Okay, so, you’re heading off on some awesome adventure abroad? Super exciting! But, uh, food poisoning? Not so exciting. Trust me, I learned this the hard way. A few years back, I was backpacking through Southeast Asia, and let’s just say I spent a little too much time getting to know the local bathrooms. It wasn’t pretty. So, from one traveler to another, here’s what I’ve learned about keeping my stomach happy while on the road.
Look at Where You’re Eating
First things first, I started paying way more attention to where I was eating. Street food is tempting, I know, it is part of experiencing the culture. But I started looking for stalls that were busy. Lots of locals lining up? Usually a good sign. It means the food is turning over quickly, so it’s probably * If a place looks dirty, I just walk away. No shame in that game.
Watch What You Drink
Then, there’s the water situation. In many places, tap water is a big no-no. I got myself a reusable water bottle and either filled it up with purified water from those big refill stations, or I bought bottled water. Making sure the seal is intact, Always check the seal! I even used bottled water to brush my teeth, just to be extra careful.
Be Careful When Eating Fruits and Vegetables
Fruits and veggies? Tricky. I stuck to fruits I could peel myself, like bananas and oranges. If I wanted a salad, I made sure it was from a restaurant that looked like they knew what they were doing – clean, busy, and catering to tourists who probably have sensitive stomachs like me.
Cook Your Own Meals
- Go to the local supermarkets and buy some food.
- Find a place with a kitchen.
- Cook for yourself, it can be safer.
Wash Your Hands, Seriously
Hand sanitizer became my new best friend. Before I ate anything, even a snack, I’d give my hands a good squirt. Soap and water are even better, of course, but sanitizer is great when you’re on the go.
Start Slow
When I first arrive in a new place, I try to take it easy on my stomach. I don’t go straight for the craziest, spiciest dishes. I give my body a chance to adjust to the new food and environment.
Listen to Your Gut (Literally)
And finally, I started listening to my gut – literally! If something felt off, I didn’t eat it. If I started feeling unwell, I took it seriously and rested. It’s better to miss out on a meal than to spend your vacation in the bathroom, right?
So yeah, that’s my hard-earned wisdom on avoiding food poisoning. It’s not foolproof, of course, but these steps have definitely made my travels a lot more enjoyable, and my stomach a lot happier. Safe travels, and happy eating!
