BUZZ BEAT MEDIA

As more Filipino travelers seek immersive experiences and deeper connections with the places they visit, intentional travel is redefining what it means to explore a destination. Rather than simply ticking off tourist attractions, it encourages you to pursue authentic cultural experiences, the kind that allow you to engage with local communities, uncover traditions, and gain a richer understanding of a place beyond what guidebooks can offer.

One of the most powerful ways to travel more intentionally is through food. As food tourism and culinary travel continue to gain popularity, more travelers are discovering that a destination’s flavors can reveal as much about its culture as its landmarks. Whether you’re browsing a local market, dining at a family-run restaurant, or sampling regional specialties, food opens the door to meaningful local experiences that connect you more deeply with the people and stories behind every destination.

For travel creators Kelly Misa-Fernandez, Xzar Lim, and the husband-and-wife duo Moe and AJ Cenzon, some of their most unforgettable travel experiences didn’t happen at famous landmarks but over shared meals. Their newfound experiences reveal a growing mindset: one that values depth over distance and seeks richer, more authentic connections with the places they visit. 

However, there are a few things one must know before going on a food-focused adventure.

Three golden rules to know before you embark on your first intentional food trip

First, look beyond viral recommendations from TikTok. While trending spots can be tempting, they don’t always tell the full story. Before you go, check out recent reviews, opening hours, and reservation requirements, and seek out local recommendations. Some of the most precious finds rarely come from algorithms alone, but from conversations with locals, hotel staff, and fellow travelers who know the area best.

For Xzar Lim, better known as the Bike Wanderer, food has always been one of the highlights of exploring new destinations.

“Backpacking across Asia over the years has exposed me to so many different cuisines and ways of eating,” she shares. “Some of my most memorable travel experiences happened because I was willing to try something new and sit down with a total stranger to enjoy the food.”

One of her most interesting discoveries during her recent trip to Taiwan was “Ba-wan,” a traditional Taiwanese dumpling that she believes deserves far more recognition. 

“I skipped the usual Taiwanese fried chicken and tried Ba-wan instead, and honestly, it ended up being one of the best things I’ve ever eaten,” she recalls. “The dumpling is filled with pork, bamboo shoots, and mushrooms, wrapped in a chewy skin made from sweet potato starch. But what made it even more memorable was learning that it originated in Changhua County in the late 19th century as a practical, affordable meal for farming communities during times of natural disasters. For me, this dish represents Taiwan’s resilience and resourcefulness.”

Second, always be cautious when trying out new dishes. Trying local specialties is part of the adventure, but a little research and being mindful of the ingredients wouldn’t hurt, especially during longer trips. Food allergies, a sudden reaction to unfamiliar ingredients, can cause a stomachache and ruin your trip.

For Kelly Misa-Fernandez, discovering food is also one of the most rewarding parts of traveling as a family. “We always look forward to trying local dishes wherever we go. It’s one of the best ways to introduce our son to different cultures and experiences that aren’t found in commercial kitchens,” she explains. 

“In Kyoto, we sought out a small family-run eatery serving Obanzai, a traditional collection of seasonal side dishes made with local ingredients like bamboo shoots and simmered taro. What stood out was how the meal reflected Kyoto’s food philosophy of “mottainai,” which simply means minimizing waste, and “shun,” which means eating according to season. It represents the culinary wisdom of everyday Kyoto locals, utilizing seasonal roots, preserved ingredients, and light broths, being passed down through generations.” 

But beyond having a cultural moment, Kelly emphasizes caution in any food trip: “When you’re traveling with family, you’re responsible not just for yourself but for everyone else as well. A simple stomach issue can quickly affect your entire itinerary.”

Finally, protect yourself—and those you protect—with reliable travel insurance. A trip to the ER isn’t a normal travel disruption; it’s a travel nightmare, especially if you don’t have insurance that can cover the hospital bill, which can easily skyrocket. 

The Cenzons share, “When our trip is centered around food, we tend to overprepare. We prepare beyond packing basic medication and make sure we have insurance that provides 24/7 emergency assistance. It makes a whole lot of difference knowing you have immediate access to medical support when things don’t go according to plan.”

“Sometimes, you don’t know how your body will react to certain foods or ingredients,” says Xzar. “When I was in India on a backpacking trip, I tried a lot of local dishes because I wanted the full experience—many of them were very spicy and completely new to me. Eventually, I developed an upset stomach that lasted for several days and had to visit a clinic for treatment. Thankfully, I had AXA Smart Traveller insurance at the time, so my consultations and medical expenses were covered. Filing my claim online was fast and easy, and the reimbursement was processed quickly, giving me one less thing to worry about during my trip.”

Traveling with confidence is the real meaning of intentional travel

Exploring new cultures, trying out unfamiliar cuisines, and seeking experiences that go beyond the typical tourist checklist have given a whole new meaning to intentional travel. But as journeys become more expansive, so do the potential risks that come with them. 

Meaningful travel isn’t just about being open to discovery. It’s also about being prepared for the unexpected. That’s where travel insurance becomes an essential part of the journey.

AXA Smart Traveller provides comprehensive protection designed to protect modern travelers’ growing thirst for adventure, offering the highest emergency medical coverage of up to PHP 3.5 million for accidents and another PHP 3.5 million for sudden illnesses. Beyond the usual coverage for flight delays and cancellations, or baggage loss, AXA Smart Traveller is backed by 24/7 travel assistance, ensuring support is available wherever your travels take you.

Travelers can also get instant quotes online in minutes, access special rates for group plans, and choose annual multi-trip coverage for frequent travel throughout the year.

Food may be the gateway to understanding a destination, but the true essence of intentional travel is unlocked by having the confidence to say yes to every meal, every discovery, and every new experience along the way, knowing AXA Smart Traveller has your back in every adventure.

One name to cover all your insurance needs; discover how AXA can provide complete protection for travel, car, health, and SMEs here.

*All Photos from AXA PHILIPPINES