Indulging in the world’s culinary delights and embarking on gastronomic escapades has been a thrilling passion for Michelle Cangelosi, a self-proclaimed foodie and avid traveler. With a zest for exploration, she has traversed over 50 countries, immersing herself in diverse cultures, and savoring the finest flavors each destination has to offer.
Below is a discussion of Michelle Cangelosi’s extraordinary journey that left an indelible mark on both her heart and tongue.
Eating great food — and perhaps trying something new – is a highlight of most any vacation. There are new restaurants to try, new cultural experiences, and local, ethnic cooking classes to attend.
Global travelers have long made food experiences the focus of adventurous trips. Michelle Cangelosi is a worldwide traveler herself, noting these journeys were filled with incredible experiences, cultural encounters, and gastronomic delights.
Michelle Lynn Cangelosi Explores Cultural Traditions
When traveling and exploring a country’s food scene, diving into cultural traditions is an essential aspect of the culinary journey. Embracing the local cuisine goes beyond merely tasting dishes; it involves immersing oneself in the rich cultural heritage and traditions that have shaped the flavors and culinary practices of a region. By delving into the cultural aspects of food, travelers can gain a deeper understanding of a country’s history, customs, and way of life.
Below are a few highlights of some of Michelle Cangelosi’s most memorable:
Barcelona, Spain
Michelle Cangelosi reminisces that one of the most memorable cooking class experiences took place in the beautiful city of Barcelona, Spain. Renowned for its rich culinary heritage, she explains that she eagerly signed up for a paella cooking class.
Guided by a seasoned local chef, the class dove into the art of crafting this iconic Spanish dish. From sautéing the rice to incorporating flavors of saffron, paprika, and fresh seafood, every step was a true labor of love. Sharing the delightful paella that had been prepared with newfound friends became the highlight of the entire trip!
Marrakech, Morocco
Michelle Cangelosi notes that Marrakech was an exciting experience with its tantalizing array of exotic spices and flavors. Exploring the bustling Marrakech medina, Michelle indulged in traditional dishes like tagines, couscous, and the fragrant Moroccan mint tea from street food vendors. The warm hospitality of the locals and the lively atmosphere made the experience truly unforgettable.
Taipei, Taiwan
In Taipei, Taiwan, Michelle Lynn Cangelosi had the pleasure of embarking on a walking food tour through bustling streets and night markets. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, guests were able to sample a myriad of Taiwanese delicacies, from mouthwatering xiaolongbao (soup dumplings) to stinky tofu, a famous local specialty.
Each stop on the tour unveiled a new layer of Taiwanese culinary delights, providing her with a deeper appreciation for Taipei’s diverse and flavorful street food culture.
If you can’t make it there anytime soon, you can at least try some delicious Taipei frozen food at home.
Lisbon, Portugal
Michelle Cangelosi says that Lisbon was a charming location with a blend of historical charm and modern cuisine. The city’s walking food tours provided a delightful way to experience its culinary heritage.
Alongside fellow food enthusiasts, she strolled through the streets, making stops at local eateries to indulge in Portuguese petiscos (tapas), the famous pastéis de nata (custard tarts) and even the sought after coroa da abadessa. The fusion of traditional recipes with contemporary twists showcased Lisbon’s evolving gastronomic scene.
Phnom Penh, Cambodia
During a year living in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, Michelle Lynn Cangelosi explored vibrant local markets, which were a feast for the senses. The bustling atmosphere, vibrant colors, and exotic aromas drew people in as a sampling of fresh tropical fruits and spices were abundant. Interactions with local vendors and the discovery of new flavors left an indelible mark on this culinary journey. Michelle often brought visiting friends to various markets to purchase an array of fruits that they had never tried elsewhere.
Valencia, Spain
The city of Valencia, Spain, captivated Michelle with its authentic Spanish cuisine. Visiting the local markets allowed her to savor the best of Valencia’s fresh produce, including juicy oranges, succulent tomatoes, and aromatic saffron. The vibrant Mercado Central was a sensory delight, and she couldn’t resist trying the traditional Valencian paella, prepared with tender chicken, rabbit, and snails.
Kathmandu, Nepal
Michelle Lynn Cangelosi reports that traveling to Nepal beckoned her with its diverse and flavorful local specialties. Exploring the city’s lively street food scene, she savored momos, a type of dumpling filled with meat or vegetables, and indulged in the aromatic spices of Nepalese cuisine. The warmth and friendliness of the locals added an extra layer of enjoyment to the adventure not to mention the views from Chandragiri Hills Resort atop of Kathmandu.
Antigua, Guatemala
Guatemala offered a delightful fusion of Mayan and Spanish influences in its cuisine. The charming colonial city of Antigua featured local specialties included Pepian, a rich and flavorful stew, and tamales, which were a true delight. Roaming through the colorful streets, she found herself indulging in the unique flavors of Guatemala immersed in its vibrant culinary heritage. Michelle was also captivated by the architecture and various doorknobs to the homes in this quaint city.
Conclusion
Michelle Lynn Cangelosi’s journey to over 50 countries has not only been an exploration of diverse cultures, but also a celebration of the rich tapestry of global flavors. From cooking classes in Barcelona to walking food tours in Taipei and local market excursions in Phnom Penh, her culinary experiences have been a source of joy and connection with the world.
