Debra Guzman

Howdy! Smoking Toques – A Travelvore’s Diary was created by me, a Hispanic-American combat service-disabled female veteran and now, a Smoking Toque. I have lived in, or traveled to, over 40 countries -some exotic, many remote, and a few that are downright dangerous. Regardless of the setting, each country exposed me to amazing food born of ancient cultures and served by gracious and generous hosts.

My love of cooking and knowledge of their cultures served as a wonderful icebreaker when not speaking the language, or simply being a woman, were huge obstacles in gaining a warm reception and more importantly, their trust.

I hope my blog will serve as a culinary community board of sorts where other folks can share their favorite travel and food destinations. You don’t have be a globe trotter, you just have to be curious. If my posts inspire you to try a new recipe, restaurant or heck, a new country, well… I’d be proud to call you a fellow Smoking Toque.