International Traveling for the Limited Eater

We often bring snacks for the plane, but we don't think of packing them for our entire trip. It's not something that's necessary if you are traveling in the United States where a grocery store (or at least some type of quick mart, like 7-Eleven) are available on every corner, but what if you are leaving the country.

Foodies relish the idea to traveling around the world and trying native foods. In fact, some people base their entire trip around the great restaurants they will eat at and the new foods that they will try. We are not all foodies. Many people like the plain and simple food, while still others have to deal with food allergies, which are not always easy to explain in a foreign land.

It's obviously impossible to survive for a week without eating or drinking anything at your destination, but you can make it easier. First, consider a large resort or all-inclusive property instead of staying at a hotel and planning to venture out to local restaurants. At a resort, you can speak to someone before you even arrive to find out what is available for you to eat and if food can be prepared differently for you. That way you will be prepared before you go as to what you can eat where.

If you do have food allergies, make sure you have that noted on a medical emergency card. When traveling to a country -- or countries -- that does not speak your language, translate your allergies into the languages and print out to carry with you. You can Google "translate" to find many online sites that will convert phrases for free. Hand the card to your waiter when you arrive and ask that he pass it on to the chef to find out what you can and cannot eat. This is also a good plan to have if you need to avoid certain foods for medical conditions, such as lactose intolerance or problems with gluten.

Keep in mind that there will always be places that you won't be able to eat or just don't like the food choice. In remote areas, there may not be another option for a place to eat. Bring nutritional bars, trail mix and packets of drink mixes (like protein water or Carnation Instant Breakfast). They won't take up much room in your suitcase and will keep you nourished until you find a place for you next meal. (Just avoid chocolate as it can melt easily in warm climates.)

Don't give up the chance to explore a foreign land just because you can't -- or don't want to -- eat the food.