Three Top Countries for Sustainable Eco-Travel
Around 75% of global trippers say they want to travel more sustainably this year. Travelers are driven by an increased awareness of the environmental and social impacts of tourism as well the desire for authentic experiences connecting with the locals, supporting local businesses, and immersing in their culture.
Countries around the world are also shifting towards eco-conscious travel promoting environmentally and culturally friendly practices that will benefit local communities and their economy while preserving the natural and cultural heritage. Here are countries best known for responsible tourism policies and practices.
Bhutan’s Gross National Happiness (GNH)
A Skift survey indicated that 67% of travelers favor authentic experiences when choosing a travel destination. Furthermore, 55% of respondents in a Booking.com survey indicated that they are looking for less crowded or commercialized spots. Bhutan is a destination worthy of a visit. The small and mountainous kingdom has a long-term strategy of quality and sustainable tourism. Bhutan focuses on the GNH introduced in 1974, as a guiding principle for its development policies.
The 4 pillars of the GNH are sustainable development, cultural preservation and promotion, good governance, and natural environment conservation. It controls visitors to the county by promoting a ‘high-value, low-volume’ tourism policy. This means levying a US$200 daily tariff per person as well as a US$65 royalty charged by the government. Marvel at dramatic Himalayan mountains, green valley, and lush forests or relish the unique architecture of the kingdom with wood carvings and colorful paintings.
Hike through spectacular landscapes, explore remote villages, or experience thrilling white-water rafting, Bhutan is a captivating and unforgettable destination that is committed to promoting the happiness and well-being of its people as well as preserving its natural and cultural heritage.
Biodiversity in Costa Rica
The Central American country has long been known as one of the pioneers of sustainable tourism focusing on environmental conservation, community participation, and ecological practices. It boasts unparalleled biodiversity, amazing landscapes, and beautiful national parks. To promote and safeguard its biodiversity, a significant portion of the land is dedicated to national parks, protected areas, and wildlife refuges.
Numerous practices are implemented to minimize environmental impact and maximize benefits for local communities. For example, many hotels and lodges are eco-friendly certified encouraging solar power use, rainwater harvesting, and organic waste management systems. Local residents are involved in planning, management, and operation of many tourism projects.
Eco-tourism initiatives include wildlife rescue and rehab centers, reforestation projects, and habitat protection. Tours focus on minimizing disturbances to animals as much as possible while reliance on private cars is discouraged to reduce carbon emissions.
New Zealand’s Adventure Tourism
Renowned for its stunning natural beauty and Maori culture, New Zealand is also an adventure lover’s paradise offering exciting bungee diving, kayaking, and skydiving. Admire majestic fjords, shimmering glaciers, picturesque lakes, and geothermal wonders, New Zealand has an array of exciting sights and options for adventure seekers.
To top it all, the country is committed to sustainability protecting national parks, reserves, and marine sacntuaries. Furthermore, accommodations focus on sustainability by using renewable energy, reducing waste, and supporting local communities. Adventure tourism operators also do their best to encourage wildlife conservation through responsible wildlife viewings as well as minimize their carbon footprint by using electric vehicles.
Bhutan, Costa Rica, and New Zealand are just a few examples of countries that actively promote eco-friendly travel, an ongoing process that is evolving to accommodate new technologies, challenges, and changes. Many other nations are also making important progress in sustainable travel.