Unique Things To Do In Savannah, GA: 7+ Best Ideas (With Tour And Travel Tips)

Nov 14, 2024

Last Updated on: Nov 20, 2024

Travel Blog

Savannah has recently been in the limelight for great reasons. At the just-concluded 2024 Tourism Tropical North Queensland (TNQ) Tourism Industry Excellence Awards, Savannah in the Round has been conferred the Outstanding Commitment to the Industry award.

Savannah in the Round is a popular music and arts festival and with it winning the laurel, Savannah will get a great kick in the city’s art tourism. 

However, the unique things to do in Savannah are much beyond only nurturing the musical and arty aspects. For the longest time, it has been a hub of history enthusiasts, especially the ones eager to know about American history.

There is no wonder that Savannah and Chatham County have created an economic impact of $4.7 billion, thanks to tourism in 2023. 

What we are most pleased about is our visitors are staying longer and spending more money when they are here. That tells us that the overall Savannah visitor experience, when it comes to lodging, dining, and other activities, is meeting the needs and expectations of our customers. A goal the hospitality community strives for every day.

Joseph Marinelli, President and CEO, Visit Savannah

So, do you want to explore the promising tourism landscape of Savannah? Try the following activities on your first visit.

Most Unique Things To Do In Savannah (Don’t Miss Out On The Tour And Travel Tips)

Most Unique Things To Do In Savannah

Tourism in Savannah is crucial for the community as it has sustained 30,000 jobs annually in the tourism and hospitality sectors.

Further, the insights from locals and industry insiders have confirmed that the tourists now choose local businesses and hotels in the city. To be more specific, tourists here prefer to eat at locally-owned restaurants and buy stuff from local retail businesses.

With two-thirds of respondents intentionally favoring locally-owned restaurants and retail offerings, we as industry leaders must acknowledge and harness this trend.”

Todd Costin, General Manager Hyatt Regency Savannah and Visit Savannah Chair

So, are you ready to explore the true flavors of Savannah while visiting the iconic landmarks? Here are the best things to do in Savannah, curated and approved by the Tour and Travel expert team. 

1. A Day Trip To Tybee Island

A Day Trip To Tybee Island

A day trip to Tybee Island is one of the best things to do in Savannah if you want a relaxing holiday. The Little Tybee Island is the hidden gem of this trip, with only boats taking you to this pristine destination. 

Along with being a picturesque beach destination, Tybee Island also has places of attractions like the Tybee Island Light Station, Marine Science Center, etc.

When on Tybee Island, don’t miss a visit to Fort Pulaski, a place of great historic significance between Tybee Island and Savannah. 

2. Visiting The Bonaventure Cemetery

Visiting The Bonaventure Cemetery

Operating Hours: 8 AM to 5 PM

The 100-acre Bonaventure Cemetery is among the best attractions for literary and music enthusiasts. Names like Johnny Mercer and Conrad Aiken rest here.

Further, the neighboring Greenwich Cemetery has the grave of Danny Hansford. For the uninitiated, the murder of Danny Hansford was the main inspiration behind Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil, the bestseller by John Berendt.

Tour And Travel Tips

Wear comfortable shoes and carry a water bottle and bug spray while visiting this cemetery. 

3. Visiting The River Street

Visiting The River Street

River Street in the Waterfront District of Savannah is one of the most prominent travel destinations in the city. It runs along the Savannah River and many people also take a cruise ride from Hilton Head to River Street to take a stroll and explore the city’s history.

However, the main attractions here are the souvenir shops. Further, you can enjoy serious gastronomic delights at the local restaurants. 

Moreover, sipping your favorite drink at the old cotton warehouses while enjoying the river view is the most relaxing experience one can expect. 

4. Visiting The Old Sorrel Weed House

Operating Hours: 11 AM to 11 PM (Monday to Saturday), 11 AM to 3 PM (Sunday)

This villa, built in 1840, stands proudly on Harris Street with its unique Greek revival style. Francis Sorrel built the villa, and with time, it became home to Moxley Sorrel, the brigadier general and an important figure in the Civil War.

Did You Know?

