Mangia, Mangia! The Italian command from every mama to eat is more that just a word in Italy, it is a way of life. For the epicurean it is also a reason to travel. To truly experience a place and it's people, you need to break bread with them. There is no better way to learn about a society or share in its everyday life that around the table, or in the kitchen!

This month's issue is all about local foods and wines, the heart and soul of every culture. Whether your trip is to master a new culinary skill, learn a previously unknown cuisine, or just snack away while you adventure or explore the history and arts, tasting the regional specialties is a great way to experience a country's different areas.

Follow in the footsteps of hungry travelers that have gone before by focusing your trip on great accommodations known for their restaurants, chase Michelin stars for a truly gourmet experience, eat like the locals right off the street or learn from the best chefs and your holiday is sure to be a delight.

The following list is just a taste of the culinary tour hosts that CulturalTravels.com features. I hope reading their articles makes you as hungry as they did me.

Name: Les Routiers Ireland
Location: Ireland, England
Specialty: A select membership organization of hotels and restaurants specializing in culinary delights
Why We Like Them: Offering a number of guidebooks and maps of their featured locations throughout Ireland,  Les Routiers is a great way to plan your trip if you are looking to follow the culinary route though Ireland. With properties as diverse as castles, country houses and B&B's you can enjoy Irish hospitality and good cooking, regardless of your budget. Their web site features great articles from their guidebooks, an interactive map to help plan your route and online reservation capabilities making Les Routiers Ireland this month's Pick.
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Name: Music and Markets
Location: France, Italy, Amsterdam and Prague
Specialty: Shopping local markets and the best music at each venue
Why We Like Them: Besides great music, Anne and Kirk lead their travelers to the best local markets. Whether they are shopping for food, antiques or just general browsing, these tours are sure to please. Once on a trip, many clients return again and again, and I've heard the great reviews for myself. Small group size ensures the best seats and personal attention. You can't go wrong with a Music and Markets tour!
Article: My Tuscan Shopping List

Name: Epiculinary Inc.
Location: France, Italy, Spain, Portugal US, Mexico, Vietnam and Canada
Specialty: Group tours and independent cooking schools
Why We Like Them: With over 50 programs, Epiculinary Inc. can help you create the culinary trip of your dreams. Whether you plan a private trip for 2 or join one of their special group departures, you are sure eat, cook and see great things. Enjoy hands on cooking classes, visits to wineries, food markets and scrumptious meals at the best local restaurants in each destination.
Article: Eating My Way Through Vietnam

Name: Philip Oakes, Arte Culinaria
Location: Italy
Specialty: Cooking school and farmhouse accommodations
Why We Like Them: At the foot of the Dolomites lies La Casa Gialla a converted farmhouse that is the home to the school and accommodations for your stay at Arte Culinaria. Located in the Venito about an hour from Venice, Padova, Belluno, Bassano, Vicenza, and Asolo in the village of Cison, Arte Culinaria offers a great location to explore the region and of course a great place to learn about No. Italian cuisine — complete with 18c bread oven. An indoor swimming pool and activity center as well as the surrounding region has a lot to offer the non-cooking partner as well.
Article: The Veneto’s Culinary Cycles

Name: Divina Cucina
Location: Italy
Specialty: 1-3 day cooking classes
Why We Like Them: Since 1988, Judy Witts has been offering cooking classes in her adopted city of Florence. Enjoy one, two or three day classes, on your schedule. Each class is offered in her home and limited to no more that 6 persons. Larger and private groups can be accommodated as well. All courses start in Florence's fabulous Mercato Centrale to meet Judy's idols, taste the wonders of the city, and purchase the best seasonal ingredients for the days class. Jud't web site as a great newsletter, filled with mouthwatering recipes. A must do while in Florence, or any serious Italian food lover.
Article: Italy A Chocolate lover’s Paradise

Name: Culinary Vacations, Inc.
Location: Spain, Italy, France and USA
Specialty: Culinary vacations including cooking classes
Why We Like Them: Learn to cook regional favorites with the freshest season ingredients, all classes are escorted by Chef John himself. Trips include 5 nights accommodations, participatory cooking classes, lots of excursions, great meals and wines. Chef John also offers Gourmet Getaways in Ashville N. C for those looking to learn closer to home. Great for all skill levels, trips have a great balance of class and free excursion time.
Article: Travels Around the Tuscan Table