Conscious travel: Why eco-friendly travel is trending

By MiNDFOOD

Conscious travel: Why eco-friendly travel is trending
An interest in eco-friendly travel is on the rise, and the tourism industry is responding. We look at five sustainable accommodation options around the globe.

An interest in sustainable travel is rapidly growing, the Pinterest 2018 Travel Report found. “Saves for eco-friendly hotels are on the rise (+125%), with people looking to minimise the footprint of their globetrotting”, the report reads. One of the causes of this increase is travellers being impressed by natural sights experienced on past trips, Booking.com’s Sustainable Travel Report revealed. The report, which examined 12,000 people from around the world, also found that environmentally-conscious travellers are not only choosing ecofriendly accommodation to reduce their environmental impact, but to have a local experience as well. 

Top 5 eco-friendly travel destinations

Now, Booking.com has revealed the top five locations for sustainable, ecofriendly travel according to travellers: Sweden (34%), Norway (33%), Switzerland (32%), New Zealand (29%) and Canada (26%). Interested? Here are our accommodation picks in each of these leading countries.

Kinsarvik Camping | Norway

A beautiful eco-escape, this camp features breathtaking views over the Hardangerfjord, Norway’s fourth-largest Fjord. Travellers can choose from campsites, caravans and cabins. While there, visit Syse Gard, a local farm which raises its own livestock and grows its own fruit. Enjoy a meal made with the farm’s seasonal produce.

Treehotel | Sweden

For a complete off-the-grid experience, book a stay at the Treehotel in Sweden. Nestled in Harad’s forest, this unique getaway provides visitors with stunning views over the surrounding woods. All food from the hotel restaurant is sourced locally. Make sure you visit the Hornstulls Marknad while you’re there. This sustainable market is held every weekend from April-September in Stockholm and features a range of vintage clothing and handmade art.

Alphotel Eiger B&B | Switzerland

This picturesque hotel is located in one of the world’s leading cities in eco-classified hotels: Bern, Switzerland. Alphotel offers incredible panoramic views of the lakes and mountains in the area, and all guests are treated to breakfasts made from local produce. Set inside Bern’s iconic cathedral, the Handwerkermärit craftsmanship market stocks clothing, souvenirs and locally-made crafts for visitors to enjoy.

Earthstead Villas | New Zealand

Located on a working organic farm in Cambridge, these environmentally-friendly villas are made from recycled materials and hand-built. Rent a bike for free and head to the Cambridge Farmers Market where local businesses committed to sustainability have their wares for sale.

Element Vancouver Metrotown | Canada

Featuring an environmentally-friendly saltwater pool, charging points for electric vehicles and free bikes for guests to borrow, this hotel is leading the field when it comes to reducing its carbon footprint. The local Burnaby Artisan Farmers Market is a must-visit in the area, featuring organic farmer and local craftsmen. Be sure to snack on some locally-grown produce and freshly-baked goods while you’re there.

Read more: Eco Beaches For Your Bucket List

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