English Lesson (Speaking): "Food and Travel"

LESSON: TRAVEL ENGLISH
Topic: “Food and Travel”

 

Questions

1. What's your favorite cuisine to explore while traveling?

 

Sample Answer: I love trying different cuisines when I travel, but Italian food is my absolute favorite. The pasta and pizza in Italy are unbeatable!

 

2. Do you have dietary restrictions? For example, do you have food allergies or are you vegetarian or vegan?

 

3. How do you handle dietary restrictions while traveling?

 

Sample Answer: I always research restaurants in advance and communicate my dietary needs to the staff. It helps ensure a safe and enjoyable dining experience.

 

4. What's a unique food item you've tried on your travels?

 

Sample Answer: I once tried balut in the Philippines – it's a fertilized duck egg. It may sound strange, but it was surprisingly tasty!

 

5. What are some cultural differences in food etiquette you've encountered while traveling?  

 

Sample Answer: In Japan, it's considered impolite to leave any food on your plate, while in some Western countries, it's acceptable. It's crucial to be aware of these differences.

 

6. What are your opinions on street food in foreign countries?

 

Sample Answer: Street food is a must-try for me when traveling. It's a great way to savor local flavors and immerse in the culture.

 

7. What's your strategy for avoiding food-related illnesses while abroad?

 

Sample Answer: I stick to bottled water, eat at busy local restaurants, and avoid raw or undercooked foods to minimize the risk of foodborne illnesses.

 

8. How do you overcome language barriers when ordering food in eateries or small restaurants when you travel?

 

Sample Answer: I use simple phrases and point at pictures on the menu, or I rely on translation apps to communicate my food preferences.

 

9. Have you ever taken a food-themed trip, such as a wine or chocolate tour?

 

Sample Answer: Yes, I once did a wine tour in Bordeaux, France. It was a delightful experience, exploring vineyards and tasting exquisite wines.

 

10. What's your favorite dessert from another country?

 

Sample Answer: I adore Tiramisu from Italy. The combination of coffee-soaked ladyfingers and creamy mascarpone is heavenly.

 

11. Do you prefer to dine at upscale restaurants or explore local eateries when you travel?

 

Sample Answer: I enjoy a mix of both, but local eateries often provide a more authentic taste of the destination's culture.

 

12. What famous food markets have you visited in other countries? If you haven't visited one yet, which food market would you like to visit one day?

 

a.    Tok Kor market in Bangkok, Thailand.

b.    Jemaa el-Fna in Marrakech, Morocco.

c.    Tsukji Fish Market in Tokyo, Japan.

d.    Spice Bazaar (Misir Çarşisi) in Istandbul Turkey

 

13. What famous food markets have you visited in your country?  

 

14. How do you feel about eating alone while traveling?

 

Sample Answer: Eating alone can be a chance to savor the food and reflect on the journey. I've had some great solo dining experiences.

 

15. What can you say about the differences in portion size in other countries compared to France? Give some examples.

 

16. A go-to dish is a dish that you often eat. What's your go-to dish when you travel to a strange place?

 

Sample Answer: If I am in a strange place, my go-to dish to be safe is spaghetti.

 

17. Have you ever participated in a food-related cultural ritual during your travels?

 

Sample Answer: In Greece, I joined a traditional Greek dance and enjoyed a meal with locals as part of their festive celebrations.

 

18. Is there a particular food you were reluctant to try at first, but were pleasantly surprised by after eating it?

Sample Answer: I was hesitant about trying escargot in France, but it turned out to be a delicious delicacy, especially with garlic butter.

 

19. What are the most interesting alcoholic beverages you've tried on your travels?

 

20. What French dish would you recommend to a foreigner? Why?

 

 

21. Do you find it challenging to adapt to local eating habits when traveling?

 

Sample Answer: It can be a bit challenging, but I enjoy the adventure of trying new foods. It's all part of the travel experience.

 

22. What's your opinion on trying exotic meats or dishes while traveling?

 

Sample Answer: I'm open to trying new things, but I make sure it's legal and sustainable. I had kangaroo in Australia once, and it was surprisingly delicious!

 

23. How do you balance trying local foods with concerns about food safety when traveling?

 

Sample Answer: I rely on recommendations from locals or fellow travelers and check online reviews to find clean and reputable places to eat.

 

24. How do you balance trying new foods with sticking to a budget when traveling?

 

Sample Answer: I set a daily food budget, try street food and local markets for affordable options, and save fine dining for special occasions.

 

25. How do you cope with jet lag affecting your appetite when traveling across multiple time zones?

 

Sample Answer: I drink plenty of water, have small, light meals, and try to adjust my eating schedule to the local time to overcome jet lag.

 

26. What's your favorite souvenir related to food that you've brought back from your travels?

 

Sample Answer: I brought back a bottle of authentic balsamic vinegar from Modena, Italy. It adds a delicious touch to my salads at home. [END]