The second wife of Francis Sorrel committed suicide at the Old Sorrel Weed House along with one of the slave workers.

Old-Sorrel Weed House was also featured in one of the episodes of HGTV’s Ghost Adventures.

However, today, along with being a place of architectural and historic importance, it is also a popular destination for ghost tours in Savannah. So, if you are interested in ghosts and spirits, a Ghost Tour on Paranormal Investigations here will be one of the best things to do in Savannah.

Tour And Travel Notes

Don’t miss a visit to Chippewa Square, near the Old Sorrel Weed House. It was the location of the famous Tom Hanks movie, Forest Gump.

In the movie, the actor sits on a bench at Chippewa Square and narrates his life stories. 

5. A Tour Of Fort Pulaski National Monument

A Tour Of Fort Pulaski National Monument

Operating Hours: 9 AM to 5 PM

The 19th-century Pulaski National Monument gets its name from Casimir Pulaski, a Revolutionary War Hero. Originally built as a watchpoint to save Savannah from coastal attacks, the fort slowly became a part of the history of slaves in Savannah.

Slaves escaping through the Underground Railroad used to take refuge in Fort Pulaski. So, visiting this historic fort is one of the most important things to do in Savannah and learn about the city’s relation with the history of slavery. 

6. Exploring The Savannah African Art Museum

Operating Hours: 11 AM to 5 PM

The Savannah African Art Museum is home to over thousand artworks from central and west Africa.

You can visit the spiritual and ceremonial collectibles from the 19th and 20th centuries. These objects are crafted from ceramics, metals, wood, etc.

The museum’s mission is to “provide engaging experiences that educate and start conversations about the power, diversity, and spirituality of African art.”

Tour And Travel Note

Savannah African Art Museum is a hidden gem and a great conversation starter for people interested in African culture.

Further, you will see many sculptures, textiles, masks, and other objects on display with the guide explaining their significance to you.

You can attend the 1-hour tours of the collectibles from Wednesday to Saturday. These tours start every 30 minutes. 

7. Visiting The Wormsloe State Historic Site

Visiting The Wormsloe State Historic Site

Operating Hours: 9 AM to 4:45 PM

Are you up for a stroll with towering oak trees gracing the pathways? The dressing of Spanish moss makes these oak trees appear as a witness to the changes in nature and human histories related to this place.

This is a great place for photography enthusiasts. However, as you pass the entryway, you will encounter the oldest standing structure of Savannah, the Wormsloe Ruins.

Noble Jones, a carpenter and one of the first-generation settlers from England built an estate here in the 1750s. He recruited slaves to plant cotton and vegetables and run the estate as a profitable business.

Today, you can visit the ruins and a small museum tour will help you find the artifacts unearthed here.

Tour And Travel Tips  

Don’t miss a walk on the interpretative trail at the Wormsloe State Historic Site. This trail along the Skidaway River marsh has interpreters in costumes. They interpret the colonial history of this estate and Georgia. 

8. Introspection At The First African Baptist Church

Introspection At The First African Baptist Church

The first African Baptist Church of 1773 is the longest-running Black church in North America. Rev. George Liele organized the church. He was a slave, but the British released him and he became the pastor of this church.

Andrew Bryan became the church’s second pastor as George Liele left for Jamaica. You can attend a service at the church or visit the following things, bearing the church’s architectural features and histories.

  • Original light fixtures
  • Balcony pews
  • Baptismal pool
  • Stained-glass windows
  • Underground Railroad

You can complete a tour of this church within 1 hour. So, visiting this church will easily fit into your list of things to do in Savannah. 

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Meet Sibashree Bhattacharya, a travel enthusiast who has a decade-long experience in transcending virtual barriers with her words! Her deep love for travel is apparent from her travel escapades to the mountain, often taking her readers on a journey, her words acting as Portkey! Fun fact: Sibashree loves to dive deep into the history of the places she is about to visit, making her travels even more wholesome. If you were wondering how her articles are not short of time travel, this answers it!

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READ MORE mountains of kenya

Explore The Beauty Of The Mountains Of Kenya!

