Travel
Four Stays Around The World to Celebrate ‘Veganuary’ This January
BOOKING.COM
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Whether experimenting with a vegan diet or already adopting a plant-based lifestyle, use Veganuary, the month dedicated to inspiring people to try a vegan diet and lifestyle, to venture to unmissable destinations and indulge in mouthwatering vegan cuisines. With 35%* of travelers motivated to travel to a new country to try new food, there is no better time to dive into plant-based eating than in January. From home-grown produce, to unmissable dining, we have unveiled some of the world’s top vegan-friendly destinations to sink those teeth into.
Tucked away in Southwest India and with a rich culinary tradition rooted in plant-based ingredients and tropical flavors, Kerala is a must-visit for vegans. Known as ‘God’s Own Country,’ Kerala’s cuisine naturally draws on its readily available ingredients, including an array of vegetables, coconuts, spices and rice, with many dishes being inherently vegan. Don’t miss trying sadhya, a variety of traditional vegetable dishes served on a banana leaf, or some of Kerala’s creamy coconut-based curries including nadan kozhi. Located a short drive away from Kerala’s city center, travelers wanting hands-on knowledge of the city’s farming and cooking traditions can learn more at the Philipkutty’s Farm Culinary Tour. Hosted by the knowledgeable and skilful lady of the traditional agrarian household, visitors can explore the grounds before cooking and feasting on the unique cuisine this region has to offer.
Where to stay: Set within a 200-acre (809-thousand square meter) coffee and spice plantation, Pepper Trail takes its name from the grounds on site. Offering tree houses, heritage suites and pool villas for travelers to stay in, paired with a 65-foot (20-meter) infinity pool and Ayurveda Spa, this property embodies relaxation and rejuvenation. Looking to get out and about while in Kerala? Why not try out a selection of the resort’s complimentary activities including guided plantation walks, open jeep safari, cycling, fishing, canoeing or coracle rides.
Portland, Oregon, United States
The midpoint between the Pacific and the Cascade Mountain Range, the lakeside city of Portland is rooted in food and drink history from craft beer to home-grown vegetables. Home to mild winters and long hot summers, in addition to acres of hiking trails and forests engulfing the city center, Portland offers travelers a breath of fresh air. Renowned for its hip and alternative food scene, from plant-based fine-dining to food trucks and cafes, the city has it all when it comes to vegan food options, including Box Car Pizza for vegan Detroit-style pizza, Kure Superfood Cafe, a health-food haven, and Kann, for a more upmarket experience. In addition to the city’s vast food options, the local craft beer scene is unmissable, with residents drawing on the fresh, local ingredients, including Willamette Valley hops and Bull Run water, to experiment with flavors and tastes. This Craft Breweries Walking Tour will give travelers a taste of some of the city’s much-loved historic breweries and newly opened favorites and the chance to sample some pilsners, IPAs and hops for themselves.
Where to stay: Bringing materials and inspiration from around the world together to create a social hotel, KEX Hotel near Portland Union Station is perfect for the traveler looking to explore new horizons. With vegetarian, dairy-free and gluten-free options offered in the on-site dining room, travelers staying at this property have unlimited access to the city’s array of vegan food options to enjoy.
The charming city of Chiang Mai in the mountainous region of Thailand is renowned for its rich cultural heritage and unforgettable hospitality. Paired with a thriving plant-based food scene, Chiang Mai is also an ideal destination for vegan travelers. The country’s longstanding tradition of Buddhist vegetarian cuisine has evolved to incorporate vegan dishes, making the city extremely plant-friendly for those looking to try out Veganuary. Chiang Mai is known for its delicious and affordable vegan options, whether that be in street food stalls or restaurants using locally grown vegetables, tofu and tempeh. Those looking to explore more of the city’s natural surroundings are encouraged to visit Elephant Rescue Park to enjoy an up close experience with its resident elephants saved from a previous life. For night owls the Sunday Night Market awaits, packed with souvenirs, local trinkets and of course an array of vegan Thai food to tuck into.
Where to stay: Situated in the city center of Chiang Mai, stay at Raya Heritage – SHA Plus for an unforgettable relaxing getaway. With garden views overlooking the property’s grounds, outdoor spa and wellness facilities and plenty of vegan-friendly food options to choose from at the on-site restaurant Khu Khao, there is no better place to soak up Thai culture than within this resort.
Located along a chain of mountains in the western region of Nicaragua lies La Laguna. Surrounded by a plethora of growing edible produce, including dragon fruit, a variety of native beans and rice plantations, this reserve is a hidden gem for foodies. Vegans will feel at home with the local dishes, including Gallo Pinto, rice and beans, and Buñuelos, dough balls with syrup. With no motorboats or transportation allowed on Apoyo Lagoon Natural Reserve’s vibrant blue waters, La Laguna makes a peaceful getaway location for those looking for a relaxing eco-friendly start to the New Year.
Where to stay: The recently renovated holiday home, Casa Bella, is the ideal spot for travelers to admire La Laguna’s picturesque waterfront and sky-high mountain surroundings. The property’s fully equipped kitchen allows guests to experiment with cooking some of the region’s local vegan dishes, while the outdoor fireplace and picnic area is the perfect place to cozy up with a warm bowl of food. Away from the kitchen, guests can enjoy the property’s private beach area and watersport facilities or simply relax on the terrace to take in the views.
*Research commissioned by Booking.com and independently conducted among a sample of 32,300 respondents across 32 markets (including 2,000 from the US, 800 from Canada, 1,800 from Australia, 500 from New Zealand, 800 from Spain, 800 from Italy, 1,800 from France, 1,800 from the UK, 1,800 from Germany, 800 from the Netherlands, 500 from Denmark, 500 from Sweden, 400 from Croatia, 800 from Switzerland, 800 from Belgium, 800 from Ireland, 500 from Austria, 1,800 from Mexico, 800 from Colombia, 1,800 from Brazil, 800 from Argentina, 1,800 from India, 800 from China, 500 from Hong Kong, 800 from Thailand, 800 from Singapore, 500 from Taiwan, 800 from Vietnam, 800 from South Korea, 1,800 from Japan, 500 from UAE). In order to participate in this survey, respondents had to be 18 years of age or older, had to have traveled for leisure in the past 12 months including an overnight stay, planning to travel for leisure in 2024 and involved in travel planning. The survey was taken online and took place in January and February 2024.
