Good reasons to plan your trips early

There are many good reasons to take some time at the beginning of the year to plan your travels. Depending on your latitude, it may still be gray and cold outside your window, so looking at a calendar with vacation days marked will immediately put you in a better mood.

• A 2014 Cornell University study found that planning and anticipating a vacation makes people happier – far more than planning to buy material things..
• An even earlier British study, conducted in 2002, found that travelers are happiest when the trip is planned.

Why is early travel planning sustainable?

Before you break out the big annual calendar and start sticking Post-its on it (a tip you can take seriously), here are a few talking points in case you need to convince your fellow travelers:

#1 Planning certainty and fairness

By booking early, you give tour operators, accommodation providers, transport companies and their suppliers, tour guides and everyone else involved more planning certainty. As a traveler, you may not even be aware of this. And you also make it easier for everyone else in your immediate environment (family, work, etc.) to plan when you “submit” your vacation early.

#2 More time for long-distance travel

If you are planning a long-distance trip this year, you can take more time to make your vacation more “eco-worthy”. Here you can learn more about sustainable travel destinations in Southeast Asia, the Andean region of Peru, or sustainable jungle vacations in the Amazon. If you are currently “on the other side of the world”, Switzerland may be an attractive long-haul destination for you.

#3 Time to get to know your destination

If you plan your trip well in advance, you can better engage with your destination and adapt to the culture, land and people. In this article, for example, you will learn about the dark side of Bali and how to overcome it as an eco-traveler. An Indonesian woman tells us what tourists often do wrong in Bali, and we introduce you to the eco-resort Puri Dajuma.

My personal tip: Get some books that are set in the country you are going to. Not travel guides or non-fiction, but novels and stories that get you in the mood for the country and its people!

And another book tip from the editors: the “How to…” series. (How to…) series is also highly recommended. Before and after your trip.

#4 Research green transportation options

Before you book a flight, you can also consider greener travel options. For example, did you know that you can travel to Sicily by train? Are you familiar with the new European overnight trains, or have you ever considered traveling by coach?

If the country itself can only be reached by air (in a time-efficient manner), you may be able to avoid domestic flights locally. For example, on a slow travel adventure through Thailand. Yes, you can even reach our Green PearlsⓇ Keemala on the island of Phuket from Bangkok by night train plus bus. Keemala is a truly dreamy, sustainable luxury resort that you can plan as one of the highlights of a trip to Thailand, like a weekend. 

#5 Off-season travel

Now that you have the whole year ahead of you, you can take advantage of the off-season to travel. As we wrote in our blog article about counter-cyclical travel, the off-season not only brings you financial benefits, but also helps to avoid overtourism and protect our planet.

How about visiting the popular Baltic Sea beach away from the tourist crowds, for exmaple? Marion Muller, host of the Lifestylehotel SAND, recommends spring and fall for a vacation. Then you can enjoy quiet beach walks or bike rides with the hotel’s sustainable MyBoo rental bikes.

#6 Plan regional events

With enough foresight, you can plan ahead for special events in the area and be sure not to miss out.

• In March and September 2025, three cosmic highlights await you: (March 15, 2025, partial lunar eclipse, March 29, 2025, partial solar eclipse, and September 7, total lunar eclipse). Nocturnal tourism has been declared a travel trend of the year. The Rhön Star Park, located near the sustainable STURM Hotel, is a good example. Here you will find not only a dark sky reserve, but also numerous guided tours and events around the starry sky.

• From the end of April to mid-May, the apple blossom is in full swing in the Lake Constance region. It is a dream season when the vast apple-growing area is transformed into a sea of blossoms. The Natureresort Gerbehof in Friedrichshafen even has its own apple orchards. And just an hour’s drive away is the flower island of Mainau, where over a million tulip blossoms open each spring!

• October is the time of the olive harvest in Italy and Spain. In Liguria, at the Albergo Diffuso Relais del Maro in the coastal town of Imperia, there is always a big olive harvest festival at this time of year.

• In South Tyrol, the “Törggelen” takes place in October and November. People hike to various huts and feast on the fresh produce of the harvest. At the APIPURA hotel rinner on the Ritten, chestnuts are traditionally harvested and roasted over the fire in a cozy get-together.

Of course, there are many other events related to sports, nature, and hobbies. Why not do some research in your area of interest?

#7 Choose sustainable accommodations

With enough time, you can see if the accommodation is committed to sustainability. Electricity, food, social justice – if you want to travel in a fair and eco-friendly way in 2025, it’s best to choose accommodation that implements and communicates this transparently.

#8 Book directly with your chosen accommodation.

If you have chosen a sustainable accommodation like our Green Pearls, you don’t have to book through a third party, you can book directly with the hotel (that’s why Green Pearls® takes you directly to the website). It is no secret that the booking platforms receive a commission for their listing. However, when you book directly, the money goes right to the hotel. Often, the accommodations also offer a Best Price Guarantee, which ensures that you book the hotel or vacation home at the lowest current price.

What is special about mindful travel planning?

Mindful travel planning, like slow travel, is about taking your time. Time to research, compare, and think carefully about what you really want from your vacation. Planning a trip only makes you happy if you enjoy it. And that doesn’t happen when you’re clicking through pages of deals as fast as you can. It’s about prioritizing, getting to know yourself and your travel style, and then planning ahead. Sustainable travelers are usually willing to go the extra mile – because it’s worth it! For ourselves, for the accommodations and destinations, and for the planet.

Save this article to Pinterest!

Der Beitrag Mindful Travel Planning – Start planning your 2025 trips now erschien zuerst auf GREEN TRAVEL BLOG.

Sustainable vacation destinations near the equator

As a rule of thumb, the closer you are to the equator (the imaginary line that runs through the center of the earth between the northern and southern hemispheres), the warmer it is. Because of the sun’s position, there are no seasons here, but it is always warm – around 90 degrees Fahrenheit (30 degrees Celsius).

#1 The Maldives – 65 kilometers from the equator

The Maldives, with over 1,100 islands south of India, look like they are right on the equator. The closest island, Gan, is actually only 65 kilometers away, while Malé is about 465 kilometers away. They lie in the northern hemisphere.

Weather in Malé in October/November: In October and November you can expect a fairly constant temperature of around 90 °F (30 °C). October marks the end of the rainy season (May to October), with an average of two hours of rain per day during this month.

Sustainable accommodation: At Gili Lankanfushi, you will stay in luxurious villas built on stilts over the water. The coral reefs and colorful fish life make the resort a diver’s paradise. The resort’s sustainable initiatives include a coral protection project, which you can visit with the resort’s marine biologist.

#2 Indonesia – 555 km from the equator

Indonesia consists of over 17,000 islands and is located in the Southern Hemisphere, about 555 kilometers from the equator. The most famous island is Bali, which is 935 kilometers away.

The weather in Bali in October/November: Temperatures vary little and are around 88 °F (31 °C). The water temperature is 80,6 °F (27 °C). The rainy season starts in November. This means that it rains for one to two hours in the afternoon. Shorter showers of about 30 minutes are also possible in between.

When it rains in Bali, you can follow the local trend of “yoga in the rain”, go scuba diving, or visit temples.

Sustainable accommodation: Puri Dajuma Cottages & Spa is a beautiful resort with Balinese villas surrounded by tropical plants, a pool area, a fine sandy beach and direct access to the sea. The resort uses a variety of environmentally friendly measures and offers eco-tours that respect the culture and customs of the area.

#3 Thailand (Phuket and Ko Phi Phi) – 860 kilometers north of the equator

Thailand lies north of the equator, but not far from it. The island of Phuket is about 900 kilometers above the longest parallel, and the island of Koh Phi Phi is only 860 kilometers above it. In total, Thailand has over 500 islands, some of which are uninhabited.

Weather on the Thai Islands in October/November: The temperature is fairly constant at around 86 °F (30 °C). October marks the end of the rainy season, although the rainy season means that it rains an average of 20 days a month with short, heavy showers. After that, the sun often shines, and since it is lush and green due to the abundance of rain, this is a great time to take beautiful landscape photos. November marks the beginning of the high tourist season.

Sustainable accommodation in Phuket: An extraordinary resort awaits you in the treetops of the Enchanted Forest at Keemala. There is also a large garden with local fruits, vegetables and herbs used in the cooking classes.

Sustainable accommodation on Koh Phi Phi Leh: Zeavola is a luxury dive resort offering PADI scuba diving courses. You stay in Thai-style bungalows surrounded by a true garden and forest paradise. Bird watchers will love it here.

Excursion: How much does it rain at the equator and when is the best time to travel?

The high levels of solar radiation at the equator throughout the year cause clouds to form and rain to fall. The “seasons” of the tropics are rainy seasons. There is a rainy season and a dry season.