BY  sagnika Aug 11, 2023

Want to learn more about the mountains of Kenya? A geographically and topographically diverse country, the Republic of Kenya has beautiful mountains that are more than just a geographical feature! Please read this article to learn about the features of the mountains, their cultural significance, as well as their beauty. There are almost 3888 mountains, out of which 3856 are named mountains. Mount Kenya is the highest peak of all these mountains, with an elevation of 5199 meters. It is one of the second-highest mountains in Africa and is considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Kenya is located in the eastern part of Africa, more towards the southern horn of Africa, with diverse geographical features ranging from towering alpine peaks to mangrove swamps. The mountains' beauty adds to the country's natural features, making it a perfect place to visit! Explore The Beauty Of The Mountains Of Kenya! As a country with a topographical contrast, Kenya is located in the eastern section of Africa. The equator crosses the country across Nanyuki, Maseno, and Timboroa. These features highlight Kenya as a stunning destination that many wish to visit! Being a topographically diverse country where the forests offer diverse wildlife, it is perfect to visit if you love taking safaris. There are also coasts and grasslands, making the location more diverse. The nation is also highly agricultural, with diverse produce, including vegetables, fruits, and animals, even though the location is remote and can be difficult for regular travel. An African safari holiday is a dream for every hodophile, and Kenya offers the perfect backdrop. With spectacular wildlife, astounding landscapes, and a melting pot of culture, Kenya ranks at the top of the travel list of everyone! Moreover, the beautiful mountains play an important role in making Kenya a fascinating place! The country borders nations such as South Sudan, Ethiopia, Tanzania, Uganda, and Somalia. So want to know more about the up-warped giants of the earth? Read along! Highest Mountains Of Kenya The total area of Kenya is 586,000 square kilometers, with high-rising regions such as high plateaus, mountains, arid deserts, and low-lying coastal areas, including islands and coral reefs. 7 freshwater and salt lakes are creating the Great Rift Valley cutting the country in half! Kenya has two of the tallest mountains on the continent. There are several other mountains, most inactive or extinct volcanoes. The landscape is diversified, yet the mountains are as beautiful as ever! Read more on some of the noteworthy mountains in Kenya. Mount Kenya The highest mountain in Kenya is Mount Kenya, located in the center of Kenya, approximately 100 miles northeast of the Capital, Nairobi. The mountain has several summits. Nelion, Lenana, and Batian are some. Bastian is the highest, with 17,058 feet, indicating the mountain's peak. The mountain formed about 3.5 million years ago. A well-known tourist destination, the Mount Kenya National Park surrounds Mount Kenya at the base. You can see elephants, buffalo, as well as colobus monkeys in the park. You can trek the mountain's peak of Lenana Summit as it is feasible without any mountaineering expertise. The rock kente is only available on Mount Kenya as well as the Antarctic, situated at the South Pole. The Spiritual Connection Of Mount Kenya Riuki is found on Mount Kenya, which in a spiritual context is considered the symbolization of the throne of God. Riuki is regarded as the pathfinder by the Gikuyu medicine men. They also believe it therapeutic as they put pebbles at risk as seers. The history of Mount Kenya is interconnected with the Egyptians, Jews, and Ethiopians. Mount Kenya is called Ta-Neteru by the Egyptians, which means the abode of the gods. The God Hapi or lotus, the gods of the Nile Floods, lived on the mountain. The farming communities that settled in Egypt in 7000 BC before the inundation of the Nile corresponded with "Isis," the heliacal rising of the star. It was after the water from the Nile flooding receded, leading to rich dark silt across the Central African countries and highlands. The land is called "Kemet," which is fertile land ready for planting. They consider the lands around Mount Kenya as one of the fertile lands. It also believed that the goddess Isis hid her son, her husband Horus, to raise him from the dead. They say the mountain has medical properties, and the locals consider it amazing. They pray to the mountains for protection and safety. Communities such as Maasai and Samburu are semi-nomadic people who use the northland of the mountain as a paying ground. Mount Elgon The second tallest peak in Kenya is Mount Elgon, located on the country's western side, closer to the Kenya-Uganda border. The mountain has distinguishing characteristics, such as having one of the largest volcanic craters. The top of the mountain is a flat-topped plateau made of basalt. The total height of the mountain is 13,852 feet, with lava tube tunnels across the mountain. Elephants and buffaloes often visit the lava tube tunnels. A national park surrounding Mount Elgon also has rhinos, eagles, leopards, and duikers. Mount Longonot Mount Longonot is an inactive volcano that last erupted in the 1860s but is not completely extinct. The height of the mountain is 9108 feet, and the mountain's slopes are filled with ridges. Mount Longonot is a mountain in Kenya. A park nearby has plenty of wildlife, such as zebras and giraffes. The mountain is situated approximately 60 kilometers northwest of Nairobi. Travelers can visit the park by car, and the base of Mount Longonot has a lot of forest, even around the top crater. Compared to many stony mountains, this one is thickly wooded across the slopes and the summits. Satima Mount Satima is also "Ol Donyo Satima," which roughly translates to "Mountain of the bull calf." It is one of the Kenya mountains! It is the highest mountain across the Aberdare range, with a height of 13,127 feet, and is located on the northern side of the mountain range. The mountain has tussock grass and rocks in some areas and rainforests. There are bamboo forests and