a snack party in your mouth.

And samosas? They’re basically the perfect snack: crispy, golden pockets stuffed with spiced potatoes, peas, and sometimes meat.

Bread plays a big part in Indian meals, too. Whether it’s naan, paratha, or roti, these fluffy, warm pieces are the ideal companion to your curry. You’ll probably find yourself using them to scoop up every last bit of sauce.

Eating in India is more than just filling your stomach.

It’s about sharing a meal and enjoying the simple pleasures of good food. Every dish tells a story, and it’s a story you’ll want to be part of.

That’s a Wrap! 

With OWR, food isn’t just something to eat—it’s a way to connect with the places we visit.

Every meal is a chance to step into the local culture and experience a destination on a deeper level.

In Mexico, you’ll savor tacos made with ingredients as fresh as the vibrant streets. In India, the rich, spiced curries tell stories of centuries-old traditions. And in Argentina, the asado isn’t just a meal—it’s an event, a celebration of community and good times.

Traveling with us means tasting these moments, and discovering that food is often the best way to understand a place.