VIEWPOINT T

he best thing about working on this magazine – something I’ve done in one shape or another for over a decade – is the constant discovery. The search for something new, something different, but always delicious, is never-ending and we pride ourselves on being the front-runners in culinary expedition. If you could see our planning list of gourmet travel destinations for the next two years – yes, we plan that far ahead – you’d be reaching for the atlas in some instances. After months of travel restrictions, we’re getting ready to hop on a plane to some far-flung spots and bring back stories to inspire your next trip.

We’re also happy to explore a little closer to home. This issue, we’ve been checking out the independent restaurant and artisan scene that has been revolutionising Cardiff’s food scene (p84); we’ve picked up the wine destinations that any self-respecting oenophile needs to tick off their list (p96); and we’ve got no fewer than 41 incredible places to stay, covering everywhere from Cornwall (p34, courtesy of a certain Nathan Outlaw) to the Caribbean (part of our new hotel special, p76). We’re also taking you to parts of Mexico City (p18) and Madeira (p38) that you may never have thought to visit. And, as you’ve come to expect now, our regular search for the best new restaurants to sample takes us from south London to Somerset (p26). The recent changing of Government restrictions, meaning those that have had a double dose of vaccination can now visit amber list destinations without quarantine, has opened our world a little bit more to us, which is perfect timing on many fronts, not least because we’re preparing to celebrate the very best of it once more. Yes, the Food and Travel Reader Awards are back, and we’d like to hear about the people and places you want to celebrate (p32). I, for one, can’t wait to see what you’ve got for me.