The Korea Tourism Organization announced the tour earlier this month, which will be led by the US-based Green Earth Travel – specialists in vegan and sustainable trips and vacations.

The nine-day tour will include stops in major cities such as Seoul, Busan, and Jeju, showcasing local markets, restaurants, cooking classes, and other culturally significant activities, such as a stay at a temple and a visit to Gangcheon Mountain.

Throughout the tour, participants will be able to taste – and at times, even prepare themselves – authentic Korean dishes and ingredients like gochujang, makgeolli, kimchi pancakes, and bibimbap, all made using 100 percent plant-based ingredients.

“I had never seen a tourism board create an opportunity like this focused solely on promoting vegan dining and sustainability before,” explained Donna Zeigfinger, Travel Advisor and Green Earth Travel founder, in a statement sent to Plant Based News (PBN). “Witnessing the creativity and passion behind South Korea’s surging vegan movement first-hand made me realize there was enormous potential for a specialized vegan food tour here.”

Green Earth Travel’s “South Korea Food Adventure” will run from September 20 to 28, 2024, and cost USD $4120 per person with double occupancy accommodation. The tour includes an English-speaking guide throughout, accommodation, meals, and activities.

South Korea’s flourishing plant-based market

The Korean Tourism Organization arranged the tour after noting a significant increase in the number of people adopting a vegan lifestyle. As of 2021, there were at least 2.5 million vegans in South Korea, with the overall number increasing tenfold between 2008 and 2018.

Zeigfinger noted to PBN that booking vegan trips to Seoul a decade ago was a very different undertaking due to the strong influence of meat and dairy in traditional Korean cuisine. But since then, what she described to PBN as a “food revolution” has swept the country.

In October 2023 the country notably became the second in the world after Denmark to publish a national plan for boosting the plant-based food industry, including the establishment of a research center for alternatives to animal-derived foods.

This growing national awareness of the environmental and health benefits of producing and eating more plant-based food and a large uptick in the number of vegan and vegan-friendly eateries has made South Korea an ideal destination for plant-based travelers.

“Our new South Korea vegan food tour lets travelers feast on the country’s bursting plant-based dining scene,” said Zeigfinger. “Guests can indulge in innovative vegan takes on Korean classics across Seoul while learning about the traditions behind the cuisine. It’s a deliciously eye-opening culinary adventure!”

More like this:

• South Korea Party Pledges New Legal Status For Animals
• How To Stay At ‘England’s First’ Plant-Based Hotel
• Japan Looks To Attract Vegan Tourists With More Plant-Based Restaurant Options

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The menus at Beck Hall in Malham are already half plant-based. But owners Louise and Andy Macbeth decided to go all in with their catering after undergoing their own journey towards veganism.

“We’d previously enjoyed eating out, but finding quality vegan food can be difficult, with often only one option on a menu and the dishes wouldn’t be as good as we could make at home,” Louise Macbeth told Plant Based News. “Considering this and the fact that it didn’t sit well with us that we were still selling animal produce at Beck Hall, we decided to take a leap and become England’s first fully plant-based hotel.”

Many other features of the hotel will be vegan. These include toiletries, in-room trays, laundry detergents and conditioner, duvets and pillows. Staff are not permitted to bring non-vegan lunches to eat on site.

Some of the furnishings are not currently vegan, such as leather booth seating and chairs, wool in carpets, and down in cushions. “We won’t be replacing these until worn,” said Louise. “However when we do replace them it will be with vegan alternatives.”

The hotel is open for bookings while it makes the final transition to being plant-based.

Compassion for animals

The transition to serving all vegan food follows the Macbeths’ own journey to cutting animal products out of their lives.

“We were living onsite at Beck Hall in Malham and one night the cows were so noisy, bellowing all night,” Louise explained. “We later found out that they were calling out for their calves who had been taken away so that the mother’s milk was available for us. 

“As new parents to twins, we couldn’t fathom this unbearable cruelty just so we could drink cow’s milk, when there are so many other options available. This was the start of a journey that eventually led our family to becoming plant-based.”

The Macbeths, who have run the hotel for nearly a decade, said the response to their announcement has been “amazing.” Other vegan businesses have praised the move too. According to a press release from Beck Hall, the team at The Queen Inn Cwmbran, Wales – the country’s first vegan steakhouse – said: “We transitioned to fully vegan in January 2022 and have only gotten busier. Aligning your business with your ethics massively empowers what you’re doing, and we’ve been so passionate about our business ever since.”

Beck Hall is already a popular award-winning hotel. Accolades include Trip Advisor’s Travelers’ Choice 2023 and winning a Bronze Award from Green Tourism. The hotel is dog-friendly, making it a great place to stay for those taking their companions on walking holidays in the Yorkshire Dales. While customers can bring non-vegan food for their dogs, any treats provided by Back Hall will be vegan.

Exciting new menu options

Beck Hall serves breakfast, lunch, dinner, afternoon tea, and Sunday roasts. Sample menus reveals some of the meals that guests have to look forward to.

Before setting out for a day of walking on the Dales, guests can fill up at the breakfast bar or order a full English, pancakes, or chai latte porridge. Lunch offerings include a range of sandwiches such as a “chicken” pesto baguette or Chuna bagel. More hearty options are available too, such as burgers and a hotpot pie.

After a day of hiking, guests can recover with a full three course meal. For starters, perhaps the potato and sweetpea samosas or the “shrimp” cocktail. Mains feature slow-cooked seitan ribs, Moroccan “lamb”, or a North Indian thali. For afters: sticky toffee pudding, lemon chia cheesecake, or pomegranate and rose mess.

Afternoon teas include loose leaf teas, a selection of sandwiches, warm homemade scones with butter, jam and cashew cream and a variety of cakes. On Sundays, there is a choice of seitan roasts or a mushroom wellington. They come with all the trimmings including vegan Yorkshire puddings. 

Beck Hall plans to “continue to foster a culture of innovation among the team and strive for excellence” in plant-based cooking. To this end, Louise Macbeth will begin a Diploma in Plant-based Culinary Arts at Le Cordon Bleu London culinary school in January 2024. 

