Brana Travel, Los Angeles, CA (2025)

04/02/2024

In Portugal, indulging in a pasteis de nata, a heavenly custard tart, is akin to savoring a piece of the country’s culinary history. With its flaky crust and creamy filling, this iconic treat originated in Lisbon and has become a beloved symbol of Portuguese sweets. Beyond pasteis de nata, Portuguese cuisine is a delightful tapestry of flavors, blending influences from Mediterranean, African, and Asian cuisines. From hearty seafood stews like caldeirada to succulent grilled meats and aromatic rice dishes, Portuguese food culture celebrates fresh ingredients, bold spices, and communal dining experiences. Don’t forget to pair your meal with a glass of Vinho Verde or a shot of potent port wine to truly immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Portuguese gastronomy.
Dm me to create your Portuguese culinary adventure
🇵🇹

04/02/2024

Moroccan Spanish and Portuguese cuisines share several familiarities due to historical and cultural influences. Both cuisines feature a rich array of spices, such as cumin, paprika, and cinnamon, which add depth and flavor to dishes. Additionally, they both incorporate a variety of seafood, owing to their coastal locations, and utilize similar cooking techniques, such as grilling and stewing. Dishes like tagines, couscous, and various seafood preparations are common in both culinary traditions, showcasing the blending of flavors and ingredients from the Mediterranean and North African regions. Moreover, the use of olive oil as a staple ingredient underscores the Mediterranean influence present in both Moroccan Spanish and Portuguese cuisines. Overall, while each cuisine maintains its distinct identity, the shared history and geographical proximity have led to many similarities in ingredients, flavors, and cooking methods. Interested in a full immersion Iberian tour touching lightly in Morocco for $170 per day all inclusive ?
Itinerary
Start and end in Madrid! With the In-depth Cultural tour Spain, Portugal & Morocco, you have a 16 days tour package taking you through Madrid, Spain and 13 other destinations. Spain, Portugal & Morocco includes accommodation in a hotel as well as an expert guide, meals, transport and more.

03/31/2024

Don’t miss this Live Stream with getting real with life and travel and being career mothers trying to give our children the best lives possible. Tomorrow Monday at 9am PST/12pm EST !

03/24/2024

The flavors of the island of Syros in the Cyclades. Louza, San Michali Cheese, Koulouri, Baked Eggs…
offers the best of the flavors of these Greek isles. Dm me to great the most fantastic food tour of Greece and all its wonders. 🇬🇷

03/20/2024

As I wandered the cobblestone streets of different Italian towns, each meal became a symphony of flavors, a celebration of tradition and innovation intertwined. 🏘️
From the crisp crunch of freshly baked focaccia in Liguria to the creamy richness of risotto in Lombardy, every bite was a journey through centuries of culinary mastery. 🍲
Each region boasted its own culinary identity, a testament to the diverse landscapes and cultures that define this gastronomic wonderland. But beyond the exquisite dishes themselves, it was the communal spirit of dining that truly captivated me – the laughter shared over a table laden with antipasti, the warmth of conversations fueled by robust wines, and the sense of kinship forged over steaming bowls of pasta. 🍝
In Italy, eating isn’t merely sustenance; it’s a joyous embrace of life’s simplest pleasures, a testament to the country’s boundless passion for food and fellowship. 🇮🇹

03/14/2024

Exploring the bustling streets of a new city, one cannot overlook the allure of street food.

Beyond mere sustenance, it serves as a gateway to the heart and soul of a culture. Amidst the sizzle of grills and the aroma of spices, travelers find an authentic taste of local life, connecting with the community in an intimate culinary dance.

Street food isn’t just about flavors; it’s about stories, traditions, and the shared experience of breaking bread with strangers who soon become friends. In every savory bite lies a treasure trove of memories, making street food an invaluable companion on any journey.
Dm me about designing your ideal culinary adventure !

03/14/2024

In the bustling streets of a Chinese market, Françoise, a tourist with relatively low Mandarin skills, found herself craving a local delicacy. With a bold spirit and an empty stomach, she ventured into a crowded food stall.

Surveying the menu, Francoise’s stomach grumbled impatiently, but her language barrier loomed large. The plates were all arranged on a long table and it seemed fairly easy to just point and choose. She attempted to order using hand gestures, hoping for the best.

