Interns can expect to work in a variety of cooking placements, depending on their personal preferences and what internship provider they choose. Many international culinary internships are hosted by culinary institutes or restaurants, however there are also options outside of mainstream settings. Examples of culinary internships abroad include shadowing a chef, working on a farm, helping in a bakery, or assisting in food preparation at a hotel.

Working in a culinary institute or restaurant will most likely require the biggest commitment, as these are seen as the most prestigious places for culinary arts internships abroad. If you want to focus on a specific area of cooking or want to achieve a certificate, you will most likely need some experience (either academically or professionally) to be eligible to participate. This type of culinary arts internships abroad is ideal for someone who is seeking a bit of a challenge, with lots of rewards!

Working on a farm or in a bakery will be a more low-key internships placement. These are appealing to people who are looking for beginner level culinary internships, so chances are interns won’t be required to have any previous experience. Farms and bakeries tend to have a more laid back attitude, especially when compared to high end restaurants. Although, this does not mean that interns won’t need to work hard or won’t be learning a lot! On farms, interns can expect to work with animals, learn about farming techniques, and help with day to day operations of the farm. Those who intern in a bakery will come to know the daily processes required for a bakery to function effectively, as well as learn to maintain a bakery and work with customers and vendors.

Mastering the culinary arts (especially in a different country) is an intricate and tedious process, so most culinary internships abroad require at least a one-month commitment. However, many interns interested in the field devote a full semester or even a full academic year to their culinary internship abroad. Don’t forget to take into consideration the spoken language in your country of choice, although most culinary arts internships abroad will have flexible language requirements, some may require basic fluency in the local language.