Zuzana Tomas is an ESL and TESOL professor at Eastern Michigan University who also facilitates the Academic Service-Learning (AS-L) courses. In this interview, Tomas recounts growing up in Slovakia, developing an interest in English and American culture, and her decision to study abroad in the United States. Tomas discusses adjusting to life in the US, getting involved in ESL and TESOL, and how she decided to work at EMU after completing her PhD. Tomas describes her experience helping refugees gain literacy, becoming involved in AS-L, and her classes collaborations with Jewish Family Services. Tomas also explores her AS-L students decision to put on a cooking demonstration led by Afghan women and their children, the logistics of preparing for the the demonstration over Zoom, the importance of acknowledging refugees skills and what they bring to the table, and projects she hopes to work on in the future.

Zuzana Tomas, Oral History Interview, 2024

The world is increasingly becoming interconnected, and Africa's diverse landscapes, rich culture, and vibrant heritage are attracting more and more travellers from across the globe. From sustainable tourism to immersive cultural experiences, the continent is witnessing a surge in travel trends reshaping the tourism industry. 



In this listicle, we explore seven emerging travel trends that are shaping the African tourism horizon. Let's do this!


7 Emerging Travel Trends Shaping Africa Tourism in 2024

In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Global Adventures with Debbie Stone,” travel writer Debbie Stone shares her delicious hands-on experience in an Italian cooking class in Rome. From crafting fresh pasta with 00 flour to layering the perfect tiramisu, Debbie dives into the culinary traditions of Italy and the joy of learning by doing.

The conversation highlights the cultural value of food, the unique flavor and texture of homemade pasta, and the connection that comes from cooking and sharing a meal with fellow travelers. Whether you're a novice or seasoned home cook, Debbie’s insights will inspire you to roll up your sleeves and taste the experience.

📌 Key Takeaways:
• Cooking classes deepen appreciation for local cuisine.
• Tiramisu means “pick me up” – thanks to its coffee kick.
• Zero zero (00) flour is key to pasta-making success.
• Homemade pasta cooks in two minutes and tastes distinct.
• Culinary learning brings fun, community, and cultural insight.
• You don’t need prior experience to enjoy cooking classes.
• Traveling through food creates lasting memories.

📖 Read Debbie’s article: https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/complement-your-visit-to-rome-with-an-italian-cooking-class/
🎧 Listen & Subscribe: https://global-adventures-debbie-stone.podbean.com/
🎙️ Also featured on Big Blend Radio’s “Eat, Drink & Be Merry” Channel:
https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

An Italian Cooking Class in Rome

We are Melanin Travels Magic, an award winning online travel agency specialised in Cultural and leisure experiences in black nations for the black diaspora. 

We can help you from planning your next trip to Africa or the Caribbean to find the find flight & hotel packages globally to curating unique Travel experiences in Africa & Europe.

Find out more : https://www.melanintravelsmagic.com/travel-with-us

Select Big Blend Radio interviews that are featured in the digital, interactive Big Blend Radio & TV Magazine and Parks & Travel Magazine. Hosted by Nancy J. Reid and Lisa D. Smith, mother-daughter travel team and publishers.

New tracks tagged #Cooking class