By Stephen 
Traveling as a vegan or someone who follows a plant-based diet can seem daunting, especially when exploring new destinations. However, with the growing popularity of plant-based lifestyles, many countries and cities now offer a wealth of vegan-friendly dining options. From dedicated vegan restaurants to local dishes that can easily be adapted to suit your dietary preferences, traveling as a plant-based eater has never been easier—or more delicious.
In this guide, we’ll share tips and recommendations for traveling as a vegan or plant-based eater, highlighting vegan restaurants, local plant-based foods, and unique dining experiences that will make your journey unforgettable.
Embrace Local Flavors with Vegan-Friendly Alternatives
Many destinations around the world already feature vegan-friendly options in their traditional cuisines. The key is to know where to look and how to adapt local dishes to fit your plant-based needs.
- India: A Vegan‘s Paradise
India is arguably one of the best places for plant-based eaters. With its deeply rooted vegetarian culture, many Indian dishes are naturally vegan. Indian cuisine offers a vast array of plant-based meals, including curries, rice dishes, flatbreads, and savory snacks.
- What to Try: Dishes like chana masala (spicy chickpea curry), aloo gobi (potato and cauliflower curry), and dosa (thin rice pancakes) are all traditionally vegan. Don’t forget to try the popular samosas and pakoras, which are deep-fried snacks made from vegetables and chickpea flour.
- Vegan Restaurants: Cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru feature numerous vegan-friendly restaurants. Sattvik in Delhi offers an entirely vegan menu, and Café Turtle in Mumbai provides a variety of plant-based options.
- Thailand: Fresh, Flavorful, and Vegan-Friendly
Thai cuisine is known for its bold flavors, aromatic herbs, and diverse range of plant-based ingredients. In fact, many Thai dishes can easily be adapted for vegans, and it’s a haven for those who enjoy eating fresh, vibrant meals.
- What to Try: A bowl of pad Thai made with tofu and plenty of fresh vegetables, or a spicy green curry with tofu, eggplant, and basil. For dessert, sticky rice with mango is a refreshing and sweet vegan treat.
- Vegan Restaurants: Bangkok is a vegan foodie’s dream with spots like May Kaidee‘s and Ethos Vegan Restaurant. In Chiang Mai, you can check out Dada Café for a delicious selection of plant-based Thai and international dishes.
- Italy: Vegan Pasta, Pizza, and More
Italy is famous for its rich culinary heritage, and vegan versions of many Italian classics have become increasingly popular. Whether you’re in Rome, Florence, or Milan, you can find vegan alternatives to pasta, pizza, and other beloved dishes.
- What to Try: Italian cuisine’s foundation includes olive oil, fresh vegetables, and grains—all naturally vegan. Try a vegan margarita pizza with dairy-free cheese, or a hearty plate of pasta arrabbiata (spicy tomato sauce). You can also enjoy vegan gelato in cities like Rome and Florence.
- Vegan Restaurants: Vegano e Basta in Milan offers a completely plant-based menu with Italian-inspired dishes, while Il Margutta in Rome is a renowned vegetarian restaurant that offers a wide variety of vegan dishes.
- Mexico: Flavorsome Vegan Tacos and More
Mexican cuisine is full of vibrant and flavorful plant-based ingredients like beans, corn, avocado, and peppers, making it an ideal destination for vegans.
- What to Try: Mexican street food is particularly vegan-friendly. Try vegan tacos filled with sautéed mushrooms or jackfruit, and pair them with guacamole and salsa. Vegan tamales and chiles rellenos (stuffed peppers) are also excellent choices.
- Vegan Restaurants: In Mexico City, Pan Comido and Por Siempre Vegana offer plant-based tacos and delicious vegan takes on classic Mexican dishes. Guadalajara also has a growing vegan scene, with restaurants like La Veggie offering everything from burgers to burritos.
- Greece: Mediterranean Vegan Delights
Greece’s Mediterranean cuisine, with its emphasis on fresh vegetables, legumes, and grains, is a natural fit for plant-based diets. Many classic Greek dishes are already vegan, and vegan versions of traditional foods are easy to find.
- What to Try: Fasolada (bean soup), dolmas (grape leaves stuffed with rice), and hummus paired with pita bread are all staples. You can also enjoy a Greek-style salad with fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and herbs—just skip the feta for a plant-based version.
- Vegan Restaurants: In Athens, Avocado is a popular vegan-friendly spot offering everything from burgers to bowls. In Thessaloniki, La Nonna provides delicious plant-based Mediterranean dishes.
Top Tips for Vegan Travel
While many cities and countries now offer vegan-friendly dining options, it’s always helpful to do a little preparation before you arrive. Here are some practical tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable plant-based travel experience:
1. Use Vegan Apps and Websites
Apps like HappyCow and The Vegan Guide are invaluable tools for locating vegan and plant-based restaurants in cities worldwide. HappyCow allows you to filter by location, cuisine, and type of restaurant, so you can easily find the best vegan spots wherever you go.
2. Learn Key Phrases in the Local Language
While many people around the world understand the term “vegan,” learning a few keywords in the local language can make your dining experience smoother. Knowing how to say “vegan” (e.g., vegano in Spanish, végétalien in French) or asking if a dish is “dairy-free” or “egg-free” can help clarify your dietary needs.
3. Pack Snacks for the Journey
Though vegan options are becoming more prevalent, some remote areas may not have a wide variety of plant-based meals. It’s always a good idea to bring snacks like nuts, dried fruit, or protein bars to tide you over during long trips or when vegan options are scarce.
4. Explore Local Markets
If you’re in a destination where vegan restaurants are limited, visit local markets for fresh fruits, vegetables, and grains to make your own meals. Many countries feature vibrant markets where you can purchase local ingredients and create your own plant-based meals.
5. Embrace the Local Vegan Culture
Some destinations have a long-standing vegan or vegetarian tradition, making it easy to find vegan-friendly restaurants and dishes. Embrace the local culture and cuisine by trying plant-based versions of traditional meals, and you may discover some new favorites along the way!
A Flavorful, Sustainable, and Enjoyable Journey
Traveling as a vegan or plant-based eater is more exciting and easier than ever. With the rise of vegan and plant-based dining options around the world, you can explore new cities and cultures while enjoying delicious, ethical, and sustainable food. Whether you’re savoring a bowl of spicy curry in Thailand, indulging in fresh pasta in Italy, or enjoying vegan tacos in Mexico, the world is full of flavors waiting to be explored.
So, pack your bags, grab your fork, and embark on a journey where the food is as satisfying as the sights you’ll see—because with a little planning, traveling as a plant-based eater can be one of the most enjoyable experiences you’ll have!