Eco-Friendly Accommodations - How to Travel Responsibly

ADVERTISEMENT

When traveling, do you ever feel stuck between a rock and a hard place? You want to see the world and experience new cultures and places, but you're concerned about the impact your travels might have on the environment. We have a solution for you! There is a way to travel responsibly and still have an unforgettable adventure! 

The answer is eco-friendly traveling, and the secret lies in 'eco-friendly accommodations.' but how do you find these hidden gems of sustainable travel, and what should you look for when booking? Whether you're a seasoned traveler or a first-time adventurer, we've got you covered. 

 

In this blog post, we'll dive deep into the world of eco-friendly accommodations and share insider tips and tricks to help you plan your next trip with the preservation of the environment in mind.

What are eco-friendly hotels?

An eco-friendly hotel, also known as a green or sustainable hotel, is an accommodation committed to reducing its impact on the planet. These hotels go above and beyond to implement green living practices that are both safe and non-toxic.

What makes an accommodation sustainable?

Energy-efficient appliances

One crucial factor that defines eco-friendly accommodations is their energy consumption. The most sustainable hotels prioritize energy-saving systems to reduce environmental impact and control operating costs. They may use various strategies, from installing energy-efficient lighting and appliances to harnessing renewable energy sources like solar panels. 

Adapting zero waste practices  

Sustainable accommodations aim to minimize waste production and divert as much waste as possible from landfills. This is achieved through composting, recycling, and donating excess food and other items to local organizations.

Preserving nature's most vital resource – water 

In a world where water scarcity is a growing concern, hotels have an opportunity to prioritize water conservation in their operations. Sustainable hotels adopt water-saving systems like low-flow toilets and showers, aerators on faucets, and water recycling and filtering systems. 

How to travel sustainably – 5 tips to find sustainable accommodations

If you are wondering how to be eco-friendly when traveling, choosing eco-friendly accommodations is the way. Here are five tips to help you get started!

Go big or go home

Long-haul vacations can be a sustainable way of traveling, allowing you to slow down and experience the local culture. Instead of rushing to tick off all the locations from your bucket list, try to settle down and reminisce about one destination's beauty, architecture, culture, traditions, and locality! This will also help in reducing your carbon footprint.

We know skipping from city to city sounds like the most tempting thing ever, but as a traveler trying to be more eco-conscious, take it slow and steady. Instead, would you spend three weeks exploring the vibrant street markets, sampling exotic street food, and trekking through thailand's lush green jungles, or spend most of your time cramped up in trains to and from cities?

 

The gold standard of certifications 

Choosing a sustainable hotel isn't just about getting rid of the guilt and feeling good about your contribution. It's about being part of the solution to the global climate crisis while enjoying a comfortable stay.

Keep an eye out for certifications like earthcheck, green globe, and greenview, which indicate that the hotel has met rigorous sustainability standards. This way, you can ensure that your stay is genuinely aiding towards a significant impact on the planet! 

Seek out b corp-certified hotels, which means they have undergone rigorous assessments to prove their commitment to social and environmental responsibility. Choosing a b corp hotel means you're supporting a business that balances purpose and profit, considering the impact of every decision on their team, customers, suppliers, community, and the environment. 

Greenwashing? No thanks

Imagine staying in a hotel that meets your travel needs and sustainability goals together. It may sound like a myth, but having the best of both worlds is possible! It would help if you were a savvy traveler to avoid "Greenwashing" And find eco-friendly hotels.

When choosing a sustainable hotel, don't just rely on certifications. Instead, pay attention to the details. Do they use locally sourced ingredients for their meals? Do they offer refillable water bottles instead of plastic ones? Look for hotels prioritizing local suppliers and engaging in eco-friendly traveling practices like reducing waste and conserving energy. While these may seem like little gestures, they can significantly reduce waste and support local businesses!

Cozy and communal

When it comes to sustainable travel, more significant is only sometimes better. Instead of staying at a large chain hotel, consider opting for a more intimate and community-focused experience. Smaller accommodations like tiny houses, cabins, and glamping setups are one of a kind, and they also have a smaller environmental footprint. Imagine staying in a cozy little dome surrounded by stunning landscapes and greenery in a finnish forest. You will never get this unparalleled experience in a resort with an established name in the hotel industry. 

These locally-owned establishments are often more invested in the community around them, so they prioritize sustainable practices and are more likely to support local ventures. And let's remember the personalized service you'll receive! The staff at these places typically has fewer guests to attend to, meaning they can provide extra care and attention to make your stay truly unforgettable!

Discover beyond the tourist traps

Shatter the monotony of tourist traps and dive deep into the world's hidden gems! Switch your annual bahamas vacation and spice up your travel experience with something exciting. As you break the mold of traditional travel, you also help minimize over-tourism, reduce congestion, and support the community in underrepresented destinations. It also gives you the privilege to enjoy the authentic experience and see the goals more than what the world perceives of them. 

Remember, traveling sustainably means something other than sacrificing comfort or missing out on new experiences. Discover the lesser-known temples of cambodia, the hidden waterfalls of bali, or the charming streets of small european towns; wherever you go, never settle for an ordinary destination! 

Start a journey with a purpose

Traveling sustainably and responsibly isn't just a trend; it's a necessity. It's about making conscious choices that minimize your impact on the environment and support local communities. By making small changes, you can have a big hit and pave the way for a more responsible tourism industry. Let's work together to improve the world, one trip at a time!

Related Article