Food and drink
Photo: aiko99ann, CC BY-SA 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons
Eating and drinking can be the greatest pleasure of a journey, as well as the greatest risk. While some travellers want to stick to familiar food, for comfort, health and ethics, others are more adventurous.
Retail foodOne cannot think well, love well, sleep well, if one has not dined well.
Camping foodTravellers might want to carry food with them, for outdoor life and wilderness backpacking, or a casual stroll to the park.
Eating in vehiclesLong vehicle routes can't always stop when you're hungry. What's allowed on a commercial service varies significantly by type of transport and route.
RestaurantsTell me what you eat, and I will tell you what you are. Restaurants around the world have very different customs for ordering, eating and paying, and you should read the eat section for the country you visit.
Street foodStreet food is still common in many developing countries, and can also be found in some cities in the developed world like New York City.
TalkIf you venture from touristed restaurants and hotel shops, finding food might create a language barrier. Even if the staff might speak your language, finding out the ingredients of products might be a hassle.
Other tipsBe wary of places that advertise prominently in tourist areas, or use aggressive touting tactics. This is usually a sign that the food is overpriced and substandard.
Alcohol and other recreational drugsAlcoholic beverages are under various levels of regulation, and in some cases total prohibition. Manufacturing of drinks such as wine, beer and whiskey has a long tradition in some countries.
Stay healthyFood poisoning and diarrhea are major concerns. Food should also be kept safe from pests.
Stay safeSee also Common scams#Food and beverage scams.
RespectMost cultures have food-related taboos, often connected to religion and spirituality. They are often deeply held and may vary drastically from country to country, region to region or even person to person.
Specific topicsA number of travel topics are available related to food.
Sources and licences
- Guide text adapted from the Wikivoyage article "Food and drink" by its contributors, available under CC BY-SA 4.0. Read on Wikivoyage · Contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0
- Photo: aiko99ann, CC BY-SA 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons