Budget Bites: A Traveller's Foodie Guide

Immersion in the local culture, through food, is one of the most rewarding parts of travelling and it really enhances your experience of a place. Trying the local cuisine of an area can be both financially, gastronomically and culturally beneficial. If you’re a traveller on a tight budget, here’s a guide on how to eat well, whilst saving money:

Researching prior to travelling

• The secret to travelling on a tight budget is to plan ahead, to learn about the local cuisine before you get to a destination

• Research affordable restaurants and good-quality street vendors

• This is where websites, blogs and things like TripAdvisor come in handy (look up reviews in advance)

Street food

• Street food is budget-friendly and it offers a true experience of the local way of life

• Be sure to sample regional specialities, whether it’s tacos in Mexico, empanadas in Colombia, or hot dogs in NYC, etc.

• These small, affordable bites are often bursting with flavor and might just be the best thing you ever try in that country

• For example, I bought tacos from a street vendor in Playa Del Carmen, Mexico, after a night out, and they were the best tacos I've ever had!

• However, to ensure a safe and and enjoyable experience, take caution with street food - i.e. pay attention to the cleanliness of stalls, make sure food is fully cooked, avoid ice in areas where the water isn't safe to drink

• If you experience stomach problems, get medication from a nearby pharmacy as soon as possible to prevent further illness

Local dining

• Try and avoid tourist traps and ask locals for advice on where to eat

• You’ll also find cheaper options if you venture a little bit farther from the popular tourist hotspots

• These hidden gems often provide a more genuine taste of the local cuisine, as they cater to locals rather than tourists

Learning the local language

• Learn some local phrases related to food i.e. "How much does this cost?"

• This can really make a big difference, speaking from personal experience

• The locals will appreciate your effort to communicate with them in their language and they may offer you a better price or generally interact with you differently

Cooking your own meals

• If you have the chance to make your own food, then take advantage of it

• Utilise the communal kitchens offered by many hostels and guesthouses - it's not only economical but also a fun, educational experience, which, in many circumstances, enables you to bond with other travellers

• Try to strike a balance between cooking at home and eating out, especially if travelling for an extended length of time

• Explore the local markets and shops to purchase fresh ingredients, so you can cook your own meals that feature local flavours

• Additionally you have control over what food you buy, and therefore you can purchase products which are more sustainably-sourced

• This can have a positive effect on the local community and the environment

Budget travel doesn’t have to mean forgoing the culinary aspect of your journey.

In fact, it can improve it in many ways.