The World Vegan Travel Podcast

Send us a text Link for the show notes In today’s episode of The World Vegan Travel Podcast, I’ll be chatting with Danny O’Malley, the founder and CEO of Before the Butcher, a pioneering plant-based meat company based in San Diego. Danny will be sharing the story behind his company, how San Diego has become a hub for vegan innovation and culture, and why this coastal city is such a fantastic destination for vegan travelers. We’ll explore everything from dining gems and the craft beer scene, to outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, and even Comic-Con! 🌿 We're heading back to Vietnam in 2026 and you're invited! A few spots are still available — Click here to learn more and book. 📬 Sign up for our newsletter. 📸 Follow our adventures on Instagram: @worldvegantravel Check out our website | Check out all the podcast show notes | Follow us on Instagram

Send us a text Link for the show notes Update: Since recording this episode, Masaki has pivoted Ume from restaurant listings to sharing Japanese vegan recipes on Instagram. In today’s episode, we’ll be talking to Masaki, the founder of Ume, a pioneering food discovery platform helping vegan and vegetarian travelers in Japan. She’ll be sharing her personal journey from becoming vegetarian to creating Ume, and why it’s so important to have accurate, reliable information when navigating Japan’s unique food culture. We’ll also dive into some of the challenges plant-based travelers face in Japan, how supermarkets and convenience stores can be hidden gems, and the meticulous process Ume uses to verify vegan-friendly restaurants. By the end of this episode, you’ll come away with practical tips for eating vegan in Japan, a deeper understanding of Japanese food culture, and an inside look at how Ume is reshaping the travel experience for plant-based visitors. We're heading to Japan in 2026 and and it's almost Sold Out! Click to book 👉 Japan 1 Japan 2 📬 Sign up for our newsletter 📸 Follow Us on Instagram @worldvegantravel Check out our website | Check out all the podcast show notes | Follow us on Instagram

Send us a text Link for the show notes 🎉 This is our 200th episode of The World Vegan Travel Podcast—and we’re so excited to celebrate it with a truly inspiring guest! In today’s episode, we’re talking with Calen Otto, the creator of Unruly Travel and host of the Unruly Podcast. Calen is a vegan writer, activist, and adventurer who has traveled to over 30 countries—often on an incredibly tight budget—all while centering compassion, sustainability, and community in everything they do. They’ll be sharing creative tips for making travel more affordable—like scoring free flights with credit card points, using local rideshare platforms, CouchSurfing, and house-sitting. Calen also talks about how their travels are deeply rooted in activism and alternative living, including queer-friendly volunteer trips, immersive cultural experiences, and staying off-grid in places like ecovillages and sanctuaries. You’ll hear about their first big adventure—biking across the US at just 19 with only $300 in their pocket—as well as how they now help others plan meaningful, ethical, and budget-friendly trips around the world. 💚 If you’ve ever dreamed of traveling more but thought it wasn’t possible financially, this episode is for you. ⛰️ Our 2026 Kilimanjaro trip is confirmed! Join us for a once-in-a-lifetime vegan group trek up Africa’s tallest mountain. Not climbing? Check out our new Partner Package for non-climbers. 👉 Learn more & book 📬 Newsletter Check out our website | Check out all the podcast show notes | Follow us on Instagram

Send us a text Link for the show notes In today’s episode of The World Vegan Travel Podcast, we’ll be talking with Nandita, the creator of Vegan Haven Travel and a travel blogger based in Helsinki, Finland. She’ll be sharing her journey from India to Finland, what it’s like living as a vegan in the Nordic country, and giving us some fantastic insights into Helsinki’s vegan food scene, cultural highlights, and nearby nature escapes. We’ll also hear about unique Finnish traditions, her favorite spots in and around the city, and practical tips for anyone considering a trip to Finland. ⛰️ Our 2026 Kilimanjaro trip is confirmed! Join us for a once-in-a-lifetime vegan group trek up Africa’s tallest mountain. Not climbing? Check out our new Partner Package for non-climbers. 👉 Learn more & book 📬 Newsletter Check out our website | Check out all the podcast show notes | Follow us on Instagram

