Earth Day was on April 22nd, and this year’s theme is ‘invest in our planet’. I encourage you to do just that by choosing eco-luxury accommodations on your next trip. While eco-luxury might come with a higher price tag than regular luxury accommodation, it’s worth the investment. Here’s why:
Eco-luxury properties prioritize sustainability through various practices. They are designed with sustainability in mind, built using recycled, locally sourced materials without harming the local ecosystem. These properties generate their own electricity using renewable sources like solar or wind power and utilize LED lighting. They recycle waste materials and employ innovative techniques, such as using used cooking oil to power vehicles or capturing oven heat to warm rooms. Additionally, they reuse grey water from showers to irrigate gardens.
These accommodations engage with local communities by offering employment and training opportunities, often ensuring community ownership and participation in management. Many are carbon-neutral, and some even achieve a net-positive environmental impact, meaning your stay benefits the planet.
My team and I have traveled the world to find partners who share our vision for sustainable luxury travel. Although eco-luxury options aren’t available everywhere yet, their numbers are growing. In my opinion, Costa Rica leads the way in eco-luxury, with numerous exceptional properties like:
– Kasiiya: With a minimal environmental footprint, Kasiiya can be dismantled without leaving a trace. It hires and trains local villagers, sources materials from local farmers and tradesmen, and invests 20% of its profits into social and environmental programs.
– El Silencio: Over 95% of El Silencio’s staff is local, contributing to the community through employment, local purchases, and a strong relationship with the Los Bajos del Toro community. It has the highest Six-Leaf Rating in Costa Rica’s Certification of Sustainable Tourism.
– Lapa Rios: This property protects 1,000 acres of rainforest, uses solar energy, water turbines, organic cleaning products, and maintains a no-plastics policy.
– Pacuare Lodge: No trees were felled to accommodate its bungalows and main lodge, which use timber from farmer-run reforestation projects. The thatched roofs are made by local Cabecar Indians from palm leaves gathered sustainably.
Thailand is another country with fantastic eco-luxe resorts, such as:
– Soneva Kiri: The Soneva Foundation funds projects including eco-stoves in Myanmar, reforestation, clean water initiatives, hunger relief, and ocean stewardship.
– Six Senses: This resort uses renewable building materials, passive cooling, electric transport, and biodegradable cleaning products.
– Aleenta Phuket: Aleenta has eradicated single-use plastics and educates children on sustainable farming techniques.
– Zeavola: This resort has its own water bottling plant, has replaced plastic packaging, and features Thailand’s most advanced wastewater management system.
Other notable eco-luxury options around the world include:
– Kenya: Basecamp Masai Mara employs drought mitigation techniques, recycles grey water, has recycled over 2,000 kg of plastics, uses solar power, and has created income-generating initiatives for the local community.
– South Africa: The Homestead uses solar power, local stones and ethically sourced wood for construction, collects rainwater, and offers wildlife encounters in electric vehicles.
– Australia: One & Only Wolgan Valley focuses on energy conservation with LED lighting, sensors, timers, and solar panels. The resort sources food from local organic producers and uses rainwater for 70% of its drinking water.
Invest your travel funds in eco-luxury accommodation and the planet will thank you!
Christopher Hill is the Founder and CEO of Hands Up Holidays, an award-winning travel company that designs tailor-made luxury family trips combining sightseeing with hands-on service projects. He is also the Founder of Impact Destinations, offering ultra-luxe sustainable trips that leave a lasting impact.
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Christopher Hill
Christopher Hill, Founder of Hands Up Holidays and Impact Destinations, specializes in sustainable luxury family trips and unique eco-luxury experiences. His companies offer over 30 global destinations, ensuring meaningful travel that leaves a positive impact.