Learn to cook in sunny Portugal.

By Lisa Rogak

To avid home cooks, the idea of jetting off to a far-flung destination to experience the land and culture of a favorite cuisine must sound heavenly.

On culinary-themed vacations, travelers are immersed in the sights, sounds and smells of a country while learning to prepare its native specialties. Classes often include trips to the local markets, professional cooking demonstrations and plenty of personal cooking time.

But you needn’t be an aspiring chef to enjoy these culinary adventures. Even the most casual amateur cooks will find plenty to write home about after participating in a well-run excursion. In addition to the ingredient shopping, cooking demonstrations and food preparation, most programs arrange for captivating day trips and enjoyable evening activities while leaving enough free time for personal pursuits.

If the idea of taking part in a culinary adventure sounds delicious then the following slideshow of international cooking vacations should really tempt the taste buds.

Read about each vacation or enjoy the entire Cooking Vacation Slideshow

Morocco

Ireland

Thailand

France

Italy

Mexico

Portugal

Spain