From Mexico to Paris, a Guide to Navigating the World as a Vegan

As the world becomes increasingly aware of the importance of plant-based living, more and more travelers are seeking out destinations that cater to their dietary needs. But for those who follow a vegan lifestyle, the thought of embarking on a holiday can be daunting.

Will they be able to find suitable options? Will they be able to communicate their dietary requirements? And what about the inevitable slip-ups that can occur when traveling in unfamiliar territory?

Fortunately, seasoned travelers and vegan experts have shared their top tips for navigating the world as a vegan.

Choosing the right destination is crucial. “I’ve found that the cuisines of Mexico, India, and the eastern Mediterranean/Levant are all vegan-forward,” says Alexis Gauthier, a Michelin-starred vegan chef. “Their use of beans and pulses as a fundamental ingredient and minimal reliance on dairy makes them excellent choices for a vegan holiday.”

Of course, not all destinations are created equal. In France, for example, the cuisine is often heavily reliant on dairy and meat. But even in France, says Gauthier, there are ways to find vegan options. “In the south, menus naturally rotate around seasonal vegetables, and falafel is popular. You can also request alterations, such as chickpeas on your salad instead of goat’s cheese.”

To find suitable options, experts recommend using online resources such as Happy Cow, a website and app that allows users to research vegan-friendly restaurants and cafes in their destination. “Happy Cow is your best friend for seeking vegan options while traveling,” says Chelsea Harrop from Veganuary. “You can use it to research local restaurants beforehand or while you’re strolling around a city.”

Communication is also key when traveling as a vegan. “Not everyone is familiar with the word vegan,” says Sascha Camilli from Peta. “A simple explanation, such as ‘No meat, dairy or eggs, please’, will help.”

Carrying a cheat sheet with you can also be helpful. “In Egypt, I had an infographic in Arabic that said exactly what I didn’t eat,” says Camilli.

When it comes to eating out, experts recommend being prepared to ask for alterations or substitutions. “Many restaurants are happy to accommodate simple requests like this,” says Gauthier.

Of course, not all restaurants are created equal. “If you have your eye on a certain place, always double-check it’s open on the days you’re traveling,” says Harrop.

But even when things don’t go according to plan, experts say don’t sweat it. “This has happened to me a few times over the years,” says Holly Johnson, editor of Vegan Food & Living magazine. “I don’t let it worry me – we all slip up sometimes, and I just carry on as normal.”

Finally, don’t be afraid to seek out vegan versions of local dishes. “In Mexico, I found several places serving vegan takes on pozole and chilaquiles,” says Johnson.

By following these tips, vegan travelers can navigate the world with ease and enjoy a stress-free holiday. Whether you’re trekking in Thailand or on a mini-break in Berlin, there’s no need to assume that your dietary needs will be a barrier to exploring the world.