Each country has wealth of traditions. Among the many tradition and customs food is, if not the most, one of the most important cultural traditions of every culture. Expedia.co.uk recommends that in your next trip you take the time to taste that little piece of tradition that every location offers.

In Rome

The first things that come to the mind of the tourist are, of course, a spicy pizza and strong flavoured pasta. The Italian capital's cuisine, however, is also heavily influenced by the ingredients and recipes of the Mediterranean area which is almost exclusively based on natural produce, especially vegetables, fish and red meat. The bruschetta is one of the most typical appetizers on Italy. The food is made with slices of bread and garlic which are then grilled. When they are served salt, pepper and a soft stream of olive oil is added. It is usually presented with a serving of tomatoes, some vegetables and cheese. Other types of bread that are very popular in the Rome are are the tigella, crescentina, panini and the rosetta.

There are many variations on pasta, which is the traditional Italian speciality. One of the typical dishes are the classic bucatinis which come from the Sicily area. Another crowd favourite are the famous spaghetti carbonara. This traditional dish is made by combining an egg sauce, black pepper and pig butter. Other popular dishes include the lasagne, the ravioli and the tortellini. The Ossobuco is another traditional dish that requires many hours of hard work, which are worth it in the end. The main ingredient is veal meat which comes from Milan, a region located to the North of Rome. The slice of meat must be cooked for almost two hours while dipped in white wine and is at last left for 30 minutes soaked in tomato sauce with vegetables.

The best area to taste these classic dishes and their traditional flavour is not so much on the most prestigious hotels in Rome (more information about hotels in Rome here) but on Trastevere, the historical district of Rome lying on the west banks of the Tiber river. After a fine meal there is nothing better than a glass of quality spirits to clear your throat. In Rome, every coffee shop offers the classic cappuccino, mocciato and espresso. If a little alcohol is what you are looking for, however, the best picks are the limoncello or the amaretto.

In London

While different and perhaps less famous than the Italian cuisine, the English food also offers both variety and craftsmanship. The main ingredients include red meat and fish as well as potatoes, butter and eggs. One of the most popular dishes is the pasty, meat-filled turnovers which also include potatoes, onions and turnips. Another well know treat on the United Kingdom is the yorkshire pudding, made with eggs, flour and milk and usually used as a side dish for red meat. For more delicate pallets which are closer to a gourmet taste, the best bet is to go with the mint sauced lamb. For fisher lovers, the kedgeree is the dish to try out, a typical course which is served as breakfast on most hotels (check out other hotels London.) The ingredients include smoked fish, rice, eggs and butter.

Five o'clock tea is practically a British trademark and is usually served with muffins, scones and toasts with jam and butter.