How often do you use pepper or salt when you’re cooking? Do you sprinkle cinnamon on top of your oatmeal in the morning? Why does everyone go nuts for a Pumpkin Spice Latte when October arrives?
After cruising the ancient Spice Route Azamara Club Cruises, I’m realizing how much we take these spices we use every day for granted. As I’m learning more about the spices used in these different regions, I’m also learning about their importance in the world’s history. Here are some fascinating facts:
1. Kerala, my fourth stop on the trip, was a major spice trade center as early as 3,000 B. C.
2. Arab traders controlled the spice trade between Europe and the East, like China, Indonesia, India and Ceylon (now Sri Lanka, my third stop), for almost 5,000 years until Europeans started looking for a new route to the Far East.
5. In the Middle Ages, Europeans lacked refrigeration and general hygiene, leading to food spoiling quickly. Spices were so important because they helped mask the flavor of not-so-fresh food.
9. India is the top spice-producing country in the world.
Travel the Spice Route with Azamara Club Cruises! Upcoming voyages include:
- A 14 Night Voyage in November 2016
- A 13 Night Voyage in April 2017
- A 15 Night Voyage in November 2017
Ann Tran was invited to cruise onboard the Azamara Quest.
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