If you are visiting Africa – then Botswana should definitely be on your bucket list. Not only will you find some of the warmest people in the world over there – but there is amazing wildlife waiting to be discovered. It’s filled with remote lodges where you can be one with nature and experience wilderness in all its glory.

It’s a wild-wild country – and their delicacies are not far behind from the wildness. As they say – food in Africa is not for the faint-hearted. They eat everything, from our regular farm animals to worms and fungus. The sheer variety of food is a reason enough for you to visit this beautiful country – and while you are there, make sure you try out these five local delicacies.

Vetkoek

Generally enjoyed on special occasions, Vetkoek is one festive food local to Botswana and many parts of Africa. The literal translation of the word meaning “Fat Cake’. The bread is had with different fillings depending upon the occasion and taste preferences. For a savory mood, think mince or chicken stew, and if you are in the mood for something sweet, then have it with honey, jam, or syrup.

Seswaa

Seswaa is the national dish of Botswana. Whether you are attending a wedding or a funeral, you are sure to find this dish on the menu. The main base is of a farm animal – be it beef, chicken, or lamb meat. It is cooked along with onions and pepper. Beware, locals hate it when people try to mix this recipe with other ingredients.

Morogo

Their plant-based cuisine is just as wild as their meat delicacies. Morogo, popularly known as wild spinach, is a combination of any three different dark green leafy vegetables. It is mandatory for one of the three leaves to be pumpkin leaves. It is an acquired taste as it’s bitter tasting – but a rich source of protein. Morogo can be eaten solo, or it can be combined with onions, tomatoes, and lots of butter.

Dikgobe

How do you feel about having a combination of beans, peas, and samp (processed maze) – in a porridge-like consistency? If that sounds delicious, then you should definitely try this African delicacy, Dikgobe. The above-mentioned ingredients are cooked in minimal oil, and salt is used for seasoning purposes. While it can be consumed solo – it is generally consumed as a side dish. Locals often pair it with a glass of fresh milk.

Ditloo

While others were well-cooked meals and side dishes – here’s something for you when you are craving something to snack on. Can you imagine snacks being healthy? Well, Diltoo is – it’s basically an African legume. It is also called jubo beans. It is another great source of protein for families that can afford meat on a daily basis. They are soaked in water overnight before consumption.

Small towns have their own charm and Mexico has its own concept behind its small towns. It all began in 2001. The country’s government began a program titled “Magical Towns” to promote their natural richness and culture. There are about 132 such towns in this country. Let’s take a virtual tour through a few of them.

Bacalar, Quintana Roo

Turquoise waves and white sands are probably the first things you might think about when you hear the name of the town Quintana Roo. This wonderfully round lagoon is known for its different shades of water and is ideal for swimming, scuba diving, and snorkeling. As you go deeper into the waters, apart from the beauty of marine life, you will also see the famous underwater caves. They connect to the different water formations such as cenotes. This includes Blue Cenote and is the reason why the lagoon changes colors. You have the option to stay in the inns situated around the lagoon or campsites for a more adventurous experience.

Orizaba, Veracruz

The name Orizaba is an Aztec word that translates to ‘place of joyful water’ which is a reference for the river flowing into the city that has several stone brides beneath it. The city is well-known for being situated on Pico de Orizaba’s volcano. It is Mexico’s highest mountain. The colonial city has well-preserved architecture and one of its architectural marvels is this Iron Palace, which is 126 years old. The building is made of iron and was built with pieces that were sent in from Brussels. Finally, if you visit this place, you should try the coffee which is from Veracruz. It is considered to be the best in Mexico.

Xilitla, San Luis Potosí

The Huasteca Potosina jungle has beautiful waterfalls that you must visit. It also has a stunning garden built by an English artist named Edward James. This paradise-like garden is a mix of lush vegetation, a massive art piece with unfinished staircases, and maze-like passageways. In addition, Xilitla also has one of the oldest known buildings in this state, which was previously a convent. It was built back during the 16th century. If you do visit this place, do not forget to try the famous enchiladas potosinas and organic coffee. Your trip would not be complete without it.

Valladolid, Yucatán

One of Mexico’s oldest and gorgeous towns, each of its buildings has a story to tell. You will see a lot of historic buildings like museums, big colonial mansions, small restaurants and hotels in old buildings. For instance, the Casona de Valladolid was a place for wealthy families to celebrate town parties back in the 1900s. It is a place with beautiful churches crafts shops, where you can buy hammocks or stone sculptures. There are 10 cenotes in Valladolid, natural and clear water pools in the jungle. Among them, the prominent one is Cenote Zaci. It is a rather deep cavern that has ancient stalactites.

San Miguel de Allende, Guanajuato

Cobblestone streets, colonial mansions housing museums, colorful houses, and a beautiful church carved from pink sandstone is what San Miguel de Allende is all about. It is the perfect blend of traditions and beauty. You will also find many art galleries that are rather prominent. The place hosts a variety of art, food, and music festivals in a year. Furthermore, San Miguel is a blissful oasis for the foodies.