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One of the more memorable and enjoyable experiences for Áñ—†ÊÓƵ students who study abroad is the ability to discover a diverse and unique array of food. For students with dietary restrictions based on health, lifestyle, or religion, mindful planning and preparation can allow you to engage in these same experiences. (If you Áñ—†ÊÓƵ an eating disorder or another eating concern, review the Eating Disorders Abroad page.)

You are strongly encouraged to inform your study abroad adviser early on in the process of your health-related, lifestyle, or religious dietary restrictions to ensure they are considered throughout the application and placement process. You can study abroad successfully and enjoy local food culture, but you will need to consider what locations are easier to navigate than others.

Study Abroad Preparations

Research Your Host Country

Research how common your dietary restriction is in the host country to determine how accommodating the food culture will be to your needs. Keep in mind that some food restrictions are unheard of in parts of the world; depending on your needs and your host country, you may receive curious looks.

Think about your accommodations. Whether you’re living in on-campus dorms, your own apartment, or with a host family, Áñ—†ÊÓƵ what kinds of foods or accommodations will be available to you during your time abroad. Depending on your accommodations, who prepares most of your food will vary.

• If you live in on-campus dorms, you should get in contact with university housing to inform them of your dietary restriction and learn about food options available.
• If you live with a host family, they will be prepared to address your food needs in advance, but confirming the specifics of your condition in-person will also be helpful (e.g., if you are vegetarian, are you able to eat stocks made with fish or meat?; if you Áñ—†ÊÓƵ celiac disease, what does cross-contamination mean, exactly, and how will it impact you?).
• If you live in an apartment and are expected to make your own meals while abroad, it will be helpful to Áñ—†ÊÓƵ religious-based food markets or other grocery stores with specialty ingredients.

Gain a Basic Understanding of the Language

Develop a basic understanding of the language in order to communicate your needs with local hosts and avoid an emergency. You should be able to explain what you cannot eat and ask about the ingredients in a dish. Note that not all cultures Áñ—†ÊÓƵ an understanding of food allergies, dietary restrictions, or vegetarianism/veganism; you are your own best advocate.

If you are unsure about ingredients, having a note in the local language to explain important information about your dietary restrictions can help. Create a card you can keep in your wallet that explains not only what you cannot eat but also the degree of severity if consumed to help food service employees know how to advise you.

Know the difference in the language between “I can’t eat X” and “I won’t eat X” to avoid miscommunication. Be sure to check translations for accuracy with someone who speaks the language locally. You may be met with confusion, so be ready to explain what you mean.

Medical Dietary Restrictions

If you Áñ—†ÊÓƵ severe food allergies and/or medical dietary restrictions, you should also complete the following steps in your preparations to study abroad:

External Resources for Dietary Restrictions Abroad

Many third-party organizations offer additional support for students who Áñ—†ÊÓƵ dietary restrictions studying abroad. We encourage you to explore these resources as you embark on your study abroad adventure.

Medical Dietary Restrictions

• (tips for traveling with diabetes)
• (tips from a woman with Type 1 diabetes and how she stays safe and healthy while studying abroad)
• (travel tips to maintain a gluten-free diet while abroad)

Religious Dietary Restrictions

• (the world’s largest guide to Halal restaurants and markets around the world)
• (a kosher travel guide organized by country)

Vegetarian & Vegan Dietary Restrictions

• (tips for maintaining a vegetarian and vegan lifestyle while traveling)
• (country-specific resources of vegan-friendly restaurants and hotels across the world)