Moorland across a section of the mountain. The mountain has a collection of 150 species of plants, such as Podo and Cedar. The mountain is part of the water catchment area for both the Sasumua and Ndakaini dams. The two dams for Nairobi City are the primary source of water. Kinangop Kinangop is a dormant volcano in the Great Rift Valley and the west of the Kinangop Plateau. It is also situated in the Aberdares, with extensive bamboo forests across the mountain in the lower portion. The height of the mountain is 12815 feet. Moreover, the higher sections of the mountain are covered with tussock grass. The top of the mountain is rocky with open moorlands. The top of the mountain is quite chilly and turns freezing at night. Ngiro Mount Ngiro is located in the northern region of Kenya, with a height of 9344 feet. The mountain is part of the Great Rift Valley to the west overlooking the Suguta Valley. The upper slopes have forests, while the mountains is popular for cultivating bees. The mountain falls under the territory of the Samburu people, while the Lmasula phratry performs bee cultivation. The clan claims exclusive rights to the water and the land. Several other mountains and hills are situated in the nation, creating an exciting place for vacationing. If you are a hiking person, Kenya is the perfect place to visit as there are several advantages. There are enough mountains in Kenya for you to go hiking, as well as trails. It is a perfect spot to share holidays as well as weekends with your hiking partners. Some of the tallest mountains are situated in East Kenya. Kulal The mountain Kulal is identified as a biosphere reserve with lava fields, and the origin of the mountain is a volcano. The moisture in the biosphere leads to rain as well as mist, providing hydrological services to the people in northern Kenya. The mountain is located in the middle of East Africa, with steep slopes while deep canyons go across the mountain. It is also one of the driest places in Africa. There are forests across the mountain, a habitat for black rhinoceroses and elephants. Marsabit Mount Marsabit is surrounded by Mt. Marsabit National Park and Reserve, with a height of 1703 meters above sea level. The mountain has many craters, while the hills around it highlight the mountain. Across the mountain are many low-lying arid plains with elliptical shapes 70 km long on the northeast-southwest as well as 45 km wide on the northeast-southwest. The mountain comprises weathered lava flow. Mogila Mogila is one of the mountains of Kenya with a height of 1698 meters. A local relief of 300 meters, steep slopes, and a small summit area characterize the mountain. Moreover, it is located in the Turkana, creating the Great Dividing Range. Namanga Hills The mountain is in the southern part of Kenya. It is located on the borders of Tanzania, with the highest point being 2548 meters. The Great Rift Valley has four peaks: Suswa, Paka, Namarunu, and Menengai. The hills have a collection of hyenas, zebras, ostriches, as well as Antelopes. Cultural Relations Of The Mountains Of Kenya According to the Kikuyu tribe, they say the local Kikuyu god, N'gai resides at the summit of Mount Kenya. Mount Kenya is one such place that the local cultures worship. They consider these mountains the home of spirits as well as gods. Mount Kenya is a spiritual mountain, as the local communities think of it as the residence of God. Ethiopians also consider it the home of God and revered in its presence. The belief gains further confirmation because of the snow at the top of the mountain. The mountain is very close to the equator. Hence, it is quite surprising that there is snowfall at the top. There are thick forests around the mountain, and initially, the military dug the woods to flush the Maumau freedom fighters. According to the traditional version of Mount Kenya in Kikuyu, a star fell on the ground with a bang and formed the mountain. The mountain has volcanic ashes and oozing magma which forms the Kenyte. Mount Longonot has its Masai name, "Oloonong'ot," meaning "mountain with many spurs." The mountains are important as well as are traditional sites for worship by the local populations. Some vow in the mountain's name, while some send prayers based on cultural traditions. Both visitors and the natives join in collaborative activities such as mountain climbing and hiking. Are The Mountains Of Kenya A Cult? The high places in Kenya, especially mountains with snow caps, high mountain ranges, and island mountains, are cults. There are psychological roots of the communities who believe that mountains act as a heavenly ladder. Besides the spiritual connection for the community, mountains are also helpful natural elements for humans as they bring rain, while they also have volcanoes. Volcanoes have a fiery side to them, representing the element of earth. According to the myths based on the world's origin, mountains are the first natural element from ancient water. The indigenous people believe mountains are a great phenomenon of the earth, symbolizing cosmic connection. The local communities consider the mountains as shrines or altars for the Gods and worship them. For example, people in Africa often blame an earth deity when there is an earthquake. They also consider snakes to be culprits, a belief that their cult teaches in the cultural practices of Africa. Conclusion Did you notice something unique about the mountains of Kenya? Most of these mountains have physical features giving an Alpine appearance. There are many ridges across the mountains, giving it a ragged nature. So now you know about the beauty of the mountains, especially when it comes to the cultural aspect of it. People worshiping mountains is one tradition that integrates respect and protection of the natural elements. People from different cultures in Kenya believe in spirituality and offer prayers to the mountains. Let us know in the comments below if you see any culture where people worship mountains too! Read Also: Planning A Hunting Trip To Africa – Here’s What You Should Know The Blue Train: A Luxurious Expedition Across South Africa You Won’t Believe The Best Things To Do When In Fiji!

