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WWII (The Second World War) shaped the course of history. New weapons and military strategies arose, changing how wars are fought. There were dramatic geopolitical, economic, and demographic consequences, still felt to this day. But few people think about the war’s influence on cuisine.
Locals had to adapt their traditional cuisine to survive scarcity. This wartime legacy, coupled with ingrained cultural culinary habits, led to the cuisines we now know and love. Join us as we delve into the fascinating relationship between culinary and cultural adventures in WWII tours with a twist.
Why Combine Culinary and Cultural Adventures?
Cultural adventures allow visitors to learn more about the history and traditions of a specific area. Culinary adventures offer this experience too, but focus on food. But why combine culinary and cultural adventures, you ask?
The war affected people both on and off of the battlefields of war-torn Europe, influencing local cultures and their eating habits. Combining cultural and culinary tours allows visitors deeper insights into the relationship between wartime and cuisine.
Wartime and Cuisine
Delayed food production, prioritizing food for troops, and obstructed import/export routes created scarcity. Foods like meat, eggs, cheese, milk, sugar, butter, and cooking fats were rationed. This led to a wave of creativity borne from necessity.
Rather than abandon cultural traditions, Europeans proved their resilience by adapting them to wartime conditions. This gave rise to new culinary experiences. It kept troops fed. And it ensured that children born into a climate of war and scarcity could still grow up with fond memories of home.
Many wartime culinary creations are still enjoyed today, like spaghetti alla carbonara, one of Italy’s most famous dishes. It is said to have originated during WW2 when Rome was liberated. Food shortages were severe, and Allied troops’ military rations were used to create this beloved pasta dish.
WWII Tours with a Twist
Every country, indeed every region, has a unique culture and cuisine.
In Europe, these were highly influenced by World War 2. Historical tours offer so much more than just a retelling of these battles. WWII tours with a twist offer a taste of the culinary revolution, too, and allow you to fully immerse yourself in the local culture.
France
Focus on tours that also offer opportunities to sample traditional French cuisine and wines. In Normandy in the northwest, you can explore where the D-Day landings took place that signaled the turning point of WW2. And you’ll find no better WW2 tour in this region than a Band of Brothers Tour.
Their expert guides bring WW2 history to life. We highly recommend their organized tours that include accommodation, visits to military and cultural sites, and stops at local restaurants for traditional fare.
Winelovers already know that France has a long history of winemaking. But Normandy is also famous for its cider so be sure to try some while you’re touring the region.
Germany
Germany played a central role in WW2, and most war history tours revolve around its many iconic sites. One of these sites is Nuremberg. After the Second World War, Nuremberg was chosen as the site for the war trials. This was fitting, as it had been the site of so many Nazi propaganda rallies.
Its significance during World War 2 and the events that followed make this a top choice for WWII tours. But that’s not all that’s on offer here, as it also has a centuries-old brewing history. While soaking up the history, soak up the beer culture too.
A Nuremberg World War 2 and Beer Tasting Tour serves up a fusion of history, culture, and local brews.
Italy
Italy was Germany’s European ally in World War II. Therefore, this Mediterranean country in southern Europe is a popular destination for WW2 tours. But Italy is also a country famous for its culture and cuisine. Italian cheeses, wines, and pastas are legendary, after all.
Aside from their ever-popular Normandy tours, Band of Brothers tour WW2 sites throughout Europe. Their Grand Italian, North Italian, and South Italian tours include visits to iconic places from the Allied landing sites in Sicily to Rome and Tuscany.
Don’t forget to indulge in wine tastings and try local Italian cheeses, soups, and pasta while there.
Final Thoughts
Traveling to WWII landmarks can evoke a deep sense of history and reflection, but also introduce you to a whole new world of flavors. You’ll learn so much more than you read about in the history books, and broaden both your cultural and culinary horizons.
So, if you’re interested in European culture, history, and cuisine, discover them all on a WW2 tour with a twist. Or create your own culinary and cultural experiences, sampling local dishes and brews after a day of exploring WW2 sites.
