Bizarre Foods

I absolutely love Bizarre Foods with Andrew Zimmern for many of the same reasons that I love No Reservations as well.  Traveling to far off locales, totally immersing oneself in the culture (well, as much immersion that is possible with a camera crew), and eating what the locals eat – this is an ideal vacation for me.  Mind you, I would not be crazy to visit the all penis restaurant that was showcased on Bizarre Foods on Monday night, but I would eat there if the opportunity arose.  What I enjoy most about these two shows is the respect shown to the cultures that are being invaded.  I think invaded is the right word, too, but not in the George Bush sense of the word, rather these close to primitive cultures allow these television crews to come in and  film their lives for an extended period of time.  Both Zimmern and Bourdain appear to be totally open to any and all new cultural and food experiences.  They may not enjoy what they are being fed, but they respect all that is given to them.  I don’t know if I could be a totally good sport when served warthog anus or fermented whale blubber.  I do know that I would love to be offered just a fraction of what Bourdain and Zimmern have been able to try.  Traveling and eating for a living – yeah, that sounds pretty cool.