According to a survey released in late April 2017 by AAA, an estimated 22 million Americans expect to take a culinary-focused vacation in the next 12 months. Survey results showed that 75 percent of Americans feel that food and dining are an important part of their travel experiences and four in five say they have engaged in such unique activities as touring wineries and distilleries, eating with local families and engaging in hands-on experiences such as cooking classes led by local chefs while traveling.
“A great way to learn about a destination and the local culture is by experiencing its unique food and dining customs,” said Vicky Evans, assistant vice president, Travel Sales Development, AAA – The Auto Club Group.
Meeting-goers are among those seeking out culinary events as part of their travel experiences. As our F&B Experiences feature in the June 2017 issue of ConventionSouth demonstrates, many destinations throughout the South are embracing the latest “Foodie” trends. In addition to those mentioned in our print article, here’s a look at a number of other examples of F&B Experiences at Southern destinations.
Cary, NC:
World-Class Cuisine Using Local Products
Irvington, VA:
Jackson, MS:
Miami, FL:
Restaurant Helps Revitalize Area
Miramar Beach, FL:
Myrtle Beach, SC:
Good Eats Along the Grand Strand
Nashville, TN:
Country Music With A Side Of Culinary Excellence
New Orleans, LA:
Stirring Up the Classics in the Big Easy
*Photo Credit: The Umstead Hotel and Spa
