Autumn arrives with a gentle touch, especially here in New England. The vibrant green of summer yields to breathtaking shades of crimson, gold, and amber. A crispness fills the morning air, signaling the change of seasons, and cozy sweaters replace lighter attire. It’s a time for comforting rituals and the rich flavors of fall.
And what better way to embrace the season than through food? Imagine the aroma of freshly baked apple pie, the warmth of apple cider doughnuts, and the hearty comfort of simmering soups and chili. This fall, let’s embark on a culinary journey around the world, discovering dishes that might just become new traditions at your Thanksgiving table.
Our adventure begins in Italy, where the air is scented with rosemary and roasted chestnuts. Tuscany and northern Italy celebrate autumn with Castagnaccio Toscano – a rustic, naturally gluten-free cake crafted from chestnut flour, water, olive oil, and rosemary. It’s a taste of tradition, relying on the natural sweetness of chestnuts and dried fruits, free from sugar and dairy.
Next, we journey to Japan, where fall is welcomed with Ohagi. These delicate sweets consist of soft mochi, steamed glutinous rice pounded into a sticky dough, coated in smooth red bean paste. Eaten during the autumn equinox, Ohagi is named for the bush clover that blooms across Japan, a testament to the deep connection between Japanese cuisine and the rhythms of nature.
From Japan, we travel to South Korea and discover Hobak Jeon—savory pancakes made with squash, egg, and flour, lightly pan-fried and served with a soy dipping sauce. While traditionally made with zucchini, butternut squash adds a subtle sweetness to this comforting favorite, perfect as a snack or alongside a meal.
Venturing further south to East Africa, we encounter Ugali, a daily staple and symbol of connection in Kenya and Tanzania. This dense porridge, made from maize flour and water, is shaped into wedges and used to scoop up richly flavored stews and vegetables. It’s a simple, satisfying dish deeply rooted in community and the abundance of the harvest.
Our culinary journey concludes in Argentina with Pionono relleno de dulce de leche – a sponge cake rolled with creamy dulce de leche, sometimes enhanced with whipped cream and a dusting of powdered sugar or caramel. This indulgent treat embodies Argentina’s love for bold flavors and shared moments.
The beauty of fall isn’t confined to New England. Across the globe, landscapes transform into stunning tapestries of color. Kyoto, Japan, offers temple gardens and shrine pathways accented with fiery reds, while Porto, Portugal, glows with warm hues along the Douro River.
Québec City, Canada, blends New England’s charm with a French-Canadian flair, and Heidelberg, Germany, enchants with ivy-clad walls and medieval castles set against a backdrop of fall foliage. Finally, Geneva, Switzerland, presents a cinematic beauty with trees sharing vivid colors reflected in the lake.
Travel creates lasting connections. Marybeth Hillier, a travel advisor, discovered a sense of family with Tauck on her first trip in 2008. She’s since taken over 21 journeys, building friendships and sharing unforgettable experiences with clients and loved ones.
Marybeth recalls a trip to Morocco where Tauck’s attention to detail ensured comfort and safety, even in the bustling medinas. She also remembers a spontaneous conga line with filmmaker Ken Burns during a rainy event, a moment that led to her invitation to join the Tauck Advisory Board.
Tauck’s commitment to its guests is evident in how they handle unexpected challenges. When low water levels disrupted a Danube river cruise, Tauck seamlessly arranged alternative experiences, turning a logistical hurdle into a highlight. Marybeth emphasizes that with Tauck, there’s always a “Plan A,” ensuring a remarkable journey.
For Marybeth, the most comforting moment of any Tauck trip is the warm welcome upon arrival, knowing that every detail is taken care of. She shares that Tauck creates a sense of belonging, making travelers feel included and cared for throughout their journey.
Recently, Vince & Lisa LoPresti won a sweepstakes offering an all-inclusive trip to Tuscany, Cinque Terre & the Portofino Coast, plus 100 free Pepe’s pizzas, celebrating the shared values of Tauck and Frank Pepe’s Pizzeria.
Ken Burns’ new docuseries, “The American Revolution,” is set to debut in November 2025, coinciding with the 250th anniversary of the start of the war. Tauck will offer a special experience, “Celebrating America’s 250th – Featuring Ken Burns,” in October 2026.
Tauck now features a new Video Gallery, bringing the feeling of a journey to life from the comfort of your home. They also offer a blog exploring the wine regions of the world, highlighting the cultural significance of wine.
Colin Treadwell, Tauck’s resident roaming reporter, shares his memories of Vietnam and Cambodia, offering a glimpse into the beauty and culture of Southeast Asia.
Tauck invites guests, partners, and employees to share their personal stories, celebrating 100 years of creating unforgettable experiences and fostering a global family.
