5 Ways to Work Towards Sustainable Travel

Ecotourism is one of the most popular topics in the travel industry. In April 2018, Booking.com released its Sustainable Travel Report that discussed some of the challenges and various ways Americans attempt to travel more sustainably. Of those surveyed for this report, 78% of vacationers want to travel more sustainably, yet 27% say one of their biggest obstacles is lack of information on how to do so. Here are a few tips the team at SellMyTimeshareNow.com has to having a more sustainable vacation:

1. Shop and dine local

One of the best ways you can reduce your carbon footprint while on vacation is by purchasing locally-made souvenirs and dining at local restaurants that utilize local ingredients. Locally-created foods, goods, and other items will give you the most authentic experience, supports the businesses that make your destination unique, and limits the number of products you use or buy that utilize many natural resources to be created, shipped, and sold.

2. Utilize public transport

Hailing a taxi or another ride-sharing service can often be the easiest and most direct way to get to your next destination, but it’s definitely not the most eco-friendly way to get around. Though it might be intimidating, consider using the local public transport. It’s often affordable and an adventurous alternative. Buses, trains, and other options are available in a variety of places and will give you a true look at what it’s like to live in the city you are visiting.

3. Explore less touristy areas and sights

Overtourism is a very real problem that exists in some of the most popular vacation destinations around the world. Threats to culture and heritage, damage to nature, monuments, and other important sights, overloaded infrastructure, and alienation of local residents are all viable issues that should be addressed. One of the best ways to vacation is by staying in lesser-visited destinations or spending time in less touristy areas of a popular city. This small gesture can help protect a city or country’s most prized possessions and also allows you to experience other hidden treasures the area has to offer.

4. Avoid single-use items

It can be tempting to get that plastic bottle of water or using plastic bags to carry your locally-purchased items, but there are so many other options out there that are better for the environment. Reusable, filtered water bottles, metal straws, and reusable shopping bags are small items that can fit in your suitcase and will make a difference. You don’t have to save the world all in one day, but the steps you take to be more cautious of one-use items help so much!

5. Seek out sustainable accommodations

Stay at resorts that are dedicated to improving our environment and show their commitment through their initiatives. For example, Wyndham Destinations often highlights local events during less popular travel seasons to assist with responsible traveling, Marriott’s Port-au-Prince in Haiti has nearly 100% locally-sourced food supplies, and Disney collaborated on Villages Nature Paris, which opened in 2017 and focuses on environmental sustainability and ecotourism.

Research is the most important step in having successful eco vacations, so be sure to take the time to learn more about your destination before visiting! Locals will also have some of the best advice for authentic, local experiences—all you have to do is ask!

Find Sustainable Travel With a Timeshare Resale

There are dozens of amazing timeshare resorts around the world that work towards more sustainable vacationing and many are advertised as affordable timeshare resales on SellMyTimeshareNow.com. To learn more, browse our resale inventory or contact our independent timeshare resale specialists today by calling 1-877-815-4227.