How many times have you, during winters, opened that chocolate powder and made yourself a warm cup of hot chocolate? But have you ever wondered where are the roots of this beverage? If you love to know the history of what you are drinking, or just a culinary enthusiast then undertaking the hot chocolate tourism should definitely be on your bucketlist. From Europe, North America and Asia, you would be able to see how this much loved winter drink which is made in every house, has branches expanding all over the world bifurcating into history, origins and classics and how modern consumerism is bringing its touch to this classic drink.
What makes it fruitful to go on a hot chocolate trail is to learn the nuances behind the making of this very popular drink and understanding in firm footing of this beverage in a world with ever changing culinary trends. In such a unique tourism you will come face to face with how the chocolate is derived from scratch, how it is made which varies in every place, how it is being made artisanal and served in cafes, signature recipes and the stories of the people who conjure this magical winter warmer for you in a cup.
How to have an immersive hot chocolate tourism experience?
When you are planning your hot chocolate tourism, check for the following.
Culinary trails that the city offers. Whether it involves café hopping, or going behind the scenes? Explore the signature hot chocolates of the region, check out cultural differentiations, lean on how trends like going gourmand and vegan is impacting the traditional concept of hot chocolate.
Limited edition menu: This is perhaps the most fun element where you experience the best of the season combined with the best of the culinary trend itself. Many places offer limited menus comprising flavours like gingerbread, mocha, peppermint, caramel, and some exotics like chilli and orange.
Don’t miss out on museums: Yes, there are chocolate museums in the world and they should not be missed out on. You get a complete hands-on experience to learn where your chocolate comes from and of course, there are free chocolates along the way.
Explore plantations: this holds true if you are going to places which have cocoa plantations. Make time to visit them as the guides there are best to give you demonstrations. And after the trail, often times there are cook with chocolate sessions or just chocolate eating / drinking sessions which are the highlights of the tour.
Make memories: when you visit so many places and try out such aesthetic drinks, how can your social media be far behind. Do capture the best stills and videos to tempt others to walk in your footpath.
Where to experience hot chocolate tourism?
Europe, North America and Asia are the perfect spots for hot chocolate tourism. In North America, Montreal and Quebec City are known for French-style and maple infusions. Places like New York, Seattle or San Francisco is known for their holiday menus during elaborate Christmas celebrations. For Mexico, chocolate is part of cultural identity and is a place to be explored. Asia offers artisanal experiences with dessert cafes in South Korea, and desi spiced versions in India. If you want to taste the classic hot chocolate then Europe is the best place to be. Check out thick, pudding like l’ancienne in Paris or the layered Bicerin in Italy, dive into century old recipes in Austria or artisanal blends in Belgium.
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