San Jose and Sambava top new rankings for couples planning sensual food experiences
Key Findings:
- New study identifies worlds’ top cities and regions for aphrodisiac food tours based on local specialities, food costs, and culinary experiences
- San Jose, Costa Rica claims top spot with its coffee-based aphrodisiac offerings, while Madagascar’s Sambava is second with its renowned vanilla
- Sex and relationship expert explains how food tours can significantly boost intimacy for couples planning their Easter and summer getaways
With the Easter break approaching and summer holiday planning in full swing, couples everywhere are looking for unique experiences that combine travel, food, and romance. Now, a new study has identified the world’s best destinations for aphrodisiac food tours – perfect for those seeking culinary adventures that might spice up more than just their palate.
“Food and desire have been linked throughout human history,” explains Anita Fletcher, a sex and relationship expert at Fantasy Co., a premium adult toy brand specialising in handcrafted, high-quality products. “Certain ingredients can stimulate our senses, increase blood flow, and release feel-good hormones – all contributing to heightened romantic feelings.”
Fantasy Co. analysed destinations worldwide based on their aphrodisiac food offerings, calculating an ‘Aphrodisiac Appeal Score’ that considers factors such as signature ingredients, average food tour costs, search volume related to food interest, and top local establishments offering these sensual culinary experiences.
Table 1: Top 10 Destinations For Aphrodisiac Food Tours
Rank | Notable Aphrodisiac Dishes/Ingredients | Destination | Country | Aphrodisiac Appeal Score |
1 | Coffee | San Jose | Costa Rica | 75.86 |
2 | Vanilla | Sambava | Madagascar | 59.23 |
3 | Chile Peppers | Santa Fe | New Mexico | 46.01 |
4 | Red Wine | Cape Winelands | South Africa | 30.78 |
5 | Oysters | Tasmania | Australia | 22.97 |
6 | Honey | South Auckland | New Zealand | 22.61 |
7 | Scallops | Digby | Nova Scotia, Canada | 15.35 |
8 | Mussels | Prince Edward Island | Canada | 14.99 |
9 | Truffles | Périgord | France | 9.65 |
10 | Figs | Almoharin | Spain | 9.24 |
San Jose, Costa Rica – Coffee’s Sensual Secrets
San Jose takes the top spot with an impressive score of 75.86 out of 100. Costa Rica’s capital is renowned for its coffee, which does more than just wake you up in the morning. Local food tours often feature visits to establishments like Alma De Coffee, where couples can sample various brews and learn about coffee’s aphrodisiac properties.
“Costa Rican coffee contains compounds that boost energy and mood while improving blood flow – all essential elements for romantic encounters,” notes Fletcher. With an average food tour cost of just $42 and a substantial search volume of 11,000, San Jose offers one of the most accessible and popular aphrodisiac food experiences globally.
Sambava, Madagascar – The Vanilla Capital
Coming in second with a score of 59.23, Sambava is the heart of Madagascar’s vanilla production. The city’s Biovanilla Boutique Vanille offers couples the chance to explore this sensual spice in depth, from farm tours to tasting sessions.
“Vanilla’s scent has been shown to increase feelings of lust and arousal,” says Fletcher. Though slightly pricier, with average food tours costing $48, the city’s 8,100 search volume demonstrates strong interest in its unique culinary offerings.
Santa Fe, New Mexico – Heating Things Up
With a score of 46.01, Santa Fe claims third place for its chile pepper-focused cuisine. Establishments like The Chile Shop showcase how these spicy ingredients can literally heat up a romantic evening.
“Chile peppers stimulate endorphin release, creating a natural high similar to feelings of attraction and desire,” explains Fletcher. Despite a higher average food tour cost of $71, the city maintains popularity with 8,100 food-related searches, proving that many couples are willing to splurge on this fiery experience.
Anita Fletcher, sex and relationship expert at Fantasy Co., commented:
“Food has been intertwined with intimacy throughout history across nearly every culture. The sensory experience of sharing a meal – the aromas, flavours, textures, and even the act of feeding one another – can create powerful bonds between partners. Many traditional aphrodisiacs actually contain compounds that increase blood flow, stimulate nerve endings, or release feel-good chemicals in the brain, which explains their lasting reputation.
“For couples planning a romantic getaway, I recommend researching local aphrodisiac specialities before you travel. The most memorable food tours involve all five senses – listen to the stories behind the foods, appreciate their visual presentation, enjoy their aromas, savour their flavours, and don’t be shy about tactile experiences.
“To maximise the experience, slow down and be present – put away phones, maintain eye contact, and focus on shared pleasure rather than rushing through multiple stops. The intimacy developed during these shared culinary adventures often translates beautifully to other aspects of your relationship.”