Archive for Travel
The Celiac Traveler
Mary posted some helpful “Tips for Travelers with Food Intolerances” back in February. I agree that food on the road is always a bit dicey for someone with Celiac disease.
I’m not a big fan of chain restaurants as they use many foods that are prepared in factories, which means potential “cross contamination.” Many a time I have asked the wait staff to check the ingredient list on a box only to find that the box has been thrown away! Then I have to review the menu all over again. However, if I do not do it right the first time, I will pay later, so patience is indeed a virtue in this situation.
One meal that is usually safe at chains is breakfast—eggs scrambled with spinach and mushrooms is great any time of day! On my last trip, we ate at Denny’s and, when I told our waiter about my Celiac situation, he produced their Allergy List—how handy! Many restaurants now have these lists. Twenty plus years ago, when I was diagnosed, the online and allergy menus were not available. Now, even Outback Steak House has a gluten-free menu! I am always delighted when this occurs as it shows not only awareness but much consideration on the restaurant management side.
Keeping some Apple’s Bakery individually wrapped cookies in my purse and bags, as well as some Atkins shakes, make traveling a great deal easier as well. Again, it is all about planning and foresight—if you were not a good planner before you had Celiac disease, you become one rather quickly!
-Estelle
Tips for Travelers with Food Intolerances
Last week the groundhog saw his shadow, which means winter in the Midwest continues for several more weeks. Some of you may escape the cold for warmer climates abroad, or travel to the warmer states. For those with food intolerances-be it nuts, dairy, gluten, and more-dining can be a real concern.
Here are some helpful tips I found from Budget Travel magazine:
- Ask the chef! If your server doesn’t know the answer about a particular dish, or is hesitant in his response, it’s best to check with the chef to make sure.
- Learn about the local food before you travel and identify possible options. Websites such as chow.com allow readers to post comments and questions about food in various regions.
- Carry a card that lists your dietary restrictions (in the native language) and show it to servers. You can purchase cards at selectwisely.com and allergytranslation.com.
- Dine at off-peak hours. When restaurants are less crowded, servers can give you more attention and have time to research the menu items.
- Call ahead. Chefs may be able to accommodate your diet with advance notice.