It all began with the scent of roasted spices wafting through my childhood home in New Delhi. Those early culinary memories sparked a lifelong love affair with food—a love that has since intertwined with my passion for travel and my economist way of thinking. Welcome to Gourmet Economist, where I invite you to join me on a journey that blends the flavors of the kitchen with the stories of the world.
As an economist, traveler, and home cook, I’ve come to realize that the stories we taste on our plates and encounter in new places are often connected by deeper economic and cultural threads. Take one of my most memorable recent adventures: navigating the rolling hills of Tuscany in a vintage Fiat 500.
The not-so-gentle hum of the 1970s engine echoed through the quiet countryside as my husband and I drove past vineyards and olive farms. Each turn revealed another breathtaking slice of history. Yet, behind the beauty of this quintessential Italian experience lay a story of resilience—the Fiat 500, a symbol of Italy’s economic recovery after World War II. What was once an emblem of affordability and mobility for everyday Italians now serves as a nostalgic icon, attracting travelers like me from around the globe. It was here that I was reminded how history, culture, and economics intersect in even the smallest details of our travels.
That reminder inspired this blog—a space where I connect food, travel, and economics in a way that tells the stories behind the places we visit and the meals we enjoy. My posts will fall into three main sections:
Economic Insights
Here, I’ll offer a fresh perspective on economics through relatable stories and real-world examples. Whether it’s a deep dive into the global coffee trade or a closer look at the economics of sustainability in Scandinavian countries, this section will unpack complex concepts in a way that’s both engaging and accessible. For anyone curious about how economics shapes the world around us, this section is your gateway to understanding.
Travel Diaries
Every journey holds a story, and this section is where I’ll share mine. From the cobbled streets of Copenhagen to the rugged landscapes of Alaska, I’ll explore the cultural, historical, and economic threads that make each destination unique. Expect vivid tales, practical travel tips, and reflections that tie it all together.
Food & Economics
This is where my love for cooking meets my passion for economics. I’ll explore how food shapes economies and cultures while sharing recipes inspired by my travels and heritage. From the economics of olive oil to the history of saffron’s value, this section will connect your plate to the wider world, showing how food is a story worth savoring.
This blog is for the curious: those who enjoy a great meal, marvel at stunning views and wonder about the stories behind it all. Whether you’re here for the recipes, the travel tales, or the economic insights, I hope you’ll find inspiration in every post.
So, let’s set off on this journey together—whether we’re behind the wheel of a Fiat 500, standing in line for gelato, or diving into the nuances of global trade. Welcome to Gourmet Economist, where we explore the world one bite, one destination, and one idea at a time.