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If you can’t hop on a plane this year, you can still take your tastebuds on a journey by recreating the flavours, sights, and sounds of your favourite holiday spots.
Choose Your Destinations
Start by picking a handful of countries that hold special memories for you. Perhaps you loved the tapas culture in Spain, the pasta and wine in Italy, or the street food markets of Thailand?
Each dish or drink can represent a destination you’ve visited – or one still on your travel wish list.
Plan a Global Menu
The beauty of this kind of celebration is its variety. You could go all out with a buffet, or keep things simple with small plates and sharing platters. Some ideas:
Spain: patatas bravas, chorizo bites, jugs of sangria
Italy: bruschetta, mini pizzas, tiramisu, Prosecco
Mexico: tacos, nachos with guacamole, margaritas
Japan: sushi rolls, gyoza dumplings, matcha tea cocktails
India: samosas, curry bowls, mango lassi
Mix and match based on what you enjoy making – or order from your local international supermarket or takeaway to save time.
Drinks from Around the Globe
Pair your dishes with drinks that match their origins. Think Italian wines, Japanese sake, Mexican tequila, Belgian beers, or simply a selection of global soft drinks for a non-alcoholic spread.
Bring the Atmosphere Alive
It’s not just about taste – make your party an immersive experience:
Playlists: Create a mix of world music – samba from Brazil, reggae from Jamaica, flamenco guitar from Spain.
Decorations: Flags, travel souvenirs, postcards, or even maps make great conversation starters.
Photographs & Videos: Print out your favourite holiday snaps or create a slideshow to run in the background. Videos of street scenes, beaches, or cultural festivals can transport your guests instantly.
Share the Fun
Encourage your guests to bring along a dish or drink inspired by their own travels. It not only lightens your workload but also makes for some fantastic stories as people explain why they chose that particular country or recipe.
Capture the Memories
Don’t forget to take photographs and short videos during the evening. A group photo in front of your global spread, or a clip of everyone raising a glass to World Tourism Day, will make a wonderful keepsake – and it’s perfect content to share on social media if you want to inspire others.
Hosting a food and drink party for World Tourism Day is a brilliant way to celebrate the richness of global cultures, spark conversations about travel, and enjoy a feast that spans continents. Even if you can’t be jet-setting right now, you can still bring the world to your table.