The common assumption that the dry season is the “good season” and the rainy season is the “bad season” is not true.

By definition is the tropical rainy season

• in the Northern Hemisphere (e.g. Maldives) from May to October
• in the Southern Hemisphere (e.g. Bali) from October to May

But the rainy season can be cancelled. Or it can be stronger, weaker, earlier, later, shorter or longer than expected. (You know how it is with weather forecasts.)

Holidays on the Canary Islands in October and November

If you are looking for a vacation destination that is pleasantly warm (around 82,2°F (28°C)) and has many hours of sunshine in October and November, but not quite as far away as Thailand or Indonesia, then the Canary Islands are perfect. Generally it rains very little in the canaries – only a few days a year!

Warm and dry

Located off the northwest coast of Africa in the Atlantic Ocean, the Canary Islands are about 3,000 kilometers from the equator. Due to their geographical location and the Gulf Stream, it is warm and dry all year round. Let’s look at two islands as examples: Gran Canaria, perhaps the best known of the archipelago, and Tenerife, the largest.

Weather in Gran Canaria in autumn: Gran Canaria is considered the warmest island in the fall. Even in November, the air temperature is usually between 73 ( 23°C) and 82 ( 28°C) and the water temperature is around 70 ( 20°C).

Green PearlsⓇ Hotel on Gran Canaria: The small boutique hotel Casa León – Royal Retreat is located inland and is surrounded by 10,000 square meters of gardens with native plants. There is a daily (free) shuttle to the beach and you can enjoy a wonderful break here.

Weather in Tenerife in October and November: “At this time of year you can spend the whole day outdoors, swimming in the sea and enjoying the gentle sun”, says the team of the OCÈANO Health Spa Hotel. In the fall, the temperature is between 62 and 70 °F (22 and 26 °C) and, as in Gran Canaria, the water temperature is around 80 °F (20 °C).

Sustainable accommodation in Tenerife: The OCÈANO Health Spa Hotel is located in the north of the island, directly on the Atlantic Ocean. The large panoramic windows offer an uninterrupted view of the sea. The health hotel offers an extensive sports and nutrition program.

Sicily: Hot summers, mild winters

Another recommendation for a warm autumn vacation is Sicily. Sicily is the largest island in the Mediterranean and is located southwest of the Tip of the Boot. It is about 4,000 kilometers from the equator.

Weather in Sicily in October and November: In late summer it is still warm (around 77°F (25°C)) and the water is still pleasant for swimming. You can also expect many hours of sunshine. However, it rains more often during this time (expect about 8 days of rain per month).

Sustainable hotel in Sicily: The ADLER Spa Resort SICILIA will open in the summer of 2022 and is a beautiful, luxurious resort located directly on a natural beach protected by the WWF and accessible only from the resort.

Traveling in times of climate change

As you probably already know, global warming doesn’t just mean that it’s warming up a degree, it means that ecosystems around the world, from coral reefs to mountain glaciers, are being disrupted. The consequences are even more extreme. 2023 has been dubbed the “year of climate records” by Geo. In 2024 we had floods in Germany and a heat wave in Southern Europe with extreme temperatures of over 40 degrees (June 2024 was the hottest month in Greece in 164 years of weather records). In Brazil, people died from heavy rains, and in Mexico, water became so scarce from drought that the population, industry, politics, and farmers were drawn into serious conflicts.

The equatorial weather zone will shift

Also interesting (and alarming!) is that climate change will also cause climate zones to shift. At least that’s what researchers in California think. In their study, they predict that the equatorial rain belt will shift north over the Indian Ocean (Asia) and south over the Atlantic Ocean (South America). This could lead to increased flooding in southern India and drought stress in Central America.

To avoid further global warming, we must all work to reduce man-made greenhouse gases. Most of this concerns energy consumption and industry, but the tourism industry also needs to rethink. We addressed this issue in our blog post ” Are we still allowed to fly?

However, because sustainability is not just about carbon footprints, but also about social sustainability, for example in tourism, we believe that travel – even to far-flung destinations – remains important.

Balancing act

We hope that our little essay on climate and the destinations presented here has helped you plan your trip. By the way, being concerned about climate change and sustainability doesn’t mean you can’t plan your vacation based on where it’s “nice” at the moment. But it should encourage us all to make climate-conscious choices when traveling and to support accommodations that have already recognized this.

Still looking for inspiration for your fall vacation in the South? Then save this post to your Pinterest board!

Der Beitrag Heading south – Sustainable travel destinations for October/November (with guaranteed sunshine) erschien zuerst auf GREEN TRAVEL BLOG.

Sand – Our most important resource after water

Like the sand of the sea. Meaning: infinitely available. But this general saying is no longer true. Sand is the most used resource in the world (after water). This is due to concrete – a mixture of cement with sand/gravel and water. It has been the most widely used building material since the 19th century, especially in urban construction. As we reported in this blog post about villages in motion, more and more people are moving to cities, and the construction boom there is consuming huge amounts of concrete, both for buildings and infrastructure.

Using sand, Singapore added landmass

The biggest consumers of sand today are Asia’s booming economies. Singapore, for example, has dumped 500 million tons into the sea to gain land. According to Deutschlandfunk, the sand came from Indonesia, Cambodia, Malaysia, and Thailand. By sucking the sand from the seabed, 24 sand islands in Indonesia sank. In response, Indonesia, Cambodia, and Malaysia have already banned the export of their sand. Experts expect Africa to follow suit in the coming years. With rapidly growing populations, cities will expand and grow explosively.

Sand theft for luxury resorts?

In 2008, a sand heist in Jamaica made headlines when 500 truckloads of the finest sand were stolen overnight from a fishing village. It will take several hundred years for that beach – and the local habitat – to regenerate. The theft was a disaster for the local ecosystem. The case was never solved, but the fine sand was probably sold to luxury resorts for their beaches.

There have also been several reports of sand robbery around Lake Victoria in East Africa. This shows that the resource is not only freely available in abundance but also valuable and desirable.

1.   Rule: You must come to the beach, not the beach to you!

Don’t support hotels that have a fine sandy beach right outside while the rest of the coast is rocky or pebbly. Sure, there are some natural sandy beaches among rocks, but always ask yourself if that is the case here. Purchased sandy beaches come from a different ecosystem and are missing there! Moreover, the artificial transport of sand to the coast is not ecological. So, either accept the rocky beach and enjoy the rugged landscape, or find a destination where the beach is as natural as you want it to be.

Sustainable eco-hotels on dream beaches

At Green PearlsⓇ you’ll find some green pearls that are located right on beautiful beaches and are also committed to sustainability. Here is a brief look at six of them:

#1: ADLER Spa Resort SICILIA – Protected beach

The six-kilometer-long beach in front of the ADLER Spa Resort SICILIA is a WWF protected area and one of the most beautiful beaches in Sicily. Since the beach of the “Riserva Naturale Torre Salsa” is lined with dunes and cliffs, you will hardly find any tourists except for the guests of the resort. The staff works with the WWF to preserve biodiversity and the local ecosystem, and regularly cleans the beach of washed-up plastic. Experience a protected and well-kept beach in southern Italy.

#2 Cerf Island Resort in the Seychelles – Dream Beach on a Water Reserve

Cerf Island is only 1.5 km long and 1 km wide. So, you are amidst pure sandy beaches. And there’s more. The crystal clear waters with its colorful underwater world and mangrove trees are part of the Saint-Anne National Marine Park. Guided tours through the National Marine Park – either above the water on kayak tours or underwater with diving and snorkeling – will teach you a lot about life in the Indian Ocean.

#3 Puri Dajuma – Eco-resort with private beach in Bali

Bali is famous for its white dream beaches, tropical nature and magical atmosphere. Puri Dajuma is an eco-resort that focuses on waste reduction, social responsibility, and sustainable tourism. Stay in small, luxurious Balinese-style cottages on a private, picture-postcard beach.

Tip: Before you pack your bags and travel to Bali, we recommend you to read our article about Bali and its dark side. For example, a local tells you what tourists often do wrong in Bali.

#4 Zeavola – Barefoot in luxury on Koh Phi Phi Leh in Thailand

Barefoot in luxury is the lifestyle you can enjoy at Zeavola. Stay in naturally designed villas and drift between beach, culinary delights, and spa – always feeling the sand beneath your feet. Located on the Thai island of Koh Phi Phi Leh, the resort also offers PADI scuba diving courses, where experienced guides introduce you to the beautiful underwater world of coral reefs.

#5 Gili Lankanfushi – Fine sand, palms and corals

At Gili Lankanfushi, rooms are not on the beach overlooking the ocean – they are on the ocean overlooking the beach! As the lowest country in the world, the Maldives are the most affected by rising sea levels. You can read more about this in our blog on endangered islands. This makes it all the more important to focus on sustainable tourism and choose an eco-friendly resort, like Gili Lankanfushi.