Send us a text Link for the show notes In today’s episode of The World Vegan Travel Podcast, we’re heading to the lush valleys of Cornwall, England, to meet Kate Hinze, founder of Haye Cornwall. Kate runs a small animal sanctuary and retreat where rescued ponies, donkeys, chickens, and pigs share their home with guests staying in a cozy holiday cottage or joining transformative wellness retreats. We’ll talk about the unique way Haye Cornwall blends compassionate animal care, land regeneration, and visitor experiences, and how holidays here not only support the animals but also offer people the chance to slow down, reconnect with nature, and explore Cornwall’s gentler landscapes. Kate will share what guests can expect when they visit — from hands-on time with the animals to nearby treasures like Golitha Falls, Whitsand Bay, and historic sites such as Tintagel Castle. Whether you’re curious about sustainable sanctuary life, looking for a holiday that makes a difference, or dreaming of a peaceful escape surrounded by animals and nature, you’ll love hearing Kate’s story and the ethos behind Haye Cornwall. We're heading to Japan in 2026 and and it's almost Sold Out! Click to book 👉 Japan 1 Japan 2 📬 Sign up for our newsletter 📸 Follow Us on Instagram @worldvegantravel Check out our website | Check out all the podcast show notes | Follow us on Instagram

Send us a text Link for the show notes In today’s episode of The World Vegan Travel Podcast, we’re joined by Ellen Kanner — cookbook author, food journalist, and fifth-generation Miamian. Ellen is the author of Miami Vegan: Plant-Based Recipes from the Tropics to Your Table and writes for outlets like VegNews, Edible South Florida, and HuffPost, exploring the intersections of food, culture, community, and sustainability. She’ll be sharing her perspective on Miami as a vibrant and diverse travel destination, how its unique blend of cultures shapes the city’s food scene, and what makes it such a welcoming place for vegan travelers. We’ll also chat about her new cookbook, her favorite local flavors, and what visitors should know before exploring this tropical city. 🌿 We're heading back to Vietnam in 2026 and you're invited! A few spots are still available — Click here to learn more and book. 📬 Sign up for our newsletter. 📸 Follow our adventures on Instagram: @worldvegantravel Check out our website | Check out all the podcast show notes | Follow us on Instagram

Send us a text Link for the show notes In today’s episode of The World Vegan Travel Podcast, we’re joined by Chrissie Miles, the Visitor and Volunteer Manager at Soi Dog Foundation in Phuket, Thailand. Soi Dog is a nonprofit dedicated to improving the welfare of stray animals across Southeast Asia, and Chrissie plays a key role in coordinating their volunteer programs and welcoming compassionate travelers to the sanctuary. In our conversation, Chrissie shares what makes Soi Dog such a unique and impactful organization, the challenges and successes they’ve faced in animal rescue and sterilization efforts, and how travelers—especially vegan and conscious travelers—can get involved. We also explore why Phuket is more than just a beach destination, especially for those looking to travel with purpose. 🌿 We're heading back to Vietnam in 2026 and you're invited! A few spots are still available — Click here to learn more and book. 📬 Sign up for our newsletter. 📸 Follow our adventures on Instagram: @worldvegantravel Check out our website | Check out all the podcast show notes | Follow us on Instagram

Send us a text Link for the show notes Think Vegas isn’t vegan-friendly? Think again. In this episode, Brighde shares her honest and entertaining travel diary from a six-day summer trip to Las Vegas—complete with plant-based nachos, world-class shows, and practical tips for navigating the city’s chaos with compassion and ease. From jaw-dropping entertainment like Cirque du Soleil to high-end vegan dining and unexpected pitfalls (hello, surprise Caesar salad), this guide is packed with insights for anyone planning a Vegas trip with their values in mind. Whether you’re here for the food, the flair, or the festivities—this episode has you covered. Check out our website | Check out all the podcast show notes | Follow us on Instagram

Send us a text Link for the show notes In Part 5 of our Spring Travel Mini-Series (Episode 193), Brighde takes you on a cozy vegan road trip across the UK countryside. From spicy burgers in Bristol to a moving Tim Minchin concert in Cardiff, stone circles in Avebury, and cat cafés in Bournemouth—this adventure is packed with history, humor, and plant-based feasts. Settle in for castles, countryside, and creamy vegan tiramisu! Check out our website | Check out all the podcast show notes | Follow us on Instagram

