Fortunately, with some helpful tips and practical resources, you can enjoy your adventures without compromising your vegan diet.
From seeking out specialized restaurants (such as our vegan restaurant in Lisbon) to preparing snacks for the journey, there are easy ways to ensure you always have a delicious and nutritious plant-based meal.
Searching for Vegan Restaurants Worldwide
With the globally growing vegan movement, many places now have specialized dining options regardless of size.
One of the quickest ways to find plant-based meals while traveling is by conducting an online search for vegan restaurants at your destination. This approach reveals menu offerings and provides information on prices and reviews from others who have dined there.
Utilize Specific Apps and Websites
Applications like HappyCow (a vegan guide covering 185 countries) and Vegan Maps are invaluable tools for vegan travelers. These platforms list vegan and vegetarian restaurants in various cities worldwide, allowing you to filter by location, cuisine type, and user ratings.
Additionally, many of these establishments include menus, prices, and photos, aiding in your selection process.
While not exclusively dedicated to vegan listings, platforms like Tripadvisor and The Fork can also assist in finding establishments that offer plant-based options.
Explore Local Communities and Social Media
Platforms like Instagram or Facebook groups dedicated to veganism can be excellent resources for local recommendations. You can discover meal options shared by other travelers by following hashtags related to veganism and travel, such as #VeganTravel or #VeganIn[CityName].
Engaging in forums and local communities can also provide exclusive tips about hidden restaurants that might not be listed on mainstream platforms or apps.
Finding Plant-Based Meals in Non-Vegan Restaurants
If locating a nearby vegan restaurant proves challenging, it doesn't mean plant-based options are unavailable. In conventional restaurants, it's often possible to adapt dishes to make them vegan or choose options naturally free of animal products.
For instance, a salad without cheese or a pasta dish without animal-based sauces are simple and practical alternatives. Sides like fries or baked potatoes, sautéed vegetables, beans, or rice are common accompaniments that can be ordered separately to create a satisfying vegan meal.
Soups can also be a viable option in some restaurants.
Be Cautious with Sauces
Since many sauces are prepared with butter, cheese, or other animal-derived products, servers might overlook this detail. Therefore, it's essential to be mindful of these ingredients that aren't part of a vegan diet.
Learn to Communicate Your Dietary Needs
Clearly, explaining that you follow a vegan diet can make a significant difference. Key phrases like "no meat," "no dairy," and "no eggs" can be helpful, especially in countries where veganism isn't widely recognized or culturally prevalent.
Seek Out Naturally Vegan Traditional Dishes
Many countries have traditional dishes that are inherently plant-based. For example, in Italy, you can order a Pizza Marinara (made without cheese); in India, there's a vast array of vegetarian curries that can be easily adapted. Familiarizing yourself with these typical dishes can be an excellent starting point.
Vegan Snacks for Long Journeys
When uncertain about the availability of vegan options during your trip, it's always a good idea to carry some snacks. This ensures you have something nutritious to eat anywhere and helps stave off hunger during long flights, bus rides, or train journeys.
Which Vegan Snacks to Bring on Long Trips
The choice depends on your mode of travel and its duration. Nuts, dried fruits, vegan cookies, protein bars, juices, granola, or sunflower seeds are excellent options for extended journeys. They're lightweight, easy to pack, and provide long-lasting energy, keeping you satiated.
Some snacks can even be prepared at home, like cookies or muffins. This not only saves time but also prevents potential hassles during your trip.
Whenever possible, use airtight containers or cool bags to keep food fresh for extended periods.
Conclusion
Traveling while adhering to a plant-based diet doesn't have to be challenging. With some planning and the right resources, you can find delicious and nutritious vegan options anywhere in the world. Whether through specialized restaurants or adapting choices in conventional establishments, a vegan diet can accompany you on all your adventures.