Best Resorts & Rentals in the British Virgin Islands

The British Virgin Islands might be small, but they pack a punch for visitors.

Compared to the US Virgin Islands, the British Virgin Islands are more rugged and remote. The islands don’t have as much infrastructure for tourists—which might be a good or a bad thing, depending on what kind of vacation you’re looking for.

There’s also a stronger emphasis on yachting and sailing in the British Virgin Islands. The same for other outdoor activities like hiking, scuba diving, snorkeling, and even parasailing.

The catch? The British Virgin Islands have fewer amenities like nightclubs, luxury shopping, and fine dining establishments.

Still, you won’t be hard-pressed to enjoy your stint on the islands. If you want to bum around on beaches and otherwise disappear under the Caribbean sun, then all you need to do is choose a landing pad on popular islands like Tortola, Virgin Gorda, or the tiny Anegada.

I’ve picked out some of the best hotels, resorts, and Airbnb rentals available in the British Virgin Islands—no filler. These cover a huge range in terms of budgets, traveler interests, and tastes. I’m sure you’ll find something that tickles your vacation fancy!

Scrub Island Resort, Spa, & Marina

Luxury is the name of the game here. Not only will you be staying near Scrub Island’s flashy marina, but you’ll also have direct access to the beach. And you’ll have plenty of room to stretch your legs, as Scrub Island is remote and off the beaten path.

On top of beach and marina access, you can also choose from three swimming pools directly on the grounds. (Or head to the spa for a world-class treatment.) Book here.

Long Bay Beach Resort

Looks matter at Long Bay Beach Resort. The grounds have a classic, white-washed beachy design that adds a sense of serenity and relaxation.

On top of that, there’s a stunning ocean view from just about every window on the resort. The bar lounge also looks swanky as hell. At Long Bay Beach Resort, style meets bohemian beach bumming. Book here.

Quito’s Luxury Inn

The title pretty much says it all: at Quito’s Luxury Inn, you get the lux amenities of a four-star stay in a familiar inn-resort-style package.

This hotel is located on one of Tortola’s most popular beaches, putting you close to dozens of outdoor adventures. No weird surprises or lackluster features. Just very professional services and a classic lux hotel setup. Book here.

Saba Rock Resort

I’m going to be blunt—I can’t figure out if I’d actually enjoy staying here. But don’t let me indecision throw you off. This resort is for the books.

Saba Rock Resort is located on its own mini-island, sort of like a bond villain hideout. It includes a modest marina, while every room has its own mini-garden and oceanfront deck.

Amenities include free breakfast, entertainment, and more—which makes sense because I’m not positive how you get on or off the Saba Rock Resort. If you like funkier stays, look no further. Book here.

Rosewood Little Dix Bay

There are two reasons you should seriously consider Rosewood Little Dix Bay.

First, it’s located on Virgin Gorda Island—one of the most unspoiled parts of the British Virgin Islands.

Second, it’s got a classic resort feel that lets you get the most out of your trip. As in, you might not even wander off the grounds. There’s a pool, tennis court, gardens, spa, a cool bar, an on-site restaurant, and a dock. Just show up and disconnect. Book here.

Long Bay Surf Shack (Airbnb)

This guest house in Tortola would be one of my top budget options. It’s a tiny stay, but its design is lovely and functional. (Seriously, it’s tiny.)

But that’s not a bad thing if you plan on bumming around the beach all day, exploring nearby jungles, sailing into the sunset, and other classic Tortola pastimes. Book here.

Lowena Cottage (Airbnb)

Jungle vibes? Check.

Panoramic ocean view from the balcony? Check.

Classic and rustic beach design? Nailed it.

If the Long Bay Surf Shack is a little too small for your tastes, you’ll have everything you need in this one-bedroom guest cottage. You’re a short walk from one of Tortola’s best beaches next to Rogue Bay—and you’ve got one of the best views of it. Book here.

