One of the greatest things about traveling to another country is having the opportunity to try new foods. I was born in Madrid, Spain, and lived in many countries. I grew up on foods from Spain, Panama, Japan, Okinawa, Puerto Rico, Hawaii, and of course the United States. I'll try anything new. Well, almost: I don't have any desire to try tripe or pigs feet.
While in Europe, I find restaurants where the locals dine. While walking to the various places, I'll look in to see if the place is filled with tourist or locals. Is the place filled with tourists? If so, move on.
I enjoy picking up a pastry or croissant for breakfast and eating it while walking alone the Seine or down Las Ramblas or having it standing up at the café counter with a cup of tea, which is less expensive than than sitting at a table. I normally reserve my hotel without breakfast. In most cases, it's just a continental breakfast and not worth the price. However, I do recommend having breakfast at the hotels in Germany. They provide a great spread of food!
Lunch can be crepes, sandwiches, pizza, or a gathering of foods from the local market or local grocery store: bread, cheese, meats, paté, fruit and a bottle of local wine or bottled water.
For dinner, I sometimes order the prix fixe or the menu of the day. These include an appetizer, entrée and dessert along with bread, and in most cases, a small carafe of wine. Tax is included. The tip is also included, but I usually round up if the service has been very good. These meals are quite reasonable and in most cases, one can save money over ordering a la carté.
I also use travel books to help pick restaurants, such as Frommer's, Fodors and Great Eats. And of course places recommended by fellow travelers.
I have never had any problems drinking tap water (but I might say differently in a third world country). Bottled water can be expensive.
Click on the links to see my listing of restaurants I've enjoyed during my travels.
