Tourexpi
For
around 16% of Germans, culinary variety is even the most important factor when
choosing a travel destination. These
insights are drawn from the latest TUI Culinary Tourism Report, based on a
survey of 2,000 respondents conducted in January 2025.
Food
& Drink: The Top Holiday Expense
German
holidaymakers spend more on food and drink than on excursions, cultural
activities, or transport. The most generous spenders are aged 18 to 24, with
51% prioritising their travel budget for culinary enjoyment. Women also tend to
spend slightly more on food than men – 47% versus 45%.
Between
All-Inclusive and DIY Cooking
When
it comes to dining options, 35% of respondents prefer an all-inclusive package,
while 25% opt for half-board. About 15% choose to cook their own meals,
shopping at local markets and preparing food themselves. This do-it-yourself
approach is particularly popular among older travellers: nearly one in five
over the age of 55 cook during their holidays, compared to just 11% of Gen Z.
Favourite
Cuisines: Italy Still Reigns Supreme
Italian
cuisine remains the clear favourite among all age groups. Pasta, pizza, and
gelato continue to top the list of culinary dreams. Second place varies by age:
younger travellers favour Turkish cuisine, while Germans over 55 surprisingly
rank their own national cuisine second. Greek food, especially popular among
25- to 54-year-olds, was named the world’s best cuisine for 2024/25 by
TasteAtlas.
Culinary
Curiosity: How Open Are Travellers to New Tastes?
About
31% of those surveyed say they always try local specialities when travelling,
and 24% say they usually do. Older generations are significantly more
adventurous in this regard: 61% of travellers over 55 say they often or always
sample regional cuisine, compared to just 43% of those aged 18 to 24.
Conclusion:
Travel as a Culinary Adventure
The
TUI Culinary Tourism Report makes one thing clear: food is a central part of
modern travel. Whether at a resort buffet or a street food stall in Bangkok,
great food becomes an emotional experience. It connects cultures, sparks
curiosity, and creates lasting memories.
Today,
to travel is also to taste the world.
Image
Credit: © AA
The most interesting news


Italy set to break tourism records as Rome prepares to host WTTC’s 25th Global Summit
International visitor spending to exceed €60 billion as global tourism leaders head to the Eternal City.


TUI Care Foundation launches two new TUI Futureshapers projects in Portugal and North Africa
TUI Futureshapers Portugal offers training, mentorship, and expert support to help social entrepreneurs build sustainable tourism businesses with impact.


AI-supported ground processes: Lufthansa, Fraport, and zeroG drive innovation at Frankfurt Airport
Camera-based computer vision solution “seer” improves punctuality — ground operations become more efficient — customer experience enhanced.


Ryanair urges government to abolish air travel tax in 2026 budget
Air travel tax must be scrapped if Germany wants to return to pre-COVID traffic and tourism levels


There's Never Been a Better Time to Visit Hyatt Regency Danang
Travel + Leisure World's Best Awards 2025 winner unveils elevated dining experiences and unparalleled family accommodations.


TAT Launches Coral College Project to Promote Safe and Sustainable Marine Tourism
New bilingual e-learning platform aims to protect marine ecosystems and raise tourist awareness.


Turkish Airlines signs deal with Dubai Islamic Bank for Airbus A350 acquisitions
Turkish Airlines has signed a landmark financing agreement with Dubai Islamic Bank (DIB) to fund the purchase of Airbus A350 aircraft, marking a significant step in its financial and strategic growth.


Thailand–Cambodia conflict escalates with new airstrikes despite ceasefire calls
The ongoing border conflict between Thailand and Cambodia has entered its third day, marked by renewed airstrikes and rising casualties, despite mounting international calls for an immediate ceasefire.


Holland America Line launches new era of onboard entertainment
Holland America Line is introducing a refreshed entertainment experience across its fleet, with changes rolling out now through 2026.


Peru’s tourism sector on track for historic record in 2025
According to the latest estimates by the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), Peru’s tourism sector is expected to reach an all-time high in 2025, generating over USD 23 billion and contributing 7.8% to the country’s GDP.


Condor announces expanded summer 2026 flight schedule with new destinations
Condor has released its flight schedule for summer 2026, unveiling an expanded network of popular holiday destinations and increased service frequencies on high-demand long-haul routes.


TAT showcases Blue Jasmine luxury rail journey ahead of November launch
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has completed a technical familiarisation trip to preview the upcoming Blue Jasmine Luxury Rail Journey, set to begin its maiden voyage this November.


Condor launches inaugural flight to Sanya
Condor has added a new destination in the Asia-Pacific region with the launch of its first flight to Sanya, located on China’s Hainan Island.


Fresh Highlights from Eurowings – 25 July 2025
Eurowings Ranked Among Europe’s Top Airlines.


Malaysia launches MYMT 2026: a new era in medical tourism
The Malaysia Healthcare Travel Council (MHTC) has officially launched the Malaysia Year of Medical Tourism 2026 (MYMT 2026) at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC).


Emirates Crowned ‘Best Long Haul Airline’ at The Telegraph Travel Awards 2025
Emirates has once again been named ‘Best Long Haul Airline’ at The Telegraph Travel Awards 2025, reaffirming its reputation for excellence in global aviation.


Saint-Denis – The New MICE Hub of Greater Paris
At the centre: the H4 Hotel Wyndham Paris Pleyel Resort.


Escape the Heat with Agoda’s Summer ‘Cool-cation’ Guide
As record-breaking heatwaves continue to affect much of the world this summer, South Korea is experiencing its most extreme heatwave in 117 years.


Picturesque Cappadocia Becomes the Latest Turkish Region to Join the Michelin Guide
Cappadocia, one of Türkiye’s most iconic and scenic travel destinations, has officially been added to the prestigious Michelin Guide, becoming the latest Turkish region to be recognised for its culinary excellence.


Thailand Launches ‘Green Tourism Collections’ to Support EU Standards
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has officially launched the Thailand Green Tourism Collections, a key initiative under its Thailand Green Tourism for Sustainability programme.


Ryanair launches 'Travel Agent Direct' to empower offline agencies and boost fare transparency
Ryanair, Europe’s leading airline, has announced the launch of Travel Agent Direct (TAD), a new authorised booking platform designed for traditional travel agencies.