Seascape Guest House (Airbnb)

This villa is elevated in almost every sense of the word. First, its design is very modern and chic. (The ceilings are gorgeous!) Second, it overlooks Leverick Bay on Virgin Gorda—it’s a vista worth gushing over. On top of that, there’s an excellent patio that lets you really enjoy the scenery. If high design is your thing, check out the Seascape Guest House. It offers a great balance between casual rental and high-class stays. Book here.

Villa Naku (Airbnb)

Now, we’re treading into high-luxury territory. Villa Naku is a fully private three-bedroom stay in Tortola designed for privacy and outdoor time.

There’s a private pool, plenty of outdoor furniture that faces the sprawling hills and ocean, and enough window-lined walls to immerse you in nature. There’s even a barbecue cove and a mini zen-inspired garden.

If you’re going to Tortola with a group, consider Villa Naku (or the villa in Trunk Bay, below). Book here.

Odyssea House (Airbnb)

This two-bedroom villa escape isn’t quite as large as Villa Naku—but it’s got style.

Think: beautiful pagoda beside a dipping pool and full soaking tubs beside windows that overlook the Caribbean Sea.

I also love its other amenities, like board games and reading nooks. Even the shaggy light fixtures are tickling my fancy. Once again, if you want to rent a place with a group, explore Odyssea House. Book here.

Flying High: Best Airport Amenities & Experiences from Around the World

Though we tend to face a lot of stress in the airport, it doesn’t have to be that way.

In fact, some airports go above and beyond to offer travelers something more. One example that comes to mind is the Changi Singapore Airport, which offers features like butterfly gardens and rain vortexes.

Though not all airports have the same budget and scope as Changi, dozens of locations around the world are looking to stand out.

I’ve uncovered some of the most awesome airport experiences from around the world. These hidden gems cover features, amenities, and experiences both small and mighty—and they’re guaranteed to give you a little boost while traveling.

Keep reading for the best airport amenities and experiences, starting off with US locations.

Best airport amenities & experiences in the United States

The Recombobulation Area

Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport

It’s not much, but it’s sure to put a smile on your face.

Given how stressful getting through security is at American airports, Milwaukee Airport wanted to do something a little different.

After leaving security, flyers are directed to the ‘Recombobulation Area’, a quaint sitting area where they can put their shoes and coats back on. Small and cheeky gestures like this can go a long way in relaxing travelers. It’s also a bit of a local legend.

Sky’s The Limit

Chicago O’Hare International Airport

This ‘kinetic neon sculpture’ has been shouted out in a variety of airport rankings, but it still deserves a mention here.

To give one of its subterranean walkways a facelift, renovators at Chicago’s O’hare Airport brought on a mixed-media artist Michael Hayden. He created Sky’s The Limit, a vibrant and exciting visual display.

This piece includes thousands of feet of bright and colorful neon artwork, which are controlled by three computers that change up the patterns of the light show.

Yoga Room

Chicago O’Hare International Airport

If the light bath from Sky’s The Limit doesn’t lift your mood, how about some yoga?

Terminal 3 is home to a yoga room that overlooks an indoor garden. You can find exercise mats to lay on the floor, then follow a looped yoga video tutorial. From there, direct your own yoga session while relaxing music plays in the background.

TWA Hotel

JFK International Airport

A hotel… inside an airport terminal? Back in 2001, JFK shut down one of its primary terminals. Rather than destroy it, the powers that be had an idea: flip it into a hotel and make it profitable.

Though two flanking constructions were added to support the hotel’s 512 rooms, conference area, and restaurants, the main terminal retains its funky-fresh architecture from when it was completed back in 1962.

Flight Paths

Atlanta International Airport

Sky’s The Limit isn’t the only stunning and colorful art installation to transform an American airport.

Along with Detroit’s Light Tunnel (around for decades), Atlanta International Airport is home to Flight Paths. This art piece transforms one of the halls between Concourse A and Concourse B into a light show that feels like a magical forest.

