As the world begins to emerge from a pandemic that devastated world economies and the tourism and hospitality industries, we are pleased to launch a beacon of hope and inspiration. Today the World Food Travel Association (WFTA) is announcing a mandala symbol will be joining the Association’s main logo. It’s not just any mandala, however. If you look closely, you will see the seven rays of the mandala are actually spoons! We created the symbol to show the interconnection among the culinary cultures across Earth’s seven continents. How are they connected? Today there is a greater consciousness – a higher awareness that in today’s world, we all depend on each other for our survival, happiness and prosperity. Care and sustainability are the modus operandi now.  One of the underlying tenets of our Association is the importance of enjoying unique and memorable food and drink experiences while traveling. After all, one of the best ways to get to know people is through their food and drink. And your part in the mandala is to promote gastrodiplomacy by sharing your own culinary culture with visitors to your area.