Eight great destinations for dessert

Some travelers remember a destination as much for the stunning chocolate cake they consumed as for the breathtaking views and historic attractions. These culinary explorers seek out the best local sweets or linger in side-street bakeries in foreign cities. The highlight of a day abroad could very well be what was eaten after dinner rather than what occurred before the meal.

If you have a sweet tooth and wanderlust but no direction, you can get started on your culinary travels with eight great destinations for dessert. These cities in North America and Europe are guaranteed to provide you with amazing sugary experiences and many opportunities for chocolaty souvenir purchases.

Paris, France

Chocolate crepes. Eclairs. Profiteroles. Fruit tarts. Croissants. You name it, you can find it in Paris. "It's perhaps the number one destination in the world for chocolate-lovers," says David Lebovitz, pastry chef, chocolate expert, and the author of The Great Book of Chocolate.

For travelers, the Victoria Palace Hotel occasionally offers chocolate-themed packages. A recent "Easter Chocolate Adventure" package for the month of April included accommodations, breakfast, and coupons for 30 euros worth of chocolate at famous chocolatiers such as La Maison du Chocolat, Jadis et Gourmande, Richart, Jean-Charles Rochoux, Patrick Roger, and Jean-Paul Hevin.

Currently, there are 1,263 bakeries in the City of Light, so you won't have to walk far in any neighborhood to find a tempting snack. "Bakeries owned by Alsatians are terrific," reveals Lebovitz. One of his favorites is Vandermeersch in the 12th arrondissement. Or, if you prefer chocolate to baked goods, plan a visit to the Left Bank. This area of the city has several quality chocolate shops in close proximity, so you can walk off the calories from one snack as you head toward the next. Lebovitz also recommends the Arnaud Larher pastry shop in Montmartre and l'Etoile d'Or chocolate shop in the ninth arrondissement.

For a cultural experience, line up for ice cream at Berthillon on the Ile St. Louis. The Parisians approach the serious decision of which flavor to choose with much discussion and debate. Kids especially will enjoy the chocolate fountain at Le Fontaine de Chocolat. Or, you can join Lebovitz on one of his guided chocolate tours through the city. The walk includes visits to a wide range of chocolatiers and even a chocolate sculptor. In the fall, the huge Salon du Chocolate attracts chocolate companies and artisans from around the world.

NEXT >> Zurich, Switzerland