#6 Lifestylehotel SAND at the Baltic Sea Beach

The Lifestylehotel SAND is located in the second row of the German Baltic Sea beach in Timmendorfer Strand. As the Baltic Sea can be quite windy, it’s best to book a typical wicker beach chair on the beach. That way you only have the sand under your feet and not everywhere else.

As the name of the hotel suggests, the sand of the Baltic Sea beach is a source of inspiration for the sustainable and natural design of the hotel.

9 Tips for a sustainable beach vacation

1. Coral-friendly sunscreens: Sunscreens with nanoparticles are harmful to corals and possibly other marine life such as shellfish. Make sure you choose the right sunscreen when swimming in the ocean. Look for labels such as “Reef Safe”, “Coral Safe” or similar.
2. Water sports: Instead of jet skis or other motorized sports, choose gentle sports like SUP, kayaking, or surfboarding. You will be able to enjoy nature and the sea much more. Sound of the sea instead of engine noise 🙂
   
3. Campfires: Check to see if fires are allowed on the beach. If so, use only untreated wood and be sure to extinguish the fire and dispose of the ashes properly. (And no, shoveling sand over the fire is not the same as extinguishing or disposing of it!)
4. Do not take sand home as a souvenir: It is best to leave the sand where it belongs. Including the classic sand jar as a souvenir. Here you can find out why.
5. Avoid plastic: Go to the beach and see the debris that washes ashore and you will realize that plastic is a real problem! So avoid plastic wrappers, bags, and toys that could end up in the ocean.
6. Pick up your trash – and other people’s trash: When you clean up your area, be kind enough to pick up trash that doesn’t belong to you. This is especially true of cigarette butts. They contain toxic substances that are harmful to waterways.
7. Respect the locals: Research the culture of your destination and whether going topless is considered disrespectful. For example, in some countries, men should wear bathing shorts up to their knees.
8. Be mindful of the marine life: Coral is especially important not to touch or damage. But the same goes for all other marine life – leave them alone and observe them as guests. And never feed seabirds! It can be harmful to them.
9. Read books about sand and sea: If you like to lie on the beach with a book, use the time to read books about the sea, sand, or climate change – it will make you more aware of where you are.

Vacation by the sea – without a sandy beach

Not every coast has a sandy beach. And ecologically speaking, it would be completely wrong for tourists to expect sandy beaches everywhere – and thus indirectly contribute to sand depletion (keyword: supply and demand). However, many countries have found ways to make even steep coastlines attractive. “Here in Tenerife, the “piscinas naturales” are widespread and very popular with both guests and locals,” says the OCÉANO Health Spa Hotel. “They are sheltered pools in the sea that fill with natural seawater. One is right in front of the OCÉANO”.

We hope we have given you some good tips for your next beach vacation and helped you appreciate (and protect) the natural wonder that is sand).

PS: People are already thinking about how to build when the sand really runs out. Recycled concrete is the answer. Unfortunately, there is still little interest in the industry. Our prediction: As long as politicians do not pass laws and force the industry to do so, nothing will happen in the area of sand conservation. This makes it all the more important to support sustainability and resource conservation wherever we can.

Save this article for your next beach vacation.

Der Beitrag A sustainable beach vacation – Tips and eco-friendly accommodations erschien zuerst auf GREEN TRAVEL BLOG.

Like so many things, there are two sides to a vacation in Bali because the locals live from tourism. So it’s up to you to shape your Bali vacation. With these ideas and eco accommodations, you can travel green to Bali and give something back at the same time.

5 reasons not to travel to Bali

There are a few things that speak against a trip to Bali – starting with the journey: Getting to an island is costly, and flights, as well as boat trips, are not very climate-friendly. Bali, in particular, is one of the destinations that people visit again and again because of cheap flights and only for a short stay – although for many it is a long-distance trip.

Info: You can stay in Bali for 30 days without a visa. A visa for 60 days currently costs 87 euros and can be extended to six months. Find out more here.

#1 Garbage problem in Bali

The beautiful white sandy beaches for which Bali is so famous sometimes resemble more carpets of plastic waste than paradise. This is marine plastic, which washes up in huge quantities during a constellation of strong westerly winds and currents. In just a few days, over 100 tons can lie in the sand at once. Local garbage collectors and volunteers then spend days cleaning up the beaches. As the newspaper “Bali Sun” reports, some tourists also take part in such clean-ups.

Mass tourism has significantly increased the garbage problem on the island. Because where there are more people, there is also more garbage. On top of that, they also want to be fed and need resources, which are scarce on an island per se.

Since February 2024, tourists have had to pay an entry tax of 150,000 rupiah (approx. 9 euros) when entering the country. According to Al Jazeera, this tax was introduced specifically to combat the waste problem.

#2 Damage to the culture

When traveling, people don’t always consider that the authentic culture of a region often suffers from the tourists’ urge to experience it.

Since 2023, you have been asked to download a catalog of etiquette rules to your cell phone via QR code when entering the country, where you are specifically asked to treat the shrines with respect. (You can find out more about this in the section “7 things tourists do wrong in Bali”)

One reason for this new code of conduct is said to be Russian expats in particular. Since the Russia-Ukraine war, many Russians have made their way to the surfers’ paradise before they could be drafted into military service. Ukrainians have also come for the same reason.

#3 Water shortage on the dream island

Back in 2012, Stroma Cole pointed out in her study “A Political Ecology of Water Equity and Tourism – A Case Study from Bali” that tourism consumed over 65 percent of the water and that hotels and luxury resorts used groundwater for their pools while the locals’ wells dried up.

As Al Jazeera English reported in this video in 2019, too low a groundwater level on the island causes the freshwater lenses to mix with the salty seawater. The IDEP’s Bali Water Protection project is working on the ground. Among other things, they are building cisterns for the population to use rainwater.

#4 “Sex ban” in Bali?

This is no reason to miss out on a trip to Bali (because it’s not true at all), but since there have been headlines about it, we’d like to clear things up here:

In 2025, a law came into force in Indonesia that prohibits a man and a woman who are neither related nor married from booking a hotel room together. However, due to various hurdles (who can report whom, when and how), this law is designed from the outset in such a way that it only affects Indonesians themselves and not tourists and certainly not tourists in Bali.

As you probably know, Indonesia is an Islamic country, but in Bali most of the inhabitants are Hindus.

#5 In Bali, you are a mass tourist

There’s no other way to put it because Bali is one of the most famous tourist islands in the world. Many people find this mix of surfers, expats, honeymooners and locals so exciting. However, wanting to go exactly where everyone else is going has many downsides, as we explain in more detail in our blog article on over-tourism.

In the long term, it would be best if tourism were spread out over more islands. Many people are already traveling to the Gili Islands. The neighboring island of Lombok is still a little quieter.

The solution? Plan, inform, and act consciously

If you plan a few things in advance, you can easily implement environmentally friendly actions during your vacation.

• Book sustainable accommodation that is environmentally conscious and socially committed.
• Make sure you choose excursions that are organized by locals and small ethical organizations.
• Find out about traditions and customs and respect them so that Bali remains authentic and is not westernized.
• Avoid crowded places, such as trendy bars, and stop at a small, owner-run restaurant instead. This way you support the locals in a meaningful way and experience the real Bali.
• Avoid trips to questionable animal attractions such as cockfights.

Slow travel instead of Instagram hopping

And another important keyword for your green trip is slow travel. Take your time for your vacation on the island and don’t just go there for a few days. You can find more tips on how to travel eco-friendly and green in general (which are of course also Bali-friendly) in our blog articles on social sustainability and animal welfare when traveling.

7 things tourists do wrong in Bali

In 2023, the Indonesian Lucienne Anhar, who lives in Bali, reported on Buisness Insider how Bali has changed since the 1980s as a result of tourists. She points out things that many tourists unfortunately don’t know, but which Balinese consider to be disrespectful or unwise:

1. Don’t show too much bare skin: Balinese are too polite to say anything, but it is considered inappropriate for tourists to wear tight shorts or lie topless on the beach.
2. Respect the sanctity of nature: In Bali, not only the temples but also nature is sacred. Tourists who cling half-naked to sacred banyan trees for the perfect photo or pose in suggestive poses in front of the sacred Mount Agung are disrespectful.
3. No intimacies in public: While holding hands or hugging is not a problem, Indonesians consider it inappropriate for couples to kiss in public (or go even further).
4. Don’t just lay on the beach: Most tourists come for the beautiful beaches and magical sunsets, she says, but Lucienne Anhar always recommends that tourists also check out the temples, rice paddies and waterfalls inland.
5. Respect that ceremonies determine the schedules of Balinese people: Throughout the year, Balinese perform various ceremonies that are very important to them and for which they do not come to work. You should respect this and not demand that they are there for you during these times.
6. Avoid tourist traps: There would be two tourist traps that you should be wary of: 1.) Fake “healers”, 2.) Drivers who take you to jewelry stores (since they work on commission, tourists would often feel pressured to buy something)
7. Driving a car or scooter without swearing and honking: Even though traffic in Bali is getting heavier and heavier, it is not customary in Bali to get upset or honk your horn. Instead, go with the flow 🙂

The government-run website Love Bali has published a update in 2025 on the “desired behavior” of visitors to Bali. This includes, for example, a ban on disposable plastic and a ban on the use of “swear words”.

