Anthony Bourdain was a prolific chef, author, and TV personality who changed the world of travel and food. Today, five years after he committed suicide, there still hasn’t been anyone able to take his place in the culture, though many have tried. Throughout his career, Bourdain’s work emphasized cultural exchange, open-mindedness, and deep respect for the people he encountered in his travels in a way unlike any other, using food to bridge cultural gaps and explore the shared human experience.
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An AI Travel Assistant Creates a Bourdain-Inspired, First-Day Guide to Barcelona
While no one has been able to match what Bourdain did, people are still trying to travel as he did. One of those is Michael Motamedi, who is currently embarking on a six-month journey around the world with his family guided entirely by Matador’s AI travel assistant GuideGeek.
In Spain, Motamedi asked GuideGeek what Bourdain would do in Barcelona and got back an envious itinerary. Using information from a vast array of Bourdain’s writing, the AI was able to point Motamedi in the right direction.
The first place on the recommendation list was Mercat de la Boqueria Market. This market is one of the oldest markets in Europe. Not only that, but markets were also one of Bourdain’s choice of places he enjoyed when visiting different cities. So it’s only fitting that the first stop.
This vibrant and historic market is renowned for its colorful array of fresh produce, meats, seafood, and artisanal goods. Established in the 13th century, the market has become a bustling hub of culinary delights, attracting locals and tourists alike. With its iconic entrance featuring a mosaic by Joan Miró, the market offers a sensory feast of sights, sounds, and aromas as visitors explore its diverse stalls. From exotic fruits to traditional Spanish cheeses, the Mercat de la Boqueria showcases the rich gastronomic heritage of Barcelona and remains a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts worldwide.
You can follow more of Motamedi’s adventures, from eating frog legs to cocktail bars, by checking out No Fixed Address, his show on GuideGeek’s Instagram that publishes new installments every week.