More plant-based accommodation

Beck Hall may be the first plant-based hotel in England, but it isn’t the first plant-based accommodation. In fact, there are several vegan and plant-based bed and breakfasts dotted already dotted around the country.

Goats & Oats at Garsdale is a fully vegan bed and breakfast a little farther north in the Yorkshire Dales. Run by Graham and Linda Bourke, who told London Vegan Diaries: “We chose to move to the Yorkshire Dales due to the beautiful surroundings and to provide a place for vegans to visit without having to worry about what’s on the menu or what the people at the next table will be eating.” The toiletries and furniture are entirely free of animal products too. 

In Scarborough, North Yorkshire, Peasholm Park Vegan B&B offers guests a Full Vegan Breakfast or lighter options such as scrambled tofu on toast. Twigs and Leaves Vegan B&B in

Lincoln is a Grade II listed cottage offering freshly made dinners. It is closed over the winter.

Scotland has a dog-friendly plant-based hotel, Saorsa 1875, which offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The Field Shelter in Perthshire, Scotland is both a guest house and an animal sanctuary, currently focused on rescuing sheep. 

More like this:

• British Restaurant Awards Unveils Its Top 10 Vegan-Friendly UK Eateries
• Vegan Brand Wins 4 Times At International Cheese And Dairy Awards
• These Might Just Be The 10 Best Restaurants In Central London (And They’re All Vegan-Friendly)

The post How To Stay At ‘England’s First’ Plant-Based Hotel appeared first on Plant Based News.

You, a hammock, and the refreshing waters of Bacalar’s Blue Lake in Mexico…

Can it get any better? 

It can — all-inclusive plant-based meals, off-grid eco-resort, and a companion of your choice to share in the experience. 

Plant Based News has partnered with Complement, PlantYou, Angela Rummans, Hank Ge, and Azul Nomeolvides to give away the plant-based getaway of your dreams.  

Here’s what you could win: 

• Grand Prize: 6 nights for two at the incredible Azul Nomeolvides boutique eco-resort in Mexico. This includes round-trip airfare and meals, plus a year of the PlantYou meal planner and an empowering Complement nutrient gift box to support your plant-based lifestyle. (Value $6,330)
• Runner-Up: One year of the PlantYou meal planner and a massive Complement nutrient gift box to support your plant-based lifestyle. (Value $630)
• Second Runner-Up: A two-month supply of Complement nutrients plus a year of access to the PlantYou meal planner. (Value $280)

Entering the Eco-Luxe Plant-Based Getaway Sweepstakes is easy, with no purchase necessary and nearly a dozen simple ways to increase your chances of winning.

So what are you waiting for? 

Click here to enter the Eco-Luxe Plant-Based Getaway Sweepstakes.

About the Azul Nomeolvides Resort

Azul Nomeolvides is an award-winning eco-retreat at the incredible Bacalar blue lake in Mexico. 

Rising seamlessly out of the Mayan jungle, above the widest area of Bacalar, you will discover a lakeside heaven filled with natural beauty, rustic luxury, and secluded relaxation. Their in-house restaurant features incredible plant-based meals, and the a-frame cabins are cleverly made out of local materials to immerse you in a luxurious escape. 

Be ready to soak up the laid back atmosphere, connect with nature, and enjoy a stunning slow-life experience.

Click here to enter the Eco-Luxe Plant-Based Getaway Sweepstakes for a chance to win six nights at the incredible Azul Nomeolvides resort.

* This content is produced in collaboration with Complement. Our commercial partnerships with organizations like this help us to provide our free services to millions of people each week.

The post Here’s How To Win An Eco-Luxe Plant-Based Getaway To Mexico appeared first on Plant Based News.

Ecojet – the brainchild of green energy tycoon Dale Vince – will launch early next year. The airline consists of several 19-seater airplanes, all of which are capable of traveling 300 miles. The first flight will travel from Edinburgh to Southampton. It’s thought that other longer routes be on the cards in the future. Vince has stated that he hopes to introduce 70-seater planes that can fly to mainland Europe after around 18 months. 

The airplanes are conventional planes, rather than new models. They will initially run on kerosene-based fuel. After about a year, however, they will be retrofitted with engines that can convert green hydrogen into electricity. 

“The question of how to create sustainable air travel has plagued the green movement for decades, Ecojet is by far the most significant step towards a solution to date,” Vince said in a statement. “The desire to travel is deeply etched into the human spirit, and flights free of CO2 emissions, powered by renewable energy will allow us to explore our incredible world without harming it for the first time.”

Ecojet’s eco credentials

The airline will only serve plant-based food on board. Animal agriculture is thought to be responsible for more greenhouse gasses than all transportation combined (including planes), so this decision is in line with its eco credentials. Staff will also reportedly wear environmentally friendly uniforms, and there will be no single use plastic served. 

While Ecojet will not launch as an electric airline, Vince told the Guardian that an initial use of kerosene-based fuel was essential in order to launch quickly, secure planes and landing spots, and “keep up the momentum” of the project. 

“It does feel like a contradiction but at the heart of this project is upcycling existing planes and retrofitting them,” he told the publication. “This is the pragmatic approach, which means we won’t lose time. We will build up the infrastructure, get the planes in the air and swap in the engines when they are available.”

According to Vince, travelling on his planes will not cost you more than other conventional airlines. He is appealing to the mass market, meaning it ideally won’t be just environmentally conscious consumers who come aboard his flights. 

The environmental impact of planes

The aviation industry alone is thought to be responsible for 2.5 percent of global CO2 emissions. Most conventional jets are run on gasoline, though some use biofuels – which convert to CO2 when burned.

Aviation emissions have doubled since the mid-1980s. They’ve also been growing at a similar rate as other CO2 emissions, meaning their share of these has been pretty much unchanged since then. 

The post UK’s First Electric Airline Launches – And It Only Serves Plant-Based Meals appeared first on Plant Based News.

But for plant-based or vegan tourists, navigating the meat and fish dominant Japanese cuisine can be tricky or even frustrating. That’s why Tokyo and other major cities have announced that they are working to expand vegan options so that all visitors, no matter what their food preferences, can enjoy the acclaimed gastronomy. 

