While in Austin, a friend and colleague of mine gave a wonderful presentation on how to eat well while traveling... This is something that I ALWAYS struggle with; there are just so many temptations!! There are also so so many choices for sketchy or bad, processed, and "quick and easy" options.
Here are a few quick suggestions for ways to eat on the go, while not making your tummy hurt! I've combined both of our lists... hope this helps!
EATING IN RURAL/ COUNTRY AREAS
Many of us travel to rural areas, whether it's for family or business, we all know what "rural" means! There aren't as many great options for gourmet groceries, grass-fed beef, etc...
1. Check out the farmer's market!
Almost every city (no matter how small) has a farmers' market or small country store that sells local produce. The produce here is almost always grown organically (just not certified), and the baked goods are made from scratch. The produce makes for a great snack for later...
2. Stick to small restaurants, stay away from chains or diners.
Many of these smaller towns have tons of chain restaurants... these are a feeding ground for processed food, so stay away! This is the perfect opportunity to try the local fare.
3. Check out the soup options
Many soups are made from scratch using good quality broths, and lots of healthy ingredients. When I'm really not sure what to try, I usually stick to soup. You can't go wrong.
4. Travel with a small ice chests of frozen stews/soups
You can carry with you a tea kettle and heat up the soups when you get to your hotel room. Just be careful not to burn it down! Traveling with them frozen will help keep them chilled on long car rides.
5. Have a suitcase of snack goodies (here are some options)
Dried Fruit, Roasted Nuts, Dark Chocolate Bars, Homemade Granola, Jerky, Whole fruits, etc..
6. Find out what's the specialty
Most small towns have a specialty- Pecans, Fruit, Beef, Seafood, etc..
This is going to be what you want to order at restaurants. Stay away from ordering things that aren't local. (I.e. "gulf shrimp" in Montana). The longer it takes to get there, the less likely it is to have been shipped/cooked properly.
Great website explaining what "sustainable" means!!
http://www.sustainabletable.org/254/local-regional-food-systems
EATING IN LARGE CITY/URBAN AREAS
This is much much easier... lots of options and lots of "progressive" foods.
1. Check out the farmer's market!
still a good tip.... most larger cities have markets several times a week
2. Slow Food Websites
these are a great resource when trying to eat out..
http://www.slowfoodusa.org/
http://www.eatwellguide.org/i.php?pd=Home
3. Walk Around! (Or check out public transportation)
4. Choose your hotel around the food (if possible)
When I book hotels, I usually book them in busy, populated areas that are walking distance to many wonderful restaurants. Try to steer clear of staying on the outskirts of town or near airports... again, chain haven!
5. Have a suitcase of snack goodies (rule still applies!)
Dried Fruit, Roasted Nuts, Dark Chocolate Bars, Homemade Granola, Jerky, Whole fruits, etc..
6. Scout out grocery stores!
You'll have lots of options here, probably close to the hotel. You can probably pick up a fresh loaf of bread, and some fresh ground peanut butter for those quick snacks.
Hope these help! Safe travels...
xoxo
Celeste
