On a tight summer budget? That doesn't mean you still can't have a memorable and cultural summer excursion. Half the fun of traveling to a new, exotic destination is immersing yourself in the culture—hearing

the nation's music and tasting and smelling all their different dishes. And I'm not talking about America's interpretations of foreign food, like Panda Express or Taco Bell.

Letting yourself soak up the culture through authentic cuisine is a perfect way to expose yourself to other countries and a worth-while way to spend your summer vacation. Leave your passport at home, and let your taste buds travel the world this summer without ever leaving metro Atlanta.

1. Dos Margaritas

The first stop on your summer of splendid cuisine is just a little south of the border: Mexico. Dos Margaritas Mexican Restaurant has a traditional Mexican vibe, and a warm atmosphere. Their dishes are traditional Mexican recipes, and their chips are made fresh daily. Este restaurante es casi tan bueno como visitar el corazón de la Ciudad de México.

2. Fogo de Chão

Next up on the around-the-world adventure is Brazil. At Fogo de Chão Brazilian Steakhouse you can experience traditional dishes as well as new ones strongly rooted in Brazil's culinary styles. The founders of Fogo de Chão were from a traditional Southern Brazilian farm in the Serra Gaucha where they learned to "cook in the churrasco grilling tradition" that sparked the inspiration for the restaurant. Prepare your taste buds for the product of years of perfecting the art of Brazilian cuisine.

2. La Madeleine

A quick hop across the pond and you'll be in France. La Madeleine French Bakery and Café is an adorable little restaurant with a wonderful variety of dishes. French cuisine has a lot more to offer than just crepes and baguettes, and their music really sets the mood. Close your eyes, relax, and you'll think you've really traveled to the city of love. To wrap up your French excursion, make sure you check out their phenomenal dessert menu. Bon appétit.

3. Kurt's Euro Bistro

A short train ride later and you'll be in Germany. Kurt's Euro Bistro is known for its traditional German cuisine. The dish above is "Kurt's Favorite," which is also my personal favorite; it's beef goulasch soup over schwabian spaetzle. Their jaegerschnitzel is also quite savory. When you hear the cuckoo clock chime, it's time to head south for some Mediterranean cooking.

4. Aviva by Kameel

After Germany, get ready for some Mediterranean-inspired dishes at Aviva by Kameel Mediterranean Grill. Aviva by Kameel prides itself with its fresh ingredients, healthy dishes, and friendly service. They make homemade pita and only serve "100% Halal, hormone free, and locally grown meat." Out of respect for their Muslim and Jewish customers, pork is not on the menu. Instead, try some classic falafel with hummus and baba ghanoush or check out their healthy juice bar. Then it's time head east and back in time to Persia, now modern day Iran.

5. 1001 Nights Persian Cuisine

The Persian Empire is long gone, but luckily you can still travel there though their authentic dishes. Dress up and go out for an exotic dinner at 1001 Nights Persian Cuisine for an upscale night. There are plenty of vegetarian options and multiple kabobs to try. Order some Persian style spaghetti or be bold with some Gheymeh Badenjoon. After all, you are on vacation.

6. Desta Ethiopian Kitchen

Next stop is Ethiopia. Desta Ethiopian Kitchen is owned by a couple who were born and raised in Ethiopia. After meeting in Atlanta, Ash Nega and Titi Demissie dedicated their days to bringing the unique flavors and authentic dishes of Ethiopia to America. Their business blossomed, but the duo still holds "tightly to their values, authenticity, and excellent business model." It's a culinary treat to be remembered.

7. Bukharaa

Now it's off to India where Bukharaa Indian Restaurant pledges to treat their customers like royalty. Bukharaa serves a wide selection of north Indian dishes "which [were] once exclusively served at the Mahals (royal palaces) of Maharajas (emperors) in ancient India." Their main goal is to preserve the authenticity of their cuisine. They offer a rich lunch buffet, including a variety of shorbas, Biryanis, barbecued meats, spicy kormas, a wide selection of Mithaiyan desserts, and my favorite mouth-watering flat bread, naan. Your taste buds will not know why they're being treated so well.

8. Sichuan House

Your next culinary adventure will be in China. Sichuan House is by far my favorite place for an authentic Chinese meal. My family goes with my friend and her mom who grew up in China. She orders for everyone off of the traditional Mandarin menu, and the food is absolutely wonderful. You'll think you're in the heart of Beijing.

9. Australian Bakery Cafe

You're nearing the end of the trip, so it's time to go down under to the Australian Bakery Cafe. Since introducing America to the Australian Meat Pie in 1991, Australian Bakery Cafe has come to offer dozens of traditional and modern dishes to give any Aussie a taste of home. Although they offer more than pies, they are known for their sweet and savory pies, which are all "hand-made and baked by two of Australia's best bakers." You can try the classic Shepherd's Pie, Ned Kelly Pie, Fruit Mince Pie, and many more before moving on to your last stop.

10. Steak n' Shake

The final stop on your around-the-world excursion is the United States. After nine days around the world it's time to fly home. What's better than a familiar dinner with the classic shake and fries? Settle back into life in America with a night out at Steak n' Shake. Your tastes buds have absorbed the culture shock, and you've gotten to experience a part of life all around the globe. Put on your paper hat, sit back, and take in your final destination.

It's hard to believe all of these hidden gems are just a short car ride away. Although a simple restaurant visit is never a filling substitute for overseas travel, it's definitely an easy way to dip your toe into international waters. I hope you and your palette enjoyed your summer vacation, and don't fret that it's over. Remember—it won't be hard to revisit these cultural oases.