Ninna Fujimoto, a representative of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government, told Agence France Presse that city officials are working to improve its plant-based food options, hoping to encourage more vegan tourists to visit Japan. Since the global pandemic, tourism in the country has declined from 32 million visitors in 2019 to just about 12 percent of that number – or 3.8 million in 2022. 

Now, the government intends to help accommodate vegan and vegetarian tourists by working with restaurants and chefs to introduce veggie alternatives to classic dishes. Tokyo currently publishes a specialist restaurant guide, offers subsidies for businesses that get veggie-friendly, and hires two vegetarian and vegan chefs as “tourism ambassadors.” 

Japanese cuisine shifting to more plant-based ingredients

Tokyo’s government has held seminars and lessons to help restaurants develop alternatives to traditional ingredients such as fish flakes or pork-bone broth. Restaurants, such as the city’s Izakaya Masaka, have introduced vegan versions of dumplings and Japanese “karaage” fried chicken made with soy. 

Katsumi Kusumoto, one of the tourism ambassadors, runs Saido in Meguro City, Tokyo. His beloved menu serves vegan versions of Japanese staples, including a grilled eel made entirely from vegetables and tofu. More than half of the chef’s customers are foreign tourists, and until recently, many felt excluded from the city’s fine dining scene. 

“In Tokyo, there are lots of Michelin-starred restaurants, the most in the world. But compared to other cities, Tokyo has extremely few vegan and vegetarian restaurants,” he told Agence France Presse. 

Other organizations, including the non-profit VegeProject Japan, aim to encourage more restaurants to offer plant-based, vegan or vegetarian dishes. Harko Kawano, the organization’s founder, explains that the biggest hurdle is persuading chefs to stop using ingredients such as dashi stock, which are frequently added to otherwise vegan or vegetarian dishes. 

“A lot of restaurants think making vegan dishes is very, very difficult,” she said to Japan Times. “In Japan, there are few vegetarians or vegans, (so owners) don’t know about them, or what they really want.”

Outside of Tokyo, other cities such as Sapporo and Ikaho have initiatives that promote vegan cuisine for tourists. In Sapporo, the city’s tourism promotion committee is releasing an online video series about vegetarian restaurants and cafes across the city. 

What makes Japanese food not vegan?

Before preparations for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, guidelines or customs for plant-based dishes were limited. However, in 2019, the government launched programs that would help guide tourists to vegan options, including subsidies to encourage plant-based menus and certifications to identify which items are vegetarian and vegan. These programs significantly increased the number of vegan-friendly restaurants across Japan, which jumped from about 400 vegan eating spots in 2018 to over 1,000 vegan-friendly restaurant choices by 2020. 

Still, certain culinary and cultural traditions have kept Japanese food from becoming fully vegan-friendly. Traditionally, Japanese chefs use dashi stock in a large number of ingredients and dishes, such as seasonings, soups, and sauces. Other fish-derived ingredients, such as fish sauce and bonito flakes, are commonly used in restaurants without markings or menu warnings. Kawano noted that many chefs feel reluctant to switch ingredients, but there are plenty of alternatives on the market. 

“There are some very good dashi made without animal products,” Kawano said to Japan Times. “If they try and understand how good it is, they can maybe make very beautiful, delicious Japanese food.”

Some companies, including Top Tier Foods or Wamame, have taken to create vegan replicas of popular Japanese staples such as Waygu beef. Wamame’s plant-based Waygu is made from Canadian yellow peas, Canadian Fava Beans, and Japanese soybeans. 

Vegan Tourism Is On The Rise 

As Japan prepares to welcome more vegan and plant-based tourists, the world is catering to vegan travelers more than ever.

Apps such as Vegvistis or Happy Cow aim to provide resources to tourists to find the best plant-based options abroad. Customers can use Vegvistis to plan their vacations in over 80 countries with plans for future expansion. Overall, the culinary tourism market is expected to grow at a CAGR of about 16 percent between 2022 and 2023, according to Future Market Insights. The report emphasized that vegans, vegetarians, and flexitarians are gaining immense traction in food tourism, inspiring regions to update their vegan and culinary offerings. 

According to a recent piece in The New York Times, plant-centric hotels, restaurants, and tours are proliferating on every continent. From Greece’s Koukoimi Hotel to Marriott Bonvoy’s Aloft Hotels, travelers can expect to be met with plant-based items everywhere they go. Now Japan looks set to be among them.

The post Japan Looks To Attract Vegan Tourists With More Plant-Based Restaurant Options appeared first on Plant Based News.

Proceeds from each stay in one of the five ensuite bedrooms, with private terrace and views of the Shawangunk Ridge, go towards the 400 rescued farmed animal residents of the sanctuary. Guests also enjoy a freshly prepared seasonal vegan breakfast, sourced from local ingredients. The menu offered at The Gray Barn has been designed to be delicious and comforting for guests, so much so that many have even decided to become vegan after staying at the inn.

The inn is committed to its zero-waste goal, composting food scraps and upcycling retired bedding and towels to be used by the shelter team caring for sick animals. The Gray Barn has also started using bulk soap goods to replace the single-use plastic toiletries and all cleaning materials are non-toxic.

The Gray Barn is a great place to unwind, relax, and enjoy a luxurious escape while giving back to the animals at the same time. Through The Gray Barn, guests can help the nonprofit continue its work in animal rescue and advocacy, providing much-needed support for its residents.

Chef Charlise Rookwood is one of the many vegans to have stayed at the inn.

“I absolutely love my time at The Gray Barn,” she told Plant Based News. “It’s a peaceful retreat that offers a respite from the chaos of urban life. Being surrounded by nature and animals can be a calming and rejuvenating experience.”

She went on to say that the fact that the inn only accommodates a small number of people at a time is a “definite advantage,” adding: “This meant we received personalized attention and enjoyed the tranquility of the surroundings without being disturbed by crowds or noise.

“The Gray Barn is the getaway definitely one of my favourite places to recharge and connect with nature,” she continued.

Book your stay at The Gray Barn

The Gray Barn’s calendar is open all year, so guests can visit whenever they’d like.

To find out more and to book your stay visit their website here

Want to stay at the Sanctuary? For March, use discount code ‘MARCH25‘ to get 25% off.

