One of the most exciting things about going on holiday is trying out new food. But if you are vegan, finding places where you can enjoy delicious, plant-based meals can sometimes feel like a challenge.
However, the good news is that some countries are absolute havens for vegans, offering mouthwatering dishes, friendly restaurants, and even regions dedicated to plant-based living.
In this guide, we explore some of the best vegan-friendly countries for your next holiday, so you can focus on enjoying your trip without worrying about what is on the menu.
Thailand is a vegan paradise. Their food naturally includes lots of fresh veggies, tofu, rice, and noodles. Many dishes are dairy-free and can be made without meat. Just say “jay” (pronounced as "jai") when ordering, which means vegetarian in Thai and often implies no meat, fish, or eggs.
You must try dishes like pad Thai with tofu, spicy green curry, and mango sticky rice. There are also various vegan cafes in different areas, including Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and even on islands like Koh Phangan that you can check out. And don't overlook street food vendors. They are super flexible and can easily adjust dishes to suit your needs.
India is probably the most vegan-friendly country on the planet. A huge part of the population is vegetarian, and many dishes are naturally vegan. You will find curries, lentil dishes, rice, and flatbreads.
In the south, coconut milk is often used, so it is easy to avoid dairy. When ordering, let them know you don’t eat ghee (clarified butter) or cream. Try dishes like dal tadka, vegetable biryani, and fresh coconut water right from the source.
You might think Italy is all about cheese, but it is surprisingly vegan-friendly too. Pizza marinara (without cheese), pasta dishes like spaghetti aglio e olio (garlic and olive oil), and fresh bruschetta are naturally vegan and super delicious.
Big cities like Rome, Florence, and Milan have tons of vegan restaurants. Don’t miss trying pasta with fresh tomato sauce or risotto with seasonal veggies. The Italians know how to keep things simple yet mouthwatering.
Tel Aviv is often called the “vegan capital of the world” for a reason. The city is packed with vegan cafes and restaurants, and plant-based options are part of the local culture. Traditional dishes like falafel, hummus, and tabbouleh are naturally vegan and incredibly satisfying.
Even better, many restaurants label vegan items clearly, so you don’t need to play guessing games. While you are there, try sabich, a pita stuffed with fried eggplant, tahini, and pickles (just skip the boiled egg).
Travelling as a vegan doesn’t always have to be stressful. With so many countries offering incredible plant-based options, your holiday can be as tasty as it is relaxing. From the spicy curries of India to the vegan restaurants in Israel, you are sure to find amazing food wherever you go. Just pack an open mind, a good appetite, and maybe a few snacks for the journey.
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