READ MORE european landmarks

10 Things You Must Cover On Your Europe Trip: Best Itinerary of European Landmarks For You!!

BY  Sibashree Jan 22, 2025

International tourists flock to Europe in great numbers. The number is well above 700 million. Do you know Europe is becoming more popular as a tourist destination annually?  Breathtaking European Landmarks mold history, culture, and a holiday destination at once. To start with, there are architectural marvels in Europe. Alongside there are fantastic natural settings like the Giant’s Causeway in Ireland.  I always feel ecstatic when I’m on a Europe trip. I bet all travelers feel the same way. But I admit, it is impossible to cover all spectacular locations simultaneously. So, you must sort out some of the finest places you can cover in your trip.  Firstly, choose accessible locations. Secondly, go for connecting destinations to smooth and streamline your trip. Let me help you spot the most exciting places you must cover on your coming Europe trip.  1. Eiffel Tower – Paris, France What could be a better location to start your Europe trip? Around 75% of Europe's average 7 million foreign tourists visit the Eifel Tower each year.  European landmarks like this one always attract a mammoth number of tourists. After all, many people search for package European holidays to France. However, the prime reason is to see this incredible structure!  This monumental structure is the pride of Paris. But French tourism rests a lot on it. Meanwhile, the tower has already become a romantic destination. What’s more, it is a work of sheer artistic brilliance.  Things You Can Do?  To see such a site with the naked eye is a big tick to the checklist itself. Meanwhile, the Eifel Tower has a separate fanbase among young adults and romantic couples. You may also climb up the tower top.  When the panoramic view of the heart of Paris hits you, the feeling is different. Every day is a good time to visit the Eifel Tower.  Thirdly, you can enjoy a fancy picnic in the Champ de Mars with all that Parisian vibes. Based on license, permits, and rules, your entry ticket to the place may cost you €14,20 to €35.30.       If you don’t feel like climbing up, you may stand near the iron structure of the monument. Now tell me what would your visit to the Eifel Tower be like?  2. Colosseum – Rome, Italy The Roman Colosseum is indeed one of the best European landmarks. Firstly, the Colosseum gives a crude spark of ancient history. Secondly, it is a visual treat.  I can vouch there is nothing akin to the Colosseum in the world. Meanwhile, do you know the history of the Colosseum?  It is a gigantic amphitheater. People flocked there to see live gladiator battles. I was mesmerized by the seamless Roman architecture and engineering marvel when I visited the place. There’s a story oozing out from every wall you touch.  If you are imaginative like me, you might still hear the buzz of swords clanking, crowds rumbling, and the mercury rising.  When I last visited Rome, they had a Colosseum super saver offer on ticket options. Usually, the entry ticket price is 94.64 Euros. However, we got it at 44% off. Let me know the current entry price in the comments if you’ve been there recently.  3. Acropolis – Athens, Greece Are you a fan of Greek history and aesthetics? Then, nothing would seem more appealing than a trip to Athens. I paid for a trip to Acropolis last year. So, I will keep it on my list. Above all, it is worth visiting if it’s your first time in Greece.  However, Acropolis is no super-structure to amaze you. Instead, it is a cluster of temples in ruins and surrounding civilization. The place is 512 feet above the sea level.  I liked the Parthenon more than anything here. My PoV is the best sample of the inspiring Greek architecture. You should also know that sunrise or sunset is the best time to visit the place. The place is wrapped in marbles.  The place emits a serene glow when the lush golden streaks of sunlight fall on them. It’s the same, both times of the day.  4. Buckingham Palace – London, England While many associate Buckingham Palace with the British monarchy, it’s more than just a royal residence—it’s a cultural landmark.  