Walk Carbon Footprint-Free How to Travel Sustainably

It can be rather difficult to accept, but traveling is far from being an eco-friendly activity. Beaches all over the world drown in plastic, making things less than pleasing to look at. Previously unspoiled places have been converted into spaces fit for tourism, with little to no regard for a slowly decaying flora and fauna.

Should things continue, traveling may cease to be an option. But the undeniable remains—the earth is much too beautiful not to enjoy. Tucking it into a safety blanket isn’t an option, either, especially since living life also means seeing the unfamiliar. For this reason, eco-friendly and sustainable traveling has been born.

But what does this truly encompass? In the simplest terms, it’s traversing around the world with green and good habits. Here’s how you can get started:

Tip #1: Bring your reusable water containers around

One of the most amazing parts about traveling is sipping on your chosen beverage, the most common of which is coffee. Nothing quite compares to the aromatic scent of morning coffee, done so familiar and yet so different in various corners of the world. While sitting in a nice cafe is a good option, most travelers opt to enjoy their coffees to-go, much like how they treat water.

As a result, coffee cups and plastic bottles become a huge part of the traveling problem. To make matters worse, other countries do not have access to proper recycling facilities, making tourism a major trash generator. This is a concern for local communities and to make sure you don’t add to the plastic problem, bring your favorite thermal flasks with you!

Tip #2: Support everything local

Although you shell out money to enjoy tourism, bear in mind that your resources likely go back to the corporate tourism industry. This is true even if you travel and enjoy local communities, particularly when you choose to grab coffee and souvenirs at that coffee shop chain. You’ll also be promising money for tourism agencies, all of which fall under the grand scheme of major companies.

If you truly want to help the local economy, opt to eat and shop locally. Go to locals who offer you handmade souvenirs, produce fresh coconut juice, and provide you with local transportation means. You can also opt to hire local guides, so long as you ensure it’s completely safe.

Tip #3: Choose a green accommodation

Staying at an eco-friendly hotel is a no-brainer, but it’s most often overlooked. If you wish to splurge and stay at the most comfortable hotel possible, always choose one that’s sustainable. You’ll likely find one without a hassle, especially since the local tourism industry is now shifting towards consumer demand, which is eco-conscious practices.

Such efforts can be as simple as not washing towels every day, or perhaps something as grand as using solar energy. All you need to do is a little research and you’re all set!

Golden tip: For a truly sustainable and yet affordable stay, RIVERHOUSE Phuket has you covered.

The Bottom Line

Traveling the world is one of life’s greatest pleasures, and we’re incredibly lucky to be in an age where hopping on a plane is as easy as riding a bike. Traveling, however, must now be regarded with an open mind and caring heart, especially since the world is succumbing to pollution and other changes. A sustainable vacation may seem difficult to do, but the tips listed above reflect the truth—it’s incredibly easy, and the choice is always yours.

If you wish to invest in the best sustainable accommodations in Phuket, we’ve got you covered. RIVERHOUSE Phuket offers you renewable energy rooms set in tranquil mountains, making it your home away from home. We offer you comfort, class, and a conscious stay—book a room today.