It’s not just the sights that stay with you long after you’ve visited a country. Many of our travel memories are linked with our sense of smell and taste. In the Mediterranean (especially Spain, Morocco and Portugal), delve nose-first into each destination's unique experiences and culinary treasures.
Book with Sure Travel before 31 January 2019 to receive 10% off all Insight Vacations packages to Spain, Morocco and Portugal!
What to see:
Portugal’s Duoro River – meaning “river of gold” in English – is as beautiful and romantic as the name suggests. It is often regarded as Europe’s most underrated river, and the many attractions present lovely options for travellers looking for a tranquil cruise experience. It is also, of course, famous for delicious port wines.
On Insight Vacations 10-day Country Roads of Portugal itinerary, travellers visit the Sequeira family. They've been living along the Douro for four generations. A delicious-farm-to-table dinner is included in this unique Insight Experience. Guests get to appreciate the family’s passion for the area and wine-making and, best of all, sample some of those delicious wines.
Accommodation for the night is at the Vintage House Hotel. Enjoy the tranquil riverside setting at Pinhão, in the heart of the Douro Valley, with more time to soak up those stunning views.
What to eat:
If you haven’t indulged in a Pasteis de Nata whilst in Lisbon, you have missed out. The world-renowned egg custard tarts, with nutmeg sprinkled on top, are irresistible. On Insight Vacations 8-night Amazing Spain & Portugal itinerary, travellers visit Lisbon’s Belém Quarter and get to taste Pastéis de Belém (or more than one) from a patisserie that's been using the same secret recipe for almost 200 years.
In bakeries across Portugal, find Salame de Chocolate (chocolate salami) with dark chocolate, nuts and cookie bits. Yum!
What to see:
Do what the locals do and put on your dancing shoes! In southern Spain, the flamenco is incredibly popular. Based on the folkloric music of communities in the south of Spain, this unique dance is a must-do on any visit. In Seville, on Insight's Amazing Spain & Portugal trip, witness this stunning, colourful and dramatic dance for yourself.
What to eat:
Vegetarians, look away. The small Spanish village of Jabugo is famous for its Spanish ham or Jamón Ibérico. Travel through oak forests where black Iberian pigs are bred, learn about the history and curing process and savour the delicious smoky sweet flavours.
A sweet treat for non-meat eaters and carnivores alive is the famous Spanish churros. Served either for breakfast or dessert (we’ll do both, thank you), these sticks of fried dough are usually dusted in sugar and served with hot chocolate sauce. Taste ample amounts of churros (no-one is counting) on an 8-night Highlights of Spain journey.
What to see:
Where to begin? In Fes, a local guide will help you to explore the medina, a historical part of town, passing souks and one of the world’s oldest universities. Watch local artisans make khobz, the country's traditional bread. However, no trip to Morocco is complete without indulging in a colourful, festive Moroccan feast. Belly dancers will entertain while the table groans with the weight of local dishes and delicacies.
What to eat:
From freshly baked khobz to Berber tea in a traditional nomad’s house in the Dades Valley, eat up a storm in Morocco. Another must-do when in Casablanca is dinner and drinks at Rick’s Café, made famous by its 1942 film namesake (Insight Vacations hosts a celebration dinner here on its 9-night Best of Morocco itinerary).
The perfect sweet finish to any Moroccan meal is Chebakia, a beautiful local pastry rolled to resemble a rose, deep-fried and coated in honey and rosewater and sprinkled with sesame seeds.
Seek out authentic experiences and delicious dining with Insight Vacations in Spain, Portugal and Morocco. You’ll leave with a full belly and memories to last a lifetime!
Book and pay before 31 January 2019 to enjoy a 10% early payment discount. Contact your nearest Sure Travel Agency to enquire or book, or call +27 (0)861 47 48 49. Additional Terms and Conditions apply.