Pointing to a dish and attempting to mimic the shape of a bowl with her hands, Françoise unintentionally signaled for five servings. The vendor, bemused, piled her plate with enough food to feed a small army.

As Françoise sat down to eat, she realized she may have overestimated her appetite and underestimated her gesturing skills. With a hearty laugh and a full belly, Françoise learned a valuable lesson: when in doubt, go for the universal language of laughter and enjoy the feast, even if it’s unintentionally massive.

03/02/2024

Salento, located in the southern region of Puglia, Italy, boasts a rich culinary tradition influenced by its coastal location and agricultural heritage. 🇮🇹

Seafood plays a prominent role in Salento’s cuisine, with dishes like raw seafood salads, grilled fish, and pasta with seafood being popular choices. Olive oil is a staple ingredient, used generously in cooking and drizzled over dishes. Local specialties include orecchiette pasta with tomato sauce or cime di rapa (turnip greens), friselle (dry bread rounds) topped with tomatoes, olive oil, and oregano, and
pasticciotto, a sweet pastry filled with custard.

Wine production is also significant, with Salento known for its robust red wines made from indigenous grape varieties like Primitivo and Negroamaro. 🍷 The food culture in Salento celebrates fresh, seasonal ingredients and simple yet flavorful dishes. Dm me for more information and prices for a Salento Food Tour and how to let your palate explore the flavors around the World 🌎 🍲 🍽️

02/29/2024

Imagine spending the whole day going from vineyard to vineyard in a 4x4 Safari vehicle, tasting different wines, olive oils and local small bites and then stopping on the side of the countryside for a 3 course lunch … all for 225 euros per person
😱😱😱😱😱😱😱😱😱
Yes, one of best ways to tour Chianti.
One lesser-known fact about the Chianti wine region is that it was one of the first wine regions in the world to be officially demarcated and delimited, with boundaries established by the Grand Duke of Tuscany in 1716. Additionally, Chianti Classico, a subregion within Chianti, was the second wine region in the world to be granted DOCG (Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita) status, the highest designation for Italian wines, in 1984.
Dm me for your tour of wine country. The best time to go is in the next few weeks!

02/29/2024

As the morning sun cast its golden rays over the picturesque Italian countryside, you can embark on a culinary adventure that promises to tantalize your taste buds and ignite your senses. Your first stop would be a Parmigiano factory nestled in the heart of Emilia-Romagna, where the air is thick with the unmistakable aroma of aged cheese.

Stepping inside, you will be greeted by the sight of artisans meticulously crafting wheel after wheel of Parmigiano-Reggiano. The rhythmic thud of wooden mallets echo through the cavernous space as they expertly mold the cheese into its signature shape.

After indulging in a sampling of freshly cut Parmigiano-Reggiano, you bid farewell to the cheese factory and set off for your next destination: a Parma ham tour. As you traverse the lush countryside, the anticipation of tasting Italy’s famed prosciutto di Parma will grow with each passing minute.

Your guide will lead you through the intricate process of curing and aging, explaining how the region’s unique climate and tradition played a vital role in creating the perfect Parma ham.

Finally, the moment you have been waiting for arrives. With eager anticipation, you savor thin slices of the succulent ham, letting its rich flavor dance across our palates. Each bite was a symphony of taste, a testament to the time-honored techniques passed down through generations of artisans.

As the day draws to a close, you will reflect on your immersive experience, grateful for the opportunity to witness firsthand the craftsmanship and passion behind two of Italy’s most beloved culinary treasures. A day filled with unforgettable flavors and cherished memories, a testament to the timeless allure of Parmigiano-Reggiano and Parma ham, 5 hours with a guide and transport included is only 115 euros per person with Brana Travel 🤩 The prefect reason to say ‘cheese!’ 🧀

02/20/2024

The history of little fried fish, often referred to as “whitebait” or “smelts,” as a bar food dates back centuries, with origins in various cultures around the world. In many coastal regions, small fish have been a staple food source for generations due to their abundance and ease of preparation.

They are such a great seaside bar food for a few reasons. Firstly, they are typically bite-sized and easy to eat with your fingers, making them a convenient option for snacking while socializing or drinking. Secondly, the crispy exterior and tender interior create a satisfying texture contrast that pairs well with a variety of beverages. Additionally, the savory flavor of the fried fish complements the salty or tangy flavors often found in bar snacks, making them a popular choice for a beer. Did you know that in the Cyclades they are fried with red onion slices tossed in flour ?