The Woodstock Farm Sanctuary

Woodstock Farm Sanctuary is an animal rescue and advocacy organization that works to end animal exploitation and build a more compassionate world. Located in High Falls, the sanctuary provides a safe haven for rescued farmed animals, including cows, chickens, turkeys, pigs, goats, sheep, and more.

The mission of Woodstock Farm Sanctuary is to rescue farmed animals from cruelty and neglect, provide them with a safe and nurturing home, and raise awareness of their plight. Through educational programs, outreach efforts, and advocacy campaigns, the sanctuary works to create a more compassionate world for all animals.

The sanctuary operates on the belief that animals have an intrinsic right to be treated with respect and compassion and works to promote a more peaceful and sustainable way of living. Since it was founded in 2004, Woodstock Farm Sanctuary has been a beacon of hope for farmed animals, providing them with a space to live free from fear, exploitation, and suffering.

The sanctuary’s commitment to animal welfare and compassionate living extends beyond the walls of the sanctuary. In addition to rescuing and caring for animals, the sanctuary also provides educational programs for children, adults, and families, as well as outreach and advocacy campaigns to raise awareness of animal exploitation and inspire people to make more compassionate choices.

Find out more about Woodstock Farm Sanctuary on its website.

The Importance Of Animal Sanctuaries

Animal sanctuaries are vital from both a vegan advocacy and education perspective. They are firstly and foremostly places for abandoned and rescued animals to live life free from fear, pain, and suffering. As well as providing this haven for the animals, they also provide a space for people to connect with and learn about them.

At a sanctuary, visitors can observe the animals engaging in their natural behaviors, understand the unique personalities and individual needs of each animal, and learn about their complex social lives. This provides valuable insight into the lives of these animals and why we need to protect them.

Animal sanctuaries also provide an opportunity to connect with animals meaningfully, forming a bond and sparking compassion in visitors. This connection is essential in helping shift people’s consciousness and inspiring them to make more compassionate dietary and lifestyle choices.

Additionally, animal sanctuaries provide educational programs and workshops tailored to children, adults, and families to help further expand their understanding of animal rights and veganism. These programs can be powerful in growing awareness of the plight of farmed animals, inspiring visitors to join the vegan movement, and take action to create positive change.

By supporting animal sanctuaries, we can help to protect animals from exploitation and provide them with a haven where they can live out their lives in peace. We can also help to raise awareness of the plight of farmed animals and inspire more people to choose a vegan lifestyle. Read more about animal sanctuaries and how we can create a more compassionate future for all animals.

It’s important to be aware that some businesses may call themselves “sanctuaries” on false pretences. See PETA’s guide on spotting genuine animal sanctuaries here.

The post Experience Zero-Waste Luxury And Support Animals At The Gray Barn Inn appeared first on Plant Based News.

Since then, their traveling has come a long way. They went vegan in 2017, and may well be the first plant-based couple to ever visit 100 countries. 

Traveling as a vegan can be daunting. While plant-based food is growing in popularity across the world, and some countries eat mostly animal-free foods as default, it can be tricky to know for sure what your options are at your destination. 

Oskar and Dan are here to settle any concerns you may have. Throughout their many years of traveling, they’ve developed several strategies to get the most out of navigating the world as vegans. They spoke to Plant Based News (PBN) to offer their tips, stories, and best countries to visit. 

The best countries to visit as a vegan

“Food is, of course, a huge part of travel,” they say. “What people eat in different regions and cultures can say a lot about a place and its history, and what we put in our bellies is a strong social connector.”

According to the couple, there are two different types of vegan-friendly countries. There are the countries that have natural vegan-friendly local cuisine, and those that have a growing vegan movement. 

“The easiest countries to travel through are the ones that are vegan-friendly on both accounts since it allows you to try lots of authentic local food, while also having some ‘international vegan restaurant-type food’ every now and then.”

The best countries in this category, they say, are in Southeast Asia. Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, Singapore, and parts of Indonesia all offer a wide range of plant-based cuisines. As well as these, Taiwan, the UAE, and Mexico all have a mix of local and international vegan options. The couple also recommend Western Europe and North America – while the local cuisine isn’t vegan-friendly in these places, they do have a rapidly growing plant-based movement. 

Tips for vegan travel

To get the most out of your trip, Oskar and Dan recommend downloading the HappyCow app. The app lets you know local vegan and vegan-friendly restaurants in countries all over the world. The couple describe HappyCow as a “life-saver” as it allows them to find the very best plant-based eateries where they are. 

“In most countries, if there are no options on HappyCow or Google Maps, we try to look for Chinese, Thai, or in some cases, Korean restaurants,” they say. “The former option is likely to have tofu, and if they don’t, at least they’ll have flavorful vegetable dishes. Thai restaurants can almost always make vegetable curries and if you’re lucky, you’ll find a Korean restaurant that’ll make bibimbap with tofu. The latter was our to-go in Uzbekistan, which gets a lot of Korean expats and tourists.” 

Over the course of their many years traveling, the couple have come to realize that expensive hotels often tend to have better vegan options. 

“In places where you get more Western tourists such as the Maldives, Turkey, the Bahamas, and Bolivia, our luxury resorts were highlights when it came to getting semi-nutritious vegan meals,” they say. 

One activity that Oskar and Dan try to do where possible is a cooking class in whatever country they’re in. This allows them to learn more about the local dishes, and how to veganize them. 

“Sometimes there are specific vegetarian or even vegan classes available,” they say. “If not, the organizer is usually happy to accommodate you anyway. This is a great way to learn which local dishes you like and what the ingredients are – very helpful info when looking for options at restaurants later.”

What to do if a country isn’t vegan-friendly 

There are many countries in the world where it’s a challenge to eat vegan food, but that doesn’t mean they should be avoided. 

“We had some of our hardest food-related travel experiences in countries like Uzbekistan, Azerbaijan, Armenia, and Tunisia,” they say. “That’s not to say the trips were bad in themselves; Uzbekistan is one of our biggest travel highlights, but the food was definitely a struggle.” 

In some countries, it may be that your options will be limited to foods like chips, pasta, and salad, but with a bit of preparation that shouldn’t be a problem.

Oskar and Dan recommend always bringing supplements (such as B12, vitamin D, and omega 3) to ensure you’re getting the right nutrients. They also often take protein bars and powders in their suitcase.

