Why Choose Sustainable Hotels When Travelling Abroad?

Travel trends show that an increasing number of people are becoming interested in sustainable tourism and attempting to reduce their environmental impact while travelling.

Fortunately, it's not just travellers who want to make a difference in how they travel; many businesses are getting on board, and one of the biggest industries attempting to reduce their carbon footprint is the hotel and accommodation industry.

You can easily and worry-free organize travel to sustainable hotels with the help of booking websites, green certification programs, and recommended hotels.

Why It’s Important To Choose Sustainably And Eco-Friendly Hotels

Environmentally friendly vacation accommodations are a win-win situation. Hotel owners improve their image while saving money while guests enjoy a lower carbon footprint vacation. The trend is growing, with 55% of global travellers more determined to make sustainable travel choices.

According to Booking.com's 2022 Sustainable Travel Report, 81% of global travellers believe sustainable travel is important, with 70% saying they would be more likely to book sustainable accommodations. Travellers who stayed in a sustainable accommodation in the previous year stated that they wanted to reduce their environmental impact (41%), have a more local experience (33%), and treat the surrounding community better (31%).

Depending on where you go, sustainable accommodation initiatives will look different. There is no one-size-fits-all solution, which makes things difficult for the average traveller.

But, choosing a sustainable accommodation option is critical because the money you spend will either benefit or harm the place you're visiting.

What You Should Look For In A Sustainable Hotel

Look for Sustainable Certified Hotels

Sustainable-certified hotels are typically listed on the websites of each sustainable-certified body. Green Key, for example, is one of these sustainability certification programs run by the Foundation for Environmental Education. Over 3,000 establishments in 65 countries have been awarded the Green Key to assist travellers in planning their trips.

Other certification programs besides Green Key include Green Globe, Travelife, and Earth Check. Each of these programs has requirements before recognizing a sustainable hotel.

Where Does Their Water Come From?

Most hotels now have those cards in their rooms where you can notify the staff that you do not want the towels or linens cleaned. But, why not consider the other ways the eco-hotel could waste water?

Do they collect rainwater to keep their lawn in good condition? Do they make use of low-flow toilets? If the resort is littered with decorative pools and fountains, consider where that water is coming from and if it’s draining local resources. Do they keep the sewer lines clean?

There are hotels abroad that are sustainable because they choose to do sewer line inspection and cleaning, by hiring a sewer line cleaning company to do that for them. Rather than clogged sewers, they promote sustainability and help the environment.

What Kind Of Energy Does The Hotel Use?

Sustainable housing is powered by renewable energy sources, or it may even generate its own electricity using solar panels, for example. Even renewable energy should be used for heating. Hotels that switch to alternative sources of electricity like solar power clearly have a significant impact on the world around them.

Does The Eco Hotel Use Local Staff And Products?

For catering, sustainable accommodations should use regional and seasonal products. This is a good way to support local businesses while also avoiding long-distance transportation of produce. Fairtrade products should be used in imports such as coffee and cocoa.

Vegetarian and vegan options should be plentiful in environmentally friendly hotels and guesthouses. In addition to being more resource-efficient than buffets, set menus will help reduce food waste.

Does The Hotel Promote The Traditions Of The Home Country?

A truly green hotel will highlight what makes the local heritage so special. They'll leave you wanting to learn more about the local traditions, culture, and folklore. Ideally, they'll also provide you with a location where you can find out more about the place. If you want to explore further you should consider renting an RV, in that way, you can see everything the place has to offer.

Travelling environmentally friendly does not imply missing out on or sacrificing something. On the contrary, eco-travel can enhance your vacation experience while reducing travel stress. Travel guilt-free by staying in the best sustainable hotels around the world and using environmentally friendly modes of transportation.