When travel begins opening up again, there's no doubt in anyone's mind that vacations will be on the rise and people will be looking for reasons to explore the world (not that one is needed!). A big reason for many is food - while it might not be something a foodie plans their entire trip around, it's definitely a big reason to experience the culture in other countries. There's only one problem with this: Traveling for the sake of food can sometimes be expensive and for those on a budget, foodie travel might be off the table... or so many might think.
In reality, there are plenty of countries to travel to which don't require huge purse strings or massive savings and, luckily, the food is just as affordable as the vacations themselves. Taking an adventure fueled by food is something that everyone should do at least once, whether it's just a road trip of a full-fledged weeks' long trip across the world. With that being said, here are the most affordable places that foodies can count on to deliver incredible food, a great vacation, and the vistas and excitement to match.
Mexico
It's pretty easy to make Mexican food at home but it's way more fun to actually plan a trip to the country itself. Mexico is known for having some of the best food that reflects both culture and local ingredients. Many times, a person won't have experienced true Mexican food and flavor until they try it from the source and the result is often surprising: A cuisine that's full of bold, bright flavor, meat that's succulent and tender, and dishes that are warming and comforting, all at once.
Mexico is home to beautiful food culture and one that has been influenced by its surroundings as well as traditional cooking methods, featuring many recipes that have been handed down through the generations. From spicy and bold to bright and citrusy, there's seemingly something for everyone here.
Jamaica
Speaking of bold and spicy, Jamaica is home to some of the most intense and traditional dishes of any Caribbean country. Many don't realize that this island is full of dishes that could knock a person's socks off but can also warm hearts, usually all within the same restaurant.
Jamaican dishes are traditional and true to the culture of the country, incorporating island ingredients and spices that have been used for generations, such as the ever so popular Jerk chicken. Meats such as oxtail are also popular there and each dish brings with it a unique cooking method as well as a tropical side. Fish is common in Jamaica as well and travelers can rest assured that it'll be as fresh as can be, considering it was likely caught that morning or the day prior.
Italy
The things that can rack up a bill in Italy include accommodations and tourist landmarks which foodies should bear in mind while they're traveling.
However, the food in Italy isn't nearly as expensive as it is in many other countries and thanks to the use of local ingredients and simple yet traditional cooking methods, eating out doesn't necessarily need to break the bank. Naples is famous for each pizza and fresh pasta can be found throughout the country, not to mention the seafood which is always fresh and cooked to perfection. Herbs and olive oil are huge parts of Italian cuisine and will undoubtedly soothe a foodie's soul.
Thailand
Thailand is fairly well known for its affordable menus which is great news considering the food in Thailand is second to none. Featured heavily on many travel shows and found throughout the world, every country seems to have its own twist on a traditional Thai dish.
However, there's nothing like traveling to Thailand to experience its food, culture, and natural beauty in person. Heavily influenced by its tropical location, the food in Thailand is fresh and full of bold flavor, with many of the dishes having a base of either vegetables or fish. It's one of the most popular cuisines in the world and one that should definitely be on a foodie's list.
South Africa
While South African cuisine isn't wholly popular in terms of food that foodies would travel for, it definitely should be. Aside from that, it's fairly easy to plan a trip to South Africa without breaking the budget.
With South Asian influences, the food in South Africa is full of flavor and is diverse in nature, and there are plenty of small meals that foodies can easily fit into their budget throughout the day. Large, multiple-course meals might cost a bit more, but they're well worth the price.