Male Solo Travel Role Models in the Media

Many people dream of taking a year off after school to travel the world or quitting their jobs to become travel bloggers, and (thanks in part to media hype) it seems as if they all succeed. Or at least, a lot of them. The truth is, very few do. Out of my entire graduating class of over 100 people, only one went solo traveling to Thailand. And he didn’t even become a travel blogger. How many do you know?

Travelers on YouTube are trending

Some male YouTubers that I enjoy watching with my family are Joe Khatab (Saudi Arabia, 18.3 million subscribers) and Ibn Battuta (Palestinian refugee from Jordan, 3.1 million followers). Both make a living from traveling and have been on the road alone for years.

Johnny Ward left Ireland in 2006. Since then, he has traveled to every country in the world in 11 years and earned around $3 million with his blog, “oneStep4ward”. (However, he is no longer traveling alone, as he has married and settled in Thailand with his wife. He discusses this in his post about visiting Keemala in Phuket in cooperation with us.)

Traveling to Improve the World

Many men seek adventure while traveling. Some do so sustainably and try to help others along the way. For example, I found the late German survival expert Rüdiger Nehberg very likable.

“Can one person really make the world a better place? Of course, who else!” –  Rüdiger Nehberg

Douglas Maclagan, an Englishman, also traveled alone in his younger years until fate brought him to Nepal. There, he built the sustainable resort The Pavilions Himalayas – The Farm. Learn more about the inspiring story of the resort with impact here.

Today’s Solo Traveler (Findings from the ITB)

When the travel industry says that solo travel has recently become a trend for men, too, they are primarily referring to those who lead “normal” lives. For example, there’s Uwe, my father’s former colleague, born in 1960, who always books group tours for his solo vacations. (He books alone and connects with his fellow travelers.)

At the ITB Berlin 2025 tourism trade fair, Sonja Salzburger from the Süddeutsche Zeitung examined the solo travel trend.

Her findings and the resulting 2026 forecasts

• Many solo travelers are older (One indication of this is that, according to Tui, solo travelers prefer to arrange meetings via Facebook.)
• They are not tied to vacation periods and prefer to travel in the off-season
• According to a Tui survey, only 4% travel alone because they lack travel partners.
• The most frequently cited reasons in the Tui survey are: “I value independence” (33%), “time for a personal challenge” (25%).
• According to the Research Association for Vacations and Travel (FUR), 11.1% of German vacationers (7.13 million) traveled alone in 2023
• Solo travelers do not differ from others in their choice of destinations.

Ready for a (sustainable) solo trip?

As you can see, when traveling alone, you don’t have to worry about seeming friendless. Instead, you can enjoy having time to yourself and being flexible, free, and independent. If you travel in the off-season, you’re also being sustainable because it spreads out tourism, secures jobs, and makes it easier to regulate environmental impact.

To make your trip more sustainable, there are two things you should keep in mind:

• Getting there (by train, if possible, to be eco-friendly)
• Accommodation (here, of course, we recommend our Green Pearl® partners)

Sustainable vacation packages for solo male travelers

We asked our network which Green PearlsⓇ hotels often welcome male solo travelers and if any have special offers for this group.

“Men’s Active Health” at OCÉANO Health Spa Hotel in Tenerife

The OCÉANO Health Spa Hotel on the Canary Island of Tenerife (with a warm climate all year round) is one hotel where you will find many solo travelers. The hotel is located directly on the Atlantic Ocean and offers wellness programs, fasting cures, and health programs. “More women travel alone because of the focus on yoga, wellness, and the spa,” says Simone Schleicher from the hotel. “But we also have a steady stream of men traveling alone.”

