Global Recognition for Fiji and French Polynesia as Culinary Destinations

Fiji and French Polynesia have gained global recognition by qualifying as finalists in the ‘Oceania’s Best Culinary Destination 2022’ category of the World Culinary Awards.

The two Pacific Island countries are joined as finalists by both Australia and New Zealand, with the overall winner to be decided via voting by the culinary community, industry experts and consumers.

SPTO CEO, Christopher Cocker, welcomed the Pacific presence in the Awards noting that Pacific Island Countries have much to offer in the area of food tourism.

He also acknowledged that with travel and tourism reopening after the global pandemic, destinations are working hard to identify and market their unique offerings to potential travellers, many of whom are now more interested in experience-based holidays.

“Niche market segments are quickly gaining momentum. In the Pacific this line of low-impact tourism suits our smaller destinations and their sustainable tourism aspirations”, he said.

“With our abundance of fresh, organic, locally sourced food, natural creativity and rich culture, the Pacific is uniquely placed to appeal to this market. SPTO encourages all of our destinations to tap into the potential of agri-tourism opportunities, such as farm-to-table concepts and the like”.

The World Culinary Awards seek to celebrate and reward excellence in the culinary industry and is the sister event of the World Travel Awards. Should you wish to do so, you can vote for French Polynesia here and Fiji here.