This trip was amazing, and I was very sad to leave! Our group got along extremely well, and our TD never allowed for a dull moment. Between meeting new people and trying new things, it was the best kind of culture shock imaginable.
This being my first overseas trip, my thoughts are as followed:
1) The overall trip was amazing, everyday was something new and exciting. The Tour Director was very knowledgeable in the culture and customs, the places we visited were places I wanted to go to, and going on this...
My TD Dang was absolutely amazing and made my second EF trip one of the best experiences ever!! His local insights gave us the best opportunity to explore and do as much as we could in our free time and all of his recommendations were 10/10. He was always quick to respond and so...
This was my very first EF Ultimate trip and it being Vietnam was a deeply felt pilgrimage for me back to my parent’s motherland. I can attribute most of my experience to Dang’s guidance and leadership on this tour. He was organized, meticulous in planning our day-to-day, and...
I took this trip with my sister, but Saki really felt like she was part of the family and another sister I was taking the trip with. She was responsible, cared for the group and made sure to make everyone feel included. In a group of 20+ I find that almost impossible but she did...
To put it simply, it was a wonderful trip! I couldn't have done it with a better group of people and guide. Our guide, Saki was fantastic! If someone would ask me, if I would do it again, I would have to answer: "On the condition that it's with the same guide, and with a group...
I had a great time on this trip. Everything was well organized. I loved the tea ceremony excursion and visiting multiple different Japanese shrines. Everyone was very friendly.
My tour guide Saki was the best! She made everyone feel comfortable and always made sure we had a...
These two weeks of traveling around Japan have been the trip of a lifetime. The planning of the transportation and accommodations alone is worth the overall cost. I could not have planned this trip on my own. If I had, it would not have turned out even half as good as this one....
This was my 3rd EF tour and by far my favorite. I loved that the itinerary included the best spots to visit, but also the extra excursions were definitely worth it (I booked all of them and didn't regret it). Our tour director Saki was also amazing, and she made the trip even...
This trip is truly non-stop. You have the opportunity to explore the incredible diversity of Vietnam—from the bustle of Hanoi, the stunning mountaintops of Sapa, sunsets of Ha Long Bay. While the trip is fast paced, our TD Dang is the literal energizer bunny and will keep your...
Our group trips to Europe come with everything included. That’s accommodations, flights (unless you wanna book your own), activities, and an expert Tour Director who always knows all the hot spots and secret spots.
Insider tips about how to enjoy food & wine from around the world.
A topic that could be debated for eternity, but here's our take on the best food and wine countries in the world.
France: From Parisian patisseries to rustic Provencal markets, taste croissants, cheeses, and local wines in every region.
Greece: Olive oil, fresh seafood, and meze plates dominate, from Athens to Santorini’s cliffside tavernas.
Italy: Tuscany, Rome, and the Amalfi Coast offer pizza, pasta, gelato, and world-famous wines.
Thailand: Street food, curry, and tropical fruits are essential, complemented by local rice wines.
Spain: Tapas, paella, churros, and sangria fill bustling squares and seaside towns alike.
Vietnam: Pho, banh mi, fresh herbs, and tropical fruit markets showcase the country’s vibrant street cuisine.
These destinations highlight both iconic dishes and hidden culinary gems for travelers seeking authentic flavors.
Trips are designed for immersive, hands-on experiences that go beyond simply eating:
Cooking classes: Learn to make pasta in Italy, tapas in Spain, or curry in Thailand.
Market tours: Explore local markets, from French farmers’ stalls to Vietnam’s floating markets.
Tasting sessions: Sample regional wines, cheeses, olive oils, or tropical fruit in context.
Street food adventures: Dive into authentic street eats in Thailand, Vietnam, or Spain.
Dining with locals: Enjoy meals in homes, family-run tavernas, or rustic countryside settings.
These experiences let travelers taste, create, and celebrate the flavors of each culture.
Every destination has signature dishes that define the region:
France: Croissants, coq au vin, ratatouille, and Bordeaux or Burgundy wines.
Greece: Moussaka, grilled octopus, tzatziki, and local wines or ouzo.
Italy: Pizza Napoletana, handmade pasta, gelato, and Chianti wines.
Thailand: Pad Thai, green curry, mango sticky rice, and locally brewed rice wine.
Spain: Patatas bravas, paella, churros, and sangria.
Vietnam: Pho, banh mi, fresh spring rolls, and tropical fruit juices or rice wines.
Cuisine in these destinations is a reflection of heritage, climate, and social life:
France & Italy: Meals are communal and drawn out, emphasizing conversation, local ingredients, and wine pairings.
Greece & Spain: Dining often spills into plazas or seaside terraces, reinforcing community and celebration.
Thailand & Vietnam: Street food culture emphasizes accessibility, flavor, and daily life on the go.
Wine regions: Vineyards and tastings connect travelers to centuries-old agricultural traditions and regional pride.
Eating and drinking are integral to understanding the rhythm, history, and values of these cultures.
Maximize your culinary adventures with these practical tips:
Be adventurous: Try dishes you can’t pronounce—you’ll often discover the most memorable flavors.
Eat where locals eat: Restaurants and markets favored by residents often offer the most authentic experiences.
Timing matters: Embrace local meal schedules—late dinners in Spain, leisurely lunches in Italy.
Pair thoughtfully: Explore local wine, cheese, or beer pairings to complement dishes.
Respect traditions: From toast etiquette in France to shared plates in Greece, small cultural insights enhance every meal.
With these tips, travelers can enjoy food and wine trips that are immersive, delicious, and culturally enriching.
Europe is a year-round destination, but the best time depends on what you’re after.
Spring (March–May): Flowers bloom, temperatures rise, and tourist crowds are lighter—ideal for sightseeing.
Summer (June–August): The busiest (and warmest) season. Expect long days, lively festivals, and plenty of outdoor dining.
Fall (September–October): Cooler weather, grape harvests, and smaller crowds—perfect for foodies and wine lovers.
Winter (November–February): Cozy up in Christmas markets, hit the Alps for skiing, or enjoy quieter city breaks.
Whenever you go, Europe’s mix of history, culture, and adventure makes every trip unforgettable.
Travel on a food & wine trip with EF Ultimate Break
From savoring creamy gelato in Italy’s cobblestone piazzas to tasting fresh tapas in Spain’s lively squares, EF Ultimate Break makes exploring the world through food and drink a delicious adventure. Eat your way through French pâtisseries and try Greek mezze, Thai street food, and Vietnamese pho while wandering markets, learning local cooking techniques, and discovering how each region’s unique flavors reflect centuries of history and tradition.
EF Ultimate Break designs travel experiences for 18-to-35-year-olds, offering fully-planned itineraries that include expert local guides and culturally immersive experiences—so you can focus on making memories, not on logistics. With thousands of 5-star reviews, 60 years of experience, and interest-free payment plans, we make group travel simple, social, and stress-free.