There is a special activity program designed for this target group to help them achieve a defined shape and increase their energy levels:

• Single room with a sea view
• Health spa diet (made with regional, organic ingredients)
• Use of the spa area, including the thalassotherapy pool, fitness center, saunas, and seawater pool
• Introductory consultation with a doctor and HRV (heart rate variability) measurement
• Three therapeutic treatments
• Three personal training sessions
• One foot reflexology massage
• One Express Power Lift for Men
• Five free sessions in the yoga and relaxation program

To the offer: OCÉANO Men’s Active Health

“Me Time” at the My Arbor Tree Hotel in South Tyrol

Would you rather be in the mountains than at the beach? If so, the adults-only, sustainable hotel My Arbor near Brixen is a great choice. At this luxurious wellness hotel, you can enjoy the solar-powered sauna and meet other solo travelers. The hotel welcomes guests aged 16 and older and ensures that they can tailor their stay to their preferences.

“We have indeed noticed an increase in solo travel. Solo travelers are certainly welcome here and can choose from a wide variety of activities.” —Alexandra Huber, My Arbor host family

The trend of solo travel is popular among both women and men. Although there are no special offers exclusively for men, the MY SPECIAL TIME offer is suitable for everyone.

Sustainable hotels for motorcyclists/bikers?

The Relais del Maro in Liguria, Italy, reports that men who travel alone often come for a biker getaway, some of whom have already formed groups beforehand. As a motorcyclist, you’re never really alone. “They enjoy motocross tours in the mountains and cold beer on our terrace,” says Martina Dellarbar. The hotel itself is an Albergo Diffuso, or a dispersed hotel, spread across several former residential and commercial buildings in the village of Borgomaro.

Bikers frequently check in as guests at the STURM Wellness Hotel in Mellrichstadt, Germany. Before the hotel transitioned to offering only organic, natural, and sustainable products and services, it was a “biker hotel,” which many guests fondly remember.

Solo male travelers are welcome guests at the STURM. Julius Schulze-Diekhoff, a member of the host family, reveals that a special offer for men is already in the works.

Question: Is vacationing by motorcycle environmentally friendly?

It depends primarily on the type of motorcycle you have. As the ADAC explains in its 2025 market report, electric motorcycles are still relatively rare. In contrast, some of the latest motorcycle models are 20 times dirtier than cars with combustion engines because they have huge engines. In other calculations, a motorcycle performs better than a car if only one person is in the car.

However, the problem is that motorcycling is usually practiced as a “leisure sport” and thus blows extra CO2 into the air. Therefore, we only consider electric motorcycles to be acceptable as a “hobby.” If at all. Here, it works out well: Both the Relais del Maro and the STURM provide electric charging stations 🙂

“Men’s time out” at the Hotel Das Rübezahl

As a man, you don’t necessarily have to drink beer and ride motorcycles (honestly, we can return that cliché to the 90s). In 2026, men can treat themselves to a wellness retreat. That’s at least how the Hotel Das Rübezahl in the Allgäu region sees it. They offer back massages, head and neck massages, and a four-course meal at a Michelin-starred restaurant—just for you! Wouldn’t that be nice?

• Click here for the offer: Men’s Package! 16.06.2025 – 23.12.2025, Hotel Das Rübezahl

Men traveling alone and sustainably

As you can see, the world is your oyster when traveling alone, and many hotels have special offers just for you. A recent survey showed that many people use solo travel for self-reflection.

Consider your relationship with your environment and the planet. Every decision you make has an impact, and that includes travel. By choosing the hotels we’ve introduced you to, you can help make travel more sustainable.

Der Beitrag This is what solo travel for men will look like in 2026 erschien zuerst auf GREEN TRAVEL BLOG.

Lush greenery instead of dusty heat

The thought wouldn’t leave me. Why are we so quick to view the rainy season as a disadvantage when it may be the most beautiful time to travel? Not only that, but it’s also more sustainable because you’re usually away from the crowds of tourists. So, you get less crowded sights, lower prices, and pure nature. That’s why I asked people in our network what traveling during the rainy season is really like. First up is Cambodia.