There are sculpted trees and leaves throughout—but the coolest element is the simulated rain storm, bird calls, and chirping crickets.

Zero Level Fitness

Las Vegas Airport

Want to fit in a few bench presses before your connecting flight? Yeah—me, neither.

But in case you know someone who might go for that type of thing, they can head to Zero Level Fitness in Terminal 1 of Las Vegas Airport. Not only can you exercise with a pretty impressive set of equipment, but you can also rent a bed and take a nap.

Best airport amenities & experiences internationally

Meditation Centre

Schiphol International Airport (Amsterdam)

The goal of Schiphol’s meditation room is to provide all passengers a place where they can pray, meditate, or otherwise get some peace and quiet.

There’s even a mini library.

I’ve seen these types of rooms offered at many airports, but Schiphol’s is a bit more refined. And by refined, I mean that it’s nicer than my apartment. And my coworking space.

Sensory Room

Shannon Airport (Ireland)

Traveling with individuals with special needs is a hefty challenge.

Though airport staff and airline agents are more than willing to help those guiding special needs passengers on their way, Shannon Airport has a dedicated space just for them.

The sensory room includes soundproofed areas, soft lighting, relaxing music, sensory aids, and more.

Keep in mind—this room is available for adults and children. It’s most often used for those with autism but all passengers in need of a bit of sensory TLC are welcome. This trend is catching on around the world.

Hedge Maze

Changi International Airport (Singapore)

Singapore’s Changi International Airport regularly shows up in rankings of the best airports in the world.

Along with fully-fledged forests, butterfly gardens, giant art installations, rock climbing gyms, and something called ‘foggy bowls’, I suggest you look into the hedge maze.

(I don’t think I need to sell this considering hedge mazes are intrinsically cool?)

Jeddah Airport Aquarium

King Abdulaziz International Airport (Saudi Arabia)

Don’t worry—if you’re passing through Jeddah Airport, you won’t miss this massive aquarium. It’s the largest one in an airport in the world.

The aquarium is home to over 2,000 marine species that are native to the nearby Red Sea. You might even see the maintenance diver scrubbing the walls and fleeing the aquarium’s shark in the meantime.

Luxury Shopping

Hong Kong Airport (Hong Kong)

Of all the world’s fancy airports, I’m a bit surprised to see just how many ultra-lux brands have stores in the Hong Kong airport. From Louis Vuitton to Prada to Chanel, you’ll have plenty of chances to lose your savings while waiting for a connecting flight.

Mini Golf

Munich International Airport

The Munich Playground offers tons of activities and equipment for children who need to stretch their legs before takeoff.

There are pagodas, mini-airplanes ready to be flown by toddlers, and themed adventure areas.

There’s also a minigolf course. It’s not the fanciest thing in the world (no crazy trick shots), but it looks like it’s open for adults and children alike.

Paradise Casino

Incheon International Airport (Seoul)

The waters are slightly murky, so I can’t confirm exactly where this casino is located.

Sources say that it’s inside the Grand Hyatt Incheon, which is located alongside the airport. So, while likely not within the direct bounds of the airport, it’s close enough for you to play some poker before your next flight. Or lose all your money.

Haneda Airport Pet Hotel

Haneda Airport (Tokyo)

I didn’t know pet hotels existed, nonetheless that I could find one inside an airport.

As a pet owner, this makes total sense. Show up ready for your flight with your pet, drop them off at their hotel, and then head off on your flight. The pet hotel in the Haneda Airport offers boarding, grooming, and walking services.

Naked & Normal: Which Countries Are the Most Accepting of Nudity?

When it comes to nudity and travel, the overwhelming focus is on nude beaches and nude cruise lines.

Nude beaches have been around for a while and can be found around the world. Nude cruise lines are relatively novel but have proved popular—new experiences are popping up all the time.

But what about other forms of nudity? Which countries and regions around the world have a more open-minded approach to getting buck-naked? Let’s explore.

