In Asia, this is almost certainly true. In Singapore, you simply must visit food court (floor in a shopping center or a multitude of stalls outside, where culinary delights reach all parts of the world). Malaysians have similar way of gathering while eating in the evening. India is a special case, even in terms of hygiene, but this has nothing to do with taste. A wide range of delicacies are being fried, boiled, baked, crammed and grind from early morning to late evening in the street. Thai people eat many small meals a day. That is probably the reason for one of the most dynamic street food scene. Eating on the street is versatile, cheap and fast, that is why this is a great option for travelers with a lower budget. Already the ancient Greeks enjoyed a small fried fish in the street, evidence of street food vendors were excavated in Pompeii. Although street food was usually widely utilized by poor urban residents, even today that kind of food purchased on the street is quite cheap. However, this does not mean that it is not tasteful.
Before we go abroad it is wise to make sure that we’ll be healthy when come back. When it comes to food, the most important vaccination is for hepatitis A, since it is usually spread by the fecal-oral route (dirty hands, contaminated water or food). Poor hygiene is the main cause of the spread of this virus that affects the liver. Vaccine provides protection starting two to four weeks after first dose; the second booster dose, given six to twelve months later, provides protection for over twenty years. Experts recommend that the traveler receives the first dose one month prior to travel.
The mere arrival in a foreign country, jet-leg and the entire thrill because of crazy incoming adventures can affect our digestion. So I'm always careful what I put in my mouth, especially firs few days it is wise to avoid food that is served on the street (due to hygienic standards), fruit that you cannot peel and salads. Eventually, your body will get used to the local cuisine and new bacteria. A special chapter is ice (unless you're in a slightly better hotel or restaurant), as locals usually do not use bottled water when making it. Short cooling moment can ruin your plans for a day or two.
»Follow the crowd," is the most important rule when eating at small street vendors. Believe me, it is worth to wait a little longer in line for food. In a small town in India I saw the long line at food vendor. I said ‘why not’ and waited ... and waited ... and when it was finally my turn to order, I ordered the only thing they had. I still do not know what I ate, because I did not understand the cook, but this was one of the most delicious dishes. Even breakfasts in India you can get from small street vendors. When I made it through all the hungry locals (of course they were all men that could not stop staring at tourist) and got my portion of chapati (Indian bread), dosa (a kind of pancake), rice and sauces made from chickpeas and a variety of vegetables, I sat down on a small, loose stool and started eating with my right hand (Indian people eat with hands). The seller must have noticed how I enjoyed his food, as he was bringing me more and more. Safest place for Western travelers to eat are certainly shops occupied by families with small children. However, if the locals are avoiding one vendor, you do the same.
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