Pad Thai in Thailand! Photo by Darko Pevec

I eat Thai food almost weekly here in New York City, but I’ve never had the chance to experience Thai food in Thailand. So when I was offered this guest post about what Thai food is really like, I was instantly intrigued. Kudos to any traveler who braves the fried insects!

If you are visiting Thailand for the first time, you will be positively overwhelmed with the amazingly colourful and exciting food choices available both in restaurants and from the many, many street vendors you’ll come across.

Most people find Thai cuisine to be delicious, exotic and thrilling to the senses; Thai food is not short on flavour and it certainly packs some heat if you’re not shy of chillies and spices. But there are also some national dishes that may have you wondering whether it’s safe to eat.
For travellers who are not as adventurous with food, here is some great advice to help you understand the different kinds of food you may come across on your travels.

Top Food Tips for Travellers in Thailand

1. Popular spices and ingredients: Many dishes contain coconut milk, kaffir lime leaves, lemongrass, chillis, fish sauce and garlic. These are just a handful of the popular ingredients that you’ll find in Thai food. Bear in mind that lime leaves, lemongrass, garlic and chillies can all pack a mean punch for a sensitive palate so always ask about the spice levels before you try. Or keep a glass of water handy for the spicier dishes.

2. Fried insects: Street vendors are known to sell a selection of fried insects and although this may seem terrifying to some in the western world, fried insects are a genuine South East Asian food that are low in calories, yet high in protein and nutrients.

3. MSG in Thai dishes: this is a very popular ingredient in restaurants in Thailand and even street vendors are adding MSG to their dishes. If you do not want MSG in your meals, it is important to ask “Mai sai phong churot” before you order.

4. Tipping and etiquette: Tipping is generally not a done thing in Thailand and there is no mandatory requirement to do so in restaurants. But a small tip for someone who has provided you with a good service is happily accepted. And when it Thailand, great service is everywhere as the Thais are known for their friendliness and helpfulness.

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