Send us a text Link for the show notes. BONUS EPISODE — We’re bringing back one of our most-loved conversations! Meet Amy, a thoughtful traveler from Seattle who joined us on our unforgettable 2024 luxury vegan group tour through Japan. From her deep appreciation for Japanese design and daily rituals to the cultural surprises along the way, Amy’s story is a beautiful reminder of how transformative travel can be—especially when done mindfully and joyfully (and with lots of incredible vegan food!). 🎌 We're heading back to Japan in 2026—twice! Both trips are nearly full, and we’d love to have you with us during the stunning cherry blossom season. 👉 Trip 1 Info 👉 Trip 2 Info Now, settle in and enjoy Amy’s heartfelt journey through Japan. 🌸🍜 Check out our website | Check out all the podcast show notes | Follow us on Instagram

Send us a text Link for the show notes 🎙️ Episode 193 – Mini-Series Part 5 Join Brighde in the final episode of our Spring Travel Mini-Series as she explores London with fresh eyes and a full belly! From walking tours past Big Ben and the Tower of London to indulging in vegan roasts, baklava cheesecake, and Thai delights, this episode is packed with reflections, insider tips, and food-fueled adventures across the capital. Whether you love history, plant-based dining, or wandering with purpose, this episode has something for you. Episode 193 wraps up our journey through Europe—from Italy to Croatia, Azerbaijan to France, and now the UK. Don't miss this travel diary finale! Check out our website | Check out all the podcast show notes | Follow us on Instagram

Send us a text Link for the shownotes Join us for Part 4 of our Spring Travel Mini-Series! 🇫🇷 In this episode, Brighde shares highlights from our most recent World Vegan Travel group trip through France—from the charm of Paris to the magic of the Dordogne. Hosted alongside Colleen Patrick-Goudreau, this journey was filled with vineyard visits, castle cruises, vegan feasts, and unforgettable moments with our amazing travelers. Check out our website | Check out all the podcast show notes | Follow us on Instagram

Send us a text Link for the shownotes Mini-Series Part 3 In this episode, Brighde shares her unforgettable journey through Azerbaijan—a country full of contrasts, bubbling mud volcanoes, ancient petroglyphs, and heartfelt reunions. From vegan food challenges to spectacular scenery and quirky moments with lifelong friends, this episode offers a rare glimpse into a destination most travelers overlook. Check out our website | Check out all the podcast show notes | Follow us on Instagram

Send us a text Link for the show notes Episode 190 – Mini-Series Part 2 Join Brighde as she takes you behind the scenes of planning a luxury vegan yacht trip through Croatia. From scouting dreamy islands to solving last-minute mishaps, it’s a peek into the magic (and mayhem) of vegan travel trip design. Check out our website | Check out all the podcast show notes | Follow us on Instagram

Send us a text Link for the show notes Episode 189 – Mini-Series Part 1 Welcome to Part 1 of our special mini-series! In this solo episode, Brighde shares a behind-the-scenes look at our WFPB SOS-Free trip to Tuscany. From salt-free Italian feasts to surprise opera performances and scenic hikes, join us on this unforgettable vegan travel experience. Check out our website | Check out all the podcast show notes | Follow us on Instagram

Send us a text Link to the show notes Hi everyone, and welcome back to The World Vegan Travel Podcast! We’re continuing our special mini-series featuring episodes from our dear friend and travel partner Colleen Patrick-Goudreau, host of the Food for Thought podcast. While we take a short pause from new episodes, we’re thrilled to share Colleen’s work with you—it’s thoughtful, practical, and a perfect fit for the spirit of World Vegan Travel. In today’s episode, Colleen reflects on our first-ever group trips to Japan back in 2024, sharing her insights into vegan travel in a country where food, culture, and tradition are deeply intertwined. You’ll hear about the cultural nuances, culinary challenges, and what makes Japan such a fascinating destination for compassionate travelers. Be sure to subscribe to Colleen’s Food for Thought podcast and her Substack at colleenpatrickgoudreau.substack.com for more reflections, recipes, and inspiration. And if Japan is on your bucket list, don’t miss our upcoming group trip in 2026—now open for booking at worldvegantravel.com. We’d love to welcome you! Now, let’s dive into Vegan in Japan: Part One with Colleen Patrick-Goudreau. Check out our website | Check out all the podcast show notes | Follow us on Instagram