Ecotourism with a dream beach in Puri Dajuma

Choosing the right accommodation is significant if you decide to travel to Bali.

In the west of Bali, you will find the Puri Dajuma eco-resort with a hotel and cottages located directly on a beautiful beach. The cottages were built from local materials in the Balinese architectural style and are scattered among tropical trees.

In addition to traditional Balinese massages and wellness treatments, you can take cooking classes and get to know the traditional cuisine. Authentic experiences like these help you to better understand and appreciate the region, as you gain insights into its characteristics and thus better understand the traditions and people. Of course, the cooking here is organic.

In addition to many other activities such as yoga, you can also book eco-tours to Pekutatan in the Pulukan eco-tourism area. Explore plantations of rubber trees, coconuts, and bananas and learn how cloves and vanilla grow. You enjoy your packed lunch at an altitude of 300 meters with a view of rice fields and the ocean.

As you can see, with the right preparation, you can always find responsible alternatives to classic mass tourism – even in Bali.

This is an update of our article on Bali from 21.09.2018 and includes all new tourism developments (and problems).

Save the article so that you have it to hand and can share it with friends. 

Der Beitrag Bali: Threatened beauty and culture – how to travel the island responsibly erschien zuerst auf GREEN TRAVEL BLOG.

Namaste. Do you feel like you’re missing out on your schedule? Well, lying down on the beach might do the trick. But it doesn’t give you a strategy for dealing with your stress in general. So when you get home, it’s bound to come back. How about a week of daily yoga instead? Here are ten sustainable yoga hotels in Thailand, Indonesia, Spain, Italy, and Germany. In the end, you also get a free yoga tutorial!

Yoga by the Atlantic Ocean at the OCÉANO Health Spa Hotel in Tenerife

At OCÉANO Health Spa Hotel, yoga has been practiced for more than 30 years and is an integral part of the health concept. There is a yoga room and a yoga space on the roof terrace. Hatha yoga is practiced Monday through Friday, with levels depending on the participants. If you’d like, you can also book a personal one-on-one class for 78 euros to deepen your knowledge.

Other highlights: The Canary Island hotel is right on the ocean and has a fantastic infinity pool and saltwater pools.

Dates 2024: You can book the “YOGA ESCAPE” program for your vacation in 2024. It consists of a combination of group training, individual lessons and Ayurveda treatments. Bookable at any time.

Paradiso Pure.Living on the Alpe di Siusi, Italy

Paradiso Pure.Living offers you Sunrise & Vinyasa Yoga 3 times a day! Your first class always starts in the morning at 7.30 am (Pure Flow, Pure Strengh, Pure Core). In the afternoon between 11am and 2pm you have the opportunity to take a private lesson and in the afternoon at 4.30pm there is another group yoga class open to all guests. (Maximum group size is 12). The sustainable hotel on the Alpe di Siusi in South Tyrol has both an indoor yoga room and a yoga terrace.

Other highlights: The Paradiso Pure.Living offers a purely vegetarian-vegan kitchen, which is since 2024 run by the prominent vegan chef Aggeliki Charami.

Yoga retreats 2024: In combination with the daily offer, the team also organizes yoga retreats according to your wishes. Simply contact them by email and let them know your preferred dates and goals.

LA VIMEA, South Tyrol, Italy

A connection to yourself and nature – that’s what LA VIMEA in South Tyrol wants you to experience. This is achieved through a combination of yoga, meditation and forest bathing. Guests can take part in both Hatha and Vinyasa Yoga classes. The two yoga teachers, Monika and Melanie, have years of professional experience and want to help you find inner peace.

Other highlights: LA VIMEA is a purely vegan hotel, which also ensures that no animal products are used in any of the hotel’s amenities.

Dates 2024: In the current calendar you will find yoga dates from Monday to Saturday, once or twice a day. You can also book private meditation classes at any time.

Okelmann’s, Lower Saxony, Germany

Located in the idyllic town of Warpe in Lower Saxony, Germany, Okelmann’s is a family-run eco-hotel. In addition to sound massages and yoga retreats, you can also book yin yoga classes with your dog.

Other highlights: Okelmann’s has an excellent café with delicious cakes (vegan options available) and its own concept store with sustainable, handmade products, such as beautiful dog gifts.

Dates 2024:

10.05.2024 – 12.05. 2024 Yoga-Retreat Spring Break

30.05.2024 – 02.06.2024 Heart-connected Retreat

14.06.2024 – 16.06.2024 Yoga Summervibes

19.07.2024 – 21.07.2024 COOL DOWN – YOGA.RETREAT

29.07.2024 – 01.08.2024 Flow & Relax – Yoga of the elements

23.08.2024 – 25.08.2024 Open your heart and shine retreat

30.08.2024 – 01.09.2024 Ground & Glow Yoga & Breathwork Retreat

12.10.2024 – 15.10.2024 Balance and inner Peace Retreat

31.10.2024 – 03.11.2024 Let it go, let it flow

22.10.2024 – 24.11.2024 November-Silence (Yoga, Mediation, Mindfulness)

STURM, Rhön, Germany

Are you looking for a place to practice yoga in peace and quiet? At STURM in the Rhön biosphere reserve, you’ll find the perfect place for such a time-out. The light-filled yoga room with mats, cushions and yoga blocks is open daily. There are also beautiful spots in the garden. An experienced yoga instructor is available upon request to teach yoga according to the “Indian philosophical culture”.

Other highlights: The wellness hotel has a natural swimming pond and half board with 100 percent organic products.

Dates 2024: Private lessons on request

HUBERTUS Mountain Refugio Allgäu, Germany

Yoga & mindfulness is a big theme at the HUBERTUS Mountain Refugio Allgäu, and in addition to beginner’s classes, you can delve deeper into the practice during various yoga retreats. Internationally renowned teachers lead the retreats, such as Florian Palzinsky, who lived in Asia for 12 years as a Buddhist monk. Throughout the summer, there are daily yoga classes in the outdoor yoga area, including Hatha Yoga, Yin & Yang Yoga, Breath Yoga, Ashtanga Yoga, and Nature Yoga. Special men’s yoga retreats are also a specialty.

Other highlights: There’s a 4,500-square-foot spa area with an infinity pool, twelve treatment rooms, and a gym-plus beautiful views of the Allgäu mountains.

Yoga-Retreats 2024: 

28.04.2024 – 27.11.2024: Mindfullness-days with Doris Iding

05.05.2024 – 08.05.2024: Breathe, Flow & Relax with Desiree Klink

26.05.2024 – 30.05.2024: Yoga & Consciousness-Coaching with Mona Köberle

18.07.2024 – 21.07.2024: Yoga Retreat with Ranja Weis

25.08.2024 – 28.08.2024: Meditation- and Yoga-Days with Yeshe Brost

22.09.2024 – 25.09.2024: Yoga-Days for Couples with Esther & Martin

10.11.2024 – 13.11.2024: Slow Down Retreat with Claudia Adolphs & Frauke Brüninghaus

05.12.2024 – 08.12.2024: Meditation – Retreat with Annet Münzinger

Keemala, Thailand

The Keemala villa resort on the Thai island of Phuket offers holistic yoga-retreats of three to six days that can be tailored to your individual needs. If you’re looking for a permanent way to deal with stress, there’s the “Unwind Program” for people with a lot of work (and life) pressure. In this retreat, you will not only relax through yoga and various spa treatments, but you will also learn to identify and decode your personal stress behaviors. Then you’ll learn how to avoid them in the future and instead approach your tasks in a relaxed and confident manner.

Other highlights: Each villa has its own pool and overlooks the Thai jungle to the sea.

Dates 2024: The retreats “Purify”, “Energys”, “Renuvejade” and “Unwind” can be booked at any time and last 3 to 6 days.

The Pavilions Himalayas – The Farm, Nepal

If you already have some experience with Yoga and want to get yourself to the next level, you can do so at The Pavilions Himalayas – The Farm. Here you are surrounded by a majestic landscape with organic farms and a view of the Himalayas. The Yoga-Retreats in this resort features not only the fundamental principles of yoga and practice but also Yogic Ahar (diet) and classical Knowledge (that means, the teachings of a traditional understanding of Yoga). The goal is, to develop a personal Yoga Sadhana and to apply Yoga in your life “for maintaining peace, bliss, and harmony”.

