Study reveals that 7 out of 10 Colombians choose destinations for their local cuisine: discover 6 places that stand out for their culinary offerings.
Over the years, culinary experiences and travelers' desire to learn more about the culture of the destinations they visit have increased. In fact, more and more Colombian travelers are letting their taste buds take the lead when choosing where to go .
Gastronomy is positioned as one of the main reasons to pack, according to Booking.com's 2025 travel trends research .
Arequipa, Peru, is an ideal destination for experiencing local cuisine. Photo: ANDRÉS HURTADO GARCÍA
According to the report's results, 70 percent of respondents say they want to try the local cuisine of their travel destination, and 64 percent say tasty and authentic food is a key factor in deciding where to go. Eating well isn't just a pleasure: it's a cultural, emotional, and now, more than ever, a tourist motivation.
From market to memory Traveling is synonymous with exploring flavors, and for many , it's the best way to take home a true souvenir of the place they've visited.
The platform's research found that more than half of Colombian travelers want to try street food (57 percent) and visit local markets (49 percent) to learn about the ingredients that tell a region's story.
Additionally, 51 percent are drawn to local cafes, while another 49 percent prefer to discover small, hidden restaurants —those hidden gems that only locals know about.
And it's not just about eating, but about understanding the culture through its recipes: 35 percent of Colombian travelers are looking for gastronomic experiences such as cooking classes , special dinners, or culinary tours when traveling to a new place.
The Walled City is one of the most popular tourist destinations. Photo: iStock
The influence of television and film on travel has also gained momentum: 52 percent of Colombian respondents want to travel to try food they've seen in a program or movie , and 33 percent are planning to visit the exact restaurants featured on screen.
The culinary experience also plays a role when booking accommodations. Forty-three percent of travelers consider the food options available at their accommodation , including breakfast.
In this context, the platform recommended some places to try its flavors in 2025:
Coffee tours in Salento are a must-do. Photo: iStock
- Arequipa, Peru. An Andean gem where traditional markets, like San Camilo, allow you to try everything from stuffed rocotos to frozen cheese. Perfect for those who love local and artisanal products.
- Cartagena, Colombia. Ideal for those looking to experience everything from street food in the Historic Center to ocean-view dining in Getsemaní.
- Bologna, Italy. For screen-inspired travelers who dream of trying authentic Bolognese lasagna in the city where it was born.
- Bangkok, Thailand. A paradise for lovers of street food and experiences like pad thai and green curry making classes.
- Salento, Colombia. A perfect destination for coffee lovers and mountain-flavored breakfasts. Here, local cafes are part of the landscape.
- Cape Town, South Africa. Between vineyards, markets, and food trucks , it's an increasingly sought-after destination for those who combine adventure with good food.
ANGIE RODRÍGUEZ - TRAVEL EDITORIAL - @ANGS0614
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