Tips & Challenges Of Keeping Kosher While Traveling
Keeping kosher is a significant lifestyle choice, but obtaining items that meet the kosher standard becomes more complicated when traveling abroad.
One of the most critical components of planning a trip for observant and practicing Jews is making the appropriate preparations for keeping kosher. We are here with some measures you can take to maintain your travel routine.
1. Knowing inclusive supermarkets and grocery stores
Do your homework before you leave so you may enjoy your trip without worrying about finding kosher food or other accommodations. After you arrive, save the locations of the most accessible supermarkets within walking distance. You can also have a short cab ride to your hotel or Airbnb on your phone.
Markets that strive to welcome all customers will often stock kosher food items and be willing to accommodate special orders. However, if you’re shopping for pre-packaged food, make sure it meets the standards set forth by the kosher certification.
2. Take your Kosher Food
Beyond the most obvious perk of air travel, airlines provide many other advantages. They have a wide selection of food available, including kosher options. Your food options on any significant airline will always include kosher options. In the world of flying, it’s referred to as KSML.
Unfortunately, kosher meals are not offered on Hawaiian Airlines flights. If you want to continue eating kosher despite the lack of options on the flight, you should carry your kosher meals.
3. Shiva Gift Baskets are available
Sending shiva gifts is also recommended. They are baskets filled with sweets, fruits, nuts, dried fruit, and baked products. In addition, they are entirely kosher. If you know a Jewish family suffering a loss, this basket is perfect for them.
These gift baskets aim to please you by providing tasty, healthy, and kosher treats. Keeping to a kosher diet is beneficial for both religious and health reasons. It’s helpful to have options available while flying long distances where you’ll spend a lot of time sitting.
4. Use some app or software to divert your attention
It is possible to use vacation rental software programs while on the road. A wide variety of trial software is available, from apps for your smartphone to full-fledged computer programs. In addition, downloadable and executable software applications on a computer or tablet provide another entertainment source.
Practical travel-based apps that let you hail Uber or Grab taxis are two examples of rental software available. Some apps can help you find the closest kosher restaurants in your region. Games make up the bulk of rented software. As for other forms of entertainment, you can rent video game systems and portable electronics.
5. Itinerary and Map for Keeping Jewish Law
Do your homework before visiting a new region of the world or going to a foreign country. Construct a map of all the kosher stores, restaurants, and other establishments in the area close to the hotel or different locations where you will be staying.
Make sure you can easily find kosher food upon arrival by planning your days, including any activities, sightseeing, and meals. The Internet has made it possible to contact many hotels and restaurants directly to find out if they have kosher options.
6. A microwave can come in handy
If you need to eat kosher while on the road, have a hotel with a microwave built in accommodate your needs. If the trip is expected to be brief and the traveler will be alone, many individuals will pack these meals in their carry-ons.
You won’t need to ask for anything extra if you book a vacation rental or an Airbnb. These accommodations typically provide a kitchen and the necessary utensils and supplies. The latter is a superior choice if you enjoy preparing meals from scratch.
7. Being a Hotel VIP can be beneficial
Hotel credit cards and premium cards, such as those from various banks, are popular due to their complimentary elite status at participating hotels. Breakfast is on the house for Hilton Honors Gold members, making it one of the greatest mid-tier elite statuses.
I asked the hotel’s concierge if they could arrange a kosher breakfast, and to my delight, they stated they would do it at no extra charge. It’s worth noting that Hyatt hotels in Hawaii sometimes offer kosher breakfast to Globalist guests. Make sure to contact the property through email or phone at least three to four weeks before your planned arrival so that they can make the necessary preparations.
Final Thoughts
When you travel, you must completely immerse yourself in the local culture. That’s the norm. But your kosher eating habits still need to change.
If you have dietary limitations and are going on a trip, you should plan ahead for those. Following the advice given above should help you have a more enjoyable and fulfilling kosher vacation.
