Frequently Asked Questions
Thinking about sustainable travel – and what it looks like to travel lighter? Here are some of the most common questions I get about traveling sustainably!
Don’t see your question here? Reach out and let’s chat!
What Is Sustainable Travel?
Sustainable travel is about traveling in a way that's sensitive to the climate and nature emergencies – all while making sure that any place we visit sees a long-term benefit from our traveling there.
Balancing both luxury travel and sustainability, this type of tourism is built on three pillars:
Environmental Sustainability: Sustainable travel works to reduce any negative environmental impacts through efforts to reduce carbon emission, preserve biodiversity and natural resources, and more. It includes choosing renewable energy accommodations and taking part in experience that invest back into the environment safely.
Economic Sustainability: Tourism should generate long-term economic benefits for local communities and businesses. This could include supporting local enterprises and helping boost employment opportunities – all to ensure that our travel helps boost the economic development of destinations efficiently and fairly.
Social Sustainability: Tourism is a two-way road. That’s why sustainable travel focuses on the well-being and empowerment of host communities. Efforts include respecting and preserving local cultures, traditions, and ways of life – all while promoting social inclusivity and the equitable distribution of tourism benefits among community members.
Why Travel Sustainably?
Global tourism accounts for 8% of the world’s emissions, and is only growing as more people travel. The concentration of carbon dioxide in our atmosphere is now over 400 parts per million higher than at any time in the past 800,000 years!
Plus, research estimates that nearly 1 million animal and plant species are threatened with extinction as agriculture, forestry, hunting, and urban sprawl encroach on habitats.
When you choose sustainable travel, you are committing to being part of the solution to the growing risks our world is facing.
Seeing the world shouldn’t come at the expense of the world itself, and opting for sustainable hotels and resorts, and engaging in authentic, culture-protective activities is a great way to give back.
What Factors Determine If Travel Is Sustainable?
If you’re wondering whether your upcoming trip can be considered sustainable, think how your travel fits within the three pillars:
Environmental Practices
Renewable energy systems, such as solar power and energy-efficient design
Water conservation initiatives, including closed-loop systems
Wildlife conservation efforts that protect natural habitats
Economic Practices
Supporting locally-owned businesses, restaurants, and accommodations
Staying at accommodations that create fair employment opportunities for locals
Contributing to long-term economic development rather than extractive tourism
Social Practices
Community engagement through cultural preservation and respect
Seeking fair wages and working conditions for tourism industry workers
Taking part in authentic cultural experiences that empower local communities
Properties like Soneva Fushi in the Maldives is a great example of a sustainable destination – combining luxury experiences while powering their operations with solar energy and recycling programs.
What is Sustainable Travel NOT?
While there are clear factors that go into a sustainable trip and destination, it’s equally important to know what isn’t sustainable travel:
Making grand, one-off gestures. Sustainable travel is an ongoing attitude and lifestyle that influences everything about how you travel at home or abroad!
Sacrificing comfort or luxury. Some of the world’s best sustainable destinations are also some of the most luxurious!
Avoiding travel altogether. Travel is a key part of global economics, and not traveling may have negative impacts on those in key industries. The goal is to travel more consciously, not to stop exploring!
Greenwashing. Simply marketing a destination as"eco-friendly" without genuine environmental practices should never be considered sustainable travel.
How Do I Avoid Greenwashing in Travel?
In my work as a sustainable travel agent, I work with clients to help them determine whether their dream destinations are truly sustainable, or just greenwashing to draw tourists. Here are just a few of the checks I make to ensure each destination is creating a positive impact:
Does the property have recognized certifications from organizations like Green Globe or EarthCheck?
Can the destination provide specific details about its sustainability initiatives?
Is the location or destination clear and transparent about its environmental impact?
Are any activities and excursions engaging with local communities in authentic, positive ways?
Do the destinations or accommodations actively work to support local conservation efforts or cultural preservation?
If you’re unsure about whether or not a location fits your sustainable travel goals, let’s chat! I’m happy to check the details on your behalf and provide recommendations.
Can Luxury Travel Really Be Sustainable?
Yes! In fact, a recent study found that 76% of luxury travelers now want to travel more responsibly and are willing to pay more to do so.
Sustainable luxury travel can enhance your journey by connecting you with authentic cultural experiences and healthier, fresher dining. Plus, you’ll love the peace of mind that comes with purposeful travel.
Properties like 1 Hotel Central Park in New York and Lefay Resort in Italy prove that environmental responsibility and luxury comfort can coexist beautifully.
Is Sustainable Travel Expensive?
Sustainable travel experiences don’t have to come with a higher price tag, though investing more in your trip can help you save money (and protect our world) in meaningful ways.
Longer stays can reduce per-day costs when you fly less frequently, and local food and experiences can often cost far less than imported alternatives. Plus, many efficient accommodations may offer lower rates due to energy savings.
While some sustainable options do carry a premium, I encourage clients to see it as an investment in the region’s conservation efforts as well as providing fair, living wages for local communities.
What Are the Best Sustainable Travel Destinations?
The world is full of sustainable destinations that are taking steps to combine tourism with sustainability. Here are some of the top destinations I would recommend:
Costa Rica - The island generates 90% electricity from renewables and actively protects 25% of its territory
Bhutan - Bhutan is the world's only carbon-negative country with constitutional forest requirements
Finland - This country has over 80% forest coverage and is chock-full of sustainable tourism programs
Scotland - Scotland was the world’s first nation to declare a tourism climate emergency, and is hard at work creating new ways for tourists to visit
New Zealand - The island country is aiming for carbon-neutral tourism by 2030
Rwanda - A country with a rich history that is investing in community-based conservation tourism
Ecuador - You can experience incredible biodiversity protection in action across the Amazon and Galápagos
Singapore - Singapore is a leader in urban sustainability leadership (and a must-visit location!)
Greenland - Yes, Greenland is a great destination – and the Arctic conservation education you’ll gain is second to none
Barbados - A leading member of the Caribbean Alliance for Sustainable Tourism
Curious about the data? See more about how countries are leading the charge in sustainable travel here!
What Is A Sustainable Travel Agent?
A sustainable travel agent is an experienced and specialized travel professional who helps individuals, groups, and families create responsible travel experiences.
A specialized sustainable travel advisor brings you expertise and experience for those who want more from their travel. They possess knowledge of key certifications, such as GSTC (Global Sustainable Tourism Council) standards, and can distinguish between genuine sustainable properties and those that engage in greenwashing.
Plus, a sustainable travel agent has built long-term relationships with resorts, hotels, tour operators, and locations that have a proven track record of sustainability practices.
What Can I Expect When Working with a Sustainable Travel Advisor?
When you work with me, you receive a completely personalized approach to your travel planning.
We’ll begin with an initial consultation, where I’ll work with you to identify your travel goals as well as your understanding of sustainable travel – and we’ll work together to build a list of potential options for your next journey.
I’ll help you build a curated destination itinerary based on verified environmental and social practices, as well as details on sustainability for accommodations, activities, and transportation options.
I’ll work with you to find culturally-sensitive experiences and excursions that help you make the most of your trip while positively impacting the region, and I’ll work to support you through the entire trip, so you’re never far from guidance and recommendations!
How Do I Start Planning My Sustainable Travel?
Are you ready to experience the future of travel in a sustainable way? Reach out today and let’s set up a consultation where we can discuss your dreams and goals. Together, we can create meaningful, responsible travel experiences that exceed your expectations while protecting the places you love to explore.