Contrary to popular belief following a vegan lifestyle is neither difficult nor expensive even while traveling.
Back in 2003 when veganism and plant-based dining were not as common as they are today, when traveling extensively around North America we still found great restaurants and eateries in the least likely of places. Back then we were still vegetarians so occasionally we consumed some dairy products and eggs however, our primary diet had neither in it.
Once in the heart of “beef country”, Amarillo, Texas, we came across a great little organic vegetarian café/grocery store and found it by following a website “Happy Cow”. Back then smartphones and apps didn’t exist so Happy Cow became our go-to guide in our travels. Fast forward to 2016 and you will find several apps available to help you find vegan sources no matter where you go. Happy Cow now has an app for smartphones which we refer to wherever we go and it works internationally too. However, sometimes, mostly due to new places popping up before they are aware of them, we will find places not listed but as consumers we can send the information to Happy Cow and they are more than happy to include it.
Zomato (formerly Urban Spoon) and Trip Advisor are also helpful apps for finding vegetarian fare and we have found that vegetarian friendly restaurants are very good at accommodating a vegan palate, simply by removing a cheese, egg or other item from the dish. Quite often they will have vegan options listed on their menus anyway.
Even hard core carnivorous restaurants can be accommodating when it comes to getting veggies, pasta, and salads if we simply ask them to omit something from the plate we order. Without being militant about it, we simply say we prefer to not eat animal products and usually together with the server, we can find something quite compatible. Realistically, unless you absolutely refuse to eat at dining establishments where animal products are served, going out for dinner and traveling can be so simple. Even some of the fast-food places are jumping on the vegan bandwagon and coming up with some pretty great dishes.
So you see, traveling and being vegan can exist easily and simultaneously so Happy Trails folks!
Susan Hollingshead
Susan is our resident vegan. She’s been a vegetarian for 20 years, and a vegan for 3. She has researched both lifestyles extensively and is constantly exploring new recipes, add her own twist. She is a long time Spud customer, and now our very own resident vegan blogger!
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