Ronak shahTravelling is well-known for its environmental footprint, and numerous activists have discussed its damaging effects on the natural world. Tourism is single handedly responsible for almost 10% of the global carbon emissions. Plane flights are the most common culprit, but lodging, souvenirs and eating out contribute as well. But is there no way to see the world without harming it in the process as well? Are there any destinations that are more sustainable than others and which you could add to your bucket list?
Bhutan
Bhutan is a mountainous country, landlocked in South Asia, with China to the north and India to the south. It is called “Druk Yul,” “Land of the Thunder god” by the locals, alluding to the Drunk, the dragon from Bhutanese mythology. Bhutan is the largest consumer of hydropower in the world, but the issues caused by climate change have already started affecting the nation, with melting glaciers a growing concern. Today, the country is considered a spiritual retreat, and the traditional art and architecture draw in visitors annually.
If you’ve been thinking about travelling here as well, look into the airport parking options. Visit the Trashigang Dzong, the largest fortress in Bhutan, built in the traditional dzong style, which features high, sloping walls, Buddhist-themed art and motifs, massive doors of iron and wood, flared roofing and red oche stripes at the top of the walls. The Paro Taktsang is one of the most scenic places in Bhutan, a sacred site on the upper side of the Paro Valley.
Slovenia
With Italy to the west, Croatia to the southeast and Austria to the north, Slovenia is an underrated tourist destination. And that’s a pity because it has many beautiful sights to offer. The country is densely forested and mountainous. The country’s natural beauty is second to none, and there are numerous trails and very good signposting so that you can travel on your own without the need for a car. Digitalisation has also helped create maps that help hikers stay on track at all times and avoid any dangers.
Lake Bled, in the Julian Alps, is the site of the World Rowing Championships of 196, 1979, 1989 and 2011. Bled Castle, currently a historical museum, overlooks the lake. It was built sometime around the year 1004 by Holy Roman Emperor Henry II. Predjama Castle is another historical landmark you should see, a Renaissance construction built within a cave. And of course, you should also visit the Vintgar Gorge, at the edge of the Triglav National Park.
New Zealand
New Zealand is often associated with the beautiful landscapes representing the Shire in The Lord of the Rings series, the idyllic homeplace of the hobbits. It might sound like a stereotype, but the truth is that New Zealand is indeed home to a place of perfectly pristine wilderness. Look for Perth Airport parking when coming from abroad. After all, there are many who want to visit this beautiful country, so parking spots are occupied fast.
New Zealand has a total of eleven wilderness areas, seven in the South Island and four in the North. The wilderness policy of 1985 eliminated trails and bridges, as well as mechanised access, apart from other facilities. Energy in New Zealand is also derived mainly from green, non-polluting resources, including wind, geothermal and hydropower. Sustainability is fundamental. So, when you’re at the Waitomo caves or somewhere deep into lush forests, remember to protect the nature around you as well.
And, of course, take a trip to the Matamata, the location of the Hobbiton Movie Set, one of the most emblematic landmarks of Tolkien tourism. It is a must-see, even if you’re not a diehard fan.
Costa Rica
Costa Rica is famous worldwide for its national parks, including the Irazú Volcano National Park, the Parque Nacional Tortuguero and the Rincón de la Vieja National Park. All these protected areas provide visitors with a deep love for the outdoors to unwind and connect with nature. About 5% of the entire biodiversity found on Earth is endemic to Costa Rica. The country also gets electricity through water power.
There are sixty volcanoes in Costa Rica, of which five are still active. If you’d like to see them, you can hike to them. Since hot springs are abundant in the same areas, there are many resorts and spas where you can relax. Costa Rica protects its natural environment and wildlife, prioritising the necessity for biodiversity. It is also the hummingbird capital of the world, with over fifty species.
Finland
Finland is well-known among the general public for its northern lights, its numerous saunas and Lapland, its northernmost region. It has some of the cleanest air in the world, which many people, particularly those living in large urban areas, look forward to. The country is aiming to become fully carbon-neutral by 2035, and almost 80% of its surface is covered by forests. It is also home to the largest archipelago in the world and the biggest lake district in all of Europe.
Finland has also implemented a program supporting and encouraging visitors to try ecotourism by providing information on the most environmentally friendly ways to visit the country.
Barbados
An island country and microstate in the Lesser Antilles, Barbados is the easternmost Caribbean Island. It is part of the Caribbean Alliance for Sustainable Tourism that aims to develop the resources necessary to create eco-friendly experiences for travellers that meet their standards and expectations without harming the local environment or communities.
The small city of Holetown is an excellent place to enjoy the beach and nightlife. Bridgetown, the capital and largest city, is home to the Historic Bridgetown and its Garrison, a remnant of the colonial times that still maintain the architectural styles that flourished between the 17th and the 19th centuries. Harrison’s Cave, an extensive system stretching nearly two kilometres, can be explored via an electric tram.
Travelling and sustainability can seem like an oxymoron for some, but it’s possible to have both. You just have to do some research first and see what your options are.
