FOOD!

[Jerseyboy]

ok so I'm planning on a long trip to Europe this summer. One of the serious problems I'm going to have is food. You see I believe that food is serious part of the culture of a place and I would like to indulge as much as possible in the cuisine of the places I stay . I will however be on a pretty tight budget . So I doubt I will be eating out every meal. My fear is that I'll be reduced to eating cheap stuff (probably American hotdogs: ) or worse....McDonalds). I was wondering if you guys who take advantage of hostel kitchens as well as local markets and such have any suggestions, or maybe great easy recipes from your travels?
I'll probably be all over the place but definately: Greece, Italy, spain, belgium, France, Germany, and probably prague

[LHR02]

Hi Jersey boy,
You'll quickly find that 'American' stuff is not cheap! ;D MacD's, BK, Pizza Hut...whatever, comes dear. But local cheap is great and some of the best food you'll find. Most bakeries will also prepare sandwiches for you on the spot, little hole in the wall mom and pop places have great food, ususally at quite cheap prices, super markets/groceries are a treasure trove of quick, cheap eats.....and no matter where you are, just get off the main tourit drag, look where the locals are eating for the best places to spend your money. You'll find fantastic, regional food all over the place and food need not eat up much of your budget if you search them out. Just shy away from the tourist eateries and the American chains.

welcome BTW! ;D
ging

[Kim]

Totally agree - the food that is familiar to everyone goes for a price, and not a cheap one! People are drawn to it as it's comfort food but you will pay an arm and a leg for it.

Your best bet is to get away from the touristy areas as well. All the places around tourist attractions, main streets etc. are going to be bloody pricy. Wander aimlessly for a few blocks or so and you will find something for way cheaper.

Pack picnic lunches like Ging said from the grocery store, some fruit, bread and cheese and cook in hostels when you can. That way when you want to spend some money on a nice meal, you won't feel guilty.

I TOTALLY agree with you about food being a serious part of the culture .. YUM!


Kim