Jenni Thal

“For me, food – and eating – has always offered a powerful magnifying glass to look closer at the world”

Travel Expert

“For me, food – and eating – has always offered a powerful magnifying glass to look closer at the world”

London is a big city. And it’s extraordinarily international. Growing up here was a mini education in the world, and it made the decision to leave home – for Melbourne – so much easier. After all, it’s where my grandparents live. From there, other countries called to me – and other experiences. Shucking fresh oysters in Ston. Catching lobster in Antigua. Cooking among the fields and paddies of Sri Lanka. If it isn’t already obvious, food – plates and places – animates a lot of the journeys I’ve undertaken.

Taste is universal, even if individual culinary traditions vary wildly. For me, food, and eating, has always offered a powerful magnifying glass to look closer at the world. And when I plan trips for my travelers, I like to share this ‘zoomed in’ approach. Looking closely; getting closer. But food is only just the beginning. Let’s talk.

“For me, food – and eating – has always offered a powerful magnifying glass to look closer at the world”

'A collision of cultures'

A closer look at French Polynesia

Trying local food is my absolute favorite thing about seeing the world. It also gives you a chance to meet local people – offering a real under-the-skin window into the history and culture of a country.

On the French Polynesian island of Moorea, these influences have collided in possibly the most unorthodox sandwich. A golden, crusty French baguette filled with stir-fried chicken chow mein. Gooey, chewy, carby. It’s one of the best street food snacks I’ve sampled. So far.

Moorea, Raiatea & Bora Bora: The Ultimate Honeymoon in French Polynesia