Latin Culinary Stars Spice Up Riviera Cruise

You might be under the impression that the staples of Mexican food is typically corn and beans, a few spices and a few smoke-dried jalapeño chilis tossed in. If so, a Crystal Cruises culinary voyage in December will scupper that delusion.

On a new 10-day itinerary, the U.S. Ambassador of Tequila and Latin American master sommeliers and chefs will showcase the essence of Latin flavor aboard Crystal Cruises’ Wine and Food Experiences of Discovery voyage.

Aboard Crystal Symphony’s Mexican Riviera voyage, the top culinary talent from Mexico will lead cooking demos and special menus, wine pairing and tasting sessions, and specialty cocktail classes. The cruise sails round-trip from Los Angeles December 12.

Together with Crystal’s own talented culinary team, the guest experts leading classes and creating menus include:

Yerika Munoz – considered one of the brightest Master Chefs in Mexico; executive chef at Mexico City’s Astrid y Gaston,

Jeremiah Tower – James Beard Award-winning chef and restaurateur, currently residing in Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, credited as co-creator of California cuisine;

Sandra Fernandez – a self-proclaimed Wine Designer, Culinary Institute of America Sommelier and the only Latin American woman certified by the Court of Master Sommeliers;

Madeleine de Jean – first female sommelier in the U.S. and former Wine Businesswoman of the Year; and

Julio Bermejo – U.S. Ambassador of Tequila and proprietor of San Francisco’s famous Tommy’s Mexican Eatery.

Ashore, Crystal Adventures offer tastes of Mexico with experiences including a traditional fiesta and clambake in Loreto and Mazatlan shrimp feast.

Per person, promotional Two-for-one cruise fares start at $2,990 (double occupancy), and include $500 per person ‘All Inclusive – As You Wish’ shipboard credit. Guests booking a deluxe stateroom with verandah by July 31 will save an additional $500 per person. Crystal’s Family Memories program offers groups and families a host of perks, including a complimentary berth for every 10 full-fare guests.