Chocolate Bound For A Sweeter Destination

As snow covered the streets of New York yesterday afternoon, one thing was apparent: New Yorkers are in desperate need of a getaway. With Spring Break just around the corner, our minds are already wandering away from our desk, daydreaming of vacation-worthy escapes beyond the reach of the cold grasp of the concrete jungle. Of course, no holiday would be complete without the opportunity to savor edible delights, especially chocolate! Inspiring its own tourism around the world, chocolate-producing countries near and far are highlighting the sweeter side of what it means to really taste the country you're visiting. Chocolate cravings to satisfy? Check out these five dessert destinations that will undoubtedly leave you with a sweet tooth -- without the cavity. 

BELGIUM

Producing over 172,000 tons of chocolate per year and home to over 2,000 chocolatiers, Belgium is no stranger to the chocolate front. Renowned for its pralines, the native “chocolate bonbon” was first created in 1912 by local Belgian chocolatier Jean Neahaus. Since conception, this small country has been a go-to destination for chocolate lovers world wide. Brussels, the epicenter of the Belgian chocolate industry is home to countless chocolate factories, chocolate-making workshops, and even a museum (Musee du Cacao et du Chocolat) dedicated to the history and process of such tasty delights! Though it might be impossible to see and eat it all, a good way to start would be to opt for the Chocolate Walking Tour & Workshop, a three-hour guided walk through several of the city’s artisanal chocolate boutiques, a hands-on lesson in praline-making, and, of course, a wealth of free samples.

SWITZERLAND