If you think staying at an eco-friendly property means forgoing luxury, think again. Today’s climate change issues have brought sustainable practices and eco-friendly companies into the spotlight, and it’s hitting tourism and the hospitality industry in a big way. Going green has become cool with high-design amenities, forward-leaning culinary and wellness offerings and elevated guest experiences. Resorts around the globe are appealing to travelers looking to reduce their carbon footprint and tread lightly with luxurious, low-impact accommodations. Stay at one of these sustainable retreats for an environmentally conscious getaway.
[See: 6 Eco-Conscious Trips to Take This Spring and Summer.]
Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort
Vanu Levu, Fiji Islands
For a sustainable resort set in paradise, travel to the Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort in Fiji. Named and modeled after famous conservationist and ocean explorer Jean-Michel Cousteau, the resort has the first-ever water reclamation plant, low-flow showerheads, efficient toilets and a comprehensive recycling program. Even the brochures are printed on recycled paper and use soy-based inks. Aside from its wealth of amenities and practices focused on sustainability, the resort provides one of the best dive programs in the world, candlelit dinners on the beach and other one-of-a-kind experiences.
Mukul Beach, Golf & Spa
Guacalito de la Isla, Nicaragua
For a vacation that’s closer to home, look beyond Mexico and consider eco-friendly Nicaragua. The Mukul Beach, Golf & Spa resort has made a name for itself for its top-of-the-line wellness program along with its attentive customer service. Mukul is also committed to aiding its community with local furnishings and decorations appointing each of the property’s 37 guest rooms. The resort also prides itself on its sustainability initiatives. The immaculate golf course, for example, was built around the landscape, and the hotel was built with the use of rainwater catchments and timber from sustainable forests.
[Read: Q&A With 1 Hotel Central Park’s CEO.]
andBeyond Klein’s Camp
Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
Sustainability and luxury are at the forefront in this far-flung eco-resort. Not only is andBeyond’s Klein’s Camp an explorer’s dream with mesmerizing views of the Massai Mara National Park from its elaborate thatched-roof cottages, but the activities can make even the most experienced traveler feel green again. Plus, the camp is the only lodge in the area that has a wildlife concession with the Massai people. What’s more, andBeyond’s lease agreement means that guests not only get the ultimate safari experience, but that the camp, by nature, has to fit within its environment. See cheetahs, wildebeests and zebras during the day; at night, survey the untouched wild in the pool with cocktail in hand.
Jade Mountain
St. Lucia
Jade Mountain‘s commitment to eco-friendly practices began before the resort opened. The resort was hand-built by locals from the island’s Soufriere community and incorporates recycled products. The elaborate and lavish plunge pools were built from recycled glass tiles that give each suite its own identity and electricity. What’s more, each room is outfitted with sustainable features and boasts only has three walls with views of the Piton Mountains and the Caribbean.
The Brando
Tetiaroa, French Polynesia
The Brando, with its azure waters, natural beauty and refined atmosphere, seems like a resort seen in a movie or heard about in a fairy tale. Located on the island of Tetiaroa in French Polynesia, the beautiful resort is a hidden gem. Even better, The Brando has championed developing and implementing eco-friendly technologies. A Sea Water Air Conditioning system, which uses the ocean’s naturally cold water, and a coconut oil power station are just two examples of how this resort propels sustainable hospitality practices.
[Read: 6 Sinking Cities to Visit Before It’s Too Late.]
Japamala Resort
Tioman Island, Malaysia
Tioman Island is a sacred place for divers, but it’s also a haven for eco-minded travelers. Japamala Resort transports visitors to their part of their world, while also providing them with the best Malaysia has to offer. It rivals any luxury resort you would find in the Maldives –without the high crowds. What’s more, Japamala was built without disrupting the land around it. Even rocks were carefully avoided. The wood accents on display throughout the resort were salvaged from dilapidated houses in the nearby villages, and though the resort touts its property as “Rustic Luxe,” it doesn’t compromise on high-quality guest experiences or an impeccable attention to detail.
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