Around the World in 80 Picnics
Have you ever wondered how a simple picnic can transport you to different corners of the globe without ever leaving your hometown? Well, grab your picnic basket and a sense of adventure because we’re about to embark on a virtual journey "Around the World in 80 Picnics." From the cherry blossom-laden parks of Japan to the sun-drenched beaches of Brazil, each picnic spot tells a story of culture, tradition, and the universal joy of sharing a meal in the great outdoors.
Japan: Hanami Under the Cherry Blossoms
Our first stop takes us to Japan during the enchanting sakura season. Hanami, or cherry blossom viewing, is a time when families, friends, and colleagues gather under blooming cherry trees to enjoy food, drink, and the fleeting beauty of the blossoms. It’s a reminder of the beauty and transience of life, celebrated with bento boxes filled with seasonal delights.
Credit: TokyoTreat
France: Chic Picnics by the Seine
Next, we find ourselves in Paris, where picnics are as chic as the city itself. Imagine sitting by the Seine, a spread of cheese, baguettes, and a bottle of wine laid out on a classic checkered blanket. It’s not just a meal; it’s an art form, a testament to the French joie de vivre and their love for good food and good company.
Credit: Everyday Parisian
India: A Colorful Feast in the Park
In India, picnics are vibrant affairs, reflecting the country's rich tapestry of colors and flavors. Families gather in lush gardens or by serene lakes to share homemade feasts of curries, biryanis, and sweets. It's a celebration of community and culinary tradition, where food and nature bring people closer together.
People picnic in a Mughal garden in Nishat, on the outskirts of Srinagar, in 2007. Credit: Fayaz Kabli/Reuters.
Argentina: Asados in the Countryside
Venturing to South America, Argentina takes the picnic to a hearty level with their famous asados, or barbecues. Picture the rolling Pampas countryside, a group of friends gathered around a grill, the air filled with the mouthwatering aroma of sizzling meats. It’s a ritual that embodies the Argentine spirit of camaraderie and passion for life.
Credit: passthecarne
United States: Classic BBQs and Potlucks
In the U.S., picnics blend the country’s diverse culinary landscapes, from southern barbecue cookouts to coastal seafood feasts. American picnics are a celebration of community, where potluck-style gatherings bring a smorgasbord of dishes and people together, united by the simple pleasure of eating outdoors.
Credit: Thriver Blog
New Zealand: Beach Barbecues and Maori Hangi
Our journey takes us to the picturesque shores of New Zealand, where beach barbecues and the traditional Maori hangi offer a unique picnic experience. With the Pacific Ocean as a backdrop, Kiwis enjoy grilling seafood and sharing hangi, a feast cooked underground, connecting with the land and their cultural heritage.
Credit: msvolendam
Morocco: Tagine Picnics in the Atlas Mountains
Lastly, we find solace in the majestic Atlas Mountains of Morocco, where picnics are a feast for the senses. Surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, families share tagines—slow-cooked stews full of rich spices and flavors—along with freshly baked bread, a celebration of Moroccan hospitality and the country’s stunning natural beauty.
Credit: Barbara Cameron Pix
Join the Picnic
"Around the World in 80 Picnics" isn’t just about the places you go; it’s about the connections you make, the traditions you discover, and the joy of sharing a meal with others, no matter where you are. So, I invite you to share your own international picnic experiences or dream destinations in the comments below. Let’s keep exploring the world, one picnic at a time.
Love Gemma
PS: Please note I am aware there isn’t 80 picnics listed, I just thought it was a fun title <3
Have you ever wondered how a simple picnic can transport you to different corners of the globe without ever leaving your hometown? Well, grab your picnic basket and a sense of adventure because we’re about to embark on a virtual journey "Around the World in 80 Picnics." From the cherry blossom-laden parks of Japan to the sun-drenched beaches of Brazil, each picnic spot tells a story of culture, tradition, and the universal joy of sharing a meal in the great outdoors.