The Joy of Street Food
Street food is often the most authentic and delicious way to experience a culture. From Bangkok's pad thai to Mexico City's tacos, some of the world's best meals are served from carts and stalls. Here's how to enjoy them safely.
How to Choose Safe Street Food Vendors
Follow the Crowds: Long lines of locals are the best indicator of both quality and safety. High turnover means fresh food.
Watch the Cooking: Choose vendors who cook food fresh in front of you. Avoid pre-cooked food sitting at room temperature.
Check Cleanliness: Look at the vendor's workspace. Is it reasonably clean? Do they handle money and food with different hands?
Trust Your Nose: Fresh food smells good. If something smells off, walk away.
What to Eat and Avoid
- Safe: Food cooked at high temperatures right before serving
- Safe: Fruits you can peel yourself (bananas, oranges, mangoes)
- Caution: Salads and raw vegetables (may be washed in tap water)
- Caution: Seafood in non-coastal areas
- Avoid: Meat that's been sitting out for hours
- Avoid: Ice in countries with unsafe tap water
Building Your Immunity
Start slowly. Your stomach needs time to adjust to new bacteria. Begin with cooked foods and gradually try more adventurous options as your trip progresses.
What to Do If You Get Sick
- Stay hydrated with bottled water and oral rehydration solutions
- Rest and let your body recover
- Stick to bland foods: rice, bananas, toast
- Seek medical help if symptoms are severe or persist more than 48 hours
Prevention Tips
Carry hand sanitizer and use it before eating. Consider taking probiotics before and during your trip. Pack basic medications like Imodium and Pepto-Bismol just in case.