For many travelers who also love their food, every trip is a chance to get to know the local culture better through gastronomic experiences. In a recent study by Hilton Honors on the core motivators compelling Asia Pacific travelers to go overseas, food tourism was consistently ranked as one of the top three experiences desired by travelers in Asia Pacific – especially in Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, South Korea and Vietnam. In addition to this, 64% of all respondents believed local cuisine had risen in importance as a core travel need when going on holiday.
With the growing number of Michelin-star restaurants, innovative cocktail bars, and Southeast Asia’s famed street food, colorful markets and hawker stalls, there’s no doubt there’s a lot of unique, top-notch food experiences to be had in Asia Pacific. For your next foodie adventure, why not try something a little different from the eight-course tasting menu or hunting down the next Instagram-worthy snack? Curated by Hilton Honors Experiences, part of Hilton’s award-winning loyalty program, here are some top foodie experiences to whet your appetite for your next travel destination.
Embark on a journey of growth and discovery
Return to our roots as farmers and gatherers at Conrad Maldives Rangali Island by foraging for ingredients and learning about hydroponic practices with the culinary team, at the resort’s hydroponic garden. Then, use the ingredients you collect in a private cooking class in Mandhoo, the resort’s organic health-inspired restaurant, and learn how to nourish the soul with the power of produce. At Mandhoo, prepare dishes according to the organic menu – which is arranged into the five elements. Each element has a specific taste, temperature, level of moisture and density, with associated cuisines designed to affect the body, mind and spirit in different ways. Conclude the session by digging into your own culinary creations, as baby sharks, parrot fish and sting rays swim beneath your feet at the restaurant.
Enjoy high tea and cocktails overlooking a stunning harbor
Showcasing dramatic fireplaces for enhanced atmosphere, as well as contemporary interior elements inspired by sailing and the sea, the Bellini Bar, right by the waterfront of the scenic Waitemata Harbor, is one of Auckland’s most scenic dining spots. The floor-to-ceiling windows of the bar (situated on the ground level of Hilton Auckland) beam natural light from the outdoor balconies and provide awe-inspiring views of Auckland city and Waitemata Harbor. Soak in the atmosphere while enjoying high tea, which includes a range of reimagined sweet and savory bites, such as tartines, salads, cakes and scones. You’ll also be able to select from a range of classic and signature cocktails, or even have an experienced inhouse mixologist create an old cocktail favorite for your drinking pleasure.
Live your MasterChef dreams
It’s no secret that you can find some of Southeast Asia’s best eats in Bali and Phuket, but have you ever wanted to learn how to recreate your favorite local dish? Check if your hotel offers cooking classes – you may get the chance to learn from the experts. For example, RIN restaurant at Conrad Bali offers authentic Japanese sushi-making lessons – imagine spending a couple hours gleaning culinary expertise and secrets of the art of sushi in a special master class. Thai Thai restaurant in Phuket, as the name suggests, serves mouth-watering Thai cuisine and fresh local seafood to satisfy any foodie’s appetite. Enhance your understanding of traditional Thai cooking and learn with Hilton Phuket’s expert chefs at a private cooking class.
Blend your own whisky or gin
Whisky and gin enthusiasts should book a visit to Archie Rose Distillery Co., one of Australia’s top distilleries that produces a diverse range of whiskies, gins, vodkas and rums. Besides a fascinating distillery tour that delves deep into their production processes and a guided tasting of their core spirits, Archie’s also conducts custom blending classes. Choose between creating your own blend of whisky or gin, and let the master distillers guide you through the rest. Afterwards, head to the bar for a bite – the menu features some of the best local produce like Tasmanian cheddar and South Australian brie – and a signature cocktail.
Hilton Honors Experiences
In collaboration with Hilton properties around the world, Hilton Honors members can use their Points to bid for exclusive experiences such as High Tea for Two on the Waitemata Waterfront for two, through the Hilton Honors Experiences platform. Visit https://experiences.hiltonhonors.com to book your next foodie adventure.
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