Other highlights: Spa with Sauna and Infinity-Pool, the accommodation features authentic Nepalese lifestyle

Dates 2024: Here you can find the brochure about the Yoga-Retreat 2024.

Puri Dajuma, Bali, Indonesia

In Bali, many different Hindu gods are worshipped. At Puri Dajuma Cottages & Spa, people also honor a special connection to “taksu”. This is a little-known belief in a cosmic energy that heals the body and mind, directly or indirectly. In yoga, you open yourself to these very energies. But even if you don’t believe in it, yoga and its associated conscious breathing and meditation will do you good. The sustainable yoga-retreats at Puri Dajuma takes place daily under the guidance of yogi “Tini”: in the garden, on the beach, or in the large semi-open yoga room surrounded by palm trees.

Highlights: The eco-resort has several Balinese-style cottages, suites and villas and is located right on the beach.

Dates 2024: daily

Yoga retreats for the annual cycle at Gut Sonnenhausen

Gut Sonnenhausen near Munich is the perfect place to unwind in the middle of nature. The converted country estate has a beautiful secluded location in a nature reserve and offers various yoga day retreats in harmony with the annual cycle.

Highlights: The estate has a large garden that is managed according to the principles of permaculture.

Yoga retreats 2024:

22.09.2024: Day retreat: Autumn equinox – Finding Peace

10.11.2024: Day retreat: Sound & cocoa ceremony

08.12.2024: Day retreat: Preparation for the winter solstice

Free yoga tutorial with Simona from ADLER Lodge Ritten, South Tyrol

If you’re now really into the yoga feeling, you might as well get started! Our partner, the ADLER Lodge RITTEN on the Ritten in South Tyrol, Italy, recently published a tutorial with teacher Simona! Here she shows you a simple meditation exercise in 15 minutes:

Want to save this article? Pin it on Pinterest!

Der Beitrag 10 sustainable Yoga-Retreats for Zen-Seekers in 2024 erschien zuerst auf GREEN TRAVEL BLOG.

From Knocker-Up to Electronic Wake-Up – A brief history

In the past, people didn’t have their own alarm clocks. On farms, the rooster crowed, and in towns, there was the knocker-up. This was someone who, for a small fee, knocked on people’s windows in the morning to wake them up for work. You can find stories about such people in the urban history of working-class cities like Manchester or in books (e.g. Charles Dickens’ Great Expectations, 1861).

Ramadan drummer

Here in Jerusalem, there is a group of young men with drums who parade through the streets during Ramadan to wake the residents for breakfast and early prayers before sunrise. After all, the whole day must be spent fasting from sunrise. We are always happy to see them at the window – especially as they are often dressed in traditional clothes. You can also find such drummers in Turkey, Egypt, and many other Islamic countries such as Indonesia. (However, you won’t see or hear them at tourist resorts like Puri Dajuma Cottages & Spa on the beach in Bali. You would have to live in a Muslim neighborhood in Jakarta or somewhere similar.)

Hotel wake-up service

As I mentioned before, I loved the hotel’s wake-up service. You dialed the front desk number (on the nightstand phone next to the bed) and ordered a wake-up service. “Hello, I’d like to be woken up at 8 a.m. tomorrow,” “Gladly. Will a phone call suffice, or would you like someone to knock?” – Something along those lines. The phone rings the next day at 8 a.m. on the dot. “Good morning, this is your wake-up call” and “Is there anything else I can do for you?” and “The breakfast buffet is waiting for you.” Oh, I tell you, waking up in a hotel is really wonderful!

            In fact, getting a good night’s sleep is a top priority for many travelers. As Booking.com found in a survey of 27,000 travelers, “rest & relaxation” is important to 67% of all travelers, and 58% would even be interested in a sleep retreat.

“The wake-up service is ordered about once a year”

Wake-up calls are still free at the Weiherhof Hotel on Wolfsgruben Lake in Ritten, South Tyrol, but hardly anyone uses them anymore. Owner Klaus Pichler laughed when we asked. About once a year a guest asks for a wake-up call, he says. Since it is no longer part of the morning routine at the reception, it is “almost a challenge” not to forget this request.

Other Green PearlsⓇ partners tell us similar stories. If you would like a wake-up service, everyone is happy to oblige. (Maybe you want to try it on your next trip :-)) Only no one asks anymore. Or maybe the priorities are elsewhere:

“We are happy to offer a wake-up service. But most of our guests are on vacation and prefer to sleep in!” – Eco-Aparthotel The Dreamers Club (Island of Korčula, Croatia)

Waking up in a hotel – the new luxury

So, what does waking up in sustainable hotels look like nowadays? Here are a few examples:

Sun tracking blinds

At the HUBERTUS Mountain Refugio Allgäu you are surrounded by nature. Hiking and biking trails in the alpine landscape await you right outside the door. Many guests come here to relax and enjoy wellness and yoga retreats.

Here the sun will wake you up. There are automatic blinds, always closed at night, letting the early morning light into your room (if your curtains are open). During the day, the blinds follow the sun so that the rooms don’t heat up in summer.

Wake up to the smell of freshly baked bread

At the SAND lifestyle hotel on the Baltic Sea, many people enjoy a “vacation rhythm” and sit on the roof terrace well into the night. And be woken by their nose in the morning:

“We have a front cooking station and bake our own rolls from pre-made dough. The smell awakens the senses without any technology. It’s the most natural way to wake up”. – Lifestyle Hotel SAND (Timmendorfer Strand, Germany)

Yoga sessions in the morning

Early risers can take part in morning yoga classes at Paradiso Pure.Living. The eco-friendly hotel is located on the Alp de Siusi and offers nature vacations in winter and summer.

“We love the sunrise in the Dolomites. And to not miss out on this magical time of day, we offer our guests sunrise yoga as part of our free daily yoga program, which is available to all hotel guests. – Paradiso Pure.Living

Breakfast for late risers

If waking up to the sun in the morning is not your idea of a vacation, but rather a really long nap in a cozy bed, consider Hotel My Arbor near Brixen (also in South Tyrol). Spend the night in an extraordinary treetop hotel.

“At My Arbor, everything revolves around “MY” (ME), the guest. We respect and value the personal space of our guests and want their stay to be completely according to their wishes. If someone wants to sleep in, we offer breakfast until 12:00″. – My Arbor.

The breakfast basket knocks on the door

You can also enjoy your personal freedom at Hygna Chalets in Tyrol’s Alpbachtal. They offer luxurious wooden chalets with private kitchens. Service includes a breakfast basket of fresh organic produce delivered to your door each morning. (The knock-up to your vacation feeling)

Do wake-up services have anything to do with sustainability?

The disappearance of personal service is linked to the automation and digitalization of this world. We are investing a lot of money in robots and technology and a lot less in personal service. One example: My uncle bought a robot lawnmower. 3,000 Euros to keep the grass short. For how long could he have hired a boy from the neighborhood with this money?

No electronics

Many people use their vacation to consciously do without technology. The nature rooms at STURM, for example, no longer have televisions, and at the aforementioned HUBERTUS Mountain Refugio, you can leave your cell phone in a “radio silence box”. It will be safely locked away for you and you will get it back at the end of your vacation (along with a piece of mountain cheese). At the Hotel Pavillon in Paris, you can even enjoy radio silence in the heart of the French capital. Some rooms are specially shielded against “electro-smog”.

By taking a digital break, you are able to focus more on the real and natural world – and perhaps waking up will be a new experience for you, as there are no cell phone alarms or push-up messages. Instead, maybe a nice call from reception or just the sun.

Inspired? Save this article for your next trip-planning session!

Der Beitrag Hotel wake-up service? A new way to wake up! erschien zuerst auf GREEN TRAVEL BLOG.

#1 Denpasar | Indonesia / Bali

The tropical island of Bali is one of the most beautiful places in Indonesia! Here you will find palm-fringed beaches, rice terraces and fascinating cultural sites.

Denpasar is the capital of Bali and has a population of over 800,000. The city thrives on a mix of commerce, culture and tourism. You will find bustling markets, modern shopping malls and traditional handicraft markets. The vibrant streets offer both modern amenities and the traditional Balinese way of life.

Sights in Denpasar:

• Puputan Square: A place for locals and visitors to linger. Here you can “people watch” and enjoy the hustle and bustle of the city.
• Bajra Sandhi Monument: An impressive monument that honors the history of the Balinese people.
• Temple Purat Rambut Siwi Kaler: A beautiful temple whose charm lies in the proximity to the sea.
• Jagatnatha-Temple: Largest Hindu temple in the heart of the capital
• Turtle Conservation and Education Centre: Dedicated to turtle conservation since 2006.

