Tummy Talk

The aromas of street food in countries like Thailand and China can tantalize. Is it safe to indulge? If touring with a local guide recommending specific stalls, you’re probably fine. The following common-sense rules are wise to follow, particularly for street food.

Clean-appearing carts with long lines of patrons are typically signs of fresh, good food. Look for stalls luring local families; our Western sensitivity is similar to children’s tummies.

Carry your own chopsticks ( or fork, if chopstick-challenged) to avoid potentially unclean utensils.

Only eat piping- hot food, preferably vegetarian, made in front of you.

Avoid tap water, fruit drinks, or any beverage made with ice. ( Hotel restaurants and other eateries geared to Westerners use filtered water for ice. Always ask.)

Peel all fruit yourself and skip raw vegetables.

For the safest dining, choose middleto-high-end hotel restaurants catering to Westerners. Select food cooked to order, not buffet dishes that may sit too long on warmers and harbor bacteria.