Eating in Thailand is like opening a door that leads to smaller doors. And what's behind those doors? Even more entryways that hold juicy mangoes that barely stay on the fork, spicy crab chunks in sweet coconut juice, deep fried chicken pieces with chili oil and lime. The best part? If you take it to the streets (literally), food markets throughout Thailand have dishes that often cost less than two U.S. dollars. Yes, you read that correctly. You can get an entire meal in Thailand that costs less than a pack of gum.

With so many choices, where do you begin? First, with an empty stomach, because you’re not going to want to stop eating. Second, by purchasing a #CrushGlobal Thailand guide HERE. We’re giving you the exact locations for the best places around Bangkok and Phuket to get these dishes from locations that won’t hurt your wallet. Don’t miss out!

To wet your palate, here are a few must try dishes for every first time visitor to Thailand:

5. TOM YUM GOONG (SPICY THAI SOUP WITH SHRIMP)

Shrimp, mushrooms, tomatoes, lemongrass, galangal, chilies, kaffir lime leaves, onions, and other herbs go into this savory soup and can be found on nearly every menu in Thailand. It’s a great starter before delving into a larger noodle dish.

4. SOM TAM (PAPAYA SALAD)

Vegetarians have a great variety of choices in Thailand, including this local papaya salad from the Northeastern part of the country. It usually includes shredded green papaya, tomatoes, carrots, peanuts, dried shrimp, lime juice, garlic and lots of chilis for flavor.

3. LAAB (SPICY SALAD)

This dish includes minced meat such as beef or pork and mushroom on top of lettuce. If you love spicy food, look no further.

2. PAD THAI

Though this may sound like an obvious choice, there is nothing like trying food from its original source. It’s available on almost every street corner, and much better than your greasy take out go-to. Secret tip: you can even have the noodles stuffed INSIDE a fried egg omelette. #yes

1. CRAB CURRY

This dish, best tried in the original style of Phuket, is worth the trip to Thailand alone. Usually served with rice noodles, chunks of crab are mixed with coconut, curry powder, kaffir limes, and more. It is what food explosions are made of: a perfect symphony of texture, taste and smell.