Whenever I begin to plan travel to a destination, the first thing I do is check out the vegan scene. There's nothing more frustrating than arriving to a vacation spot and struggling to find food or even cruelty-free activities. I've found myself eating nothing but fruit on a trip in the past and that's no fun at all. So let's avoid that and do your research on the perfect plant-based travel. Here's a list of 9 vegan-friendly travel destinations for your next conscious holiday.
Chennai, the capital of Tamil Nadu, is quickly becoming India's most vegan-friendly city. With nearly half of India's population being vegetarian, Chennai is embracing veganism at a rapid pace. The city's vegan scene is booming, offering a range of vegan-friendly businesses and cafes. For instance, Vegetagold is a vegan butcher shop that caters to the needs of those who prefer plant-based alternatives to traditional meat products. Another notable business is Monk Story, a shoe brand that produces vegan leather footwear, showcasing the city's commitment to cruelty-free and sustainable products.
The German International School in Chennai has also made a significant move by announcing that it will serve 100% vegan food to its students. This decision aligns with the school’s philosophy of promoting love, awareness, and respect for all forms of life. The growing popularity of veganism in Chennai is evident in the increasing number of vegan food spots around the city. Many restaurants are now offering extensive vegan menus, catering to the rising demand from both locals and visitors.
Ranked at #8, Taipei, Taiwan, is a top destination for vegan travelers in Asia. The city’s vegan culture is deeply rooted in its Buddhist traditions, which emphasize compassion towards all living beings. Although there is no strict rule in Buddhism about avoiding meat, many followers choose a plant-based diet as a way to practice kindness and mindfulness.
Taipei is home to more than 50 plant-based restaurants that offer a variety of local and international dishes. Whether you're looking for vegan street food or a fully stocked vegan supermarket, Taipei has plenty to offer. The city’s vibrant vegan scene includes everything from small local restaurants to large dining establishments, providing diverse and delicious options for vegans.
Los Angeles, California, holds the #7 spot with its thriving vegan community. The city boasts over 150 vegan and vegan-friendly restaurants, reflecting the West Coast’s focus on fresh and healthy foods. Many vegan celebrities reside in LA, further promoting the city's vegan culture. For example, Moby, a famous musician and animal rights activist, owns a vegan restaurant called Little Pine in Los Angeles. The restaurant is known for its tasty dishes, including glazed Brussels sprouts, which even non-vegans find irresistible.
LA's vegan scene extends beyond restaurants. The city hosts numerous vegan festivals and events, creating a plentiful network of vegan businesses and advocates. Vegan hospitality groups, restaurants, and catering services are flourishing, providing job opportunities and promoting a plant-based lifestyle. The city's commitment to veganism is evident in the wide array of vegan products and services available, making it a must visit for those who prefer a cruelty-free diet.
Berlin, Germany, ranks #6 and is known for its strong support of the vegan lifestyle. Despite Germany’s long history of meat consumption, Berlin is making a cultural shift towards plant-based living. The city offers a wide range of vegan products, from clothing and shoes to food and cosmetics. Vegan clothing stores in Berlin focus on sustainable and Fairtrade fashion, ensuring that their products are ethically sourced and environmentally friendly.
Berlin is also home to several vegan grocery stores, which provide a variety of plant-based products to meet the needs of the growing vegan population. The city's nearly 500 vegan and veg-friendly restaurants offer diverse dining options, from gourmet vegan cuisine to casual street food. Notable establishments include Réger Burger, known for its delicious vegan burgers, and a popular vegan donut shop that satisfies sweet cravings without any animal products.
Tel Aviv, Israel, takes the #5 spot with the highest number of vegans per capita in the world. An impressive 5% of Israel’s population has adopted a vegan lifestyle, and Tel Aviv is the epicenter of this movement. The city’s vegan scene is thriving, with over 400 vegan and veg-friendly restaurants offering a wide range of delicious and innovative dishes. Local favorites like hummus and falafel are naturally vegan, but Tel Aviv's culinary landscape also features unique vegan creations that appeal to both vegans and non-vegans.
In addition to its diverse dining options, Tel Aviv is home to Israel’s first vegan supermarket. This supermarket makes vegan products more accessible and affordable, providing a wide range of compassionate and Fairtrade items. The city's commitment to veganism is reflected in its wonderful food culture, which celebrates plant-based living and encourages others to make compassionate food choices.
London, England, ranks #4 and has seen a significant increase in its vegan population over the past decade. From 150,000 vegans in 2008, the number has grown to over 500,000 today. London’s vegan scene is diverse and dynamic, offering unique vegan dishes that attract both vegans and meat-eaters. For instance, vegan fish and chips made from fried banana blossom are a popular choice among locals and visitors alike.
The city also boasts the country’s first vegan fried chicken joint, serving delicious plant-based versions of a classic favorite. Camden Market, a popular destination in London, now hosts a variety of vegan vendors, providing a wide range of vegan foods and products. London is also home to VEVOLUTION, the largest vegan festival in the UK, which aims to inspire and educate people about the benefits of a vegan lifestyle.
Edinburgh, Scotland, holds the #3 spot with the largest number of vegan-friendly restaurants in the country. The city offers a total of 160 vegan eateries, providing an impressive array of options for vegan dining. Edinburgh is renowned for its vegan breakfasts, which are among the best in the world. Additionally, the city offers numerous vegan-friendly afternoon tea options, making it a great destination for vegan food enthusiasts.
The growing vegan community in Edinburgh is supported by a range of businesses and organizations that promote plant-based living. From cozy cafes to upscale dining establishments, Edinburgh's vegan scene caters to all tastes and preferences, ensuring that everyone can enjoy delicious and cruelty-free meals.
Portland, Oregon, ranks #2 and has a long-standing history of vegetarian and vegan living. The city's veggie scene dates back over a hundred years, and Portland continues to be a leader in promoting plant-based lifestyles. Portland is home to unique vegan establishments, such as a chickpea ice cream shop that offers innovative and delicious flavors. The city also boasts a vegan mini-mall, where visitors can find a variety of vegan products, from snacks to clothing.
Portland's vegan community is strong and, with many local businesses supporting and promoting veganism. The city even has a vegan strip club, where the dancers' attire and the food served are entirely vegan. Portland's dedication to veganism is evident in the widespread acceptance and availability of vegan products and services. The city hosts numerous events and gatherings for vegans, fostering a sense of community and support among those who choose a plant-based lifestyle.
Bristol, England, takes the #1 spot as the most vegan-friendly city in the world. The city offers an incredible range of independent plant-based cafes and restaurants, catering to the diverse tastes of its residents and visitors. Popular spots include Ooowee Diner, which serves vegan versions of meaty junk food, and VX Bristol, known for its amazing vegan junk food offerings.
Bristol also features a vegan co-working space and hosts monthly vegan events, creating a strong sense of community and support for those who follow a plant-based diet. The city's commitment to environmental sustainability is reflected in the high number of vegan or vegetarian MPs. The community website Vegan Bristol provides a comprehensive listing of vegan and veg-friendly businesses in the area, including restaurants, breweries, and natural health practitioners.
Overall, Bristol's amazing vegan scene and commitment to promoting a plant-based lifestyle make it the top destination for vegans worldwide. The city's diverse dining options, supportive community, and environmental consciousness make it perfect for those who choose to live a cruelty-free and sustainable life.
Have you been to any of the cities on this list? Comment below.
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