Sometimes it's tough to tell which you are most: an eater or a traveler. You seem to really get to the heart of a culture through its food, so much that the viewer forgets they're watching a culinary-focused show. Which comes first? Do you travel to eat, or eat to travel?

Eat first. It seems to open doors if you show people that you're willing, eager and appreciative of their food. Food, of course, is the purest expression of a culture and a region and a history--and people tend to be proud of their food. Eating and drinking--breaking bread with our subjects (my crew as well) is what makes so much of what we get to see and do--and the unique way we see it--possible.

More at http://www.gadling.com/2007/07/30/talking-travel-with-anthony-bourdain