Eco-Resort Puri Dajuma Cottages & Spa

Approximately 2.5 hours from Denpasar, Puri Dajuma Cottages & Spa is located in the west of the island. It’s the perfect place if you’re looking for peace and relaxation after the hustle and bustle of the big city. The cottages, suites and villas are built from local materials in the Balinese style, and the resort is located right on a dream beach. The resort also offers daily yoga sessions, Balinese massages, and cooking classes.

How sustainable is Bali?

A lot has happened on the island in terms of environmental awareness. In 2017, for example, two schoolgirls (!) managed to push through a legal ban on plastic bags, which not only went into effect, but was also extended to other single-use plastics such as straws, etc. There is a national park, and by March 2023, hotels and restaurants in the local association have committed to using only sustainably produced palm oil. These are not giant leaps, but they are steps in the right direction nonetheless, and as we always say, baby steps are still steps in the right direction.

If you want to learn more about Bali, we recommend our blog article: Bali: Threatened beauty and culture – how to travel the island responsibly

#2 Phnom Penh – Cambodia

Cambodia is a country with a rich history, fascinating culture and breathtaking scenery. Here, too, you will find majestic temples, including the world-famous Angkor Wat, which is not only an architectural masterpiece, but also a spiritual journey through the centuries.

The best word to describe the cities of the Indochinese Peninsula is “vibrant”. Perhaps the most famous city is the capital of Cambodia, Phnom Penh. The city has a population of over 2 million and stretches along the Mekong River. Here you will find a mix of modern progress and the country’s cultural history. The skyline is punctuated by magnificent temples, including the Royal Palace and the Silver Pagoda.

Sights in Phnom Penh

• Royal Palace: The main tourist attractions are the throne room – where Cambodian kings are crowned – and some of the surrounding buildings.
• Silver Pagoda (Wat Preah Keo): The Silver Pagoda, also known as the Temple of Emerald Buddha, houses statues of Buddha made of precious metals, crystals and gems and is located on the southern edge of the Royal Palace.
• Wat Phnom: This is the most famous temple in the city of Phnom Penh and its namesake. It is located on a 27-meter-high man-made hill.
• Waterfront promenade: Here, residents (and tourists) stroll past restaurants, bars and parks.
• National museum: If you are visiting the temples of Cambodia, be sure to visit the museum, where you will find the related artifacts.
• Central market: It is located in the center of the city and is designed in the Art Deco style.
• Mekong wetlands: You can take part in Bird watching tours here. For example, you can see the Cambodian Tailor Bird (a red-headed songbird) or the beautiful Bronze-crowned Emerald Sparrow (Asian Green Bee Eater).

Sustainable Green PearlsⓇ accommodation in Cambodia

Farmhouse Smiling Gecko is located about 1.5 hours from the capital. Here you will stay in luxuriously furnished stilt houses and there is a pool and spa area. Farmhouse Smiling Gecko is not only a place to stay, but also a local community project. As you may know, Cambodia is one of the poorest countries in the world. The Smiling Gecko project includes training centers for various trades, extensive agriculture, several restaurants and the Farmhouse Resort. About 40 employees have found (above average paid) permanent employment here.

Another of our partners is 4 Rivers Floating Lodge. However, the floating villas are located “in the middle of nowhere” and are less suitable for a city trip. However, if you are looking for a nature experience and jungle adventure on your trip to Cambodia, this is an excellent and exceptional address.

Sustainable travel in Cambodia

Due to poverty, you will see some things in Cambodia that we consider less sustainable – such as plastic cups and litter in the countryside. However, you should be aware that, according to IEA calculations, the per capita CO2 emissions of a Cambodian are far lower than those of Americans, Europeans or Japanese. While this is no excuse for the waste problem, we as rich (and mostly white) tourists from Europe should not look down on it. So instead of pointing your finger, be as sustainable as possible and politely refuse single-use plastics. 

By the way, Phnom Penh has adopted a sustainable urban development plan that addresses a wide range of issues such as energy, transportation, buildings, public space, waste management and sanitation. Single-use packaging is banned in the capital since 2020.

#3 Phuket Town in Thailand

Phuket Town, on the island of Phuket in Thailand, has a population of just over 100,000 and is best known for its beautiful old town. It is also home to a large creative and alternative scene, including graffiti, street art, markets and cafés.

Sights in Phuket Town

• Great Phuket Buddha: The 45 meter high marble statue is a striking eye-catcher. Completed in 2008, the statue is still relatively new.
• Chaithararam Temple (Wat Chalong): The largest of Phuket’s 29 Buddhist temples. There is a 60-meter-high stupa on the temple grounds, said to contain a bone fragment of Buddha. The walls and ceilings are decorated with paintings depicting scenes from Buddha’s life.
• Explore Phuket Old Town: Unlike its neighbors, Thailand was not a colonial state, but the houses in the old town were built in the Portuguese colonial style. But with Chinese elements. This is called the “Sino-Portuguese style”. Some of these historic buildings are now cafés, galleries, or boutiques.
• Night markets: Shopping at night? Well, it’s possible in Phuket Town! There are several night markets that offer everything from street food to vintage to jewelry, or just enjoy the atmosphere.

Sustainable Green PearlsⓇ Resort Keemala in Phuket

Just 20 kilometers from Phuket Town, Keemalas “Villa Wonderland” is built right into the treetops. Each “nest” has its own pool and views from the jungle to the sea. The eco-resort offers yoga retreats and cooking classes. Some ingredients for the cuisine grow right on the property. Keemala is part of the zero-waste movement.

Sustainable travel in Thailand

Sustainable travel is gaining momentum in Thailand, with many initiatives promoting environmentally friendly practices. On the island of Phuket, for example, waste reduction and coral reef restoration programs are in place to ensure that the beauty of Thailand is preserved for future generations.

Since domestic flights in Thailand are cheap, it is tempting to fly from Bangkok to Phuket. A more environmentally friendly option is by train – and it’s also a real adventure, as we describe in the following article:

Adventurous slow travel: Through Thailand by train

We have also covered this topic in the following article:

Green Initiatives and Hotel Projects in Thailand

How sustainable is a trip to Southeast Asia?

Finally, long-distance travel is not considered sustainable because of air travel. If you want to learn more about the emissions’ problem, including figures, data and facts about air travel, we recommend our article: Are we still allowed to fly?

However, tourism is an important economic factor in Southeast Asia, and as a tourist, you have many opportunities to support local communities. In addition, you can become active in conservation.

If all wealthy people (and as a reader of this blog, statistically speaking, you are probably one of them) only vacation in their own backyards, wealth is deprived of one of its means of distribution.

We hope that we have given you some insight into Southeast Asian cities. Of course, there are many more interesting countries and cities in Southeast Asia – which ones would you recommend? We look forward to hearing your comments.

Save this post as inspiration for your next trip.

Der Beitrag 3 must-see cities in Southeast Asia erschien zuerst auf GREEN TRAVEL BLOG.

Southeast Asia: A travel paradise surrounded by water

Southeast Asia includes all the countries east of India and south of China. These are: Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, Cambodia, Laos, Philippines, Vietnam, Singapore, East Timor, Myanmar and Brunei.

Many of these countries are islands or archipelagos, so the sea is very important. You can find whales, sharks, manta rays and all the “most wanted” sea creatures down to the seahorse in the Indian and Pacific Oceans.

The famous Coral Triangle (between the Philippines, Indonesia and Malaysia) is home to around 75 per cent of all known coral species, if you like diving.

The problem of mass tourism: the example of “The Beach” Maya Bay

Maya Bay in Thailand was made famous by the 2000 Hollywood film “The Beach” starring Leonardo DiCaprio. In the film, Richard (Leonardo DiCaprio), an American backpacker, learns of a secret island, a paradise, which he eventually finds: Maya Bay on the Thai island of Ko Phi Phi Leh.

Since The Beach, the island has been overrun by tourists and is only about an hour’s speedboat ride from Phuket. Maya Bay was visited by up to 5,000 people a day. The results were devastating: by 2018, 90 per cent (!) of the coral there had been damaged. Closing the bay to tourism was the only option for the Thai government. As CNN Travel and the BBC report, it was the only right decision. After almost four years of closure, the bay has begun to recover. Blacktip reef sharks have returned. But the corals will take decades to regenerate. But at least they are regenerating! Some are already growing again.

Maya Bay has reopened to tourists in 2022. But you still can’t swim there

Coral protection on Ko Phi Phi Leh at Zeavola Resort

Our Green PearlsⓇ partner Zeavola is located in another beautiful bay on the island of Ko Phi Phi Leh. This eco-resort focuses on sustainability and teaching tourists to treat the underwater world with respect.

You can book a variety of PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors) snorkelling and diving courses. If you are a beginner, you will start in the resort’s saltwater pool and then be expertly introduced to the fascinating underwater world.

