A lake in the shape of human footprints in the middle of a lush forest as a metaphor for the impact of human activity on the landscape and nature in general. 3d rendering.
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Sustainable tourism is on the rise.
According to a recent sustainability report by travel search engine Booking.com, 71% of respondents said they “want to leave the places they visit better than when they arrived.” 83% said that sustainable travel is important to them.
The Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) defines as sustainable travel as ‘tourism that fully considers its current and future economic, social, and environmental impacts, while addressing the needs of visitors, the industry, the environment.”
As the increase in consumer demand for eco-friendly and culturally sensitive travel options continue to take shape opening the door for more meaningful and transformative travel experiences, here are eight sustainable ideas to gift yourself or the one’s you love this Valentines Day.
Take A Sustainable Surf Break in Costa Rica
Nosara, Costa Rica – February 5, 2024: People on Guiones Beach at sunset.
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Rich in biodiversity and home to one of the world’s Blue Zones, sustainability is a fundamental way of life in Costa Rica. Set along one of the most famous surf breaks, The Gilded Iguana Surf Hotel dates back to 1986 and has maintained its status as one of the best sustainable hotels and surf schools in the country ever since.
In partnership with Regenerative Travel, the hotel underwent a major refresh in 2018, and in addition to an aesthetic enhancement, has continued to support the social, economic, and environmental well-being of the local community. Ideal for couples or the whole family, in addition to the hotel’s excellent onsite restaurant, swimming pools and spa, now you can add a little swing to your step with the help of a brand new Dance Academy that offers guests and locals a chance to experience a slice of Costa Rica’s rich salsa culture.
Take a Walk In Jane Austen’s Footsteps
A scene right out of a Jane Austen book in the UK
Shutterstock/Active England
2025 marks the 250th anniversary of Jane Austen’s birth, and to commemorate the occasion, U.K., based tour company Active England is offering a new literary walking tour to celebrate.
Over the course of this six-day, five night-tour, this one-of-a-kind adventure will take fans through the elegant Georgian streets of Bath and the English countryside that inspired much of Austen’s work. Sustainable tourism is at the core of Active England, who prioritizes eco-friendly practices while supporting local communities that help preserve the landscapes and heritage that make the U.K. so special. £2619, per person.
Explore Ruins, Reefs and Rainforests in Belize
Discovery footbridge over river in tranquil forest
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If zip-lining your way through tropical jungles and snorkeling across the Belizean Barrier Reef sounds like its up your alley, EF Adventures brand new Reefs, Rainforest, and Ruins Tour is ideal for an immersive, off-the-beaten path adventure this year. With a focus on small groups, this eco-friendly experience is a great gift idea to give the adventurous travelers in your life. $2,219
‘Slow Travel’ By Train In Mongolia
The rail renaissance continues, with travelers opting to experience destinations at a relaxed pace on the Trans Siberian Rail Trail
Intrepid Travel
As the renaissance in rail travel continues to grow amongst travelers who want to experience destinations at a slower, more environmentally-conscious pace, Intrepid Travel’s new Trans-Mongolian Railway Adventure is a great way to see two incredible countries in one unforgettable journey.
A certified B-Corp company, Intrepid labels every trip itinerary with its carbon impact and offsets emissions automatically. Over the course of 11-days, you’ll make your way from Beijing to Khustai National Park where you’ll have a chance to stay in traditional ger and local campsites along the way. $3,029
Sustainable Whale Watching in New Zealand
Tail of a Sperm Whale diving down with the Kaikoura Ranges in the background, New Zealand.
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On New Zealand’s South Island, the eco-marine town of Kaikoura is world renown for their sustainable whale-watching experiences. Book a tour with Whale Watch Kaikoura, a Maori-owned business that helps the Ngai Tahu community by providing jobs and preserving culture. Nearby, Hapuku Lodge + Tree Houses is set at the base of Kaikoura Seaward Mountain Range and is a sustainable spot to post up while you’re in town.
Volunteer With Bears in Romania
Large Carpathian brown bear in the woods of Romania Europe.
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Romania is often described as the “hidden gem” of Eastern Europe, and with an abundance of unique wildlife and conservation opportunities, for travelers intrepid enough to volunteer with bears, tour company Responsible Travel is offering the chance to do just that.
Over the course of this seven day trip, travelers will volunteer alongside Romanian brown bears at Libearty, Romania’s largest bear sanctuary and Europe’s largest animal welfare projects as well as pay a visit to Dracula’s castle among other hyperlocal experiences. £1,195, per person.
Ethical Whale Shark Sailing In The Maldives
Panoramic aerial view of a turquoise coral reef and lagoon with a tropical paradise island and calm sea at the Maldives, Indian Ocean
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Hop onboard MV Felicity with Responsible Travel for an eight day island hopping adventure through the Maldives where you’ll explore the stunning beauty of South Male & Ari Atolls.
Along the way you’ll have the chance to meet with local NGO Save the Beach where you’ll visit a coral nursery and learn about their efforts in helping restore the area’s reefs. You’ll also take a deep dive into Maldivian culture and embark on an ethical whale shark safari, visit deserted sandbank islands, and of course, kick back and relax as you sail onboard this spectacular eco-friendly vessel. $2295 per-person, excluding flights.
See The Sea Turtle’s on Florida’s Space Coast
Adult Green to sea turtle on Florida’s Space Coast
Stella Maris Env Research
Every March through September, thousands of sea turtles return to the beaches in Melbourne, Florida and now you can join a dedicated Sea Turtle Walk with the Sea Turtle Preservation Society on a special tour of the Archie Carr National Wildlife Refuge. Home to the second largest loggerhead nesting area in the world, while you’re in town, don’t miss a chance to take a glass-bottomed kayak tour over bioluminescent lagoons and check out the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex before you go.
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