When you go on vacation, you usually have thoughts of the fun things to do and places to visit on your travels. But, for some travelers, one issue that’s often in the back of their minds is whether they can get easy access to the types of foods they are used to eating at home.

While some people might have to limit their intake of certain ingredients on medical grounds, others just don’t like eating some foods. If your friends and family describe you as a fussy eater, what should you do if you plan on visiting an exotic destination for your vacation?

Well, the good news is that you don’t have to starve or take a suitcase full of canned foods! Here’s how you can travel virtually anywhere in the world and still eat the things you love just like you do at home:

Research food establishments likely to serve your favorite dishes

Before you even book your flights and accommodation, the first thing you need to do is determine what foods are most likely to be available where you are going. If you’re someone that enjoys eating pizza and pasta, for example, research if there are any Italian restaurants or takeaway establishments at your destination.
The last thing you want to do is go somewhere and find that you cannot readily access your favorite meals like you can at home!

Consider going on a food-oriented vacation

Did you know that you can book specialist holidays that center around food (i.e. seeing certain dishes getting made, or even taking traditional cooking classes)?

If it’s important to eat certain foods while you are on vacation, consider a specialist holiday that includes a pre-arranged food or cooking itinerary. So, if you have a love of sushi, for instance, your Japanese food adventure could take in hotspots where you can get involved in making it or seeing it prepared by chefs!

Make a list of meals that are likely to have ingredients you don’t want to consume

Let’s say that you have a wheat and gluten intolerance. If you go to a restaurant or fast-food establishment, some meals are highly likely to contain gluten in it.

With that in mind, research what meals are readily available at your destination. Next, make a note of the ones that you know will have ingredients that you can’t eat. Also, if there is any doubt when you place your order, don’t feel afraid to ask the serving staff about the ingredients used in the meal.

Local food is less likely to make you ill than Western attempts

You may not realize it. But, you are less likely to become ill eating local food prepared at your destination than Western foods like burgers.

In many countries, local delicacies will usually get prepared with fresh ingredients and in a way that prevents contamination of bacteria.

Never drink tap water

Last, but not least, one of the reasons people get sick abroad is down to the poor quality tap water that they’ve drunk. It always makes sense to drink bottled water, especially from well-known brands.

Good luck!