Jasmine Harman

Former presenter of Channel 4’s A Place in the Sun: Home or Away, Jasmine Harman, turned vegetarian at an early age, and has been vegan for more than a decade. Who better to inspire senior veg*ns planning to venture abroad? Jasmine tells VfL that as a vegan and frequent traveller, especially during her work filming A Place In The Sun, she's learned a few tricks to make trips smoother, healthier, and more enjoyable. Travelling as a vegan can sometimes seem daunting, especially in places where plant-based diets aren’t so widespread, but with a little preparation and awareness, it’s possible to explore the world while staying true to your ethical choices.

She advises veg*ns to do their research before they travel and check to see if there are any local vegan or vegetarian restaurants, as well as nearby fruit and vegetable markets. The more you know about the local food scene, the easier it is to avoid disappointment when you arrive. She uses HappyCow (happycow.net), which helps locate vegan-friendly eateries all over the world. Websites like TripAdvisor also filters for vegan options, giving a wider picture of the local dining scene. 

Jasmine also advocates packing vegan snacks for the journey such as nuts, dried fruit and vegan protein bars because they are easy to carry and provide a quick energy boost. They’re especially useful during long flights, layovers, or in regions where vegan options might be limited. She adds that in some remote destinations, local shops may have limited vegan options, so packing a few extra snacks can tide you over until you find a good meal. Just remember to check for any nut allergy restrictions on planes before indulging.

Jasmine recommends learning some phrases in the local language, because knowing how to say “I’m vegan” or “No meat, no dairy” can go a long way in ensuring that your dietary preferences are respected. Even in countries where English is widely spoken, showing that you’ve made the effort to learn the language can foster understanding and kindness. If learning new phrases feels daunting, Google Translate can be a lifesaver, translating words or phrases quickly, even offline, so you can communicate your vegan needs effectively. For Jasmine, showing restaurant staff or market vendors a translated sentence has often led to delightful, personalised recommendations and some truly memorable meals.

Book accommodation with a kitchen. Having the ability to prepare your own meals, even occasionally, can make a big difference in ensuring you eat well, especially in places where vegan-friendly dining options are scarce.

Jasmine also loves exploring local markets to pick up fresh produce and trying out vegan versions of local dishes in her kitchen. You can often find staples like pasta, rice, hummus, and even some unusual vegan goodies from international health food stores. This also helps save money, particularly in cities where eating out regularly can get expensive.