Episode 65 Navigating Food Abroad: Tips, Mishaps & Healthy Hacks with the Ladies Who Travel

In episode 65 of the Global Travel Planning Podcast, host Tracy is joined by regular guests Shelly and Melissa for a lively “Ladies Who Travel” edition, all about food and dining experiences while travelling.

Together, they explore the joys, challenges, surprises, and mishaps encountered when eating on the road, whether you’re a notorious picky eater or an intrepid foodie. The conversation touches on everything from mystery menus and mouthwatering markets to navigating allergies and discovering unforgettable flavours across the globe.

From sharing hilarious translation blunders (“chips” meaning crisps!) to detailing their favourite travel meals, the trio offers genuine, practical tips for enjoying local cuisine wherever you go. Hear their insights on planning food-focused itineraries, adapting new dishes at home, the merits of food tours (even for the fussy!), and how local market visits can transform your travel experience.

This episode is packed with lessons, laughter, and honest advice about eating well and wisely abroad.

Episode 65 – What you’ll learn in this episode

Places, foods and words/concepts mentioned

Places

• Japan: Tracy’s go-to destination for “resetting” her eating habits and trying convenience store delights like egg sandwiches.
• Italy: Shelley raves about Italian cuisine and vibrant markets, highlighting Puglia’s local gems.
• Thailand: Both Shelley and Melissa adore the fresh, flavorful food, especially at night markets and through food tours.
• Morocco: Tracy recommends tagines and the Les Marchés des Enfants Rouges market in Paris for top-notch Moroccan fare.
• Vietnam & Cambodia: Melissa discusses insightful local market experiences and Doug’s cooking adventure at a Vietnamese family home.
• Sri Lanka, France, United Kingdom, Australia: Referenced for unique meals, food market visits, and comparisons of global food habits.

Foods

• Egg Sandwiches: Iconic Japanese convenience store staple—Tracy’s daily breakfast in Japan.
• Raw Marinated Meat (Italy): A surprising delicacy encountered in Puglia.
• Cinnamon Croissants, Fresh Fruit, and Pastries: Common yet carb-heavy travel breakfasts.
• Snails, Frogs’ Legs: French classics tried by Tracy.
• Crocodile: Sampled by Tracy in Africa.
• Guinea Pig (South America), Snake, Rat (Vietnam): Unique meats tried by Melissa’s travel companions.
• Sesame Jellyfish Salad: Shelley’s unexpected adventure at an Asian celebration.
• Tagines: Tracy’s favourite Moroccan dish, vegetable-packed and full of flavour.
• Protein Powder & Bars: Melissa’s go-to travel snack for keeping energy up and blood sugar balanced.
• Breakfast Bars & Tea Bags: Tracy’s essential travel supplies for comfort and routine.

Words/Concepts

• Food Tours: Recommended as the ultimate introductory experience in a new destination—great for orientation, meeting people, and trying diverse dishes in small portions.
• Local Markets: Praised for offering authentic, healthy options and unique cultural insight, Shelley emphasises researching opening days for maximum benefit.
• Cultural Translation Blunders: Tales of “vegetarian” meals with hidden chicken, and the global confusion over “chips” vs. “crisps.”
• Dietary Preferences/Allergies: Navigating menus with allergies or aversions; advice on carrying protein snacks, activated charcoal, and mini first aid kits.
• Like Local: A service for organising family home dinners in destinations like Vietnam—an authentic, immersive way to experience local culture.
• Aperitivo (Italy): A meal before a meal—Shelley’s preferred way to dine light and socialise.
• Adaptation at Home: Adopting favourite international recipes into home cooking for a sweet travel nostalgia fix.

Links

Podcasts

• Episode 60 – Lost in Translation: Hilarious English Mix Ups on Your Adventures Abroad
• Episode 52 – Travel Safe Travel Smart: Real Tips for Every Type of Traveller
• Episode 57 – 15 Essential Europe Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors

Articles

• 10 South African foods that will make your mouth water
• 10 Traditional Swiss foods to try in Switzerland
• 20 Traditional English foods to tempt your taste buds

Loved this episode? Have a question? Get in touch!