What type of nudity are we talking about?

I need to start with a disclaimer here.

The places discussed on this list reflect research I was able to conduct. I’m sure there are many distinctions around the world when it comes to nudity, especially on a smaller regional level.

And these can change greatly over time.

The period of European colonialism, in particular, challenged social nudity around the world. A classic example is the Indian garment of the sari. Prior to British colonization, the sari was worn without a top beneath. Breasts weren’t considered implicitly sexual.

But I’ll leave you to do your own research. Just know this: there’s a long and complex history of nudity around the world, and some traditions of social nudity were only very recently deemed immoral.

For the purposes of this article, I’m exploring two types of nudity: mixed-gender experiences and same-gender experiences.

More specifically, I’m exploring the types of nude experiences you would encounter while traveling, including at beaches, pools, and spas.

Now onto the fun stuff!

Same-sex nudity: Europe & Asia

If you’re heading to spas in Europe or Asia, you’re going to encounter plenty of nudity.

In the context of spas and massages, it’s not uncommon to strip down your skivvies or even less. Even in the US, you’ll find plenty of Korean, Japanese, and Russian spas where this is the case. (Spa Castle, anyone?!)

When you’re traveling to same-sex spas in these regions, feel free to get buck-naked. Seriously—when they hand you the robe and slippers, that’s all you’ll need.

For any naturalist, this won’t feel too risqué or out of place. But if you’re new to nudity, then you might wonder how this type of thing usually goes.

Prepare to see bodies of all shapes and sizes—this isn’t about vanity, it’s about wellness and comfort. And prepare for some ogling from certain parties.

I can tell you first-hand that staring isn’t considered rude. And if you’re a non-local stepping into a spa in Korea, Japan, or China people might simply be curious.

But please keep in mind that those with tattoos might not be permitted to enter spas in East Asia. Tattoos are still considered taboo and are associated with gangs.

Same-sex nudity is normal within the context of spas in these countries:

Korea
Japan
China
Russia
Bulgaria
Ukraine
Germany
Switzerland
Austria

Again, I’m painting with a broad stroke—but in terms of places where you can be nude and not be sexualized or criminalized, Europe has a pretty accepting approach.

In Spain, for example, public nudity is actually legal as of the late 1980s. Obviously, the police aren’t going to let you waltz around naked (probably)—but that should give you a pretty clear idea of how nudity is treated in these countries.

First, it’s not automatically viewed as sexual.

Second, the general public is very wary of over-policing, so they tend to take a hands-off approach.

Additionally, the city of Berlin just ruled that women are allowed to go topless at public pools—which was quickly repeated in the Spanish legal system. These legal changes highlight a growing open-mindedness toward nudity, especially when it comes to breasts.

*You won’t see France listed below, which is unfortunate. According to various reports, there are major crackdowns on nudity throughout the country.

At the moment, Croatia seems to be taking on that role. As more tourists enjoy its beaches, there’s a growing acceptance of naturism.

These European countries are more generally accepting of social nudity, especially when it come to being topless:

Germany
Norway
Sweden
Denmark
Finland
Spain
Croatia

Part II: 3 More Affordable Islands You Probably Thought Were Too Expensive

Island travel is high on the list for many travelers—and for good reason.

Whether looking to explore tropical beaches, hike through picturesque forests, or explore the heritage of a unique culture, islands tend to pack a punch.

Unfortunately, they’re usually pricy compared to nearer destinations. But that doesn’t mean you can’t find affordable islands that will deliver a fantastic trip.

In my first series on affordable islands that feel ultra-lux, I covered Koh Phi Phi (Thailand), Zanzibar (Tanzania), and the Isle of Skye (UK).

This time around, I’m heading back to some of the coolest islands in Asia and Europe.

Want to feel fabulous while traipsing around an island without bleeding your wallet dry? I’ve got three more affordable islands for you to check out.

Photo by Cauayan Island Resort on Unsplash

Palawan, Philippines

Palawan has been on my list for years.

