Travel is a great way to learn about the world. Languages, landscapes and cultures come alive when you’re experiencing them firsthand. But if there’s one way to gain easy insight into a foreign culture, it’s eating. In fact, a region’s food is extremely revealing. It reflects nearly everything about a place, from geography and technology to politics and art. But as educational as a meal can be, it can also be an adventure in taste. And the further you are from home, the more the aromas and flavors stray from those you’re used to. In fact, no matter where you go, unique and extraordinary dishes are there for you to find. Not all will seem delicious, but for a truly authentic experience, be brave and dig in.

For example, when you’re traveling in France, eating cheese, known in French as fromage, is a must. Students tend to wrinkle their noses at the potent aromas of certain types, but true travelers don’t let the opportunity to taste such renowned delicacies go by. French cheeses are not pasteurized as they are here in the U.S. But that doesn’t mean that they’ll make you sick. In fact, French cheeses are incredible fresh—sent straight from the milk farm to the market. And they’re entirely natural, made without the preservatives we frequently eat here. With that being said, French cheeses are remarkably delicious. Start out by eating the mild varieties like brie, camembert and chèvre, and then move on to the stronger flavors.

Fortunately, even the pickiest eaters can find delight in Spain, the country known for its inventive small plates called tapas. Each dish is just about the size of an appetizer—only a few bites. And in fact, that’s the beauty of them. There’s no commitment! Order a variety, and if you don’t like one, move on to the next. But with the number of plates that include meats, potatoes and cheeses, you’re bound to be stuffed before long. Of course if you don’t know where to begin, ask your waiter for some recommendations. And don’t be shy about speaking up and asking for a translation. Just be advised that the Spanish tend to get pretty innovative with their tapas. So don’t get turned off when the exotic sounding sangre cebollada translates to congealed pig’s blood.  But the dish, which looks and tastes like a maroon-colored tofu, is actually quite appetizing. And at the very least, eating it is a good story to tell your friends back home. 

You can also learn a lot about the history and politics of a region by the foreign influences on the menu. Take England for example. Having colonized India in the 1800s, the British brought much of their culture to Asia. However, they also brought much of Asia back to Europe. And whoever says that British food is bland, is certainly not taking into account the abundant Asian and Middle Eastern restaurants that exist there. The dishes, infused with delicate spices, tender meats and fragrant rice, are now engrained in British culture and have transformed traditional British cuisine. Not to say that the nation’s beloved fish and chips are any less taste worthy—to the contrary—don’t miss out. But the foreign-inspired foods add exciting options to your U.K. dining itinerary. 

While you’re on tour with Summer Academy, you’ll enjoy some great meals. With full European-style breakfasts and nightly dinners included in your tour fee, you’ll already get great exposure to local cuisines—without giving your taste buds too much of a shock. In fact, since Summer Academy doesn’t want you to be frustrated by unappetizing meals, in addition to regional components you’ll always find familiar international fare with every meal. But for even more culinary adventure, travelers are free to lunch as they please. So while you’re strolling through outdoor markets take a moment to purchase food from a vendor, or duck into a sidewalk café and have what the locals are having.

Because whether it’s prawn-flavored potato chips in London or poached rabbit in Paris, regional delicacies are windows into local culture. And while not everybody likes the same things, trying new foods helps you change your perspective and appreciate things that are new and different. But if you can’t quite stomach beef tongue at a Shanghai restaurant, don’t worry. There are plenty more snacks to be found. Foie gras, anyone?