Getting the most out of vegan travel

The most important that when traveling as a vegan, they say, is kindness. “Smiling and never passing judgment on the local culture’s way of eating is important as a guest in a foreign place. If someone asks why we’re vegan, we tell the truth, which is that we feel so much better physically, mentally, and spiritually on a plant-based diet.”

They add that, while being vegan can be limiting, it can also become the “very reason a destination becomes amazing!”

“On our Ireland trip, we spent time in Greystones to visit The Happy Pear’s store and restaurant (they are vegan Irish twins who run an incredible vegan online and offline business). In South Korea, we did several temple stays and the temple food is strictly vegetarian. And lastly, discovering and supporting vegan businesses all around the world adds so much value to each and every trip we take.”

The post Vegan Couple Visit 100 Countries To Show Plant-Based Travel Is Possible Anywhere appeared first on Plant Based News.

The 2022 Top 10 Vegan-Friendly Cities guide comes from plant-based restaurant platform HappyCow. It’s the first to be released since before the COVID-19 pandemic, and comes as part of its World Vegan Month celebrations.

Following London is Berlin in second place, New York in third, and Melbourne in fourth. 

Cities were considered against a number of criteria, including the number of vegan restaurants within 10km of the city center. In addition, the number of fully vegan businesses (such as shops and bakeries), perceived overall growth, and how active the plant-based communities are was also taken into consideration.

The best cities in the world for vegans

The HappyCow Top 10 Vegan-Friendly Cities, in order, are:

1. London
2. Berlin
3. New York City
4. Melbourne
5. Singapore
6. Los Angeles
7. Bangkok
8. Amsterdam
9. Warsaw
10. Barcelona

London has more than 400 fully vegan establishments. In addition to a plethora of eateries, it has seen an explosion of new shops, events, and businesses. These include artisan nondairy cheesemakers and meat-free butchers, which have helped take the London vegan experience to new levels.

Berlin and New York have switched positions since 2019’s list. This could be due to Germany’s overall meat consumption reduction. Efforts to lower meat intake have seen the average yearly consumption drop from 138 pounds of animal protein to 121. This marks a reduction of 12.3 percent per person. The number of vegans in Germany has also doubled to 2.6 million between 2016 and 2020.

However, New York is taking steps to promote veganism. It was recently announced that all city hospitals will now serve vegan food as the default option. It comes alongside more than 1,700 New York district schools participating in Vegan Fridays, which sees children given access to healthy plant-based foods.

New additions to the vegan cities list

Amsterdam, Barcelona, Melbourne, and Singapore join the Top 10 as new entries, knocking out Portland, Prague, Tel Aviv, and Toronto. 

It is thought that an influx of new vegan businesses in each of the newly listed cities is the reason for their change in fortunes. Amsterdam, in particular, has seen a 78 percent increase in fully vegan companies over the last three years, according to HappyCow. Demonstrating similar growth, Barcelona has reportedly seen a 74 percent jump.

Melbourne has been a traditionally meat-focused location. Jumping onto the list in fourth place, the city demonstrates the mindset shift that is happening in Australia right now. It’s also confirmation that more than half (55 percent) of Australians and New Zealanders want to see increased access to vegan food in restaurants.

Speaking about the new rankings, Eric Brent, HappyCow’s founder said: “After a major drop in 2019-2021, the growth of vegan restaurants worldwide continues again at an even faster rate than we experienced in 2019.

“I’m happy to see veganism boom, attracting more plant-forward people and businesses across the world to grow the movement together!”

The post London Crowned The Most Vegan-Friendly City In The World appeared first on Plant Based News.

The Dubai-based airline, which is the fourth largest in the world, will offer its First and Business class passengers a curated menu of gourmet vegan dishes. Economy passengers will also be able to choose from a revamped selection of plant-based meals. 

Emirates has long been considered an excellent option for vegan travelers. The airline began offering plant-based dishes on selected flights in the 1990s. Since then, it has embraced the ever-growing meat-free market. It currently offers around 180 plant-based recipes on board. 

According to reports, the new First and Business class menus have been years in the making. The food was developed by chefs at Emirates Flight Catering, a facility situated in Dubai International airport.

The Economy class menu is refreshed every month, and features dishes like multi-colored quinoa with succulent caramelized pear and celeriac purée, roasted cauliflower, glazed carrots, sautéed kale and lovage pesto, and barley risotto with mushrooms, served with sundried tomatoes, buttered chestnuts, blanched broccolini and toasted pumpkin seeds.

Emirates’ announcement of its new plant-based menu was made in conjunction with World Vegan Day, which takes place on November 1. 

The rise of veganism

As recently as a couple of decades ago, veganism was an extremely niche lifestyle in most countries in the world. In recent years, however, it has seen a staggering rise in popularity. 

In January 2022, 639,00 people worldwide signed up for Veganuary. This was up from 400,000 the year before. 

According to statistics, around six percent of the US population identifies as vegan. It is thought that there are around 9.7 million American vegans. 

What’s more, a rapidly growing number of people identify as “flexitarian,” which means that they mostly – but not exclusively – avoid animal products. It is understood that more than half of young Americans are flexitarian. 

The post Emirates Airline Invests Millions Into Improving Its Vegan Food Options appeared first on Plant Based News.

When traveling, it’s hard enough for plant-based eaters to find something they’re able to eat at a restaurant, let alone a destination resort. Depending on where you’d like to go, you may be met with a limited number of options. More often than not, few of those options will be creative or exciting, with choices like sides of steamed vegetables or a baked potato – hold everything!

Staying at a resort that you already know has extensive plant-based options will make your trip that much more enjoyable. Especially when you know those dishes have been thoughtfully crafted with plant-based patrons in mind.

Best vegan-friendly resorts

5 – The Farm At San Benito, Philippines

This unique 48-acre resort, set in the lush jungle of Lipa, Batangas in the Philippines, specializes in healing. It’s actually considered to be a medical wellness resort. It focuses on five pillars: diagnose, cleanse, nourish, repair, and sustain. Its main goal is for guests’ bodies to return to their ideal, balanced state and achieve optimum holistic wellness. With unique programs that occupants can sign up for, including plant-based detox programs, postnatal programs, and even programs for holistic cancer care, The Farm really strives to provide an extensive range of health-centered care. 

