Visiting A Vegan Cheese Factory in Switzerland

This past summer, our vegan group tour had the incredible opportunity to visit New Roots, a vegan cheese factory located just outside the picturesque town of Thun, Switzerland. As a group of passionate vegans, activists, and cheese lovers, we were eager to experience firsthand how this innovative company was reimagining the dairy industry. The group got a special experience and insight into how the brand is reinventing Swiss cheese traditions.

New Roots is more than just a vegan cheese factory; it's a mission. Co-founder Alice Fauconnet shared with us that their ethos is rooted in animal advocacy, sustainability, ethical practices, and a commitment to providing delicious, plant-based alternatives to traditional dairy products. By using traditional fermentation and ripening techniques rather than additives and flavor enhancers, New Roots is leading the change in creating a more ethical, more sustainable and healthier food system.

Our visit to New Roots was a highlight of our trip. We were given a guided tour of the factory, where we witnessed the vegan cheesemaking process from start to finish. It was fascinating to see how they transformed humble plant-based ingredients into a variety of mouthwatering cheeses, including soft white, ricotta, and even vegan fondue cheese. The love for veganism was evident in every step of the process. We were so grateful to get to taste a variety of their products, which are available to order across Europe at online stores.

Our visit to New Roots was a testament to the growing push for veganizing traditional food cultures. Switzerland, a country renowned for its cheese-loving heritage, is now embracing plant-based alternatives. New Roots is at the forefront of this movement, demonstrating that it's possible to enjoy the flavors and textures of cheese without compromising our ethical or environmental values, especially for our cow friends.

As we left New Roots, we felt inspired and empowered. Our visit had shown us that the future of food is bright and filled with possibilities. With companies like New Roots leading the way, we can look forward to a world where delicious and ethical food is accessible to everyone.

Why Sri Lanka is a Vegan's Paradise: Our Group Tour Preview

A VEGAN ADVENTURE IN SRI LANKA

Sri Lanka, an emerald island nestled in the Indian Ocean, is a destination that's rapidly gaining popularity among vegans. With its rich biodiversity, vibrant culture, and a growing plant-based food scene, it's the perfect place to embark on a transformative journey of taste, exploration, and ethical travel. Let’s dive into what makes this vegan group tour so special.

A Culinary Adventure Awaits

• Unleash Your Taste Buds: Sri Lankan cuisine is a symphony of flavors, and the vegan options are simply divine. From coconut-based curries to flavorful rice and roti, you’ll be tantalized by the abundance of fresh, local ingredients.

• Discover Hidden Gems: Our tour takes you off the beaten path to discover authentic vegan eateries and local markets, where you'll savor the true essence of Sri Lankan flavors.

Immerse Yourself in Nature

• Sinharaja Rainforest: Step into a world of lush greenery and encounter an array of endemic flora and fauna. Hiking through this UNESCO World Heritage site is a must for nature lovers.

• Udawalawa Elephant Park: Witness the majestic elephants in their natural habitat while supporting ethical tourism practices. This experience is a highlight for many travelers.

Cultural Enrichment

• Colombo: Experience the vibrant energy of Sri Lanka’s capital, with its colonial architecture, bustling markets, and diverse cultural influences.

• Galle: Immerse yourself in history as you explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Galle Fort, a stunning blend of Dutch, Portuguese, and British colonial styles.

Supporting Ethical Tourism

By choosing a vegan tour, you're not only indulging your palate but also contributing to a more sustainable and compassionate world. We prioritize:

• Animal Welfare: Our tours are designed to respect and protect wildlife, ensuring ethical interactions with animals.

• Local Communities: We support local businesses and communities, promoting economic growth while preserving cultural heritage.

• Environmental Sustainability: We emphasize eco-friendly practices and minimize our impact on the environment.

Join us on this extraordinary adventure as we explore the beauty of Sri Lanka while embracing a plant-based lifestyle. Let's create unforgettable memories together!

In a World Divided, Vegan Travel Unites & Creates Empathy

Our world is increasingly polarized, with political divisions and social unrest casting long shadows. Yet, amidst the chaos, there exists a powerful antidote: travel. It’s a passport to understanding, a bridge across cultures, and a catalyst for empathy.

This year, as borders seem to close (tourists in Spain being harassed, migrants in the UK being attacked), our hearts yearn to open. Travel invites us to step outside our ways of thinking about and categorizing people, and if done right, it forces us connect with people from all types of socio-economic backgrounds. It challenges our preconceptions, fosters tolerance, and reminds us of our shared humanity. In this way, we believe travel is an investment into humanity.

Why the news might be undermining the best of Humanity

The news often paints a world filled with crises, conflicts, and dangers. While it's essential to stay informed, it's equally important to maintain perspective. The world is a far safer place than the headlines might suggest. Here's why:

News Prioritizes Negativity: The news thrives on drama. Negative events are more likely to grab attention than positive stories. This creates a distorted view of global reality.

1. Statistical Anomalies: While tragic events happen, they are often statistical outliers. The overwhelming majority of people in most countries live peaceful lives.

2. Fear-Mongering: Some news outlets intentionally stoke fear to boost viewership. This can lead to unwarranted anxiety and prevent people from experiencing the world.

3. Focus on the Positive: While it's important to be aware of potential risks, it's equally crucial to focus on the positive aspects of travel. The world is full of incredible cultures, landscapes, and people.

We’re seeing so much nationalistic pride these days and many people sticking so strongly to their identity at the expense of the larger, global world that we live in. Personally, the more I travel, the more my own identity blurs with the places and people that I visit. A part of Mexico is now me….a part of Sri Lanka is now me. This sense of blurred identity can be a good thing by loosening the separation that I may feel with someone that is of a different culture than mine. When I feel MORE connected rather than different from people of other countries, I am less likely to create hateful thoughts, hateful words and hateful actions toward them.

Travel as a Bridge Over SOWING DIVISION

Travel is more than just a leisure activity; it's a powerful tool for fostering understanding and breaking down barriers. Here's how it can help resolve hatred:

• Human Connection: At its core, travel is about connecting with people. When we interact with individuals from different cultures, backgrounds, and perspectives, we begin to see their shared humanity. Shared experiences, laughter, and empathy can erode prejudices and stereotypes.

• Breaking Down Stereotypes: Exposure to diverse cultures challenges the preconceived notions we often hold. By experiencing firsthand the richness and complexity of different societies, we can dismantle harmful stereotypes that fuel hatred.

• Building Empathy: Travel allows us to walk in someone else's shoes, to understand their challenges, and to appreciate their worldview. This empathy can foster compassion and a sense of shared responsibility.

• Cultural Exchange: By immersing ourselves in different cultures, we gain a deeper appreciation for our own. This cross-pollination of ideas and traditions can enrich our lives and create a more tolerant world.

• Global Citizenship: Travel broadens our horizons and helps us see the world as a interconnected community. This global perspective can inspire us to work towards a more just and equitable world.

To our dear travelers, friends and vegan travel community,

Let us be the proof that compassion, empathy and respect between humans, animals and people exists. And that the world is better off because humans learning from each other across our global boundaries can make this entire world thrive, into a planet that we all want to live on, protect and nurture.