Residents of The DurhamGate Care Home are embarking on a global adventure from the comfort of their home. Each month, the home ‘visits’ a different country, inviting residents and their friends and families to take part in themed cuisine and cultural experiences from around the world.
Starting in May, The DurhamGate Care Home in Spennymoor has already delighted residents with days inspired by the flavours of France, Italy, Spain, and Greece. Each event transforms the home into a celebration of international traditions and customs with food, decoration, and music. Residents also received personalised postcards to keep as a souvenir, reminding them of all the wonderful days hosted at the home.
Head chef Karl Aylward’s specially designed menus have been a hit with residents and family of the home. His dishes from across the globe have included French crepes, Italian favourites like lasagna and tiramisu, traditional Spanish tapas, and the flavourful tastes of Greek beef stifado and spanakopita.
These different cuisines are accompanied by traditional music and decorations to transport residents through an immersive cultural experience. During the Greek themed day, Andrew Long, The DurhamGate owner, even performed the dance from the 1964 film Zorba the Greek to a delighted audience.
Samantha Holden, The DurhamGate’s Front of House Manager, said, “I am so pleased these days have been such a positive experience at the home, and residents are always excited to find out which part of the world they will get a taste of next. Food is a wonderful way to bring people together and explore different cultures. Our international themed days offer more than just a meal, they offer an experience that, for many residents, has reminded them of past travels or introduced them to new culinary delights.”
The response from residents and their families has been overwhelmingly positive. Family and friends of residents have taken to social media to express their appreciation for the care home’s efforts.
One family member celebrated the Italian-themed festivities on Facebook: “Italian day, and the food was amazing (just a like a mama used ta make a) thanks to Karl the chef and all of the staff that went the extra mile with the whole event.”
Councillor for Spennymoor Town Council and former Town Mayor, Ian Geldard, has also shown his support for the initiative, commenting on The DurhamGate Facebook page: “Excellent work, Andrew, and the team. What a fantastic place!”
With the international themed days proving a hit over the summer holidays, The DurhamGate Care Home has exciting plans to continue transporting residents through themed menus and activities. In October, residents will celebrate Oktoberfest with authentic German specialities, and in November, the home will bring the vibrant flavours of India to honour Diwali, the festival of lights.
The public is warmly invited to visit The DurhamGate Care Home at its upcoming Open Day on the 21st of September from 11:00 until 15:00. Guests will have the opportunity to enjoy a guided tour, meet the dedicated team, and discover the exceptional care and lifestyle amenities offered in this luxury care home.