These programs aren’t just limited to medical wellness either. The Farm also offers wellness cuisine courses in which you can learn to prepare plant-based meals with professional chefs and a raw food culinary retreat. These offerings come at no surprise, considering The Farm has two refined plant-based restaurants on the premises. If you decide to stay at The Farm At San Benito, you can experience its healing plant-based foods and practices. 

4 – Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort Fiji

Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort Fiji was one of the world’s first resorts to fall under the category of eco-luxury hotels. Every aspect of the resort’s operations and management practices are based on prioritization of the environment.

The resort creates a unique opportunity for travelers to experience the natural wonders that Fiji has to offer, all while supporting the region’s efforts to preserve its beauty for generations to come. There are several exciting off-site activities available from exploring the nearby botanical gardens to snorkeling with the resort’s resident marine biologist.

As far as dining options go, the plant-based menu is extensive and delicious, so you don’t have to repeat a lot of the same meals during your stay (unless of course, you try something so delectable that you can’t help but go back for more). You can enjoy your meals in the main dining room or have them brought to your own private bure. For a one-of-a-kind romantic experience, you can even choose to have a secluded vegan picnic on the resort’s gorgeous private island. 

3 – Stanford Inn By The Sea, Mendocino, California

The Stanford Inn is a sprawling historic farm resort built on a coastal hillside overlooking Mendocino Bay in Northern California. Included in every stay is an individually prepared organic breakfast that you can choose from a 100 percent plant-based menu. 

After breakfast, you can explore the wellness center, take a trip up Big River in a redwood outrigger canoe, or book a romantic massage in the forest for two. When you are finished with your day’s adventures and thinking about your next meal, you can come back to dine at Raven’s Restaurant. With menus inspired by its onsite certified-organic gardens, the restaurant has received national acclaim for its gourmet plant-based cuisine, including praise from Oprah Magazine.

If you want a taste of that quintessential Pacific Northwest beauty, with gorgeous cliff-side ocean views and rustic wood-burning fireplaces, this is the spot for you. 

2 – Koukoumi Hotel, Mykonos, Greece

Koukoumi Hotel currently remains the first and only fully plant-based hotel in Greece. Mykonos is a small island off the coast of Greece, well known for its cosmopolitan nightlife, narrow marble-lined streets, and crystal-clear blue seascapes. Koukoumi Hotel offers attendees the opportunity to discover Mykonos on a deeper level, with guided city excursions to explore the rich local culture and the historical and mythological roots that make it such a unique and beautiful destination. 

If you’re looking for a day of pure relaxation, the Koukoumi Wellness Spa has a number of services for detox and stress release, with packages that can alleviate you from the worries and distractions of the outside world for the entire day. Only premium certified organic cosmetics that are 100 percent vegan and cruelty-free are used on the hotel premises. 

This sentiment also extends to the hotel restaurant, which is completely plant-based, and run by vegan Head Chef Aggeliki Charami. The fine-dining menu is inspired by Mediterranean ingredients, flavors, and smells, with some influence from Japanese recipes and techniques. The chef enjoys exploring the coexistence of opposing elements in nature to create a unique and immersive dining experience for each and every guest.

1 – Palmaïa, The House of AïA, Riviera Maya, Mexico

And now we come to our number one – Palmaïa is Mexico’s premiere, award-winning, progressive wellness and spa resort. Allow yourself to unplug completely and get lost in this secluded sanctuary, with lush oceanfront suites, an immersive jungle spa, and several gourmet eateries with Michelin-restaurant trained chefs from across the globe. 

The house of AïA chefs prepare exquisite daily menus that showcase the immense diversity of flavors that can be achieved with delicious and wholesome plants, exposing those who are not plant-based to a culinary experience they didn’t even know was possible. 

Although the superb dining options alone are enough reason to want to visit The House of AïA, there are so many other wonderful experiences to be had. The available holistic healing programs are unmatched by any other resort on Earth, with personal mind and body guides who have built comprehensive personal growth journeys based on an array of ancient rituals and practices.

With a wide variety of mind and movement classes, you can indulge all of your senses and provide your body with a full range of nourishment. From therapeutic yoga, to deep meditation, to powerful sound healing, your options are boundless.

Palmaïa is so much more than just a beautiful, vegan-friendly beach resort – it’s a fully immersive retreat for your mind, body, and soul.

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* This content is produced in collaboration with Palmaïa. Our commercial partnerships with organizations like this help us to provide our free services to millions of people each week.

The post 5 Of The Best Vegan-Friendly Resorts To Visit In 2023 appeared first on Plant Based News.

It almost sounds too good to be true. And we want to send you there. 

Plant Based News has partnered up with Complement, No Meat Athlete, and Palmaïa for the ultimate vegan-friendly travel competition. And, it’s completely free to enter.

Here’s what you could win: 

• Grand Prize: Four nights for two at the Palmaïa wellness resort in Riviera Maya, Mexico. This includes the round-trip airfare and all meals and drinks. Plus, an empowering Complement nutrient gift box to support your plant-based lifestyle. ($6,700 value)
• Runner-Up: Two nights for two at the Palmaïa wellness resort in Riviera Maya, including round-trip airfare and all meals and drinks. Plus, an empowering Complement nutrient gift box to support your plant-based lifestyle. ($4,500 value)
• Second Runner-Up: One full year of Complement nutrient products for two. Plus, a signed copy of the New York Times bestselling book, The Plant-Based Athlete. ($1,700 value)

Entering the Plant-Based Paradise Sweepstakes is easy, with no purchase necessary and nearly a dozen simple ways to increase your chances of winning.

So what are you waiting for? 

Click here to enter the Plant-Based Paradise Sweepstakes.

Wellness resort Palmaïa, Mexico

Surrounded by 400 hectares of jungle and only 45 minutes from Cancun airport lies Palmaïa, a secluded beachfront wellness sanctuary. It offers oceanfront suites, an eco-friendly jungle spa, gourmet plant-based food, and 24-hour room service.

The resort also features a Mykonos-style beach club, health café, fitness center, Waldorf-inspired kids’ club, and four infinity pools.

