How to travel sustainably while still seeing the world
Traveling is one of the greatest joys on the planet. Having the ability to experience new cultures, try new foods, and see the most beautiful parts of the world is an absolute privilege.
Many forms of travel, though, are detrimental to the environment. From carbon emissions to water pollution, travel can come at a cost. Here are some tips on traveling sustainably without sacrificing your experience.
Choosing low-impact ways to explore
Transportation is one of the biggest environmental offenders. Looking for alternatives is great, but when you are on a shorter break or headed to a remote area, sometimes it is necessary.
For shorter trips, railway journeys could be a welcome change from flying. Not only can you save on carbon emissions, but on price as well. Sit back and watch the world go past your window as you relax.
Once at your destination, public transport is often the best choice to explore. Walking and cycling are perfect if you want an adventure off the beaten path. As a continent, Asia is the perfect example of this. As opposed to flying, Vietnam cycling tours allow you to move through landscapes easily, with options to stop and take it all in.
Supporting local economies instead of mass tourism
When it comes to booking accommodation and experiences, think about your options. It is easy to go for the branded chains or larger companies, but opting for independent vendors means putting money straight back into their economy.
Look for independent guides and family-run restaurants, too. Not only are you supporting them, but you will often find that you get a richer insight into the people and culture that you may not have had if you’d chosen more mainstream options.
Traveling slowly to see more
Slow travel is the idea that spending more time in fewer places is better for your soul as well as the environment. Vacation time is so precious that it can be easy to move around and try to cram as much in as possible.
Slowing down and taking your time leads to a deeper understanding of your surroundings. Not only are your carbon emissions reduced, but so are your stress levels! Plus, you might find you get to make new friends, enriching your life further.
Making sustainable accommodation choices
There is a plethora of accommodation options in every location, so it can be hard to know what to look for in terms of sustainability.
Many hotels, guesthouses, and lodges are conscious of their water management, energy use, and community engagement. There are several bodies that award accommodation with green certifications, such as LEED, Green Key, and EarthCheck, which indicate that the place meets their standards.
Finding the perfect eco-friendly place to stay minimizes your carbon footprint without sacrificing comfort.