Send us a text Link to the show notes Hi everyone, and welcome back to the World Vegan Travel Podcast! We’re doing something a little different today. As you might know, we’re currently on a short break between new interviews—but we didn’t want to leave your ears empty! So today, we’re sharing a very special episode from our friend and partner Colleen Patrick-Goudreau, the host of the long-running Food for Thought podcast. Colleen is an incredible voice in the plant-based world—she’s an author, educator, and passionate advocate for compassionate living. Many of you will already know her from our Joyful Vegan Trips, where she hosts unforgettable journeys in places like Rwanda, Tuscany, and Alsace. We’re so grateful to her for allowing us to share this episode with you. In this episode, Colleen takes us on a flavorful journey through Tuscany that was first published on her podcast feed some time ago. You’ll hear about the regional food culture, the ingredients that define Tuscan cuisine, and what makes this part of Italy so beloved—not just for its scenery but for its soul-warming food. It’s the perfect mix of history, storytelling, and food appreciation—all through a plant-based lens. Make sure to follow Colleen’s Food for Thought podcast wherever you listen, and subscribe to her Substack at colleenpatrickgoudreau.substack.com for thoughtful reflections, recipes, and more. 🎙️ And if you’re dreaming of visiting Tuscany yourself, we’ve got great news—our 2026 Tuscany trip is open for booking! Check out our website | Check out all the podcast show notes | Follow us on Instagram

Send us a text Link to the show notes In today’s episode, we’ll be talking to Frederique Peutz, a permaculturist and the owner of Moulin Scalagrand, a retreat and permaculture destination nestled in the Lot-et-Garonne region of southwestern France. Frederique has an inspiring background in gardening and sustainability—she previously ran her own garden center in Italy for two decades before relocating to France in 2017 to pursue a more self-sufficient, plant-based lifestyle. At Moulin Scalagrand, she now offers immersive workshops and retreats focused on permaculture, intuitive cooking, wild foraging, and much more. In this conversation, Frederique shares what drew her to this beautiful part of the world, how she built her retreat from the ground up, and the philosophies that guide her work today. Whether you're curious about sustainable travel, alternative lifestyles, or simply want to be inspired by someone living closely in tune with nature—you’re going to love this episode. Check out our website | Check out all the podcast show notes | Follow us on Instagram

Send us a text Link to the shownotes In this heartfelt and practical episode of The World Vegan Travel Podcast, Brighde shares her personal experiences and comprehensive strategies for ensuring the wellbeing of companion animals while traveling. Drawing from nearly 20 years of travel with her partner and their beloved cats, Pinky and Squeaky, she discusses the emotional and logistical challenges of leaving pets behind — and how to navigate them with confidence and care. Topics include: Whether you're planning a short trip or extended travel, this episode is packed with insights to help you travel responsibly while honoring your commitment to your animal companions. Check out our website | Check out all the podcast show notes | Follow us on Instagram

Send us a text Link for the show notes In today’s episode, we’ll be talking to Joy Jarman-Walsh also known as JJ. Joy is the founder of Inbound Ambassador and co-founder of GetHiroshima, and she’s spent over two decades helping both travelers and local communities experience and shape a more sustainable Japan. She’ll be talking to us about the evolving vegan travel scene in Japan—particularly in the lesser-known Setouchi region and Hiroshima—as well as how she collaborates with local businesses to introduce vegan options and make sustainable tourism more accessible. Joy shares how her journey from university teaching to tourism consulting has allowed her to bridge international expectations with Japanese traditions, and why local insight is so crucial for creating meaningful change in hospitality. It’s a fascinating look into the intersection of veganism, culture, and sustainability in one of Japan’s most historic regions—without giving too much away! Check out our website | Check out all the podcast show notes | Follow us on Instagram