“Deodorant is useless” — rainy season in Cambodia (June–November)

“The rainy season in Cambodia is fantastic,” says Valentin Pawlik. He runs the Canvas & Orchids Retreat in the Cambodian rainforest with his wife, Anna. Here, you can stay in tent villas on floating platforms right on the river. Surrounded by lush greenery — especially during the rainy season.

The arrival of the monsoon season brings not only rain to Cambodia but also new life: landscapes are transformed into verdant oases, rivers swell, rice fields are replanted, and wild animals return. “Anyone who has never experienced monsoon rains should definitely do so—they’re incredible,” enthuses Valentin.

As a rule, it only rains for a few hours a day, and it’s pleasantly warm even then. Afterwards, the weather is calm and fresh. “Angkor Wat in the rain is magical,” he continues. “Sometimes it’s worth getting wet.” There’s also no need to pack deodorant — the heat and humidity render it completely ineffective!

The rainy season is the best time for taking photos!

Incidentally, the rainy season is a well-kept secret among photographers. Valentin explains, “The light is clearer, the sky is more exciting, and the colors are more intense.” That’s why it’s the best time to take photos. With a little luck, you might even capture some of the unique wildlife.

Bonus tip: Attend a yoga retreat near Angkor Wat

When visiting Angkor Wat, consider combining your trip with a wonderful *three-day yoga retreat, which includes authentic yoga, spa treatments, sound healing, and modern fitness activities.

The retreat at the Angkor Grace Residence & Wellness Resort offers classes in English for both beginners and advanced practitioners.

Challenges posed by the monsoon

Of course, the rainy season brings its own set of challenges. Flooding can occur in rural areas, some accommodations close for the off-season, and travel in the countryside sometimes takes longer. “It used to be difficult to travel during the rainy season because of poor roads and broken bridges,” Valentin explains. “But today, the main connections are well developed, and many of the concerns mentioned in old travel guides are outdated.”

The impact of climate change on the monsoon season

However, climate change could soon cause new problems. In this article, Greenpeace explains how the climate crisis is disrupting the monsoon cycle. The Indian Ocean is warming, dry seasons are lengthening, and rainy seasons are becoming more unpredictable. These changes mean that future rainy seasons will probably be different.

Monsoon season in Nepal (June to September) – accompany the locals during the rice harvest

Rajiv Desraj Shrestha, the general manager of The Pavilions Himalayas – The Farm, raves about the rainy season in his homeland.

„The landscape comes to life with its rice terraces, misty mornings, and colorful flora. The ever-changing view from your villa is like a living painting that touches the soul.“ – Rajiv

From mid-June to the end of September, the monsoon season brings new life to the hills around Pokhara. Wafts of mist drift through the valley, lush green rice terraces cascade down slopes, and the air fills with the scents of wet earth and sprouting plants.

From mid-June to the end of September, the monsoon season brings new life to the hills around Pokhara. Wafts of mist drift through the valley, lush green rice terraces cascade down slopes, and the air fills with the scents of wet earth and sprouting plants.

A special highlight during this time is the traditional Ropain Festival, which marks the beginning of the rice harvest (dates: June 29, 2025; TBD, June 2026). The festival is celebrated in various ways, but if you want to post an authentic Instagram photo, you’ll need to be covered in mud by the end of the day. 🙂

At the award-winning, eco-friendly, charitable hotel The Pavilions Himalayas – The Farm, the connection to local agriculture and the switch to organic production play a special role.

Read this article to learn more about the resort’s unique history.

If you’d like, you can lend a hand around the resort by wading barefoot through the soft, wet soil and planting rice seedlings alongside the farmers.

Maldives and rain? Definitely a sign to get in the water!

“Why would you care about rain underwater?” That’s how our partners at Gili Lankanfushi sum it up. If you’ve ever dreamed of encountering whale sharks and manta rays while diving or snorkeling, now is the perfect time.

