Photo credit: www.nomadicmatt.com
I have a passion for food and see it as an essential part of traveling.
Many cultures revolve around their culinary traditions, so skipping meals during your travels can mean missing out on a vital part of experiencing a destination. I often feel a pang of disappointment when I come across travelers who prepare all their meals in hostel kitchens or focus solely on grocery store finds.
While grocery stores and markets are indeed insightful in understanding a place, and eating out for every meal isn’t financially feasible, one must still question the rationale behind visiting culinary-rich countries like Italy, Japan, or Spain, only to forgo local delicacies.
Dining out can quickly become costly. Imagine the expenses if one ate out daily at home. For those traveling long-term or on a tight budget, managing money wisely is crucial. Moreover, dietary restrictions, including veganism or vegetarianism, can influence what travelers eat abroad.
To savor local cuisine without splurging, I’ve developed strategies to balance eating out frequently with saving money. Here’s how you can enjoy meals on a budget during your travels around the world:
1. Follow the Five Block Rule
I adhere to what I term The Five Block Rule. I avoid dining within five blocks of major tourist hotspots. Instead, I venture at least five blocks away to seek local eateries. There’s a noticeable change in the surroundings past this invisible line, where tourist crowds dwindle, and authentic local dining options emerge.
2. Use Local Knowledge
If randomly wandering into restaurants isn’t your style, rely on apps with local reviews. These platforms are invaluable for discovering dining recommendations in new places. Additionally, ask the local tourist office, hostel staff, or taxi drivers for suggestions — they’re often aware of wallet-friendly food options.
3. Ask the Right Question
Inquire locals with the question, “Where do you eat?” instead of “Where should I eat?” By doing so, you get genuine local favorites rather than general tourist recommendations.
4. Eat Street Food
Street food is a hallmark of world cuisine, especially in Asia, providing flavorful, affordable meals. From Thailand to Vietnam, street vendors offer culinary experiences that are both economical and safe.
5. Eat Fast Food (Sometimes)
While not gourmet, fast food can be a budget-friendly meal option. Depending on the country, a meal can be quite affordable, making it a viable option to stretch your budget.
6. Stick to Local Ingredients
Although cravings for familiar food may arise, foreign cuisines are generally costlier. Opt for local dishes and avoid pricier imported foods to save on meals.
7. Find the Lunch Specials
Many restaurants have lunch specials offering meals at a reduced price compared to dinner. Enjoying your main meal at lunch can provide substantial savings.
8. Bring a Refillable Water Bottle
Staying hydrated is crucial while exploring, but buying bottled water is not only wasteful but expensive. Carry a refillable bottle with a filter to ensure safe and accessible drinking water.
9. Cook 50% of Your Meals
Cooking during your travels can significantly cut costs. Hostels often have kitchens, and local supermarkets provide insights into daily local life. However, in places like Asia, street food may still be the cheaper option.
10. Have a Picnic
Picnics can be a delightful and affordable dining option. Visit a local market, gather food, and find a scenic spot to enjoy your meal, blending savings with the chance to observe daily life.
11. Use Tourism Cards
Tourism cards can offer not only discounts on transport and attractions but also on dining. Inquire at the tourism office about restaurant deals and make the most of these savings.
12. Get Free Breakfast
Staying at places that include breakfast can reduce your meal expenses significantly. Some accommodations might also offer other meal perks, helping you save further.
13. Eat Where the Students Do
Universities often have affordable eateries nearby. Exploring these areas can lead to budget-friendly meals, with the added bonus of lively student atmospheres.
14. Use Supermarket Deals
Supermarkets in some countries offer discounted meals or soon-to-expire items, providing opportunities to enjoy affordable, fresh products.
Dining is one of my favorite parts of traveling. By balancing dining out with these money-saving strategies, I manage to enjoy great meals without overspending. The key lies in finding this balance, ensuring both my wallet and my appetite remain satisfied.
Source
www.nomadicmatt.com