Looking For gluten-free Travel Tours

[Coolclimates]

I've searched a lot on the internet, but can't seem to come up with much on particular tour companies that specify in gluten-free travel tours. I know of Ruth and Bob's Gluten-fee Getaways, but was wondering if there were any other such companies. Also, the Ruth and Bob's getaways are pretty pricey, so more budget minded tours would be great.

Does anyone know of websites or specific tours that are gluten-free? Anywhere in the world is fine, but particularly non-US countries would be great.

[Heidi S.]

Not sure of tour companies but many cruise lines (Princess, Royal, Disney, etc) are great for gluten-free guests.

Disney resorts are AMAZING for Allergies!

I have never been but maybe check out Finland (even their McDonalds's offer are gluten-free breads) or other countries are have a high rate of Celiac).

I know NC has a kids camp that opens for 1 week gluten-free in the summer for kids.

Also check out resorts or destinations with full chefs. They are normally very accustom to making allergy meals.

[Coolclimates]

Not sure of tour companies but many cruise lines (Princess, Royal, Disney, etc) are great for gluten-free guests.

Disney resorts are AMAZING for Allergies!

I have never been but maybe check out Finland (even their McDonalds's offer are gluten-free breads) or other countries are have a high rate of Celiac).

I know NC has a kids camp that opens for 1 week gluten-free in the summer for kids.

Also check out resorts or destinations with full chefs. They are normally very accustom to making allergy meals.

Funny that you mention Finland. I'll be going there in 2 weeks! I can't wait.

[minniejack]

On 6/20/2010 at 7:26 PM, Coolclimates said:

I've searched a lot on the internet, but can't seem to come up with much on particular tour companies that specify in gluten-free travel tours. I know of Ruth and Bob's Gluten-fee Getaways, but was wondering if there were any other such companies. Also, the Ruth and Bob's getaways are pretty pricey, so more budget minded tours would be great.

Does anyone know of websites or specific tours that are gluten-free? Anywhere in the world is fine, but particularly non-US countries would be great.

I was on www.disboards.com and asked our their adventures by Disney was as far as tours and specifically dietary and was very encouraged by the great responses

[Coolclimates]

On 7/15/2010 at 8:51 PM, minniejack said:

I was on www.disboards.com and asked our their adventures by Disney was as far as tours and specifically dietary and was very encouraged by the great responses

Thanks, I'll check it out. By the way, Finland is a FANTASTIC country for those struggling with celiac disease and gluten intolerance. Nearly all restaurant menus were clearly marked with gluten-free dishes (as well as dairy and some other foods) and many of the supermarkets had an impressive selection of gluten-free foods. Also, almost everyone there whom I spoke to knew exactly what I was talking about. I cannot recommend this country enough.

I also came back from Iceland and Estonia, but they have quite a ways to go in compared to Finland. I would say that Iceland is a little more advanced than Estonia and the United States. I also heard that Sweden, Norway, England, Ireland, the Netherlands and Germany (and most of northern Europe) are good countries to travel to for gluten-free dieters.

But I wonder about other continents, such as Asia, Africa, Australia, South America? Anyone know anything about these places?

[irish96]

I second what you've heard about the Netherlands. I just returned from there for a work trip and I had been worried about eating out with the work gruop each night. It was no problem, every restaurant we went to knew what it was and had numerous options for me. Most even carried gluten-free bread and they brought out a separate plate of it for me when they brought regular bread for the rest of the table. It was often really good bread too, much better than what i've found in the U.S. All the caterers for our lunches made me sandwiches with gluten-free bread and i could even ask for it at the hotel for breakfast. It was such a pleasant suprise, I wish U.S. hotels and restaurants were so aware.

[Coolclimates]

I second what you've heard about the Netherlands. I just returned from there for a work trip and I had been worried about eating out with the work gruop each night. It was no problem, every restaurant we went to knew what it was and had numerous options for me. Most even carried gluten-free bread and they brought out a separate plate of it for me when they brought regular bread for the rest of the table. It was often really good bread too, much better than what i've found in the U.S. All the caterers for our lunches made me sandwiches with gluten-free bread and i could even ask for it at the hotel for breakfast. It was such a pleasant suprise, I wish U.S. hotels and restaurants were so aware.

Sounds like I should take a trip there, next! It's frustrating how backwards the US is compared to many countries in Europe. Hopefully someday we will catch up.

[kdherwig]

I've searched a lot on the internet, but can't seem to come up with much on particular tour companies that specify in gluten-free travel tours. I know of Ruth and Bob's Gluten-fee Getaways, but was wondering if there were any other such companies. Also, the Ruth and Bob's getaways are pretty pricey, so more budget minded tours would be great.

Does anyone know of websites or specific tours that are gluten-free? Anywhere in the world is fine, but particularly non-US countries would be great.

I went on a Royal Carribean cruise last year and it was horrible!!! They said they could accommodate a gluten free diet but I don't think they have any idea what it is, I routinely was feed food with gluten in it. They even gave me a specially made black bean soup and served it to me in a bread bowl!!!! Do not trust this cruise line!

[baylissmeg]

A Gluten Free Hotel in the Alps.

I have had the same problem, with major ski tour operators saying 'wecan only offer catered challets, I'm sure if you chat to your host maid she won't cook with bread or flour'.

I've just been to a small hotel in the German alps, Garmisch-Partenkirchen.

It's run by Darren & Michelle. Darren is a Coeliac himself. They cater 100% for Coaliacs and Gluten free diets.

Their web site is http://www.glutenfreehotel.co.uk/

The food was great and I could eat everything. I stayed H/B but they do B&B also.

I fully recommend that you go and stay with them

[Mack the Knife]

Check out this company. They're based in Australia but they do tours all over the world.

http://www.glutenfreetravel.com.au/

[Coolclimates]

thanks, everyone, for all of your suggestions. I'll be going to Asheville and Sylva, NC and northern Georgia in less than a week. Looks like there are slim pickings in that area except for Asheville, which is supposed to be great.

[Lizna]

Hi. I'm Celiac and considering starting a touring company specialising in safe and fun travel for Celiacs. This would be exclusively in beautiful South Africa. I'm planning to open in about a year and just want to find out if there would be interested in such a concept?

[Flower Fairy]

I don't think there is enough gluten-free options when traveling. I am interested in this concept but only in the USA. I do think it is a great idea.  I feel we are so behind in the proper gluten-free food. I am a traveler and usually have to bring my own food since most places arent aware of cross contamination.  

[Jeannette Haffner]

I think this is a wonderful idea.  Since I was diagnosed I have been a fraid to travel!

[cyclinglady]

There are several gluten free tour groups around.  Just google. But do not be afraid to travel.  Just learn how to travel safely.  You may not find restaurants that can accommodate you safely all the time, but there is always a grocery store and access to a microwave.  

We camp, travel in an RV or our car (ice chest), cruises, and internationally.  It is not easy, but with some planning and research we do it.  Use the “Find Me Gluten Free” app and look for reviews written by celiacs.  Will we always get a hot meal?  No.  But the point is to do some sightseeing, visiting, etc. and it is not necessarily about the food.