Mistakes Tourist Make When Dining Abroad

Dining abroad can be a fun, exhilarating adventure, offering a glimpse into a country’s culture and culinary traditions. However, cultural differences and language barriers can sometimes lead to challenges, many times unexpected. To ensure a smooth and enjoyable dining experience (and vacation, for that matter), it’s essential to be aware of common mistakes tourists often make. Here are the most common mistakes tourists make when dining abroad. 

1. Misunderstanding Etiquette

For those of us in the United States. Using a knife, fork, and spoon is a no-brainer way to enjoy a meal. Head across the proverbial ponds and it’s entirely different. 

• Chopsticks: In many Asian countries, misusing chopsticks can be considered rude. To ensure you’re using them correctly, check out online videos or descriptive tutorials before you go – and practice! Additionally, avoid sticking them vertically into your rice – it’s a definite no-no and what’s done at Japanese funerals. It’s also considered bad luck. 
• Sharing: In some cultures, especially Asian, it’s customary to share dishes and handheld foods. Be prepared to pass dishes around and avoid assuming individual portions. Not only is it a way to bond over the dinner table, but it’s also a great way to taste-test different meals in one go. 
• Utensil Placement: The placement of your utensils on a plate can signal whether you’re finished or still eating. Familiarize yourself with local customs to avoid misunderstandings. For example, in America, we use a “fork switching” style where it’s constantly moved from hand to hand. However, in Germany, the fork stays in the left hand until the meal ends. 

2. Overlooking Dietary Restrictions

We Americans have no problem talking about our food and dietary restrictions. In many cases, the wait staff will bring it up before ordering. That’s not always the case when traveling abroad. 

• Allergies and Intolerances: Communicate any allergies or dietary restrictions to your server. Use phrases like “I’m allergic to…” or “I can’t eat…”. If there’s a language barrier, use a browser like Google to translate what you want to say beforehand and practice. 
• Religious Dietary Laws: Be mindful of religious dietary laws, such as halal or kosher. Research local customs to ensure you’re choosing appropriate options before you visit to not to offend. 

3. Assuming Familiarity

Just like the U.S. has different culinary regions, it’s the same for countries across the world. 

• Regional Variations: Even within the same country, regional variations in cuisine may be significant. Don’t assume that a dish you’ve enjoyed in one area will taste the same everywhere. Think Italy: meal ingredients, spices, and preparation vary from city to city. 
• Spiciness: Be prepared for unexpected levels of spice, aka, plenty of heat. If you’re not accustomed to spicy food, ask your server to recommend milder dishes on the menu.

4. Ordering Too Much

Living in a country of big food, it’s common to go home with a doggie bag or takeaway box. That’s not the case overseas. 

• Portion Sizes: Portion sizes can vary greatly between countries. Start with smaller portions to avoid feeling overwhelmed, especially if you don’t plan on taking your meal back to the hotel. 
• Sharing: Consider sharing dishes with your dining companions to sample a wider variety of menu options. 

5. Ignoring Local Customs

Before you visit a country you’re unfamiliar with, take the time to learn the local customs so both you and the locals aren’t embarrassed or confused. 

• Tipping: Tipping customs can differ significantly. Research local etiquette to avoid awkward situations. In England, it’s rare to tip. 
• Ordering Etiquette: In some countries, it’s considered rude to order the most expensive item on the menu. Be mindful of local customs to avoid appearing boastful.

6. Failing to Research

• Popular Dishes: Before you arrive, research popular local dishes and ingredients. This will help you make informed choices and avoid ordering unfamiliar items that you may not enjoy.
• Off-the-Menu Options: Ask your server about off-the-menu options or seasonal specialties. You may discover hidden gems that aren’t listed on the regular menu. If in doubt, ask what the most popular dish on the menu is and go with it. 

7. Being Afraid to Try New Things

When traveling abroad, you’ll many times encounter menus and meals you’ve never heard of. That’s the time to put your constant cuisine aside and try all the new things.

• Step Outside Your Comfort Zone: Dining abroad is an opportunity to expand your culinary horizons. Don’t be afraid to try new dishes and ingredients even if they don’t seem like they’ll be tasty. 
• Ask for Recommendations: If you’re unsure what to order, ask your server for recommendations based on your preferences.

8. Overlooking Street Food

• Hidden Gems: Street food can be a fantastic way to experience local cuisine at affordable prices. Look for popular street food stalls and don’t be afraid to try something new.
• Hygiene Concerns: While street food can be delicious, it’s important to be VERY mindful of hygiene concerns. Choose vendors with clean stalls and avoid consuming raw or undercooked foods. When in doubt, look for the long lines – that’s a sure way the food will be delicious and healthy.