My favorite part of traveling is experiencing new cultures and new food. With McDonalds and KFCs popping up across the globe, it’s easy to be tempted into eating something familiar, but you don’t get the full experience of a country if you don’t eat the local cuisine. Here are my recommendations for food and drink if you find yourself in England, Germany, Mexico or Japan.
England
Let’s face it, England isn’t known for its food, but there are some British specialties you have to try. Fish and chips is a given but don’t forget about the amazing Indian food available. The best vegetable curry I have ever eaten was in a family-owned hole in the wall in downtown London. Match your fried fish with dark English ale like Manns Original Brown Ale and you’re set.
Germany
German food isn’t very vegetarian friendly with a large variety of sausages. For meat eaters, definitely pick up some currywurst off of a street vendor. It’s cheap and savory. For vegetarians try spätzle. It’s a lot like Italian gnocchi and comes in a variety of flavor options. I recommend trying cinnamon sugar and spinach and feta spätzle. German beer goes great with every meal — including breakfast! It’s cheaper than bottled water in Berlin. You can grab a Weihenstephaner or a €1 beer from a convenience store and have a great night.
Mexico
While soaking up the sun in Mexico, gorge on authentic ceviche. It’s much better than the “Mexican” food you’re used to. The raw fish and citrus are fresh caught and picked. My stomach is growling just thinking about the dish. Match your ceviche with a refreshing mojito. The minty goodness will put you in the perfect vacation mood.
Japan
If you’re lucky enough to be in Japan, take advantage of the insane variety of candy. Candy comes in traditional flavors like chocolate, lemon, vanilla, etc., but flavors like green tea, eggplant, ginger, cola and hamburger are also available. Try some Meiji chocolate with relaxing green tea or salty sake if you want an interesting night. A warning for sushi lovers — your sushi will have wasabi inside of it if you do not specify. I learned that the hard way.