02/19/2024

In Greek bakeries, you’ll find a delightful array of baklavas, each with its own unique twist. From the classic baklava made with layers of phyllo pastry, nuts, and honey syrup to variations like kataifi, which features shredded phyllo instead of sheets, soaked in syrup and filled with nuts. There’s also saragli, a rolled version of baklava, and siropiasta, bite-sized baklava soaked in syrup. Whether you prefer traditional or innovative, Greek bakeries offer a baklava to satisfy every craving. Dm me for more information on traveling Greece in a culinary tour.

02/17/2024

Sweet goods do not have to always be cookies and cupcakes. In Greece the little shops make stuffed figs, dry apples slices with tahini in the middle, dates with honey and nuts inside.
Book your next culinary adventure with and discover all the sweetness the world has to offer!

02/08/2024

Getting lost while traveling is an adventure in itself, a journey into the unknown where every turn holds the promise of discovery. In those moments of uncertainty, when maps fail and GPS signals waver, it’s the unexpected encounters that become the highlights of the trip. Amidst the labyrinth of unfamiliar streets, finding smiling faces offers a sense of reassurance and warmth that transcends language barriers. Whether it’s a local guiding you with gestures, a shopkeeper sharing stories over a cup of tea, or a passerby offering directions with a kind smile, these moments remind us of the universal language of human connection. In the midst of being lost, we often find ourselves, not just in the physical sense of finding our way, but in the deeper realization of the beauty of human kindness and the joy of shared experiences.

02/08/2024

Picture yourself spending the summer indulging in a culinary adventure like no other – a 30-day street food tour! Imagine exploring vibrant streets filled with tantalizing aromas, sampling mouthwatering dishes from diverse cultures, and creating unforgettable memories along the way. Whether you’re a foodie seeking new flavors or an adventurer craving unique experiences, this tour promises to satisfy your cravings and ignite your senses. Join us for a summer of delicious discoveries, cultural immersion, and culinary delights. Book your spot now and get ready to savor every moment of this epic street food journey!

01/30/2024

Ano Syros, a quaint hilltop village nestled on the picturesque island of Syros, Greece, captivates visitors with its timeless charm and enchanting atmosphere. Narrow cobblestone streets wind their way through whitewashed buildings adorned with vibrant bougainvillea, creating a scene straight out of a postcard. As you stroll through the labyrinthine alleys, the scent of blooming flowers mingles with the salty breeze from the Aegean Sea, casting a spell of tranquility over the village. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and breathtaking views of the azure waters below, Ano Syros beckons travelers to immerse themselves in its beauty and discover the hidden treasures of this idyllic Greek gem.

01/25/2024

Oh la bella Roma! Rome’s culinary greatness stems from its rich history, diverse influences, and emphasis on fresh, quality ingredients. Its cuisine reflects a blend of traditional Roman dishes, regional specialties from across Italy, and modern interpretations. From pasta and pizza to artichokes and supplì, Rome offers a delicious array of flavors that cater to a wide range of palates. Additionally, the city’s bustling markets, family-run trattorias, and Michelin-starred restaurants contribute to its vibrant food scene, making it a paradise for food enthusiasts. Most important of all, incredibly kid friendly ! Dm me for your ideal Rome visit and experience La vita bella!

01/23/2024

Visiting Havana, Cuba offers a captivating experience filled with history, culture, vibrant music, and unique charm. Wander through the narrow cobblestone streets of Havana Vieja, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Marvel at well-preserved colonial architecture, colorful buildings, and iconic landmarks like the Cathedral of Havana and Plaza de la Catedral. Havana is famous for its vintage American cars from the 1950s, a result of the US trade embargo. Take a ride in one of these classic cars to explore the city with a nostalgic touch. Immerse yourself in Cuban culture by attending live music performances, dance shows and art exhibitions. We visited the Legendarios Del Guajirito, where Buena Vista Social Club came alive. Dm me for creating your own memorable and immersive experience.

