Africa isn’t renowned for being one of the world’s great culinary destinations and one certainly doesn’t see its cuisine exported to many of the world’s great cities as say, Asian or European food is. However, take a step back from the stereotypes and you will discover that there are some truly outstanding spots for those looking to try new and innovative cuisines that are a delight for the senses.

As a “gourmet getaway” it is doubtless that South Africa leads the way in Africa, with Cape Town and nearby Franschhoek, in the heart of the Cape Winelands, offering some of the finest culinary experience in the world, accompanied by outstanding local wines. Indeed, it is often hard to escape great culinary experiences in Africa, with a number of superb “foody” retreats found all across the country, notably in the Drakensberg Mountains and around Johannesburg. Further afield Ethiopia is a wonderful spot to explore, with its varied cuisine starting to gain notoriety internationally and there are some genuinely outstanding local restaurants to enjoy, both in the capital of Addis Ababa and in some of the smaller towns on the northern historical circuit. Africa’s Indian Ocean coastline is renowned as a spot for excellent seafood, notably on the smaller islands off Mozambique where you will often enjoy fish caught fresh that morning. The Indian influence on the cuisine of Kenya, Tanzania and parts of South Africa is pronounced, with superb curries to be enjoyed here and a visit to the spice markets of Zanzibar is always worth enjoying.

South and Central America are culinary wonderlands, enticing food enthusiasts with a diverse and delectable array of flavors. Begin your gastronomic journey in Mexico, where street tacos, enchiladas, and mole sauces tantalize your taste buds. Peru's fusion cuisine, exemplified by dishes like ceviche and lomo saltado, showcases a blend of indigenous and Spanish influences. Brazil's churrascarias serve succulent meats roasted to perfection, while feijoada, a hearty black bean stew, offers a taste of traditional Brazilian cuisine. Argentina is renowned for its mouthwatering steaks, often enjoyed with chimichurri sauce, and empanadas filled with various ingredients. In Colombia, don't miss arepas and bandeja paisa, a hearty platter of meats and sides. The Amazon region offers exotic fruits like açaí, and Venezuela boasts arepas and pabellón criollo, a national dish.