This stunning archipelago looks like it’s straight out of James Cameron’s Avatar.

Dark, jagged rock makes up most of the islands, topped with lush greenery. The waters are bright cerulean and shallow, hugging the rocky beaches.

To be fair, this is your trade-off: an untouched tropical landscape that you won’t find elsewhere for larger and more expansive beaches. Though there are beaches throughout the Palawan archipelago, they’re pretty small.

One of the best ways to explore Palawan is by taking an island-hopping tour. Or if you want to sink in and enjoy the absolute lushness, you can stay at a resort or a hotel. Some cost as little as $30 a night.

Shop around for hotels and resorts in Palawan. I recommend staying on El Nido Island—it’s central and will make your island-hopping goals much easier.

Havelock, India

Havelock is the main island of India’s Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

If you’ve read my work on this region before, you know that it’s one of the last truly unspoiled corners of our planet. The beaches are expansive and untouched, surrounded by mangroves, jungles, and volcanic mud pits.

If you’re looking for remote and affordable island trips, start here.

Similar to the Philippines, you might need to work a little harder to find a deal on flights. That being said, you’ll pay almost nothing to stay on Havelock and enjoy its long list of amenities and activities.

On Havelock, you can find dozens of unique outdoor activities, from jungle treks to glass-bottomed boat trips. Even camping options are available for outdoorsy types.

Like Palawan, you can island-hop around the Andaman Islands very easily, packaging many trips into one.

Shop around for hotels and resorts on Havelock—some lux options are under $100/night. I recommend staying on Havelock Island and then taking tours to explore other hotspots like North Andaman, Neil Island, Ross Island, and Diglipur Island.

Sicily, Italy

Sicily is one of the most intriguing places I’ve ever been.

To be brutally honest, I wasn’t impressed by Palermo or Catania. (I ate too much horse.) I also found the countryside to be desolate, if not depressing.

That being said, its beaches are absolutely breathtaking.

The water has that unique Mediterranean color that you won’t see elsewhere, while its rocky shores and cliffs are straight from Hollywood glam magazines.

There are sandy beaches (spiagge), rock-pebble beaches (falesia), beaches lined with cabanas and loungers (lido), coves (rada), and small islands (isolas).

In other words: you’ll have options on where to lounge. I recommend heading to Syracuse (Siracusa) on the island’s southern shores.

It’s close to a tiny island called Ortygia that has tons of ancient ruins and dozens of spectacular beaches nearby. I’ve been there twice—and will probably go again.

Check out options across Sicily or nearby Syracuse.

Big Nude Boat 2025: Everything You Need to Know About Miami’s New Nude Cruise

Nudity is on the rise—at least, in terms of travel.

Around the world, more and more travelers are opening their minds to naturism. Naturism is a lifestyle that embraces the body just as it is—you might know it as nudism.

Most of us are familiar with nude beaches, which is the most common form of naturism around the globe.

But that’s just the tip of the iceberg.

Other popular ways to embrace nudism while traveling are to visit regions that offer nude retreats or take a famous naked cruise.

But the United States has always had a unique relationship with nudity. On the one hand, we’re highly innovative and open-minded people—a little bit of nudity shouldn’t scare off someone, right? In reality, many Americans are also religious.

While you can absolutely be religious and interested in naturism, the general idea is that nudity correlates to sexuality—and many people want sex kept behind closed doors.

That brings us to a very important point: naturism isn’t about sex—it’s about freedom.

And starting in 2025, you can set sail into the sunset in your birthday suit straight from Miami’s docks. That’s right: a nude cruise is disembarking from Miami next year.

Here’s what you need to know.

Bare Necessities Tour & Travel partners with Norwegian

Bare Necessities, as you may have guessed, is a travel agency that focuses on nude tours and trips of all stripes.

They annually charter ships from major cruise companies to host some of the best and most highly rated nude cruises in the world.

