Street Food Tourism. Perspectives and Experiences of Two Countries – Vietnam and Poland

Abstract

This article aims to showcase the perspectives and experiences of street food in Vietnam and Poland. While the tapestry and historicity of street food tourism is variegated in the two countries, its prevalence and persistence are enduring in both countries. The methodology used to compile this conceptual article included a survey and observations by two of the authors. The findings indicate the embedment of street food tourism in the lives and cultures of both countries. Growth in Poland can be ascribed to experimentation with luxurious and “foreign” cuisines in the mix. In Vietnam, food served in the streets is traditional, and the settings are commonplace, simple and ordinary, against a backdrop of human and traffic congestion. The occasional mobile vendor with bamboo sticks and baskets, push carts and bicycles/motorcycles complements. In Poland, the traditional dishes take a regional character because of the country’s historical legacy, and natural climatic conditions. Overall, Poles have shown an affinity to prepare and eat food at home. The upsurge in street food in Poland can be attributed to changing lifestyles, increasing incomes and women taking up professional jobs. For policy, it is clear that government has a big role to play especially in regulating street food as a health issue and ensuring public safety on the streets.