No longer are vegans being cast to the back of menus - an after-thought consisting of a simplistic and uninspiring dishes - but have found themselves in the spotlight. Vegan celebrities, athletes and influencers have all helped bring the vegan lifestyle to the western mainstream, championing vegan nutrition for its health benefits.
However, the concept that we may now refer to as ethical eating has long been an existing practice across the world. Asian cuisine has based itself on the flavours of vegetables, herbs, spices and grains for centuries, making itself a place of solace for vegan and vegetarian travellers.
India has a reputation for being home to the highest number of vegetarian residents, and vegans can find a world of flavourful and colourful curry dishes within its boundaries. While Mediterranean countries like Italy and Greece have a bias towards seafood, vegan pastas, salads and mezes can be conjured up out of sun-soaked tomatoes and tasty peppers. Similarly, Turkey may be known for its kebabs, but its falafel, couscous and hummus have become vegan essentials all over the world.
![Fresh in the Garden Restaurant at Soneva Fushi]()
Fresh in the Garden Restaurant at Soneva Fushi
Going Vegan Afar
For the health conscious, travel options needn't be limited. In fact, seeing the world from a different perspective is at the very core of the enjoyment of travel; being prepared to try new things, connect with a new culture and learn a new way of life are all elements that both travel and veganism have in common. Be inspired to take a step into the unfamiliar with your travel plans, and explore the possibilities offered when you look beyond the expected with the best places for going vegan abroad.
Bodyholiday
Based in St Lucia, Bodyholiday is a dream come true for those who want to feel good. Dedicated to offering a health retreat with a difference, any expectations you may have of a drill-run boot camp will be unfounded. Grounded in a belief that health and wellbeing should be enjoyed, grab a group of friends and get active together with a schedule of fitness, yoga, water and sport classes in a beautiful beach location.
![Yoga at BodyHoliday]()
Yoga at BodyHoliday
The food philosophy is equally as desirable; food is considered as both your body's most important fuel and vital pleasure. The Resident Nutritionist can create a customised meal plan of vegan cuisine and can help you learn how to be vegan in the healthiest possible way.
COMO Shambala Estate
The achingly chic collection of COMO Resorts are the resorts of choice for luxury travellers looking to connect with the culture of a destination. In Bali, COMO Shambhala Estate embraces the spiritual power of the tranquil surroundings, calling itself a 'Retreat for Change'. The team of resident experts includes a yoga teacher, Ayurvedic doctor and resident dietician, forming a tag-team of wellbeing pros who can help you find your inner peace.
![Breakfast in the Bayugita Residence]()
Breakfast in the Bayugita Residence
![Preparing food]()
Preparing food
![Couples Cooking Class]()
Couples Cooking Class
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Vegan travellers will be elated to find nutritious food served at the resort's buzzing heart, aptly named 'glow'. Here, you will find an all-day menu of Balinese-inspired dishes rich in goodness served in an effortlessly laid-back setting. With plenty of lively and flavourful vegan options, all diet types will feel tempted to try some plant-based specialities; coconut and vegetable noodles, butternut pumpkin and macadamia nut pizza and the seven-grain veggie burger are just some of the best vegan food offerings you will find.
The Maldives
Home to some of the most luxurious beach resorts in the world, the Maldives also makes an impressive commitment to sustainability and conservation. Six Senses resorts have recently announced their 'Eat With Six Senses' dining philosophy, which promises that every guest who visits one of their resorts will dine on the freshest locally and ethically sourced ingredients they can find, promoting healthy gut bacteria and reducing carbon footprints. Six Senses Laamu in the Maldives has an impressive eco policy, and you can explore the beauty of the island knowing your diet is well catered to.
Soneva Fushi is also a champion when it comes to catering for vegan and vegetarian travellers. Special menus are provided to guests with any dietary requirements, featuring ingredients grown in the resort's own gardens. They also donate 50 cents made from every main course to support causes that fight malnutrition across the world.
Nobu Hotel Ibiza Bay
Ibiza has long been the boho beauty of Europe. While the boom of nightclubs and DJ sets may have overshadowed its spiritual heritage, it is certainly still alive and kicking - today, the island is just as much of a place to come to chill out as it is to over-indulge.
![Fruit and Chia Platter at Celicioso restaurant]()
Fruit and Chia Platter at Celicioso restaurant
Nobu Hotel Ibiza Bay is one of the most talked-about new hotel openings on the island. And, we think the Balearics non-conformist forerunners would be proud to see the offering of vegan and sugar-free dishes, boasting an emphasis on wholesome and nourishing food at Celisioso restaurant. You can also refresh with a selection of healthy smoothies and juices to sip on as you relax by the pool or after a massage or facial in the outdoor treatment cabana overlooking the bay.