Conscious Cuban

Are you concerned that being vegan might hinder your travel plans? Worried about missing out on local culture or being confined to plain salads and overpriced avocado toast? You’re not alone!

As a relatively new vegan of four years, I once shared these same fears. However, after numerous trips within the US and internationally, I’ve discovered that veganism doesn’t have to limit your travel experiences.

Here’s how to make the most of your vegan travels while fully immersing yourself in local cultures.

1. Research, Research, Research

Although Google is a great place to start, I am often redirected to outdated blog posts featuring places that no longer exist. This is what I like to do instead!

• YouTube: If you’re more a visual person like myself, this is a great place to discover hidden gems and get a sense of what everything looks like!
• Social Media: I love to use social media to discover where to eat. I look for people who live in these locations as they have more local recommendations. Use location tags and hashtags like #[cityname]vegan, #vegan[cityname], #[city]plantbased for best results!
• Ask Around: Don’t be afraid to reach out to a friend or ask in vegan groups/forums for recommendations. People are always eager to share!

2. Download HappyCow

This app and website is a must for any vegan travelers and newcomers to veganism. It’s like Yelp but for vegans, you can see other people’s reviews of restaurants and photos they’ve uploaded.

You can also choose whether you want to see vegan-only restaurants, places with vegan options or vegetarian options.

HappyCow saved me from starving at Frankfurt Airport during a long layover!

3. Get Creative with Google Maps

For last-minute options or when you’re struggling to find nearby vegan spots, this is what I do in Google to find vegan options:

1. Zoom into your area of interest (where you’re staying or near an attraction). Type vegan or vegan restaurants.
2. Check restaurant that show up and look for vegan in the reviews.
3. Visit their websites to review menus

This method has helped me find great options, especially when traveling with non-vegans.

4. Plan Your Itinerary Around Food

This one is for the foodies. Once you have a list of vegan options, plan around them. Save all your food recommendations on Google Maps, or another travel app (I personally love Wanderlog), and see what activities or sights you can organize around them.

• Prioritize the restaurants you wouldn’t want to miss.
• Focus on local eateries, traditional dishes, and unique experiences.

5. Always Carry Vegan Snacks

Prevent hunger emergencies by stocking up on vegan snacks whether it’s for the airport or a day of exploring an unknown city. I’d like to carry some of the following:

• Protein bars
• Chips
• Fresh fruit

Whole Foods, Sprouts, and Trader Joe’s are my go for these. Or visit local supermarkets to find vegan-friendly snacks you can keep in your bag or backpack.

6. Communicate with Travel Companions

As wonderful as it is to travel with all vegans, if I’m not doing a group tour chances are I’ll be traveling with a non-vegan friend or family member. Here’s what I’ve done to ensure everyone has a good time:

• Discuss dining preferences beforehand. Are they okay with eating vegan food?
• Be willing to split up. I’m more than happy to eat alone here and there if it means I can enjoy what I’m paying for.
• Compromise: Find restaurants that cater to both vegan and non-vegan diets.

Remember, open communication is crucial for a happy travel experience! I travel with many non-vegans whether they’re family or friends and this has always worked.

By following these tips, you’ll be well-prepared to enjoy a fulfilling vegan travel adventure without missing out on local cultures and cuisines.

Have you tried any of these suggestion or do you have additional tips? Share your experiences in the comments below!