Experienced divers can also help the Zeavola team with coral conservation. For example, the team removes marine plastic from marine life. Zeavola has also replanted over 10,000 coral fragments.

Caution: Never touch coral when diving or snorkelling! With just one touch you can damage the delicate creatures and destroy hundreds of years of growth!

Another project you can get involved with at Zeavola Resort is the weekly food distribution for sea nomad children at the local school.

Litter prevention at Keemala in Thailand

In the tourism industry, waste is a big problem. Keemala, a sustainable villa resort on the island of Phuket, took action back in 2015. The resort has eliminated all plastic waste. “We don’t have plastic bottles or straws,” says Keemala. In 2023, they were able to tell us that this measure had already eliminated 50,000 plastic bottles and 20,000 plastic straws.

Keemala also avoids packaging waste by growing its own fruit and vegetables. They are used directly in the kitchen without having to be transported. As a tourist, you are welcome to stroll through the gardens. You will find lemongrass, turmeric, bananas, coconuts, jackfruit and much more.

A cooking course at Keemala will teach you how to prepare these exotic ingredients. It’s not just about taste, it’s about health and zero waste.

Sustainable holidays in Indonesia

At Puri Dajuma Cottages & Spa in Bali, Indonesia, the resort is using guest communication to make vacations more sustainable. For example, guests staying in the Balinese wooden cottages can opt out of air conditioning and use fans instead, which the resort says are 16 times more energy efficient. When it comes to water consumption, you’ll be told that people in Europe use about 7 times more fresh water for each person than Balinese. The information is meant to encourage people to rethink their own behavior and perhaps shift down a gear. Guests are also encouraged to reduce waste.

Learn more about Puri Dajuma Cottages & Spa and sustainable holidays in Indonesia in our article Sustainable Indonesia.

Garbage problem in the national park

National parks also have to face the fact that rubbish is a big problem. In 2020, Thailand’s Khao Yaimedial National Park attracted a lot of attention when staff sent some of the holidaymakers from the national park’s campsite home with the rubbish they had left behind.

Khao Yai National Park is Thailand’s oldest national park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The park covers an area of more than 2,000 square kilometres. It has beautiful waterfalls and is home to elephants and gibbons.

Animal welfare rules for sustainable travel in Southeast Asia

The climate in South East Asia is predominantly tropical. It is humid and warm all year round – very different from ours! That’s why we find the wildlife to be so exciting and exotic. Elephants, tigers, monkeys, whales, seahorses, coral – these are all living creatures, not souvenirs! So here are some rules for dealing with animals in Southeast Asia:

• Do not buy souvenirs that contain animal products such as snake wine, scorpion liqueur, ivory carvings and so on.
• Do not take paid photographs of animals outside of their natural environment (e.g. baby gibbons on the beach or in bars).
• Feeding of wildlife is a no-no!
• Follow the rules in the national park. Stay in the designated areas.
• Leave no litter. Avoid plastic waste. (You can also refuse plastic bags when shopping and bring your own jute bag instead). Plastic ends up in the sea with devastating consequences for the local flora and fauna.
• When snorkelling, do not touch the coral.

Read more about animal welfare when traveling. See this blog post 

Gibbon Project

Very popular with tourists are the funny monkeys. But their numbers are declining. This is mainly due to habitat loss in Southeast Asia. The IUCN lists all 20 gibbon species as endangered or threatened.

Under no circumstances should you be photographed with a baby gibbon on one of the beaches, where the monkeys are used as a source of income among the tourists and are taken from their natural environment for this purpose.

Instead, you can see (and photograph) gibbons in the various national parks. The Gibbon Project also offers the opportunity to adopt a gibbon if you would like to make a difference. Currently, “Rumthai”, “Tam” and “Bo” are waiting for a sponsor.

Stray gibbon sponsorship

If you would prefer to adopt a stray dog, Four Paws works with several organisations in Indonesia, Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam that care for street dogs and cats.

Combine sustainable travel in Southeast Asia with social projects

In Southeast Asia, you will travel to many emerging countries that are still struggling with poverty and many other problems after years of colonial exploitation. There is still a lack of healthcare and clean drinking water in rural Cambodia, for example. Unfortunately, child poverty and the (sexual) exploitation of children are not uncommon in Cambodia either.

You can report sexual exploitation of children to Tourism Watch worldwide.

Create sustainable prospects

If you want to make a positive contribution to fair labour, you can book accommodation at Farmhouse Smiling Gecko. This sustainable bungalow resort actively engages with the local community through training, education, child and family development and employment. Farmhouse Smiling Gecko runs a farm, handicraft workshops, catering facilities and classrooms. It is located in Samaki Meanchey district, Kampong Chhnang province. Local guides will show you around the area and the social projects.

The 4 Rivers Floating Lodge on Koh Andet also works to ensure that local Cambodians have fair jobs and are well integrated into all areas of the resort. 4 Rivers Floating Lodge is a unique accommodation – the lodges float on the water!

Read more about social sustainability in tourism

Southeast Asia etiquette guide: Respect local culture

When traveling in Southeast Asia, you will notice that religion is very important and means a lot to the people. As a tourist, you should be careful not to hurt the feelings of the local people. There are many different religions:

Buddhism is the main religion in Cambodia, Thailand, Laos, Myanmar, Vietnam and Singapore.

Islam predominates in Indonesia, Malaysia and Brunei.

Christian is the majority religion in the Philippines and East Timor.

Because the various temples and temple complexes are a popular tourist attraction, it is important to familiarise yourself with the rules that apply there. In Cambodia, the Angkor Wat temple complex is certainly one of the most popular destinations. The national symbol, which appears on the flag and banknotes, was built by the Khmer rulers around 1,200 years ago and was long a Hindu Vishnu temple before becoming a Buddhist temple. Around 90% of Cambodia’s population is now Buddhist.

The fact that religion is so deeply rooted in the culture and everyday life of the people means that there are things for travelers to consider.

Codes of conduct in South-East Asia:

• Clothing: When packing your suitcase, be aware that you should dress a little more “conservatively” in Southeast Asia than in European countries.
• Beach: It is advisable to wear shorts and a T-shirt if you are at a beach where locals go into the water in full costume (burkini).
• FKK and going topless is forbidden almost everywhere in South East Asia. It is a violation of the country’s customs.
• Drug abuse is severely punished in many Southeast Asian countries. This also applies to tourists.
• Alcohol is forbidden in Islam. Buddhists avoid it. However, Islam allows complete freedom for other religions, so alcohol is available in all tourist accommodation in Malaysia, Indonesia and Brunei. However, you are not allowed to drink alcohol on the street.
• Food: Some bizarre things are eaten in countries such as Vietnam and Thailand: Dogs, cats, mice, snakes, worms and blood. But you don’t have to eat them! On the contrary, Buddhism offers a wide range of vegan/vegetarian dishes, and in countries like Malaysia, food and restaurants are “halal” (meaning no pork, no carnivores, and no blood).
• Knives don’t belong on the table, use a fork and spoon instead.
• Blowing your nose is considered very obscene in Asia. (You withdraw discreetly).
• Kissing and hand-holding are rarely seen in public.
• Before entering a house, shoes are often taken off.
• When criticising, praise should always be given.
• In countries such as Thailand and Malaysia, pointing fingers is considered very rude.
• Touching of locals is often inappropriate. Also, the handshake is not usually a form of greeting and is a sign of respect. In Thailand, people fold their hands flat against their chest and bow slightly (wai); in Malaysia, people nod to greet each other. In Indonesia, the nod is accompanied by a hand over the heart.

Tourists not affected by ban on extramarital sex

In 2022, the tourism industry was in turmoil. A new law was passed in Indonesia banning extramarital sex from 2025. The law means that unmarried people will not be allowed to book a hotel room together. However, foreign tourists will NOT be affected, as both the Indonesian government and the popular holiday destination of Bali have already pointed out. Religiously, sex before marriage is forbidden in almost all religions. This is the case in Christianity, Judaism, Islam and Hinduism. Only Buddha did not comment on sexuality, so there are different interpretations. Interesting to know: Most Buddhist marriages in Southeast Asia are arranged.

 

Tourists are not expected to know all the rules of behaviour, as is always the case when on holiday. We recommend: Research, observe, ask questions and stay relaxed 🙂

Traveling to Southeast Asia – can we still fly?

From Europe, unfortunately, flying is often the only realistic way to travel to Southeast Asia. Whether this is still justifiable from a sustainability point of view is something we put up for discussion in the following article.

We hope we’ve made it clear that Southeast Asia offers many opportunities for traveling sustainably.

