For me, eating exotic food from around the world served as my first introduction to the culture of India, Morocco, the Middle East, Latin America, the Caribbean, etc.

As I fell in love with traditional dishes from around the world, I became more interested in the music, art, and history of these places.

That ever-expanding interest in cultural exploration is what ultimately led me to become a travel writer, which gave me a chance to try all sorts of weird and wonderful food around the world.

Over 20+ years, I got to break bread in local communities, interview local and internationally-known chefs (including Anthony Bourdain), and explore traditional cultures on a much deeper level.

In 2021, international travel to many countries remains unwise for anyone with immune-compromised conditions.

For now, dining on traditional food from around the world is arguably the best way we can reconnect with the flavors of the places we’ve traveled in the past.

It’s also a great way to get a taste of the cultures of places we dream of traveling in the future.

So check out our ultimate gourmet’s guide to the Best Food Gifts From Around the World, from monthly food subscription boxes and foodie gift baskets to holiday food gifts and more!

Maya’s Cookies

Expecting a crowd this Thanksgiving? Give them cookies. While not a traditional Thanksgiving dessert, cookies are arguably the most shareable sweet out there. Maya’s Southern Holiday Collection features classic fall ingredients such as toasty pecans, warming cinnamon, and cheery booze incorporated into sizable, three-ounce cookies. This isn’t your typical pumpkin cookie spread—the assorted flavors are far more interesting—Caramel Pecan, Peach Cobbler, and Kentucky Bourbon Chocolate Chip offer just a taste of this cozy collection.