The Worst Countries To Visit As A Vegan
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Let’s be honest—not every country is a vegan dream. Some places just aren’t built for plant-based living. Whether it’s meat-heavy menus, a lack of dairy-free options, or confused waiters asking, “But you eat chicken, right?” — traveling as a vegan can get frustrating.
Here are 5 countries that were tough for me, and some real-life tips to help you survive them with your values (and stomach) intact.
1. Argentina: Meat. Is. Everywhere.
Argentina is famous for its steak, and it shows. From parrillas (grill houses) to empanadas stuffed with beef, meat is the star of almost every meal. Even side salads come topped with ham or tuna.
How to survive: Learn the words “sin carne” (no meat) and be clear about what vegan means. Stock up on fresh produce at local markets and cook when you can. Buenos Aires does have a few vegan cafes—hunt them down and treat yourself!
Check the app Happy Cow to find vegan cafes in each city.
2. Japan: Sneaky Fish Everywhere
You’d think rice and veggies would be safe, right? Not always. In Japan, dashi (fish broth) sneaks into everything from soup to dipping sauces. Even seemingly vegan sushi might be hiding mayo or bonito flakes.
How to survive: Download the “HappyCow” app and look for Buddhist temples that serve shojin ryori (a traditional vegan cuisine). Also, keep snack staples like nuts, seaweed sheets, or rice balls on hand.
3. Russia: Dairy and Meat Are Standard
Russia leans heavily on hearty, creamy, and meaty foods. Think beef stroganoff, cheese-filled pastries, and soups with meat stock. Plant-based eating isn’t exactly a cultural norm yet.
How to survive: Hit grocery stores for basics like bread, fruit, and canned beans. Learn a few key phrases in Russian and bring your own non-dairy milk if possible. Don’t expect much in restaurants—you’ll likely need to self-cater.
Tip: Bigger cities like Moscow and St. Petersburg have numerous options for vegans (Like Mox).
4. France: Cheese, Butter, and Blank Stares
The French love their dairy. Baguettes and wine? Yes. Vegan cheese and almond milk? Not so much. Veganism is growing in Paris, but outside the big cities, expect confusion.
How to survive: Focus on bread, fruit, olives, and the occasional vegan find at organic markets. Search out ethnic restaurants like Lebanese, Indian, or Vietnamese—they’re often your best bet.
5. South Korea: Kimchi Isn’t Always Vegan
While South Korea has tons of veggie dishes, many include fish sauce, anchovy broth, or beef stock. Even the beloved kimchi is often made with seafood-based seasonings.
How to survive: Look for temple cuisine (called “balwoo gongyang”) and explore traditional markets for tofu, veggies, and rice. Learn how to ask clearly for no meat or fish sauce.
Final Thoughts
Traveling as a vegan takes extra prep, but it’s totally doable. These countries may be challenging, but they’re also full of amazing culture, sights, and yes—vegan workarounds. Bring your snacks, do your research, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. You’ll survive (and maybe even thrive) with a bit of creativity and patience.
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