Most tourists eagerly book a trip to Vietnam with visions of spectacular sights, sites, and of course, delicious food. Vietnam offers a myriad of culturally unique dishes that are considered to be some of the best in the world. But while it can be thrilling to try something new, it is essential that travelers also understand how to safely enjoy Vietnamese cuisine without falling victim to food poisoning. Here, we outline some tips and guidelines that can help you ensure a safe and enjoyable stay in Vietnam with great food to boot.
Know the Local Cuisine
The best way to ensure a safe and healthy experience with the local food is to know what you are eating and where it came from. There are countless regional variations, exotic ingredients, and cooking styles that give Vietnamese cuisine its unique flavor. Familiarize yourself with the famous Vietnamese dishes like phở, bánh mì, and spring rolls, and also learn about the lesser-known dishes like bún chả, bánh cuốn, and bún bò Nam Bộ.
Choose Your Eating Location Carefully
Most importantly, choose where you eat wisely. Street food vendors can be a great cut-rate dining experience, but it can also be a potential haven for food-borne illnesses. The risk of getting sick is higher when eating at these vendors compared to sit-down restaurants. If you decide to eat at street stalls, look out for the following:
- Vendors that are using fresh and clean ingredients
- Vendors that are properly handling and storing raw ingredients
- Choose stalls that have plenty of customers
- Check to make sure the food is being prepared in a sanitary environment
When eating at restaurants, stick to establishments that are known for their quality of food, cleanliness, and customer service. Some reputable places to try include Highlands Coffee, Com Chay Nang Tam, and Shri Restaurant.
Exercise Caution With Food Preparation
There are certain Vietnamese dishes that require careful preparation if you are eating them at home. Raw seafood and meat should be properly washed and cooked to prevent any contamination. Salads and other cold dishes should be washed and rinsed with clean water to get rid of any bacteria that can cause food poisoning.
Be Wary Of Food Allergies
Vietnamese cuisine can include a lot of fish sauce, which contains traces of seafood and nuts that may cause allergic reactions in some people. If you have any food allergies, be sure to let the restaurant or street vendor know about it before ordering your food.
Plan Ahead With Tripfany
Planning ahead can also help you avoid food poisoning while in Vietnam. Certain Vietnamese dishes are only available during certain times of the year, and some restaurants may only serve them seasonally. To get the best culinary experience, use Tripfany’s online restaurant search to find out what is available during your stay.
At the end of the day, Vietnam offers some of the most unique and flavorful dishes in the world. With a bit of caution and preparation, travelers can still enjoy the local cuisine without fear of food poisoning. To make sure you get the most out of your culinary experience, look no further than Tripfany. Our helpful staff will be glad to provide you with an itinerary that fits your needs and interests.
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