The company recently made headlines for its upcoming Big Nude Boat 2025 cruise, which will set sail from Miami in February 2025.

Miami, in case you didn’t know, has a great nude beach—but it’s a big deal for a nude cruise to set sail from its docks. It’s not often that these types of charters leave from US shores.

Bare Necessities will be chartering Norwegian’s massive Norwegian Pearl—and it’s not going to be shy about traversing the Caribbean and some of its top islands.

Details of the Big Nude Boat 2025 cruise

So, what’s the goal of a nude cruise, and what makes it different than others?

In reality, there’s no great secret or undercurrent involved. Naturists like to do everything that traditional cruise guests enjoy, from swimming to lounging to making friends.

They just want to have the option to be naked, if they choose.

The Big Nude Boat 2025 includes all the standard amenities that guests enjoy on the Norwegian Pearl normally, including:

Multiple restaurants & bars
Multiple pools and sun decks
Shopping boutiques
A full spa
A casino

Guests will also be treated to a next-level itinerary—one that hasn’t been shaved down thanks to the optional clothing rule.

The Big Nude Boat will stop in:

Great Stirrup Cay, Norwegian’s private island. At Great Stirrup Cay, guests can enjoy activities like zip-lining, kayaking, snorkeling, barbecue, and even swimming with the pigs. All while naked.
St. Lucia
Domenica
Stop Martinique

FAQs

Bare Necessities has thirty years of experience crafting nude vacations that prioritize safety, comfort, and social nudity. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions for newcomers.

Can you be covered up?

Yes—you’re free to dress or strip down as you like.

It’s also common for men and women to cover up. That might be for personal reasons, to stay warm when temperatures drop, or to avoid sunburn. In fact, guests must wear clothes in the dining halls and when the captain does his introduction and reception.

Is there a swinger angle?

Guests are allowed to be nude. However, sexual gear like lingerie and fetishwear is absolutely not allowed. Let me state once again that there isn’t a correlation between nudity and sex for naturists.

In other words, you’re not any more likely to encounter swingers onboard a Bare Necessities trip than you are on a regular Norwegian Cruise.

Are cruises geared toward anyone in particular?

Guests come in all shapes, sizes, races, religions, sexual orientations, and more. Naturism is for anyone and everyone. (Also, nudists tend to be pretty accepting.) If this is your first foray into nude cruises, then you won’t be alone. Bare Necessities is a popular jumping-off point for new naturists.

Where can I buy tickets and learn more about the cruise?

You can read through the FAQ page on the Bare Necessities site. If you want to learn more about the Big Nude Boat, you can find tickets and other information online.

Foodie Alert: Wild Delicacies from Around the World

If you’re a foodie, you might plan trips around your favorite restaurants and fusion foods.

Non-foodies, by contrast, might be a little less willing to try new dishes while on the road. After all, the farther we wander from home, the more likely we are to be confronted with surprising new culinary delicacies.

After all, trying new foods is a great way to explore local traditions.

Diet is one of the most engrained forms of culture—one that we tend to overlook in our daily lives. The more open-minded we are while traveling, the more we come into contact with some truly wild delicacies.

Ever heard of fermented herring in Sweden (called surströmming) or fried guinea pigs in Peru (called cuy)? What about dishes like the still-writhing raw octopus that’s hacked up live in Korea (called sakkanji) or dangerous delicacies like blowfish in Japan (called fugu)?

Even at home, we’re surrounded by some strange favorites. A visitor to the US, for example, might be surprised by classics like sloppy joes or the sheer range of fried foods.

Our world is full of wild delicacies. And I think they’re worth exploring.

In this article, I’m covering some of the most unique culinary traditions from around the world.

I’m focusing on those that aren’t potentially dangerous to your health, overtly cruel to animals, and (probably) won’t upset your stomach while you’re traveling.

Durian (Southeast Asia)

You’ve probably heard of this stinky fruit before. It’s the size of a head, covered in brown-green spikes, has the consistency of custard, and smells like fresh death.

