The 14 Worst Foods to Eat While on Vacation (and What to Try Instead)

Vacation is a time to explore new cultures, relax, and enjoy delicious cuisine. However, some foods can be more of a hassle than a delight. While exploring exotic locales, tourists often find themselves tempted by certain dishes that may not sit well with a traveler’s stomach or expectations. Here, we outline 14 foods often best avoided while on vacation, along with alternative suggestions that promise both enjoyment and safety.

Street Vendor Sushi

Street vendor sushi might seem adventurous, but it can be a gamble when it comes to freshness. Sushi inherently relies on raw fish, which requires strict temperature control to prevent any foodborne illnesses. When prepared in an uncontrolled street environment, the risk increases significantly.

Instead, consider trying local cooked seafood dishes. They not only offer similar flavors but are typically safer when cooked fresh. These alternatives prevent the risk of spoiling your travel experience with an upset stomach.

Buffet Scrambled Eggs

Buffet scrambled eggs might catch your eye with their golden hue, but their consistency can often be less than desirable. These eggs are usually mass-produced and can sit out for hours, leading to a rubbery texture and potential bacterial growth. Not exactly a morning delight.

Consider ordering eggs cooked to order like an omelet or poached eggs. They are usually fresher and maintain the flavor and texture that eggs should have.

Room Service Cheeseburger

Room service cheeseburgers often promise comfort but fail to deliver freshness. The patties tend to be pre-cooked and reheated, resulting in a dry, flavorless experience. The accompanying fries can also suffer from a soggy texture.

Instead, venture out to a local eatery known for its burgers. Enjoying a meal out not only offers a fresher culinary experience but also immerses you in the local dining scene.

Spicy Street Curry

Street curry may seem irresistible with its aromatic spices, but it can be intensely spicy and lead to digestive distress. Street food hygiene may not always meet the standards you’re used to, which can further complicate matters.

Opt for a mild, locally recommended dish at a reputable restaurant. This way, you can enjoy the region’s flavors without the fiery aftermath.

Freshly-Squeezed Juice Stands

Freshly-squeezed juice from street stands can be a refreshing sight on a hot day. However, these juices often lack proper sanitation, leading to potential exposure to bacteria and unwashed produce. Drinking them might result in an unexpected health hiccup.

Choosing bottled or canned beverages from trusted brands can provide peace of mind. They are generally pasteurized and free from harmful microbes.

Motel Complimentary Sausages

Motel complimentary sausages might seem like a convenient breakfast option, but their greasy and mass-produced nature often results in a lackluster start to your day. These sausages are usually pre-cooked and reheated, affecting their taste and texture.

Consider starting your day at a local café offering freshly prepared breakfast options. These alternatives not only enhance your morning meal but also introduce you to local flavors.

Airplane Pasta Meals

Airplane pasta meals often lack the comforting qualities one expects from a pasta dish. The pasta is usually overcooked, with a sauce that is either too bland or overly seasoned. This results in a disappointing dining experience at 30,000 feet.

Bringing your own light snacks or purchasing meals at the airport can offer more satisfaction and flavor, making your flight more enjoyable.

All-Inclusive Resort Tacos

All-inclusive resort tacos might promise convenience, but they often fall short on authenticity and flavor. The shells can be stale, and the fillings lack the zest of fresh ingredients.

Exploring local taco joints outside the resort often yields a more authentic and flavorful experience, allowing you to savor the local culinary culture.

Train Station Hot Dogs

Train station hot dogs can be a quick grab-and-go option, but they often lack the quality and freshness one hopes for. Left sitting under heat lamps, these hot dogs tend to become dry and unappealing.

Instead, find a nearby deli or café offering freshly made sandwiches, providing a tastier and more satisfying travel snack.