With the world becoming more aware of carbon footprints and human effect on the environment, travelers are now more conscious of their choices for stay. Vacationers often choose resorts and hotels with sustainability initiatives or contribute to maintaining and showcasing local culture, flora, and fauna. Going green doesn’t mean having to sacrifice luxury; let’s show you the top eco resorts and hotels to visit this year.
Soneva, as a chain, champions the cause of sustainability across all its properties. The Soneva Foundation only supports the development of projects that have a positive environmental, social, and economic impact. Their only resort in Thailand is no different. The pristine Koh Kood beach is home to this piece of paradise, which features 33 one-to-five-bedroom villas, each with its own pool. The restaurants at Kiri are supplied by their own organic garden and locally caught seafood. The resort has also banned plastics, and all water is filtered and provided in eco-friendly glass bottles. The property has also developed its Carbon Calculator to monitor its footprint and manage its resources accordingly.
This is a resort designed for the environmentally aware and adventurous traveler where one can experience ultimate comfort provided within the limitations of its remote location and eco-sensitivity. Pikaia is built from recyclable, eco-friendly, local materials such as lava stone, teak, and bamboo. The rooms are split across terrace and balcony rooms along with pool and garden suites. The property is carbon neutral, uses biodegradable products, and even uses solar power for energy generation. Located in the heart of the Galapagos, it offers a fantastic opportunity to view the local fauna and understand their ties to the island with the help of experienced tour guides.
This beautiful Eco lodge in New Zealand was constructed and is run keeping in mind the philosophy of the ‘Living Building Challenge.’ Based on seven petals, the challenge is one of the most stringent environmental certifications in the world. Headwaters is currently registered under the energy, water, and beauty petals. It is New Zealand’s first net-zero energy property and employs solar power and advanced energy and water management systems. The lodge features 14 elegantly appointed chalets furnished with artwork from New Zealand. There’s a host of outdoor activities to enjoy here, from hiking, horseback riding, and skydiving, to art and sustainability tours.
Garonga Safari Camp in the Greater Makalali Private Game Reserve is a great place to view the big 5 in South Africa. The camp boasts several green initiatives apart from offering a great way to learn about and appreciate Africa’s wildlife. Waste is separated and recycled with organic scraps used for animal feed or turned into biogas for fuel. Most of the camp runs on solar power, with the newest addition – the private tented camp – being 100% solar powered. There is a water treatment plant on base, and water is heated with minimal electricity. There are three separate camps here at Garonga, with ten tents and two villas. The twice-daily game drives, of course, draw people here, but there is a lot to do otherwise, too, such as a visit to the spa, bush and night baths, or even photography and yoga classes.
Slated to open in 2024, Svart is a pioneer in the field of hospitality by aiming to be the first energy-positive hotel in the world. The goal here is to be entirely off-grid within five years, meaning the hotel and its services will be self-sufficient in electricity, water, and waste management. The energy efficiency standards even aim to meet the Paris agreement. The resort is built along the lines of local traditions, which blur the edges of land and water. With a panoramic view of the Svartisen glacier, this is a hotel to keep one’s eye on.
Being conscious of your environment is the first positive step you can take as a traveler. No matter how far you travel, what you do to your surroundings, and how you respond to its warmth, shows what kind of a traveler you are. Book some of the top eco resorts and hotels around the world to have a nature-friendly holiday.
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