On my first Europe trip, I covered Buckingham Palace. I feel all travelers should also do the same. The Guard ceremony is something you can't miss. Plus, there is a lot more to do here. Strolling around the palace gardens or admiring the grand façade feels special. Ithinkl that’s the best part about the European Landmarks. Most places are scenic and seem like an extension of nature.  What I liked the most was the regal British aura inside the palace.  5. La Sagrada Familia – Barcelona, Spain One of my favorite European Landmarks is Barcelona. True, I haven’t covered Spain yet. But I can say from my research that The La Sagrada Familia is the place to be, if you are in Barcelona.  I hope you also know about the legendary Antoni Gaudi, who designed the La Sagrada Familia. If you love aesthetics and found Athens praise-worthy, you will definitely love it here.  Usually, ticket prices don’t vary. But prices may be slightly higher during the carnivals. The baseline- thecoste of tickets will vary between 29 to 49 Euros. But one thing, the place is not free for children. Tickets for them could range between 20 to 42 Euros.  From what the visitors say, you need 2 hours to explore the space entirely. I am also eager to visit Barcelona and be here. The spires and the stained glasses primarily draw me. But it’s not the windows only. The complex facades also appeal to me.  6. Neuschwanstein Castle – Bavaria, Germany Straight out of a fairytale, Neuschwanstein Castle is as enchanting as it gets. Nestled in the Bavarian Alps, it inspired Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle, and it’s easy to see why.  The combination of its romantic architecture and stunning natural backdrop creates a magical experience. For the best view, hike up to Marienbrücke Bridge—you won’t regret it. 7. Grand Canal – Venice, Italy Venice feels like a living museum, but the Grand Canal is the show's star. Gliding along in a gondola or Vaporetto offers a unique perspective of the city’s architecture, bridges, and colorful buildings.  Each corner of the canal tells a story, whether a grand palazzo or a bustling market. It’s a slice of Italy you’ll never forget. 8. Stonehenge – Wiltshire, England Stonehenge is one of Europe’s most mysterious landmarks. These ancient stones, arranged in a circular formation, puzzle historians.  Was it a calendar? A religious site?  Standing among the stones, you can’t help but feel a connection to the past. Visiting during the summer or winter solstice makes the experience even more atmospheric. 9. Charles Bridge – Prague, Czech Republic Spanning the Vltava River, Charles Bridge is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. Lined with statues and offering stunning views of Prague Castle, it’s a dream for photographers and romantics alike.  Whether you visit at sunrise for a peaceful stroll or in the evening when it’s bustling with street performers, the bridge has an undeniable charm. 10. Plitvice Lakes National Park – Croatia Nature lovers, this one’s for you. Plitvice Lakes National Park is a paradise of cascading waterfalls, crystal-clear lakes, and lush greenery. Wooden walkways wind through the park, allowing you to explore its beauty up close.  The vibrant turquoise waters are almost surreal, making it feel like you’ve entered another world. Planning Your Next Adventure Choosing which European landmarks to visit first might feel like a challenge (especially with so many incredible options). But the beauty of Europe is its accessibility.  Many of these destinations are just a train ride or short flight away from one another, making it easy to combine multiple stops in one trip. Whether you’re a history buff, architecture enthusiast, or nature lover, Europe has something to ignite your wanderlust.  So, which landmark is calling your name? Also read Top 10 Most Popular Paraguay Food That You Must Try. Top 13+ Famous Wonders Of India That You Must Visit. Top Tips For Motorbike Rental In Phuket – A Guide To Exploring The Island On Two Wheels.

