Tips for Dining Out when Traveling
When you’re traveling internationally, eating at local restaurants is an opportunity to learn about that country’s culture and customs, Dining etiquette and traditions vary by country, and if you don’t know the customs in the destination you’re visiting it’s easy to feel like a fish out of water. Here are some tips for dining out in a new country: anywhere in the world.
Eat at the right time. Do some research about when locals eat so that you’re not going to closed or empty restaurants.
In North America dinner is usually eaten around 6 or 7 p.m. and is usually the biggest meal of the day…but this is not the case in many other countries.
In the UK, Tea is a meal served around 4 pm. Supper is a lighter mean eaten around 8pm or later. In Spain and South America, the average dinner starts quite late at 10 pm and in India, anywhere from 9 to 11 pm is the norm.
Using utensils improperly can be a sign of disrespect in another country. Do some research before you go or watch what the locals do.
In China, Japan, Korea and Vietnam, chopsticks are the most common utensil, but sticking them upright in rice is considered offensive.
In India and areas of the Middle East and Africa, eating with your hands is normal, but be careful about using the left hand because it can be considered unclean.
You might also want to take your time when out for a meal in some countries. In places like France, Italy and Brazil meals can take several hours and are a time to connect with family and friends.
Next research tipping practices and payment methods at the destination you are planning to visit before you go.
Tipping is not expected in many countries and in some countries like Japan, it can be insulting.
And know ahead of time if the restaurant you’re going to accepts credit cards. In parts of Africa and Asia, the only way to pay at many restaurants is to use the local currency, And for the best food, eat where the locals do.
Talk to hotel or shop staff, tour guides or whoever else you meet along the way. Ask them where they like to eat and what you should order. Usually people are super eager to share their favorites.
Next, be willing to travel outside of those tourist traps or out of the heart of the city. You’ll find that some of the most popular spots are on the outskirts of town.
