Alternative Themed Travel: "Learn to Make Macarons" in Paris, France

▲ A themed "macaron trip" to make desserts in Paris, France. (Photo / Provided by the operator)

Tourism Center / Taipei Report

In recent years, "themed experiential travel" has gained popularity among certain travelers, as it allows for itinerary planning based on personal interests while also providing an in-depth experience of local culture. Recently, a travel agency launched unique themed tours such as macaron-making experiences, Italian pizza feasts, and classic British afternoon tea.

More and more people believe that desserts represent a certain indicator of taste, especially in Europe. Singapore Airlines Holidays has planned the "Sweet Holidays European Free Travel Series," which, in addition to the basic flight-and-hotel package, also includes hands-on macaron-making experiences, Italian pizza feasts, and classic British afternoon tea as themed experiences, offering a total of four themed itineraries. For a group of two, the starting price per person (excluding tax) for a 6-day, 3-night trip is approximately NT$40,000 to NT$45,000, including round-trip economy class flights on Singapore Airlines, three consecutive nights of hotel accommodation (with breakfast), themed experience activities, insurance, and more. Guests can also opt to extend their hotel stay for an additional fee to enrich their trip. The itinerary and prices are valid until December 31, 2013.

Paris, France – 6-Day, 3-Night Free Travel & Macaron-Making Holiday
There are two itinerary options to enjoy France’s most iconic dessert – the macaron. Upon registration, you’ll receive a macaron gift box from the classic French dessert brand Ladurée (you can freely choose the flavors, 6 pieces per box).

One itinerary option involves making colorful macarons under the guidance of a French chef. The class is held in an apartment with a panoramic view of Paris, where, using recipes provided by the chef and specially prepared utensils and equipment, participants are taught step-by-step how to make these tempting treats. Participants can choose their favorite flavors to mix and match, including chocolate, cocoa, lemon, coffee, raspberry, coconut, and more. After the class, you can take your self-made macarons home to share with friends. Alternatively, you can choose to visit Paris’s most famous patisserie – Gerard Mulot – with a master chef to uncover the secrets behind making top-tier Parisian macarons and chocolates. Here, over six thousand macarons are created daily using 18 different spices, and aside from tasting, you can also see how chocolate is turned into art.

London, UK – 6-Day, 3-Night Free Travel & Classic Afternoon Tea Holiday
221B Baker Street, where Sherlock Holmes lived, has become a popular attraction thanks to the TV series. On the same street, you can also enjoy the most authentic British three-tier afternoon tea at The Sherlock Holmes Hotel. A traditional British three-tier tea set features various flavored sandwiches on the first tier, traditional British scones on the second, and a variety of small cakes and fruit tarts on the third. Sit in the cozy armchairs of The Sherlock Holmes Hotel, which exudes a strong classical British style, and enjoy scones with strawberry jam or clotted cream, along with a variety of British desserts and aromatic black tea. End your experience with a cocktail or Prosecco, soaking in the tranquility and elegance of a London afternoon.

Rome, Italy – 6-Day, 3-Night Free Travel & Pizza Master Holiday
Unlike typical American-style pizza, the famous Italian Neapolitan pizza is unique in its tomato sauce and dough preparation – the secret to its deliciousness. The itinerary includes 3 nights of accommodation in Rome and a one-day hands-on pizza-making experience. Under the guidance of professional chefs at a well-known restaurant near Piazza Navona, you’ll learn to make Neapolitan pizza. In addition to crafting the base from scratch, you can also get creative and make your own unique personalized pizza.

Zurich, Switzerland – 6-Day, 3-Night Free Travel & Little Angel Exploration Holiday
The charming Swiss mountains, lakes, and little sheep from the childhood cartoon "Heidi" have left lasting memories. A one-day cartoon angel journey unfolds in the Alps, featuring picturesque towns like Lausanne, medieval castles, as well as visits to Vaduz, the capital of Liechtenstein, and the Heidi village. Explore mountain huts, village shops, and adorable little goats… Immerse yourself in the innocence of youth and nourish your sweet soul.