Earth Day may be a few months from now but the interest in sustainable travel is at its peak, according to a study by Booking.com.
According to the company’s 2019 Sustainable Travel Report,
“Almost three quarters, i.e. 73% of travellers worldwide intend to stay at least once in an eco-friendly or green accommodation in the year ahead. Besides, almost 72% of travellers worldwide believe that people need to act now to make sustainable travel choices.”
That being said, ethical travel, eco-travel, sustainable travel, green travel etc. are undoubtedly the buzzwords today. If you want to stay in the US, you could try something like long beach whale watching, but many are keen to go a little more exotic.
From getting lost in Colombia’s wilderness to getting acquainted with the Himalayan kingdom, Bhutan, there are a number of sustainable destinations you can travel to in 2021. And, to help you in your eco-travel journey, we have listed below some of our top picks. Have a look at the best sustainable travel destinations for 2021.
- Costa Rica: “The 2019 Champion of the Earth”
White sandy beaches, volcanoes, rainforests, picturesque landscapes…You name it and there’s nothing that the beautiful land of Costa Rica doesn’t have.
As we shed light on the environmental protection in this American country, we learn that conservation of its thriving land and population are taken very seriously. 25% of the territory is either a national park or protected area that the government aims to expand further.
Winner of the “2019 Champions of the Earth” award, the UN’s highest environmental honour, Costa Rica runs on 98% of renewable energy. Plus, the country leads the way when it comes to sustainable tourism and environmental commitment.
So, what are you waiting for? Book your tickets to this sustainable paradise today!
- Bhutan: The carbon negative country of Asia
Yes, you read that right!
This Himalayan land is carbon negative. Thanks to the extensive forests of the country.
Fact: The country’s constitution states that 60% of Bhutan’s territory must be protected as forest and currently 72% is covered in lush green forests and vegetation.
By planting 49, 672 trees per hour as part of the “Tree Planting for Green Bhutan” project, Bhutan has set records that no other has managed to break!
In addition to these sustainable practices, the country prefers a small number of tourists to visit the country so as to ensure that carbon footprint remains minimal.
The shrines, monasteries, and green valleys of the place are definitely worth a visit. Don’t you think?
- Helsinki: One of Europe’s most eco-friendly cities
Head to Finland’s southern capital and explore its neoclassical mansions, open-air museum, and much more.
According to Culture Trip,
The European city aims to become carbon neutral by 2035. And, it is taking several initiatives in this regard. One of which is a recently launched programme that aims to point people towards the most environmental-friendly cafes, bars, and hotels in the area while at the same time encourage local businesses to adopt green practices to return the favour.
- Colombia: The city that never suffers over-tourism
Those trekking to La Ciudad Perdida (which is Spanish for ‘lost city’) will remain astounded by its beauty. You get to witness an ancient archaeological site nestled in the Sierra Nevada region of Northern Columbia. It was built by the Tayrona people, and dating to approximately 800 AD (older than Machu Picchu), it is only accessible on foot.
The trek is pretty long which is one of the reasons for no over-tourism in this place.
Travel tip: The trek passes through indigenous land, so it’s best to choose a tour operator who has the knowledge of the place. Plus, make sure to wear your trekking boots and carry your tactical gear and backpack.
Final Word
While countries are constantly taking measures to promote green and sustainable travel, travellers are also expected to act responsibly in the same context. As travellers, you must adopt eco-friendly practices and take responsibility for your actions.
Hope this was helpful. Happy travelling!