From May to November, during the southwest monsoon, huge quantities of plankton gather in Hanifaru Bay in Baa Atoll — and the giants of the sea love it. As many as 200 manta rays and 20 whale sharks have even been spotted here in a single day. Snorkelers can get an up-close-and-personal view of them. So make sure not to miss this true natural spectacle, which only occurs during the rainy season.

Info: Sharks are an endangered species worldwide. As the WWF points out, sharks are at the top of the underwater food chain. Therefore, an imbalance in their population affects all other marine animals. Therefore, before booking a tour, find out about your tour operator’s sustainability practices. Learn the correct behavior on the boat and in the water. Keep your distance, and treat all animals with respect above and below the water. If you are unsure whether your chosen operator complies with animal welfare standards, cancel the trip.

At Gili Lankanfushi, you will stay in luxurious water villas — perfect for jumping straight into the lagoon after a dive or enjoying a warm rain shower on your terrace. The sustainable Green PearlsⓇ resort is actively committed to protecting coral reefs and works with local marine biologists. Guests can take guided tours, learn about endangered species, and even help plant coral.

Tip: Eight-day diving camp with tiger sharks — for experienced divers only!

Are you a certified diver looking for an authentic adventure (minimum AOWD or equivalent)? If so, this eight-day diving camp on Fuvahmulah Island could be just what you’re looking for! Removed from commercial tourist diving spots, Fuvahmulah is considered one of the last wild tiger shark hotspots. During the six-day diving portion of the camp, you can expect three dives each day with experienced, English-speaking guides. Information about the camp and booking can be found here: *8-Day Fuvahmulah Tiger Shark Diving Trip.

Experience Peru during the rainy season – between jungle rain and magical mist

Amazon rainforest: Wildlife watching in the rhythm of the water’s flow

There is no distinct dry season in the Peruvian Amazon. The daily cycle of evaporation and rainfall ensures that this area—one of the most species-rich habitats on Earth—thrives. However, the rainy season, which is from November to April, brings more frequent and intense rainfall. This is the ideal time for wildlife watching, as monkeys, caimans, sloths, and countless bird species come to the riverbanks in search of food.

Of course, paths can sometimes be impassable or very muddy. But I mean anyone traveling to the jungle is probably looking for adventure anyway and will be rewarded with lush greenery, spectacular sounds, and a unique nature experience.

Tip: Inkaterra Reserva Amazónica, a sustainable jungle lodge in the heart of the Amazon lowlands on the banks of the Madre de Dios River, offers direct access to a spectacular network of high rope bridges where you can safely walk through the treetops. Their experienced guides are always on hand to point out things you might otherwise miss.

For more information on preparing for your trip, including vaccinations and packing lists, check out our article on sustainable jungle adventures in the Amazon.

A mystical cloud forest instead of tourist crowds – the rainy season in the Andes

Above all else, the rainy season in the Peruvian Andes means one thing—fog. This gives places like Machu Picchu an almost mystical atmosphere. Many travelers prefer to visit during the dry season from June to August when large crowds are common. However, traveling during the off-season (October to March) is quieter and cheaper.

Incidentally, our Green PearlsⓇ partner, the Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel, is helping to reforest the cloud forest. The multi-award-winning hotel now stands on land that was once barren. In the 1970s, Inkaterra founder José Koechlin started planting trees here. It took 15 years for the cloud forest to return, along with birds, butterflies, and wild orchids. Today, over 300 bird species, 372 native orchid species, and 98 fern species can be found around the hotel, which has become a refuge.

Conclusion: The rainy season is a natural wonder that guarantees adventure

The rainy season is one of the most fascinating natural phenomena on Earth. As part of a global weather system, it gives life; however, it is increasingly being thrown out of balance by the climate crisis. Travelers who visit during this time will experience lush green landscapes and a deeper connection to nature and the local people.

