Responsible travel and sustainable tourism is something that we really care about at Travel Counsellors, which is why we work with international charity, The Travel Foundation, to ensure that tourism brings greater benefits for local people and the environment, and to help us leave a better world for future generations to enjoy and explore.
Here’s our pick of some of our favourite eco-friendly destinations.
With a focus on health, fantastic food and bespoke adventures in luxurious surroundings, COMO’s collection of stunning resorts in the Maldives, Turks & Caicos, Indonesia and Thailand are second-to-none when it comes to getting away from it all to focus on your mental and physical wellbeing.
COMO also have a commitment to sustainable practices, sourcing local where possible to support local producers, entrepreneurs, social enterprises and non-profit organisations. They choose these vendors not only because they offer the best and freshest produce, but also because they are proud to be pioneers of sustainable economic development within their communities.
An exclusive cluster of five islands, enveloped by the South China Sea, the private-island resort of Bawah is shrouded in verdant greenery and lapped by turquoise waters. Offering the ultimate in sustainable luxury, the resort’s eco-friendly approach includes ocean-friendly sun cream, eco-friendly laundry detergent and no plastic bottles.
All of the island’s waste is recycled, water is heated by solar energy and wastewater is treated for the resort’s permaculturalist to use on the organic fruit and vegetable gardens, where pesticides are banned. The only land vehicles here are the resort’s electric buggies and there are even two solar powered boats.
Six Senses Zighy Bay's commitment to sustainable tourism includes activities such as giving support to several charities, including the local girl’s school in Dibba, Sharjah Charity International and the Sukarina bin Al Husain School.
The resort also has a very active environmental programme, with an inhouse marine biologist working on multiple projects around the region, including turtle rehabilitation and engaging with local communities to create a marine protected area. Diving hosts are also being trained to remove ghost nets left by fishermen in the Gulf of Oman, and to rescue sea creatures that may have been caught in them.
There’s nowhere quite like the Med. Its combination of sun-drenched beaches, epic history, fantastic food and family-friendly resorts and villas – all within a quick and easy flight from Ireland – make it a classic bet for family holidays.
Picture sinking your toes into soft silky sands as the refreshing ocean laps around your ankles and the soothing sound of the rolling waves plays.
Exploring off the beaten track destinations doesn't mean skimping on romance. Embark on a safari adventure in the wilds of Africa or discover the incredible natural phenomena of Iceland for a honeymoon you'll never forget.
