"No Reservations" Chef Anthony Bourdain Shares Travel Tips

By Pilar Clark on December 23, 2011

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It's no secret that I'm a travel-loving, cooking show-junkie, which puts chef and author, Anthony Bourdain, host of Travel Channel's No Reservations high up on my list of fave foodies.

I caught up with this edgy dad (daughter Ariane will turn five in April) just in time to share his top five tips on how to survive travel while making the most of every trip:

1. Eat like a local.

"Wherever you are, eat what the locals are good at or famous for, and eat where those locals like to eat it. Do not rely on your concierge for dining tips. He’s in the business of making tourists happy. You want the places that make locals happy. Seek out places crowded with locals. Avoid places where others of your kind are present."

2. Show appreciation.

"People everywhere like it when you are appreciative of their food. I cannot stress enough how important your initial reactions to offerings of local specialties are to any possible relationships you might make abroad. Smile and try to look happy, even if you don’t like it. If you do like it, let them know through word or gesture of appreciation."

3. Visit local markets.

"Get up early and check out the central food market. It’s a fast way into a culture, where you’ll see the basics of the cuisine. You’ll often find local prepared foods at stands or stalls serving markets’ workers."

4. Travel prepared.

"Be prepared to be stuck in an airport for indeterminate periods of time. Load your mobile device with as many games, songs, apps, and e-books as possible to keep busy during long waits. Also, make sure to pack a battery charger to power up."

5. Get comfortable.

"Remember to bring something scrunchy and long-sleeved, like a sweatshirt. You might need it as a pillow."

Looking for a little something to watch en route? Pick up "No Reservations," Collection 6, Part 1 on DVD.

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