READ MORE Coastal Cuisine

Navigating Coastal Cuisine: A Traveler’s Guide To Safer Seafood Choices

BY  Sibashree Sep 3, 2025

One of the absolute best things about travel? Hands down, it’s the food. Nothing beats sitting near the water, breeze in your face, and digging into whatever the locals have been making for generations.  Maybe it’s smoky sardines in Portugal or paper-thin slices of tuna sashimi in Japan… Either way, seafood has this way of stealing the show. But here’s the flip side: while we’re chasing flavors, it helps to know what’s actually landing on the plate.  Mercury in seafood’s been popping up in conversations more and more. It’s naturally out there in the environment, sure, but industries add to it too. Some fish pick up more of it than others. Most of the time, you’re fine, but if seafood becomes your go-to meal on a trip? Yeah, worth paying attention. In this Tour and Travel Blog, we will talk about how to try the best coastal cuisine safely.  How To Try The Best Coastal Cuisine Safely? Understanding The Importance Imagine you’ve planned this whole trip around food—coastal markets, little family-run joints, maybe a cooking class or two. Seafood’s everywhere.  But here’s the thing: the big, long-living fish—swordfish, king mackerel, certain tunas—they build up more mercury over time. Smaller guys like sardines, trout, anchovies? Usually safer bets. This isn’t about saying “don’t eat seafood.” Please, no. It’s about eating smart so you don’t have to think twice later. When a menu lists a fish you can’t pronounce, knowing the basics means you can pick something tasty without worrying about it. Why It Matters For Travelers? Eating local food is how you get a place. Paella in Spain, ceviche in Peru, a messy clam bake in New England—they’re experiences as much as meals.  But if you’re traveling and eating seafood meal after meal, that exposure can stack up faster than you think. For most healthy adults, a little extra seafood isn’t a big deal. But pregnant travelers, kids, or folks with certain health issues? They’ve gotta be a bit more cautious. Knowing which fish to enjoy freely and which to maybe skip for the day? That’s just good travel sense. The Role Of Sustainability And yeah, mercury’s one piece of the puzzle. Overfishing’s another. A lot of places now highlight eco-friendly options right on the menu. Asking about it isn’t annoying—it shows you care about the place you’re visiting and the people feeding you. How To Navigate Coastal Cuisine Safely While Traveling? Know The Practical Tips Freshness, simplicity, and a riot of flavors! These are the core reasons why coastal cuisine is so popular. Furthermore, smoking, grilling, and making curries are the most popular methods of cooking these cuisines.  However, you need to be extra careful while navigating these cuisines.  1. Safer Selections Abroad Menus in other languages, mystery dishes… yeah, it can get confusing. But here are a few things that make life easier: Chat with locals. They know what’s eaten all the time versus the “special occasion” stuff. Go smaller when you can. Sardines, smelt, whitefish—lower on the mercury scale. Shellfish’s usually fine. Shrimp, crab, scallops—still best not to overdo it. Throw in some variety. Plant-based meals or land proteins here and there keep things balanced. 2. Culinary Traditions And Conscious Choices  Every region has its classics for a reason. Mediterranean? Grilled sardines with olive oil and lemon—healthy, simple, perfect. Southeast Asia?  Flavorful curries using smaller fish. Then there are places serving bigger predatory fish, like marlin in parts of the Caribbean—amazing flavor, but maybe not for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The cool part is, you don’t have to give up authenticity. You just get to enjoy it without overthinking. 