Food tours are a great way to discover a new city, learn about its culture and history, and taste some of its delicious cuisine. But not all food tours are the same. Depending on your preferences, budget, and travel style, you may want to choose between a private or a public food tour. Here are some of the main differences and benefits of each option, so you can decide which one suits you best.
Private food tours
A private food tour is a personalised and exclusive experience, where you have a dedicated guide who caters to your needs and interests. You can choose the date, time, duration, and itinerary of your tour, as well as the type of food and drinks you want to try. You can also request special accommodations, such as vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or allergy-friendly options. A private food tour is ideal for couples, families, groups of friends, or solo travellers who want more flexibility, privacy, and attention from their guide. You can also ask questions, share stories, and interact with your guide at your own pace, without worrying about other guests or crowds.
– You can customise your tour according to your preferences and expectations.
– You can enjoy a more intimate and personal connection with your guide and the local culture.
– You can avoid the hassle of booking, reserving, or waiting in line at restaurants and venues.
– You can explore hidden spots and off-the-beaten-path locations that are not accessible to the public.
– You can have a more relaxed and comfortable experience, without feeling rushed or pressured by time or group dynamics.
Public food tours
A public food tour is a shared and social experience, where you join a group of other travellers who have similar interests and tastes. You follow a pre-set schedule and route, which usually covers the most popular and iconic dishes and places of the city. You meet your guide at a designated meeting point and time, and follow them along the tour, listening to their stories and insights. A public food tour is ideal for travellers who want to meet new people, make friends, and have fun. You can also benefit from the group discounts and deals that your guide may have arranged with the local vendors and establishments.
Some of the advantages of a public food tour are:
– You can save money and time by booking your tour online and joining an existing group.
– You can enjoy a lively and festive atmosphere, with laughter, jokes, and conversations with fellow travellers.
– You can learn from the diverse perspectives and experiences of other guests and your guide.
– You can visit the most famous and renowned restaurants and attractions of the city, and sample their signature dishes and drinks.
– You can have a more adventurous and spontaneous experience, as you never know who you will meet or what you will discover along the way.
Conclusion
Both private and public food tours have their pros and cons, and ultimately, the choice depends on your personal preference and travel style. Whether you want a customised and exclusive experience, or a shared and social one, you can find a food tour that matches your expectations and budget. The most important thing is to have fun, enjoy the food, and immerse yourself in the local culture.
We offer a host of ready made, private food tours of London, and one brand new private food tour of Edinburgh. Head to our booking page to see our availability, or shoot us a message and we can make you a completely custom tour to suit the pickiest/most adventurous of fellows.
