Okay, so I finally got around to mapping out my foodie adventures for the rest of the year, and lemme tell you, it’s gonna be epic! I’ve been itching to hit up some of Asia’s famous street food festivals. Been scrolling through a bunch of lists, watching countless vlogs, and finally narrowed it down to a few that I’m actually gonna try and make happen. So, figured I’d share my potential itinerary, and maybe you guys can give me some tips if you’ve been to any of these!
First Up: Bangkok, Thailand – Gotta Do It!
First on the chopping block is Bangkok, Thailand. I mean, come on, it’s basically the holy grail of street food. I was reading up on the “Bangkok Street Food Festival,” but honestly, I’m leaning towards just winging it and exploring the local markets. I spent hours looking into Khlong Toei Market and Yaowarat (Chinatown). The plan is to just wander around, try everything that looks interesting, and not be afraid to get a little lost. I’ve watched tons of videos where people just point and order, and I’m all about that vibe. I will go there in May, hope not to be too hot.
Next Stop: Singapore – Clean Eats & Crazy Flavors
After Bangkok, I’m thinking of heading to Singapore. I know, it’s a bit more polished than some other street food scenes, but I’ve heard the hawker centers are legit. I watched a doc about it and the hawker culture is just so important. I’m planning on hitting up places like Lau Pa Sat and Tiong Bahru Market. I’m especially keen on trying Hainanese chicken rice and chili crab. I also spent time to search if they will have a street food festival, but apparently, it is a all year round thing, awesome!
Maybe: Seoul, South Korea – Kimchi Everything!
This one’s a maybe because the timing might be tricky, but I’d love to check out the street food scene in Seoul, South Korea. I’m a sucker for Korean food, and I heard that going to a street market there is the best way to try authentic food. I’ve been drooling over pictures of tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) and Korean fried chicken. I was looking at the “Seoul International Food Festival,” but it sounds more fancy-schmancy than street food-y. Probably I will explore Gwangjang Market instead. I have to check when’s the best time to go.
Long Shot: Osaka, Japan – Takoyaki Dreams
Okay, this one’s a real stretch because it’s expensive and hard to get time off, but I’ve always wanted to go to Osaka, Japan, and apparently, their street food is amazing. I saw a show on TV talking about Takoyaki and Okonomiyaki being the kings of Osaka’s street food. I’m not sure if Osaka has specific street food festivals, but I really want to go there. This would be my final stop in December (wish me luck!).
Planning the Logistics: My headache
Okay, so now the real work begins. Time to book flights, find accommodations, and figure out how to get around. I’m thinking of using a mix of hostels and budget hotels to save some cash. And of course, gotta brush up on my bargaining skills!
I’m also trying to learn a few basic phrases in each language, just to be polite. Wish me luck!
The End
So yeah, that’s the plan! I’m so excited to get started. If you have any recommendations or advice for any of these places, please let me know in the comments! I’m all ears. And stay tuned for updates from the road! Peace!
