With holidays on the horizon, many of us are finalizing our travel plans. And if you have a sweet tooth, you know that one of the hardest things about traveling is finding ways to satisfy your cravings. While it’s easy enough to find a decent dessert at most restaurants, tracking down those little indulgences that make vacations even sweeter can be tough. Here are a few tips to help you find the best desserts while traveling:
1. Check out local food blogs and websites.
Before you even start packing your bags, do a little research on the local food scene. Chances are, plenty of food bloggers and websites in your destination city can give you the inside scoop on where to find the best desserts. A quick Google search should do the trick! Look for websites and blogs focusing on dessert or food in general, as they’re likely to have the most comprehensive listings.
You can also try searching for specific desserts you’re interested in, like “best pie in NYC” or “chocolate cake in Paris.” This can help you narrow down your options and ensure you’re getting exactly what you’re looking for. But don’t limit yourself to only searching for specific desserts – general food blogs can be just as helpful.
Many travelers use these resources to find the best restaurants in town, but they can also be a great way to discover lesser-known sweets shops. Once you’ve found a few places that look promising, add them to your list of must-visit spots.
2. Seek out local dessert shops and bakeries.
One of the best ways to find good desserts is simply to follow your nose! Dessert shops and local bakeries often have cases full of tempting treats, so it’s impossible to resist stopping in for a quick pick-me-up. Plus, you’ll get an authentic taste of the local cuisine. Always look for new shops and bakeries, especially when exploring neighborhoods off the beaten path.
Many of these shops will have their specialties displayed in the window, so you’ll know right away what they’re known for. If you’re feeling indecisive, ask the staff for their recommendations. They’ll be happy to guide you to the perfect sweet treat. Tell them what kind of desserts you usually like, and they’ll be able to make suggestions based on your taste.
When entering a new bakery or dessert shop, it can be tough to decide what to order. But don’t worry – you can always ask for a sample before making your final decision. This will help you avoid any regretful purchases, and it’s a great way to try a little bit of everything. Don’t be afraid to ask for a sample of something that looks particularly intriguing – you may be surprised at how much you like it!
3. Ask the locals.
Who should you trust more than the people who live in your destination city? When finding the best local spots, nothing beats a recommendation from a friend or neighbor. So if you’re looking for some good dessert options, be sure to ask around. They may not have any specific recommendations, but they can at least point you in the right direction.
If you’re staying in a hotel or renting an apartment through AirBnB, you can also take advantage of the local knowledge of your concierge or host. They’ll be able to give you some great recommendations for where to find the best desserts in town. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even ask them to prepare a custom dessert for you!
4. Don’t forget about the classics.
Finally, don’t forget about the classic desserts served in most restaurants. While they may not be as exciting as some of the more specialized options, they’re still worth trying. After all, you can’t visit Paris without having a piece of chocolate cake or enjoying a scoop of gelato in Rome. These desserts may not be unique to your destination, but they’re still a delicious way to satisfy your sweet tooth.
It would be best if you also kept an eye out for specialties from your home country that are served in foreign restaurants. For example, if you’re from the United States, you can find some great American desserts in UK restaurants. These include classics like cheesecake, brownies, and cookies. So if you’re homesick for some good old-fashioned desserts, be sure to look for these options when you’re abroad.
With some planning and clever Googling, it’s easy to find ways to satisfy your sweet tooth while traveling. Many of the best desserts are hidden in plain sight, so keep your eyes peeled and your stomach empty! You never know when you’ll stumble upon the perfect treat.