3. Practical Tips For Travel Planners  If you’re the “map out everything” type, a little prep work helps: Look up local fish before you go. Two minutes online gives you a head start. Learn a few names in the local language. Saves a lot of pointing and guessing. Visit good markets. Tours often highlight safe, sustainable stalls. Spread out the big meals. Try the famous dish… just maybe not twice a day. Having Coastal Cuisine Safely For Long-Term Travel And Health Awareness  Traveling for weeks—or months—near the coast? Yeah, seafood’s going to be everywhere. Switching things up helps keep it fun and balanced.  A little shellfish, some whitefish, a veggie dish now and then—it all adds up to fewer worries later. Being aware of seafood high in mercury ensures that long-term travel remains not only adventurous but also sustainable for personal health. What Are The 5Cs Of Trying Coastal Cuisine Safely?  These are the thumb rules or the basic 5Cs while cooking coastal cuisine.  Cleaning Cooking Chilling Cross-Contamination Prevention Communication  When you are trying seafood or coastal cuisine in a new place, you will have to consider these factors. Otherwise, there are high risks of food contamination and allergies. 1. Cleaning We all wash our hands and sanitize the food preparation and cooking surfaces. At the food preparation stage, we have to deal with raw meat and seafood ingredients.  Furthermore, we have to wash all the ingredients thoroughly using warm and cold water.  So, when you visit an eatery, especially for seafood, you have to ensure that all these practices are being followed thoroughly.  If not, however tempting the place or the dish may look, leave it at once! 2. Cooking Cooking thoroughly is very important, and at the right temperature. It is essential to get rid of the harmful bacteria and disease-causing elements in the raw ingredients.  Furthermore, reheating the refrigerated or stored food before eating is mandatory to avoid throat and stomach infections.  While it is difficult for you to check whether all these are being followed properly in a restaurant kitchen or a seaside shack, you can at least avoid having raw seafood at an unknown place.  3. Chilling Once the food is cooked, eaten, and cooled, you can store it in a refrigerator for safe preservation.  When you need that food again, you can take it out of the refrigerator, warm it, and have it.  This is also something very basic in restaurants. However, there are also risks of restaurants serving food that has been stored in the refrigerator for the longest time.  So, talk with locals and get ideas about a safe place where you can have fresh seafood.  4. Cross-Contamination Prevention Preventing cross-contamination requires the use of separate accessories and tools for raw meat, fish, and fruits and vegetables.  Also, there needs to be separate containers and storage places for all these ingredients. While you will not get a tour of the kitchen and pantry of a restaurant easily, this remains one of the golden rules of cooking seafood safely.  The Pan American Health Organization, or PAHO, also prioritizes cross-contamination prevention as one of the WHO's golden rules.  5. Communication  Well, this is something that happens entirely within the pantry or the cooking space of an eatery. Various verbal and non-verbal cues are used to ensure safe and fast food preparation.  Being A Responsible Food Explorer Travel’s about discovery, right? And food’s a huge part of it. With a bit of knowledge, you can dive into coastal cuisine without a second thought. A sardine in Lisbon, clam soup in Tokyo, a crab boil on the East Coast—those aren’t just meals. They’re memories. This isn’t about saying no to anything. It’s about saying yes in a way that keeps the trip—and you—feeling good. Read Also: What Is Arizona Known For Food | Culinary Tourism Exploring The Desert Delights Boat Trips And Czech Cuisine: A Taste Of Prague’s Culinary Delights Unlocking The Secrets: Key Ingredients In Italian Cuisine