Food and dining

Plenty of them around the big sights, with their "we speak English" signs. Inflated prices, uneven quality. Take a walk around before you sit down.

Without doing any research, look for long local lineups at peak hours: if the locals are willing to wait, it's worth it.

If you're going to a country where hygiene can be lacking and you'll be eating with your hands, bring chopsticks. Straws come in handy too.

To save money: big lunch, light supper. Supper is almost always more expensive.

Do your research, and note the addresses and phone numbers for reservations. Sources: TripAdvisor, Google Maps, Yelp.

If you have food allergies, carry the exact phrase in the local language, written on a card you can show your server. Have it checked by someone who actually speaks the language. A machine translation can mix up "allergic" and "I don't like", which gets a very different reaction in the kitchen.

For sought-after restaurants, book several days (sometimes several weeks) ahead.

For a long stay or a backpacking trip, the local grocery store saves you a lot compared with constant stops for a bite.

If breakfast isn't included, think twice before having it at the hotel: small local spots are often better. Ask the hotel staff for recommendations.

It saves money and lets you taste more things. It also cuts down on waste.

Some countries offer one-day food tours with different themes that showcase local specialties.

Ask locals where they go out to eat. Doing this at the start of your trip zeroes in on the must-tries.

Politely let the right person know when something's wrong. A dish that's too salty or burnt can be fixed by the server and the cook.

In some countries, don't eat with your left hand. In others, make noise to show you're enjoying the meal. Read up on local customs.

Some countries keep different hours. In Barcelona, finding a good restaurant open for supper at 6 p.m. will be tough.

Quebec about 15%, New York about 20%, China about 3%, Costa Rica service included. Look it up before you go.

"If this were my last meal, what should I order?" It leads you to something you'd never have picked otherwise.

A room with a kitchenette: pricier, but often worth it for a family or a long stay compared with eating every meal out.

Don't assume the restaurant takes credit cards. Keep small bills on you. Avoid carrying several $100 bills, which attract thieves.

Google, TripAdvisor, Yelp: a good sense of the variety and quality in the area you're visiting.

3 stars or 5, the buffet can get tiresome. Be methodical: a different plate every day.