Palmaïa’s principles are rooted in compassion and understanding. That’s part of the reason it promotes Progressive Wellness – a healing yet fun, easy, and non-restrictive way to lead a healthy lifestyle. The resort zeroes in on this way of living, whilst encouraging a deep respect for nature, each other, and ourselves.

It operates on the notion that “we are all one.” And thus, the brand maintains, we should treat all life – including the planet – with “respect and divinity.”

To truly bring in the Progressive Wellness concept, the team at Palmaïa host an array of holistic and health activities each day that “nourish and awaken the mind, body, and soul.” Guided meditation sessions, full body workouts, yoga classes, sound healing, cacao ceremonies, soul readings, Temazcal, and many more are all included in your stay. 

It’s more than a wellness retreat. Palmaïa calls it a comprehensive, health-focused, self-nurturing experience. 

Ready to enter the sweepstakes? Click here to enter.

Winners will be announced on November 23, 2022 at 3:00 pm Eastern and notified via email.

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* This content is produced in collaboration with Complement. Our commercial partnerships with organizations like this help us to provide our free services to millions of people each week.

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But unlike the clarity of its oceans, this magical country is hiding a dark secret that you can’t see on Instagram. There’s a huge elephant in the room… and that elephant is fighting for its life. 

Those glistening white sandy beaches and clear oceans are both a blessing and a curse. Without them, the Maldives wouldn’t be the tourist destination it is. But with them, it is officially the flattest country in the world. The highest point is 2.4m above sea level, with the average elevation at only 1.5m (for comparison, the UK average is 162m).

The result of this is that, by 2050, 80 percent of its islands could become uninhabitable at current global warming rates. Despite only being responsible for around 0.003 percent of global emissions, the island is set to be adversely affected by the climate crisis.

Currently, more than 90 percent of the islands in the Maldives have severe erosion, and 97 percent of the country no longer has fresh groundwater (the water found beneath the Earth’s surface).

The bad news continues when it comes to the very thing the Maldives’ famous ring-shaped islands (called “atolls”) are made of – coral. Aside from its physical beauty, coral plays a huge role not only in luring selfie-seekers (coral reefs are worth in excess of $35 billion to tourism worldwide), but in providing both an ecosystem and a natural sea defense to the islands.

In 2016, the Maldives lost its front line of defense when the devastating bleaching event affected about 60 percent of the coral reefs. Many of these haven’t recovered since.

Coral’s role in climate crisis mitigation

Time for some good news? Yes please!

Without boring you with the science, coral are rather remarkable organisms. Due to their colonial nature – most coral are a cluster of individual but interdependent animals, called polyps – they can actually be cloned. In simple terms, small coral fragments can be taken from large corals to be regrown and replanted. 

One of the country’s leading eco-resorts, Gili Lankanfushi, was the first resort in the Maldives to develop a specific coral reef recovery technique. The project has been thriving since it commenced in 2014, and I spent some time with the on-site marine biologist to learn how it works.

The method is simple, but effective. Coral fragments are taken from vulnerable and loose corals found on the reef, and are carefully inserted onto ropes (lines). The lines are then fixed to frames five meters below the surface of the resort’s lagoon. These small coral fragments are monitored, away from the reach of predators and waves, for around three years before being transplanted onto degraded reef areas. 

With every rope housing 20 to 50 small living coral fragments, the corals in the surrounding area grow stronger and bigger over time. During their time on the lines, the fragments also provide a nursery for a huge array of baby reef fish and crustaceans, and when they are eventually transplanted, they improve the health of the reef itself. 

A sustainable plant-based system

On top of this, the resort is one of very few to offer an entirely plant-based menu for guests to enjoy, something I’ve never experienced before. Head Chef Harinath Govindaraj is extremely passionate about plant-based cooking, and has cultivated an entire garden containing fruits, herbs, and vegetables to reduce the need for imports. 

What’s more, an advanced rocket composter can process up to 100 percent of the resort’s food waste, producing compost which in turn nurtures the island’s extensive organic herb garden.

Seaweed is also collected daily when washed up on the beach and composted on site. Withered palm tree leaves are collected and used as roofing, and the Robinson Crusoe-esque accommodation is made from old drift wood and recycled telephone poles. 

There is a real cyclical nature of what is found on the island – not only is it from-farm-to-food, it is also a case of from-island-to-home. With the sustainable ethos running strong in its veins, they also ensure there is no plastic used on site and guests are encouraged to take rubbish and empty toiletry bottles home with them to help preserve the paradise.

The importance of seagrass

I was very surprised (and delighted!) to see the resort is one of only very few in the country to not remove its seagrass. In fact, they’ve pledged to protect 1,250m2 worth. 

This is hugely significant as many neighboring resorts remove their seagrass as it detracts from the insta-worthy, perfect blue pictures so many of us like to scroll through. 

But the importance of leaving it there is huge. The ocean absorbs around 25 percent of all carbon, and 18 percent of that is by seagrass. Seagrass only makes up 0.1 percent of the ocean bed, so it’s an incredibly effective carbon sink. 

Little things like this may seem small to many of us, but these changes are vital for a country fighting against the clock for its survival. And it doesn’t stop there. It’s a mindset, and Gili Lankanfushi is leading the way when it comes to forward eco-thinking. This is something visitors are becoming more and more passionate about too.

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The fight to save the Maldives

On a larger scale, in a joint venture with the Maldivian government, a Floating City is in the process of being built just off the capital, Male. The proposed city will have a nature-based structure of roads and water canals resembling the way in which real brain coral is organized. It’s being built across nearly 500 hectares, and will be home to thousands of people and resorts.

Politically, the government is only too aware of how important the natural beauty of the islands are to its longevity. Last year, the Maldives released updated targets to reduce 26 percent of its emissions and achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2030, bringing it in line (if not ahead of) many Western emissions targets. 

Whether it’s high-tech geo-engineering, or simply tying coral fragments to a line and watching them grow, the Maldives might be down, but it’s not out.

The post How The Maldives Is Fighting The Climate Crisis With Coral Reefs appeared first on Plant Based News.

The menu is a collaboration between vegan restaurateur Matthew Kenney and KBW Ventures, a mission-driven investment firm founded by environmentalist Prince Khaled bin Alwaleed of Saudi Arabia.