01/23/2024

Into Craft Beers? Sometimes you are surprised by the things you expect from a country with what you find. I never thought Greece had a great selection of beers and then I tried Kirki Ale and Pikri IPA and I’m a huge fan. Oh the joys of traveling! When you book with you will get the most personalized itinerary including the best hotel prices, most amazing streets to walk, restaurant reservations, and also which beers you should be trying. Dm me today for your new adventure waiting to begin!

01/22/2024

Oh Barcelona! One of my favorite food cities and a total gem when traveling with children. The amount of parks, playgrounds, and fun activities call for numerous posts. Street artists, buskers in the center, amazing architecture, world famous aquarium, Gaudi! Gaudi! Gaudi! We love to stay in the apartments above . They are gorgeous apartments with poetry written on the walls and amazing views of . Also the restaurant downstairs makes it a dream come true. is a short walk away with the best croissant of Spain 🇪🇸. Dm me for the most amazing Catalonian adventure of your dreams!

01/22/2024

Dubai? Cairo? Riyadh? Nope.San Diego! San Diego has the widest range of attractions for families! At the in Ramona your children will learn everything about camels and even have a chance to ride one and feed them. They also sell came milk products in their store! Watch out Sea World and Legoland! Dm me for more information on what San Diego has to offer for kids of all ages.

01/20/2024

https://my.trovatrip.com/public/l/survey/francoise-brana

01/13/2024

San Juan, Puerto Rico! Visiting San Juan is a delightful experience that offers a perfect blend of delicious food and rich culture. Here are some compelling reasons to explore the culinary and cultural wonders of this vibrant city:
🥘Authentic Puerto Rican Cuisine 🥥Mouthwatering Street Food 🥭Colorful Markets 🍹Rum Tastings 🌇Colorful Architecture 💃🏿Music & Dance And most importantly Warm Hospitality! Puerto Rico offers a feast for the senses with its delicious cuisine, vibrant culture and welcoming atmosphere. Whether you’re a good enthusiast, history buff, or someone looking for a lively and enriching travel experience, San Juan has something to offer for everyone. Best part is now is low season and the package offers are amazing! Contact me to day to design the best vacation for you.

01/12/2024

All inclusive Bahamas vacation anyone? The specials are coming in 🔥 HOT 🔥! Contact me for specials to the amazing Hotel Riu Palace Paradise Island in Nassau. Start planning now 🏝️

01/12/2024

Escape the winter chill and embrace the warmth and beauty of the Caribbean, where sun-soaked days and tropical paradises await. As winter blankets the northern hemisphere in cold, the islands of the Caribbean beckon with their turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, and vibrant cultural experiences.

Picture yourself lounging on pristine shores, feeling the soft caress of the warm breeze on your skin. The Caribbean is a haven for those seeking refuge from the winter blues, offering a retreat where the sun shines generously, and the azure waters invite you to take a refreshing dip. The rhythmic sway of palm trees and the gentle lull of the ocean create a symphony of relaxation, transporting you to a world where time slows down.

Beyond the idyllic beaches, the Caribbean is a tapestry of diverse cultures, each island boasting its own unique flavors, traditions, and histories. Wander through colorful marketplaces, savor the taste of exotic fruits, and immerse yourself in the vibrant rhythms of Caribbean music. Whether exploring historic forts, snorkeling in vibrant coral reefs, or savoring the spice-infused cuisine, every moment in the Caribbean is a celebration of life and nature.

The laid-back atmosphere of the islands encourages a slower pace, allowing you to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. As the winter months retreat, the Caribbean becomes a sanctuary for those seeking solace, adventure, and a respite from the chilly temperatures. It's a destination where the sun becomes your constant companion, and the beauty of nature envelops you in a perpetual summer.

In the Caribbean, winter becomes a distant memory as you bask in the glow of tropical warmth. Whether you choose to unwind in a hammock under swaying palms, explore lush rainforests, or indulge in the vibrant local culture, a Caribbean escape promises a rejuvenating experience for the soul, providing the perfect antidote to winter's icy grip.
Contact me today for your personalized travel plan!

01/11/2024

The best part of the islands in Greece are the small details and richness in history. Every street is a new discovery. Traveling opens a door to diverse cultures, vibrant landscapes, and unexpected encounters. The joy lies in discovering the unfamiliar, savoring new tastes, and embracing the rhythm of different places. It’s a journey that expands horizons and creates lasting memories, weaving a tapestry of experiences that color the canvas of our lives.