Travelling more responsibly, but where to begin? Luxury and respect for the living world are not opposites, quite the contrary. Here are six simple principles for travelling better, and a few addresses that embody them beautifully.
1 Choose an Eco-Conscious Stay
On hotel websites, look for the signs of genuine commitment: 100% solar electricity, support for local communities, a reduced carbon footprint. Watch for certifications such as Green Key, Green Globe or ATR. Activities deserve the same scrutiny.
The example, Bawah Reserve, Indonesia: built with sustainable materials, devoted to protecting corals, fauna and flora, with careful water management.
2 Take the Train, Not the Plane
The train marries sustainability, comfort and memorable experiences: to try train travel is to adopt it, for its landscapes, its encounters, and its benefits for the planet. When flying is unavoidable, some airlines are committed: less fuel-hungry aircraft, carbon offsetting, waste sorting on board.
3 Eat Local, Taste the Country
Eating local products means supporting the communities that welcome us economically, and thanking them. It also means, quite simply, eating better.
The example, Malhadinha, Portugal: a self-sufficient gastronomy, serving only meats, fish, vegetables and wines produced on site.
4 Embrace Slow Travel
Slow travel means taking the time to truly experience a place: a local table, an unhurried activity, a conversation, pausing, on a bike ride, simply to enjoy the landscape.
The example, Amanwella, Sri Lanka: dinners in a traditional village, meetings with potters, and the time to do nothing at all.
5 Bring Your Own Bottle
A reusable bottle reduces waste and goes everywhere: make use of fountains and tap water where it is drinkable.
The example, Matetsi Victoria Falls gives its safari guests a personalised bottle as a welcome gift.
6 Choose Your Gear Well
Choose committed brands: employee wellbeing, support for social causes, waste reduction, sustainable manufacturing. Patagonia and Fjällräven, for instance, rely on environmentally friendly materials and genuine care for their teams.
Travelling better takes nothing away from the pleasure, quite the opposite. It is often how the finest journeys are born: slower, closer, truer. We compose them in that spirit.
Dreaming of a journey as beautiful as it is responsible? Let's talk it through with our specialists.
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