Muslim travelers and vegetarians often find it difficult to enjoy a decent meal when traveling around certain countries. However, Muslim travelers make up an increasing proportion of travelers and these vacationers are looking further afield when it comes to choosing their destination. As such, countries such as New Zealand are launching new food travel initiatives to make it easier for Muslims and vegetarians to eat well and enjoy their vacation.
New Zealand Tourism recently launched a tourist guide specifically for the needs of vegetarian and Halal travelers. New Zealand is relatively close to Indonesia and Malaysia, countries with large Muslim populations, and New Zealand is keen to improve its appeal to people from these countries.
The travel tourist guide offers general information about New Zealand as well as a comprehensive list of Halal-certified restaurants and cafes, and restaurants that serve vegetarian or vegan food. This culinary travel guide will be provided to travelers via travel agents in addition to New Zealand embassies. In addition, tourism leaders will be briefed on how to provide information about vegetarian food and the importance of catering to different culinary and religious needs.
Muslim tourism to New Zealand has been increasing steadily over the past few years. In August 2011 the number of Muslim tourists to visit New Zealand was up 141 percent on the 2010 numbers, according to officials. The amount of money Muslims spend in New Zealand is predicted to continue to rise. Many countries around the world have been adapting their own Halal tourism features, including hotels in Turkey geared towards Muslim families and many tourist restaurants offering vegetarian options. Tourists of all religions and culinary needs are looking further afield for places to visit and will be impressed by the greater choice that is now available in vacations.
