Welcome to the world of chocolate safari®, where we journey to the most enchanting chocolate destinations on the planet! From the rich cocoa fields of Sao Tome to the exotic flavours of Haiti, the luxury of Dubai, the charm of Bruges in France, and the bustling streets of London, our chocolate expeditions promise to be an unforgettable experience for all your senses.

One question that I’m most often asked by our adventurers is how to ensure their precious chocolate make its home in perfect condition, especially when dealing with extreme temperatures.

Fear not, fellow chocoholics, we have compiled some indispensable tips for safeguarding your sweet treasures:

I often lead chocolate safari® to Sao tome, Haiti, Dubai Bruges, France and London and a question I am always asked by my clients is how to get the chocolate back home in perfect condition from places that are very warm or very cold.?

1. Select the best Chocolates:

When you’re buying artesian chocolates, observe the smallest details. Look for shops where attentive staff wear gloves – not just for hygiene, but to preserve the chocolates' pristine appearance.

Check for smooth, crack-free surfaces, impeccably filled bon bons, and glossy moulds  (enrobed chocolates display a matte finish). A well-tempered chocolate bar will make a satisfying snap when broken.

Remember, tasting is essential before purchasing!

2. Choosing the Perfect Quantity:

Whether a box or sachet, tailor your purchase to your needs. Cheaper chocolates are sold by the kilo but bars and fine bonbons are often priced individually.Opt for individual bon bons or ask for a unique number that deviates from standard packaging. For gifts, request gift wrapping, perhaps accompanied by a copy of our tasting journal

3.Temperature Extremes:

Keeping your chocolate close is key. Stash them in your carry-on bag to avoid the cargo hold's potential cold or freezing temperatures. With fluctuation-free environments in mind, keep chocolates in their original packaging, and indulge your chocolate passion with a dedicated cool bag.

If you’re headed to or from somewhere warm, they could sit out on the tarmac for a while too.

Keep the chocolates in the original packaging, if you can.  A good chocolatier will provide a cushion to protect the chocolates. I always pack a cool bag specifically for chocolate purchases.

4. Chocolate's Lifespan:

Indulge in your top-tier chocolates at your earliest convenience. Consult the expert staff regarding shelf life before acquisition.

Bars endure longer than filled chocolates. Generally, chocolate bars retain quality for up to a year, but  ask at each shop it will vary.

5. Storing Your Chocolates:

Should you have the patience to save these delights, an ideal spot is a cool, dry, and dark area – think wine cellars or pantries.

Steer clear of refrigeration, as humidity can cause unappealing 'blooms,' while unwanted odours can compromise flavours. If freezing becomes the last resort, encase the package within a freezer-safe Ziploc bag to retain some quality, albeit with minor changes.

6. Savour the Delights:

As your chocolate safari® adventure concludes, remember to allow your treats ample time to reach room temperature before enjoying their scrumptious flavours.

So, fellow chocolate aficionados, arm yourselves with this knowledge as you traverse the chocolate wonderlands across the globe.

Your chocolate safari® journey is not just a feast for the palate, but a delight for the senses and a treasure to savour for years to come. Happy exploring, and may your chocolate always remain in impeccable condition!