But keep in mind that a vacation during monsoon season is not for those who prefer to relax on a beach chair or indulge in luxury—it challenges you, amazes you, sometimes requires a little improvisation, and, above all, helps you grow. However, with experienced local guides and hosts at your side, you will be well prepared for your rainy season adventure.

Here’s one last tip from Valentin in the Cambodian rainforest: When it rains, the locals wear flip-flops; however, you should opt for lightweight yet sturdy trekking shoes. Your feet will get wet, but you’ll stay sure-footed.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about traveling during the rainy season

1. Is it dangerous to travel during the rainy season?

No — at least, not necessarily. The infrastructure in many countries is much better today than it used to be. Valentin from Canvas & Orchids Retreat in Cambodia explains, “The road network has improved enormously in recent years. In the past, you could get stuck for days when it rained heavily — today, that’s no longer an issue.”

The important thing is to be flexible when traveling during the rainy season, learn about the region’s characteristics in advance, and have experienced local guides with you.

2. Which animals are particularly visible during the rainy season?

Many regions have especially good animal-viewing opportunities during the rainy season:

• Amazon, Peru: Higher water levels bring many animals closer to shore. There is a good chance of seeing monkeys, sloths, caimans, and rare birds.
• Cambodia: With a little luck, you can observe langurs, kingfishers, and water buffalo – often found near eco-resorts.
• Maldives: From May to November, large quantities of plankton gather in Hanifaru Bay, which attracts manta rays and whale sharks. Snorkelers can get amazingly close to these creatures.

3. What effect has climate change on the rainy season?

Climate change is disrupting the balance of the seasons — including the monsoon. Greenpeace explains that the rainy season has changed in many regions. “The rising temperature of the Indian Ocean is decreasing the intensity and regularity of the monsoon, while also making extreme heavy rainfall more frequent.” Consequences include longer dry spells, unpredictable rainfall, landslides, and flooding, especially in regions such as India, Bangladesh, and Pakistan.

4. How much does it rain during the rainy season?

Depending on the region, this can vary greatly. It is usually not continuous rain, but rather heavy showers, which often occur in the afternoon or at night. Sometimes these showers last several hours.

• In Cambodia, the rainy season lasts from May to October, with rain typically falling for one to three hours per day.
• In the Peruvian Amazon, it rains frequently, but the rainy season with particularly heavy showers lasts from November to April.
• In the Maldives, it rains more frequently during the southwest monsoon (May–October), but it is usually warm and sunny in between showers.

*For offers marked with an asterisk, we receive a commission if you book the offer. Of course, there are no additional costs for you! 

Save this article on Pinterest as an inspiration for your next journey.

Der Beitrag Traveling in the Rainy Season: Insider Eco-Tips from Cambodia, Nepal, Peru, and the Maldives erschien zuerst auf GREEN TRAVEL BLOG.

The “best room” is perfect to surprise and impress

A few years ago, when I was living in Tel Aviv, my parents came to visit. I recommended a hotel right on the beach with two types of rooms: some faced the street and others faced the Mediterranean Sea. The latter were more expensive. My father decided, “We’ll take the sea view. If we’re going to do it, let’s do it right.” They also opted for a room on one of the upper floors. Every day, I heard my mother rave about how beautiful the view was and how fantastic the room was. The extra cost? Totally worth it.

This memory inspired this article. I wanted to know: Do our partner hotels have rooms that amaze guests and make them want to rave about them and tell others about them? The answer: Yes, and beyond!

Twenty sustainable dream rooms

What makes the rooms we are presenting here so dreamlike? They are not only individually and uniquely designed, but also sustainable. Here, luxury isn’t just for its own sake; it’s about conscious comfort: with renewable and recyclable materials, green electricity, and modern technology for saving water and energy. And as you will see, you won’t have to make any sacrifices or compromises.

