Savoring the World: A Vegetarian’s Ultimate Travel Guide for Every Culture

While certain locations and cultures may facilitate a plant-based lifestyle more than others, it is entirely feasible to travel as a vegetarian or vegan in every cultural context worldwide, provided you know how to navigate it.

Being a vegetarian or vegan does not mean sacrificing adventurous eating while traveling; in fact, it’s quite the opposite. You can enjoy being a vegetarian while also being a food lover and an explorer. “Adopting a vegetarian diet is often an entry point to a more exciting and fulfilling travel experience—because you might encounter dishes that aren’t even listed on the menu,” shares Shel Horowitz, founder of Going Beyond Sustainability and a vegetarian for over fifty years. “I’ve traveled to approximately fifty nations since embracing vegetarianism, and many of my fondest travel memories revolve around food.”

Whether you are an experienced plant-based eater or preparing for your inaugural trip overseas as a vegetarian or vegan, here are some tried-and-true suggestions to simplify your travel, as shared by an experienced vegetarian traveler:

Prepare for language differences

“Carry a note in the local language detailing your dietary limitations,” recommends Horowitz. “Simply present it to your server. Ideally, have a native speaker [translate] it for you, but if that’s not possible, use a translation app.”

Be open to off-menu options

“I’ve had fantastic experiences in meat-dominant yet adaptable cultures like Türkiye, Italy, and western China,” adds Horowitz. “When we mention that we’re vegetarian, they come up with something creative.”

Acclimate to different flavors in advance

If you’re heading to a location known for spicier cuisine than your palate is accustomed to, Horowitz recommends gradually increasing the spice level of your meals at home for a few weeks before your trip.

Bring your own supplements

If you typically enjoy a diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables but are uncertain about availability while traveling, Horowitz suggests packing a small container (he often uses an emptied vitamin bottle that’s been sanitized) of flax meal. “For those whose diet is high in raw produce but may not be safe to consume abroad, and who are eating a lot of white rice, adding a little to your meals can help prevent constipation,” he advises.

Be cautious with raw produce

“In areas where bottled water is recommended, steer clear of raw vegetables and unpeeled fruits,” Horowitz emphasizes.

View it as an educational journey

Traveling to new countries will inevitably introduce you to unique and thrilling food experiences—treat this as an opportunity for learning, much like a guided tour or museum visit. “Relish the joy of discovering novel foods and innovative preparations of familiar dishes,” advises Horowitz.

Take home your favored finds

The most enjoyable aspect of sampling new flavors and meals? Discovering your next favorite dish! If you find something you love, Horowitz recommends buying pre-packaged items instead of bulk powders or spices, as this will simplify the customs process upon your return home.