Handbook

Hints on Eating Abroad

Consider items you will need to facilitate eating inexpensively before you depart. Some items you might want to take along are: a pocketknife, a corkscrew, a can opener, a water bottle or thermos and a mess kit. It is also wise to bring any special dietary supplements or food items you are accustomed to: black pepper, vitamin C, or peanut butter. Keep in mind that it is illegal to carry perishables or plants across country boundaries. Customs officials will ask what food you have with you. Be sure to eat your oranges and apples on the train before you reach the next country's border.

When abroad, consider changing your normal eating patterns. It may be less costly to eat your most substantial meal at noon and have "lunch" in the evening. For example, in Europe you can usually save money by buying bread, cheese, yogurt, beverages, and other assorted picnic items at the local grocery store. If you eat these in the evening and save leftovers for breakfast the next morning, you will be ready to travel without the hassle of carrying food. Most countries will have open-air markets. This is a terrific opportunity to buy fresh food products. Note, however, the food and water safety precautions listed in the "Health" section of this document.

Don't panic if the change in diet affects your health adversely when you first arrive in a new country. In countries where tap water is safe to drink, the slight difference in mineral content in the water might be enough to upset your system. Be patient. Students studying in the "developing" world may need to review food and water safety guidelines. In countries where the tap water is not safe to drink, the answer to your problem may be as simple as remembering to use boiled water to brush your teeth.

Most European restaurants overseas have an advantage over their American counterparts: namely, they post their menus outside the door. This allows you to "window-shop" for a restaurant that suits your palate and pocketbook before entering the restaurant. Many restaurants will have a "house menu" which is a "package meal" set and includes soup, salad, main dish, and dessert. Look the menu over carefully to determine if you want to order from the house menu or "a la carte." Beverages generally are not included in the price listed.

Water may be provided upon request. However, you might have to buy mineral water. There are two varieties: gaseous and non gaseous. The gaseous water is more expensive but it is acclaimed as an excellent digestant.

Be brave! Take the time to explore local taverns and restaurants. You can learn a lot about countries by their cuisine and the clientele they serve. But at the same time, be aware of food and water safety precautions. Also, watch out for "extras." In some places you may pay extra for a napkin! Food is available on most trains but is more expensive. Plan ahead and take sandwiches with you. Train stations in villages often have good restaurants. In larger cities these restaurant, as well as those surrounding the train station, are generally more expensive.