These include:

• Sustainable accommodation (such as our Green PearlsⓇ partners in Asia )
• Animal welfare/environmental protection (national parks, coral protection, sponsorship)
• Community involvement (promoting training opportunities, jobs, education)
• Waste prevention (zero waste movement, clean-up projects, etc.)

Ultimately, you can play a big part in making your trip more sustainable.

Do you want to save the guide for your next trip? Then use our Pinterest images or the button at the end.

Der Beitrag Sustainable Travel in Southeast Asia (Green Travel Guide) erschien zuerst auf GREEN TRAVEL BLOG.

Other countries, different celebrations

Public holidays and festivities depend on the culture of the country. Often religion plays a big role, though not only. Over the years, other events or folk festivals have become permanent holidays, drawing not only locals but tourists as well. For example, Thailand hosts the largest vegan food festival in the world! This is a special experience, not only if you’re vegan and sustainable.

Celebrating in Thailand

Let’s stay in Thailand for a moment. Thailand offers countless festivities and holidays. Not only the celebrations of their Buddhist culture have a high value, but the Thais are looking only for occasions to celebrate. Christmas, Halloween, or Thanksgiving are celebrated enthusiastically and with lots of pompous decoration.

“Traditional” holidays can be roughly divided into religious ones and those associated with the royal family. For instance, on December 5, the king’s birthday is commemorated as a state holiday and many events are held. China’s influence can also be seen in the holidays: Chinese New Year is one of the most important holidays in the country.

Christmas in Thailand

At temperatures above 30 °C, Christmas spirit is hard to come by, unless you go to one of the much air-conditioned shopping malls, in which you will quickly start to freeze without a sweater. However, Thais don’t let midsummer temperatures get them down. They make up for the lack of cold with overloaded, kitsch Christmas decorations. Glittery baubles, garlands and unsustainable artificial snow can be found everywhere. Restaurant and café employees wear Christmas hats, and Christmas music plays from almost every available loudspeaker. In Bangkok, at least, the commercialized Christmas world is overwhelming us.

To escape it all, you can choose a sustainable hotel away from the crowded tourist cities. Instead of the Christmas stress and kitsch, typical Thai bungalows and lots of nature and peace await you at Zeavola, interrupted only by the sounds of birds.

Real Thai holidays: Songkran und Loi Krathong

Songkran takes place around mid-April, the hottest time of the year. It is the most important and also the most famous festival in the country. So if you are traveling in Thailand in April, don’t miss it! However, you should be waterproof. There is water splashing everywhere, which is a welcome cooling with the prevailing temperatures 😉

Songkran has its roots in religion, but today the fun and celebrating together comes first.

Sustainable travel tips for the Songkran festival

• Try to travel anti-cyclically. As many locals visit family for the Songkran festival, bus, and train tickets from Bangkok to the inland areas sell out quickly and transport is correspondingly full. By the end of the festival, it’s the other way around.
• Hotel tip: Keemala
  Keemala is located on the popular island of Phuket, so you’ll be quickly in the middle of the action of the ‘water festival.’ However, instead of sleeping wet and exhausted in the evening at a noisy hotel located somewhere in the center of the festival, return to a villa wonderland. Various, luxurious villas from tree houses to mud lodgings offer peace and quiet. Keemala is also the ideal retreat if you want to completely escape the chaos surrounding the Songkran festival.

Luck and Wealth

In mid-November, Thailand hosts another important festival. Loi Krathong celebrates the full moon night of the twelfth lunar month. People put small boats made of palm leaves into streams, rivers, and lakes. Inside them are often candles, incense sticks or even coins. The exact origins of this tradition have been lost in the depths of history. Today, floating the small palm leaf boats is said to bring luck and wealth above all.

Maldives and Islamic festivals

Christmas is not celebrated in the Maldives either. For tourists, the resorts host Christmas dinners on the beach or have Santa bring gifts on a jet ski.

The festivities of the locals are not noticed by travelers, since they are mainly celebrated in the family circle or in the mosques. The Islamic New Year in particular has a high significance.

While religious festivals are held off the tourist trails, you will definitely notice many state festivals and especially the national holiday, the Huravee Festival on February 15, when you visit the main island of Malé. The Huravee Festival commemorates the national hero Sultan Ghaazee Muhammad Thakkurufaan, who liberated the Maldives from 15 years of Portuguese rule.

Sustainable Travel in the Maldives at Gili Lankanfushi

If you ever want to experience the Horavee festival or celebrate Christmas under palm trees, make sure to keep an eye on your ecological footprint. The Maldives islands are a fragile ecosystem and as tourists we have a responsibility to reflect on our actions and reduce the negative impact of our stay. For example, one way is to book a sustainable hotel like the Gili Lankanfushi. This is committed to the environment and the locals. It pays attention to waste avoidance and recycling, and its coral reforestation project can even be supported and maintained by guests. Who needs christmas trees when you can help baby corals grow?

A Creolian Christmas in Seychelles

The people of the islands are Christian in large parts, so that Christmas is a big part of their lives. It is traditional to slaughter a pig on the morning of December 24, which is then served on the table during the holidays. In addition, there are different curries, salads and of course typical desserts such as cassava pudding or Creole cake with papaya jam. The Christmas gift-giving takes place on the morning of December 25.

Colourful festive tradition

In addition to the Christian holidays, the annual Carnival and Festival Kreol attracts locals and tourists alike. The colorful International Creole Parade invites people to celebrate and dance. By the way, it celebrates diversity, international understanding and somehow also simply the joy of life. Simultaneously, the Creole culture is not only cultivated, but also raised in the (international) consciousness. Accompanying the parade are not only parties, but also symposiums, readings, exhibitions and congresses, which provide insight into the culture and roots of the Seychelles.

Calm Getaway for the Carnival International

Carnival on the Seychelles can definitely compete with the big carnival events in Rio de Janeiro or London. If you do not want to miss it, but still do not want to stay in the center of it all, we suggest Cerf Island Resort. You stay in houses inspired by typical Creole architecture, enjoy authentic, sustainable cuisine, and after the excitement of Carnival, you can really wind down and enjoy nature.

Also at Christmas, Cerf Island Resort offers you a relaxing oasis with the right amount of Christmas spirit under palm trees.

Divers Indonesia

As diverse as the islands of Indonesia are, so are their cultures and therefore the festivals that are celebrated. For your travel planning, the many holidays are certainly important to know because many Indonesians go on vacation in their country during this time, and it can get quite crowded. At the same time, you may find yourself in front of closed restaurants and stores in certain places because you didn’t consider a holiday.

Holidays on Bali

We could write a whole book about all the holidays in Indonesia. Instead, we’ll limit ourselves to the home of our partner, Puri Dajuma. Located in Bali, the sustainable hotel is an ideal base for exploring the island or even experiencing significant, Balinese celebrations like Independence Day on August 17. There are so many events, sports competitions and cultural events on this day that you definitely won’t manage to visit even a fraction of them. The day is celebrated all over Indonesia.

Typical Balinese celebrations are Galungan and Kuningan. On Galungan, the victory of good over evil is celebrated. Simultaneously, the ancestral spirits walk the earth during this time. Kuningan is the conclusion of the holidays, when the spirits return to their world.

A special event is the Balinese New Year, which is celebrated meanwhile also on other islands. The Hindu holiday is one of the most important festivals in the country. The special thing about it is that it is spent in complete silence. Instead of driving away the evil spirits with fireworks and firecrackers, as is the custom in Europe, for example, it is said here that the spirits consider the islands uninhabited if one is only hushed. The Balinese New Year or Day of Silence takes place at the end of March. Perhaps we in Europe should be inspired by it. After all, due to the fireworks on New Year’s Eve, particulate pollution on this day is higher than ever.

Celebrate festivities as they fall

The Christmas celebration has also found its way into other countries due to commercialization. So in December, you’ll be greeted by jingle bells, Christmas hats and fairy lights almost everywhere in the world. However, we find it much more interesting to immerse ourselves in the culture of our travel destination and to get to know and experience the respective traditions and festivals. After all, respect for the local culture is also part of sustainable travel and with our sincere interest in it, we can help ensure that this culture is neither forgotten nor commercialized. So be open to the festivals of your destination. And besides: we can have Christmas everywhere 😉

By the way, if you want to know how our Green Pearls® partners spend Christmas and the holidays in other countries, check out these two blog articles: Christmas around the World and Christmas around the World, Pt. 2.

Want to keep these festivals in mind for your next travels? Save a pin or use the Pinterest button at the end of the article!

Der Beitrag Festivals and holidays in other countries: From the Songkran festival in Thailand to Christmas in Seychelles. erschien zuerst auf GREEN TRAVEL BLOG.

You want to save this article for later? Pin one of the pictures below or simply click the Pinterest Button.

Der Beitrag Flying high while paragliding in Germany, Europe, and the world erschien zuerst auf GREEN TRAVEL BLOG.