Nong Khiaw, Laos
Photo by Teodor Kuduschiev on Unsplash
Laos for vegan & vegetarian travelers
Laos is a rewarding destination for vegan and vegetarian travelers, with fresh herbs, vegetables, rice, and tofu commonly used. Awareness varies, but plant-based meals are widely possible with clear communication.
Laos
Vegan Friendliness: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ (4/5)
Vegetarian Friendliness: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (5/5)
Best For: Sticky rice, vegetables, markets
Challenging Because: Fish sauce is common in curries and stir-fries
🥗 What to Eat
- Vegetarian-friendly: Vegetable stir-fries, sticky rice with vegetables, tofu dishes
- Vegan-friendly: Tofu dishes, fresh vegetables, sticky rice (ask for no fish sauce)
🚫 Watch Out For
- Fish sauce in soups, stir-fries, and dipping sauces
- Meat in traditional curries and laap dishes
🗣️ Survival Phrases (Lao)
- I am vegetarian: Khoi kin cheuak
(khoi keen cheu-ak) - I am vegan: Khoi kin cheuak bo nyua
(khoi keen cheu-ak bo nyoo-ah) - No meat: Bo nuea
(boh nyoo-ah) - No fish: Bo pa
(boh pah)
🧭 Veggie Trip Tip
Markets are your best source for vegetables — always specify “bo pa” to avoid fish sauce.
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