June 1, 2020
Due to travel restrictions, plans are only available with travel dates on or after
Due to travel restrictions, plans are only available with effective start dates on or after
;
Ukraine; Belarus; Moldova; North Korea; Russia; Israel
Jamaica
Jamaica;
Published | Updated {{article.date}}
You're in for adventure when you visit Southeast Asia. The Grand Palace in Thailand, the tropical jungle on Phu Quoc Island in Vietnam and the rainforests in Malaysia are just a few of the exciting gems this area offers. However, your greatest adventures may not be what you see in this region but what you eat. The cuisine here is amazingly diverse and includes exotic delicacies, such as the fried spiders prepared by Cambodian cooks. Arachnophobes need not fear, however; there are plenty of other foods to sample in Southeast Asia. The following is a breakdown of some tasty dishes to try and some useful words to help you order.
In Southeast Asia, street food rules. This is especially true in the city of Penang, which is the go-to for many world travelers who return again and again just for the culinary experience. To taste some of the best cuisine in Malaysia, order the following dishes from street vendors:
Penang assam laksa: This soup offers up a bold contrast of flavors by mixing mackerel, tamarind and crazy-hot chili. You'll also enjoy the white noodles, shallots, cucumbers, pineapple and cilantro in this dish.
Wanton mee: This dish is popular throughout Asia, but Penang does it best. The egg noodles are cooked al dente, and soy sauce and lard oil combine to add one of the best sticky sauces ever. On top, you'll enjoy kale, sliced onions, chilies and wontons, and sambal is typically served on the side. To experience this dish with the noodles in a broth, order it wet.
Malaysia used to be British-run, so the majority of products here are labeled in English, and many food stalls use English on signs. Still, knowing a few words in the local language is helpful when you're dining out.
Look to the streets again for the best food in Cambodia. No matter where you are in the country, vendors will serve up some of the best meals you''ll ever have.
Som ang: If you drool at the thought of creme brulee, you must try som ang, or grilled roasted bananas. Your taste buds will delight in the coconut milk, rice and palm sugar that make this dish unique. Pair this meal with coconut juice for a real treat.
A-ping: Fried spiders are a favorite of many locals and daring tourists. If you decide to sample this delicacy, be warned that most folks avoid eating the abdomen due to its unpleasant taste.
Turn to restaurants and street vendors alike for tasty cuisine in Vietnam. Because restaurant churn here is high, with places opening and closing at the blink of an eye, research places online before you visit.
Pho: You must try the pho if you visit Vietnam. This soup features rice noodles, broth, onions and your pick of meat (usually chicken or beef). Seasonings include cinnamon and cilantro, and you can get it with side dishes such as bean sprouts and green onions. For the best pho, head to the city of Hanoi.
Bun cha: A CNN article refers to bun cha one of the "tastiest foods available to human beings," and people in Vietnam agree. This dish comprises grilled pork patties and grilled pork belly slices served with fish sauce, vinegar, sugar and lime. Combine it with rice vermicelli, herbs, spring rolls and chilies for a taste of heaven.
Hu tieu: This soup is popular fare for breakfast, lunch and dinner among the Vietnamese people. Like pho, it includes meat, and it has rice noodles that are round and yellow or thin and white. Some people like to sweeten this soup with sugar.
From boutique hotels to street vendors, you'll never lack for food in Laos. And for a French twist on your food, be sure to check out the many French eateries.
Laap: Give laap a try when you're in Laos. This humble dish packs a powerful punch by blending chopped meat with fish sauce, toasted rice, chili and mint. Try it with chicken, beef, duck or pork. If fish sauce is not your thing, you can add lime to minimize the fishy taste. No silverware is needed to lap up the laap; people enjoy this dish with their hands.
Street food in Thailand is among the best in the world, and you'll find everything you need there. However, restaurants, particularly in bigger cities, give you an opportunity to sit and relax.
Phat Thai: This dish is definitely cool despite its relatively recent roots. A Chinese-Thai chef concocted it in the 1930s, and it caught on like wildfire. That's not surprising, however; this stir-fry mix of thin rice noodles, egg, tofu and shrimp features a delectable fish sauce and sweet sugar among its seasonings.
Khao soi: Another must-have in the North is the curry-based khao soi soup. The main attraction of this dish is chicken or beef, but you will love the broth of coconut milk and soft egg noodles as well. Optional sides include sliced shallots.
As you've probably noticed, noodles and rice feature prominently in Southeast Asian food. Meat lovers have plenty of mouthwatering options, but vegetarians can also easily enjoy these dishes by ordering them without meat. When you journey through Southeast Asia, one thing is for sure: you will never suffer a lack of adventurous cuisine.
View all of our travel insurance products
Terms, conditions, and exclusions apply. Please see your plan for full details. Benefits/Coverage may vary by state, and sublimits may apply.
Share this Page