I've often posted news about food and wine excursions and these culinary-focussed vacations are becoming increasingly popular. According to a 2006 study from the Travel Industry Association, about one in 10 American travelers reported that food or wine were a major factor in choosing their destinations for vacations.

From MSNBC.com:

The culinary travel experience includes everything from visiting a farmers market, sampling artisan products, attending a food or wine festival, going wine, beer or cheese tasting, or driving along a food or wine trail. But almost always, you can choose to have a hands-on experience cooking alongside top chefs.

Have you chosen a destination based on food and wine festivals or specifically to learn about the region's cuisine? Leave a comment and let us know where it was and how you enjoyed it!