Greater Dandenong Mayor Jim Memeti last week met some camels in Dandenong's Afghan precinct as part of promotions for the festival's tours in the city.

"It's a real chance for us to showcase Dandenong and I believe the people who come and visit will definitely come back."

VicUrban development director Michael King said tickets for the Dandenong events - the Little India Tour, Afghan Bazaar Tour, and the World of Food Passport Tour - had sold well. "Support from the likes of [celebrity chef] Matt Preston and [festival creative director - cultural] Tony Tan has been invaluable."

The tours are from March 13-20. Tickets are $65; buses depart from Federation Square at 9.30am.

Details: www.worldfood.net.au or call the Drum Theatre on 97716666.