(Don’t worry—it’s good for you!)

In fact, durian is so stinky that it’s not allowed to be sold or eaten in many public places in Southeast Asia. In Singapore, for example, the fruit is banned on all public transport systems.

Want to try durian? You might be able to get it locally in the US, especially if there’s a large Southeast Asian community. If not, you can easily find it in places like Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, and the Philippines.

Tarantula & scorpion (Cambodia, Thailand, Vietnam)

If you’ve never delved into the world of edible insects, then you might be surprised at how ubiquitous it is.

As we’ll see on this list, eating insects is a common practice around the world. That’s because insects are plentiful, high in protein, and easy to cook.

In Southeast Asian jungles, one insect that’s on the menu is hand-sized tarantulas and smaller scorpions. And they taste pretty good when fried.

I first sampled these crunchy critters back in 2010 when visiting Cambodia. The tarantulas really are massive. My biggest hangup wasn’t eating spider, in general, but feeling a little bad about its death. (I’m a huge fan of arachnids.)

If you’re a little spooked about eating fried tarantula or scorpion, let me assure you: they’re crispy, seasoned, and delicious. So long as you can get over their shape.

Mopane Worm (Southwestern Africa)

This big (and gorgeous) caterpillar can be found throughout central, southwestern, and southern Africa.

Just like the grasshoppers in Mexico and tarantulas in Southeast Asia, mopane worms are often fried and served up crispy.

But depending on local tastes in South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Botswana, you might see them eaten raw (just squeeze out the guts), boiled, or in stews and porridges. Like all the other insects mentioned on this list, mopane worms are a great source of protein.

Balut (Southeast Asia)

I promise—this is the last delicacy from Southeast Asia.

Balut, like durian, you may have heard of before. Balut is usually a duck egg with a semi-mature fetus inside. Depending on where you travel, the fetus might be more or less developed—but they don’t have feathers yet.

My apologies if that’s a bit morbid for you.

I think balut will only be a viable option for foodies who have had this on their radar for a while—and probably have a serious love of eggs. But you need to be very careful when eating balut, as there are some health risks involved.

For that reason, I’d suggest buying one of these from a trusted Asian vendor in the US. If you like the delicacy, add it to your bucket list the next time you’re in Southeast Asia.

Hákarl (Iceland)

Many northern nations have taken to fermenting fish so it lasts longer.

I mentioned a potent type of canned herring that the Swedish like up top (surstromming), which I’m guessing is similar to canned herring throughout Scandinavia and the Baltic region.

But Iceland’s hákarl is a little different.

Rather than ferment and cure herring, Icelanders use sharks. I haven’t sampled hákarl delicacies before, but it’s apparently just as pungent as durian. This national dish is eaten during major festivals, including þorrablót.

Casu Martzu (Sardinia)

Cheese lovers—prepare yourself.

Casu Martzu is a sheep’s cheese made in the countryside of Sardinia. It’s unlike its contemporaries for one key reason: it’s infused with larvae.

Producers carefully insert larvae of the cheese fly (I’m not joking, that’s what it’s called) into the wheel in order to spur on fermentation and break down fats. This leads to a creamy and pungent soft cheese.

Unfortunately, Casu Martzu has been banned thanks to this larvae. Though it’s still produced through Sardinia (and Corsica), and you may be offered a taste while visiting, it’s impossible to regulate the production and sale of cheese that has living maggots inside.

Totally understandable.

Grasshopper tacos (Mexico)

In Mexico’s south and southeastern regions, grasshopper tacos are known as chapulines.

Fried grasshoppers have been a common staple for centuries, serving as a popular snack. In fact, in places like Oaxaca, you might see street vendors and sports game vendors selling these.

One of the most popular ways to eat grasshoppers is in taco form. Because they’re fried, you won’t notice a very strong taste. They’re nutty and earthy, and very crunchy, making them a great starting point for fledgling foodies.