Focusing on ‘innovative’ culinary concepts

The multi-course menu is available at the hotel’s Après Spa Café and is said to focus on innovative creations inspired by a range of global culinary concepts – with an added Qatari touch. 

The menu boasts a selection of appetizers and entrées, including green papaya salad made with basil, cilantro, and spinach leaves, and topped with cashew dressing; and truffle pizza with Tuscan kale, wild mushrooms, cashew truffle cream, and lemon vinaigrette.

Chef Kenney has also crafted a selection of vegan desserts for the hotel, offering a combination of treats made from orange, chocolate, coconuts, banana, and cocoa.

“My mission has always been to empower, inspire and influence others to cultivate a healthy and conscious way of life through plant-based cuisine,” explained Kenney.

“Bringing vibrant food that is equal parts delicious, nutritious and sustainable to Four Seasons Doha is the latest milestone in our conquest to change the way the world thinks about food.”

Increased plant-based offerings in time for the World Cup

The menu has launched ahead of the 2022 FIFA World Cup, which will take place in Qatar later this year. As one of the five host cities, Doha is expected to attract a large number of tourists from across the world.

In a recent press release, Prince Khaled said, “It is fitting that Folia, crafted to appeal to palates that have eaten the finest in healthy cuisine, is being presented at Four Seasons Hotel Doha now that Qatar is preparing to welcome the world for one of the biggest sporting events in history.”

He continued, “I look forward to seeing the Qatari plant-based dining scene elevated with Chef Kenney’s inspired dishes.”

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The collaboration sees the UK’s largest hotel brand adding vegan bacon to its buffet menu at all of its 800+ hotels.

The plant-based bacon rashers – which boast 25 grams of protein per 100 grams, and contain iron and vitamin B12 – were crafted by THIS using pea and soy protein.

The bacon will be available as part of Premier Inn’s all-you-can-eat buffet, as well as its kids-eat-free deal.

Hungry for meat-free options

It comes as a seemingly ever-growing number of Brits are making a conscious effort to eat fewer animal products. In fact, research released by Quorn in September found that 41 percent of families in the UK are flexitarian or meat-free.

Yet many want to see more plant-based food when dining out.

A census-wide survey conducted by THIS in May found that 75 percent of Brits wished hotels, cafes, and restaurants offered more plant-based options.

The same survey discovered that nearly half (48 percent) of UK residents are interested in eating plant-based sausage or bacon for breakfast.

“Breakfast is a great occasion for people to get together, and our well-loved breakfast is a great value and hassle-free way to do that,” said Simon Jones, managing director for Premier Inn.

“With the recent introduction of our new vegan bacon in partnership with THIS, there’s now even more choice so no one has to miss out!”

THIS co-founder Andy Shovel echoed this sentiment, saying that the partnership is “really promising and timely,” given the UK public’s rising interest in meat-free food.

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According to Chef’s Pencil, this year the data showed a slight decline in search popularity of vegan-related terms. But plant-based food sales are still growing.

This could be because flexitarian diets, which focus on the reduction of animal products rather than total elimination, are growing in popularity. 

Charlotte Lucas, a corporate engagement manager at the Good Food Institute Europe, told Chef’s Pencil: “As flexitarianism becomes more mainstream, with 40 percent of European meat eaters planning to eat less meat, it’s no longer only vegans and vegetarians who are recognizing that every meal is an opportunity to eat more sustainably.”

The UK leads the way for vegan food

In terms of “most popular countries for veganism in 2022,” the UK came out on top, closely followed by Germany and Austria. The US came in at number 11.

In the UK, it’s easier than ever for consumers to choose meatless items.

From McDonald’s to KFC to Pizza Hut, popular restaurant chains offer plenty of vegan products. And every single supermarket now offers plant-based items, including Tesco, the country’s biggest.

Derek Sarno, Tesco’s head of plant-based food innovation and co-creator of its vegan Wicked Kitchen range, said earlier this year: “The amount of choice these days is mouth-watering.”

“Almost every category within supermarkets now has plant-based options, making it easier than ever for those considering or switching to embracing more meat-free days of the week.”

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NYC – home to upwards of eight million people – will encourage putting plants center-plate for the five days following March 20 (aka MeatOut Day). 

Select restaurants have launched vegan and vegetarian menus for the occasion. And a string of educational events are slated to take place across the city.

Farm Animal Rights Movement (FARM) launched the MeatOut concept in 1985. The campaign was designed to raise awareness about the health and environmental benefits of plant-based eating. 

More than 40 cities and states have since signed up, including Colorado, Dallas, Los Angeles, Louisville, Philadelphia, and Texas.

A ‘plant-based future’

Eric Lindstrom, FARM executive director, applauded NYC’s involvement in the initiative.

“As a New Yorker myself, I am particularly proud of this proclamation,” Lindstrom said. “The advances Mayor Adams has made toward a plant-based future, and Vegan Fridays in New York City schools, align perfectly with our mission and the mission of MeatOut.”

Indeed, Adams has been following through on his promise to promote plant-based food since he assumed office on January 1, 2022. 

In February, the Adams-backed Vegan Fridays initiative rolled out across NYC’s public school system, which is the largest in the country. 

Under the program, more than 1.1 million K-12 students at over 1,700 schools will be served plant-based meals every Friday. Adams maintains that such approaches are vital in addressing the health crises that are weighing on children today.

“In one voice, we talk about fighting childhood obesity, diabetes yet you go into a school building every day and you see the food that feeds our healthcare crisis,” Adams said in January. 

“The children have been calling me and saying they want better food in schools, and I’m going to do the best I can to give them the options of a more healthier diet so we can stop feeding the crisis.”

Adams adopted a vegan diet himself in 2016, and thanked the move for reversing his diabetes diagnosis. The politician has since admitted he eats seafood sparingly, after reporters discovered he had been ordering fish at local restaurants.

“I am perfectly imperfect, and have occasionally eaten fish,” he said at a conference last month. 

Seafood consumption is a growingly controversial admission. Aside from the health risks linked to fish products – such as mercury, antibiotic, and microplastic concerns – the fishing industry has come under fire for its negative impact on oceans and marine life.

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