One of the easiest ways to dive into the culture of a new place is to eat the food. And while eating is an important part of any travel experience, diet limitations can make it a little tricky, depending on where in the world you are. Some places are not as accommodating of vegan and vegetarian diets as others. Fortunately, there are several countries that not only understand plant-based diets but also celebrate them through vibrant, flavorful cuisine. Whether you’re avoiding meat for ethical, health, or environmental reasons, here are some of the best countries for non-meat eaters.
India is often the first country that comes to mind for vegetarian travelers, and for good reason. A large part of the country’s population lives a vegetarian lifestyle for religious and cultural reasons, so plant-based meals are the norm rather than the exception. From creamy lentil dal and spicy vegetable curries to dosas, samosas, and fresh mango lassis, there is a wide variety of satisfying plant-based meals available. Vegan travelers will find plenty of options too, especially in cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore, where dairy-free eateries are becoming more popular.
Next up is Thailand, a country where vegetables, tofu, and rice form the backbone of many dishes. While traditional Thai cuisine often includes fish sauce or shrimp paste, many restaurants, especially in tourist areas and cities like Chiang Mai, offer clear vegan and vegetarian menus. Look for dishes like pad thai jay (vegetarian pad thai), coconut-based curries, and som tam (green papaya salad). During the annual Vegetarian Festival, celebrated in places like Phuket, the country transforms into a vegan food paradise.
Israel is another standout for plant-based travelers. Thanks to a strong Mediterranean food culture and a booming vegan movement, cities like Tel Aviv have become some of the most vegan-friendly places on Earth. Staples like falafel, hummus, baba ghanoush, fresh salads, and pita breads are widely available, and many restaurants proudly cater to vegans.
Italy may not be the first palace that comes to mind when thinking about vegan cuisine, considering its cheese-laden reputation. But beyond the cheesy pasta dishes lies a rich tradition of vegetable-focused cooking. Classic dishes like pasta with tomato sauce, grilled eggplant, roasted peppers, and minestrone soup are naturally vegetarian or easily made vegan. Regions like Tuscany and Sicily, in particular, have long embraced seasonal, plant-based ingredients.Other honorable mentions include Vietnam, with its light rice-noodle dishes and Buddhist vegetarian restaurants; Germany, where cities like Berlin are now hubs for creative vegan cuisine; and Ethiopia, where fasting days mean lentils, greens, and injera abound. For plant-based travelers, the world is full of delicious possibilities as long as you know where to look.
