Food
None of this is expert advice. It's what people worked out for themselves, usually the hard way — what actually helped, and what they'd tell someone standing where you are. Take what fits and leave the rest.
If you only read a few
Dine at 4-star hotel restaurants or bars to avoid crowds and wait times.
Non-guests are welcome, service is often friendlier due to reputation, and venues are usually empty on weekends when guests eat out.
- This does not work in areas that rely heavily on tourism.
- This approach fails in New Orleans, where downtown hotels have popular attached restaurants.
one person who lived it
Ask people leaving a restaurant for their honest impressions to gauge its true quality.
You will get a more truthful answer and can ask follow-up specifics like how the food was if service was bad.
one person who lived it
Ask flight attendants for cup noodles if they are available on your airline.
Unlimited cup noodles may be available if you ask.
- Only if available on the airline
one person who lived it
Order in person rather than by phone if there is a long line or significant wait times, to avoid long phone calls.
phone calls take too long
one person who lived it
Avoid relying solely on top-reviewed locations on Google or Yelp.
These may be mainstream hubs joining the hype rather than unique local experiences.
one person who lived it
Avoid relying on restaurant recommendations from taxi drivers or tour operators.
Some places give kickbacks to these workers for bringing in tourists.
one person who lived it
Ask bartenders or servers at bars where they personally like to eat.
They can provide reliable local recommendations.
one person who lived it
When hosting visitors from another country, describe specific local food names and variations rather than just naming restaurants.
Food names are distinct from language barriers, and describing frequently found dishes helps guests understand what to try.
one person who lived it
Build relationships with staff and regulars over time, treating them well and getting to know their families.
one person who lived it
3 more on this
Visit major tourist attractions during local meal times to avoid crowds.
Meal times are standardized, allowing you to take pictures of popular attractions when others are eating.
one person who lived it
Ask taxi or Uber drivers for restaurant recommendations, particularly places where many drivers eat.
If many drivers eat there, the food is likely good and economical.
one person who lived it
For takeout, select spots where you see family members inside, including children doing homework at tables.
one person who lived it