Cooking Classes & Food Tours – Check List

Cooking Classes & Food Tours

When embarking on a cooking class or a food tour, the focus shifts to active participation, tasting, and often, getting a bit messy (in a good way!). Here’s what travelers need to consider:

What to Bring for Cooking Classes & Food Tours:

  • Comfortable Shoes: For food tours, you’ll be doing a lot of walking, often on uneven city streets or market aisles. For cooking classes, you’ll be standing for extended periods.

Comfortable, Practical Clothing:

  • Cooking Classes: Wear clothes you don’t mind potentially getting splattered or stained. Loose-fitting clothing is good for movement. Long hair should be tied back. Avoid overly baggy sleeves that could get in the way.
  • Food Tours: Dress for the weather and for walking comfortably.
  • Empty Stomach (for Food Tours): This is perhaps the most crucial “item” for a food tour! You’ll be sampling many different dishes, so arrive hungry.
  • Water Bottle: Stay hydrated, especially on walking tours or in warm kitchens.
  • Hand Sanitizer: Essential for hygiene, especially before and after handling food, or after touching market produce.
  • Small Bag: A cross-body bag or small backpack is ideal. You want your hands free for eating, cooking, or carrying small purchases.
  • Cash (Local Currency) in Small Denominations: While tours are usually pre-paid, small cash amounts are great for:

Tips for guides/chefs (if customary).

  • Impulse buys at markets visited during the tour.
  • Additional drinks not included in the tour.
  • Camera/Smartphone: For capturing the delicious food, the cooking process, and the vibrant market scenes.
  • Be mindful of taking photos of other participants or vendors without permission.
  • Wet Wipes: Useful for cleaning sticky fingers or spills.
  • Reusable Shopping Bag (for Food Tours): If your food tour includes a market visit, you might want to buy some ingredients or local specialties to take home.
  • Notebook and Pen (for Cooking Classes): To jot down recipes, tips, or interesting facts shared by the chef.
  • List of Allergies/Dietary Restrictions (provided in advance): Make sure you’ve communicated any dietary needs to the tour operator or cooking class instructor well in advance so they can accommodate you. Carry a reminder if necessary.
  • Open Mind and Adventurous Palate: Be willing to try new flavors and learn new techniques!

Etiquette and Respectful Behavior at Cooking Classes & Food Tours:

  • Be Punctual: Arrive on time (or a few minutes early) for the start of the class or tour to avoid delaying the group.

Active Listening & Participation:

  • Cooking Classes: Pay attention to the instructor, follow directions, and actively participate in the cooking process. Ask questions if you don’t understand, but avoid monopolizing the instructor’s time.
  • Food Tours: Listen to your guide. They have valuable insights into the local food, culture, and history.

Be Considerate of Others:

  • Sharing: If samples are shared, take a reasonable portion.
  • Space: Be mindful of personal space in busy kitchens or crowded market stalls.
  • Conversation: Keep conversations at an appropriate volume so everyone can hear the guide or instructor.
  • Hygiene in Cooking Classes: Wash your hands frequently, especially when handling different ingredients. Follow all hygiene instructions from the instructor.
  • No Food Waste (if possible): Try to finish your portions or only take what you can eat, especially if food is plentiful.

Respect Vendors/Locals:

  • Food Tours: Be polite and friendly to local vendors and restaurant staff. They are sharing their food and culture with you.
  • Photography: Always ask permission before taking close-up photos of food vendors or locals.
  • Tips (if customary): If you’ve had an excellent experience, a tip for your guide or chef is a thoughtful way to show appreciation, especially if it’s customary in the local culture.
  • Provide Feedback: If asked, give constructive feedback at the end of the class or tour.
  • Embrace the Local Culture: Food is a powerful way to connect with a culture. Be open to trying new things, even if they seem unusual. Ask about the ingredients, traditions, and stories behind the dishes.

By preparing well and engaging respectfully, you’re set for a delicious and enlightening experience!