GLOBAL GASTRONOMY

Exploring holidays to Sri Lanka and Tuscany that will get your taste buds tingling

Following the virtual shutdown of leisure travel in 2020, the owners of Livingstone’s Travel World, a small team of director shareholder travel enthusiasts, led by a vastly experienced travel industry executive, decided to create a division totally dedicated to growing the field of food and drink tourism and culinary engagement. Here are two examples of what they o er.

TASTES OF SRI LANKA, 13 Day Gastronomy Tour

A gourmet journey of delights through the unique flavours of the ‘Spice Island’. On this amazing 13 day gastronomic expedition you will discover the unique cuisine of Sri Lanka, from the amazing seafood delicacies the ocean and lagoons have to o er, to the misty highlands known world over as the producer of Ceylon Tea. You will visit the remote rural villages where most of the island's rice and vegetables are cultivated and to the old colonial cities of Galle and Colombo, which showcase the diversity and heritage of the culinary specialities that make the Island so unique.

There is far more to this outstanding tour than merely savouring the delicious cuisine. Led by expert guides, many of them chefs, you get fully immersed in the production of the ingredients and the preparation of many traditional dishes and delicacies. Each day you will learn about the techniques for cultivating and using everything from fish, (particularly crabs), to vegetables, fruits, herbs and spices (particularly cinnamon) to produce many unique local dishes.

Once known as Ceylon, you will also get an insight into the island’s incredible heritage by visiting its historical monuments and participating in and enjoying its culture. Along the way, you will have time to marvel at some of its unbelievable scenery.

This culinary tour o ers a once in a lifetime experience, not just for those with a passion for gastronomy, but will appeal to everyone with an interest in discovering di erent ways of life. Through their a liated travel company they can provide highlights and discovery tours, wildlife tours, golfing holidays, honeymoons, villa rentals, and bespoke holidays for discerning travellers.

Two Of The Best Hotels

Amaya Hills – Kandy

A majestic palace, set in the hills overlooking the historical city of Kandy, is considered to be one of the finest hotels in the area. Its 104 luxurious beautifully decorated rooms and suites have sweeping views of the surrounding mountains and perfectly manicured gardens with opulent flora all year round. Facilities include an expansive swimming pool, a well-appointed gym, and a squash court.

Galle Face Hotel – Colombo

One of the oldest hotels east of the Suez, this iconic landmark is situated in the heart of Colombo, along the seafront and facing the famous Galle Face Green, and is a fusion of historic charm and modern convenience. The warmly decorated rooms have free Wi-Fi and minibars, along with flat-screens and safes. Suites add sitting areas and upgraded suites o er access to the Long Room lounge serving hot snacks.

TASTES OF TUSCANY, 7 Day Gastronomy Tour

Tuscany, famous for its rolling countryside, historic towns and villages, world class cuisine, outstanding wine estates, and fabulous artistic heritage is at the heart of this 7 day gastronomic experience. You’ll visit many of the region’s notable historic towns, explore famous places and sample some of the finest food and drink Tuscany has to o er.

During this special culinary journey, you also get the chance to soak up the history and culture of what is often recognised as the birthplace of Renaissance art. Based A in Florence, home to some of the world’s most recognisable Renaissance art and architecture, including Michelangelo’s “David” statue, Botticelli’s works in the U zi Gallery and the Duomo Basilica, this superb tour includes excursions to Sienna, famous for the ‘Il Palio’ horse race, Pisa with its unique leaning tower, the breathtaking landscapes of Montepulciano so often used in International films, and the enchanting town of Lucca.

You will also have ample opportunity to fully appreciate the cuisine of the region such as the famous Florentine T-bone steak, with local chefs producing mouth-watering dishes using the best fresh ingredients. Amongst the many gastronomic delights are visits to famed Chianti vineyards, a chance to try tru e hunting, sampling olive oil straight from the farm and a hands-on demonstration of how Pecorino cheese is produced. Through their a liate travel company they can arrange luxury city breaks, beach holidays, discovery tours, weddings and honeymoons, villa rentals, golf breaks, and bespoke holidays for discerning travellers to truly have a holiday to remember.

Two Of The Best Hotels

Palazzo

dal Borgo Hotel – Florence

This luxurious four-star property is set in a prime location in the centre of Florence close to the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore and a short walk to the medieval Ponte Vecchio bridge. The elegant air conditioned rooms feature Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs and minibars. Upgraded rooms add 4-poster beds, city views and/or frescoes on the walls and ceilings.

Hotel Roma – Florence

Situated right in the very heart of the historical centre of Florence, this luxury hotel located in a stunning 18th century building o ers surroundings not unlike the many palatial homes of the Florentine nobles of days gone by. This fabulous four-star hotel o ers the highest quality of service, stunning interior design and a perfect location. Some rooms feature wood floors and/or basilica views.

Discover more at gastronomy-world.com