Round Viw Suite | Der Birkenhof***** Spa & Genussresort, Germany 

The “Round View Suite” at the five-star Hotel Der Birkenhof features a wraparound balcony with panoramic views of the Upper Palatinate Lake District. The hotel was recently voted “Best Spa Hotel in Germany 2025” by the Falstaff Guide. It has several pools, a sauna area, and a two-Michelin-starred restaurant. And where does the electricity for all this come from? Completely from sustainable sources!

Chalet | The Pavilions Himalayas – The Farm, Nepal

Built in traditional Nepalese style and luxuriously furnished, the “Chalet” at The Pavilions Himalayas – The Farm is the perfect private retreat for you and your loved ones. It is located in the Pokhara area and is surrounded by organic farmland and some of the world’s highest peaks. The resort is a charity hotel that supports sustainable projects and is closely linked to the NGO Rights4Children.

Treetop Suite | My Arbor, Italy

The adults-only Hotel My Arbor has many beautiful rooms, but the highlight are the three “Treetop Suites.” These suites feature dreamlike balconies with views of the Plose, private saunas, and whirlpools.

Spa Loft | Klosterhof – Alpine Hideaway & Spa, Germany

A staircase leads to the “Spa Lofts” of the Klosterhof Alpine Hideaway & Spa, where you’ll find your own private spa area with a whirlpool tub and sauna. The best part? The stunning view of the Berchtesgaden countryside, which you can also enjoy from your private balcony. And by the way, all the furniture is made from applewood sourced from the same area.

AlmRausch | Hotel Das Rübezahl, Deutschland

The “AlmRausch Suite” at Hotel Das Rübezahl is not the largest suite, but it is the host family’s personal favorite. It boasts an unobstructed view of Neuschwanstein Castle and its own infrared cabin with a view of the Allgäu Mountains. The room’s chalet feel is enhanced by a fireplace, library, whirlpool, and walk-in closet.

Sky Suite | Hotel Bella Vista Zermatt, Swiss

In 2024, the Hotel Bella Vista Zermatt fully renovated its attic rooms. The highlight is the skylights, which allow you to lie in bed and gaze at the peak of the Matterhorn.

Family suite | Green City Hotel Vauban, Germany

“The heart of our hotel is our family suite,” reports the Green City Hotel Vauban in Freiburg. It is popular not only with families with children, but also with couples and bachelor parties. Equipped with two separate bedrooms and a beautiful roof terrace, the suite makes all guests feel at home. The inclusive hotel is part of the modern, ecological urban development of the Vauban district and has an integrative employment policy.

Roarer Suite | Hotel Weihrerhof, Italy

“The ‘Roarer Suite’ with its free-floating bay window is our best room,” explains Klaus Pichler, host at the Hotel Weihrerhof, without missing a beat. From there, guests have a direct view of Lake Wolfsgruben, one of the cleanest swimming lakes in Italy. The hotel is located in Ritten, South Tyrol, and is an ideal place to stay for a nature vacation, especially with children.

Lifestyle Loft 500 | Hotel Klosterbräu, Austria

The “Lifestyle Loft 500” is the Hotel Klosterbräu’s highest room and offers a view of the entire town of Seefeld. It includes a 66-square-meter south-facing terrace and a 20-square-meter east-facing balcony. Guests can also enjoy a private panoramic sauna, a private bar with a beer tap and a wine cabinet, and a secret room. Another highlight is the bed with a wooden canopy.

Pine suite | Naturhotel Outside, Austria

The “Pine Suite” at the Naturhotel Outside in the Hohe Tauern National Park in East Tyrol features Swiss stone pine wood furnishings that promote better sleep and create a natural atmosphere. The suite includes a bed made of solid Swiss stone pine with a high-quality pocket spring mattress measuring 180 x 200 cm, allergen-friendly bedding, and cushions crafted from Swiss stone pine. Hiking in the mountains, relaxing in the spa, and enjoying the excellent cuisine — the restaurant has received three Falstaff forks — contribute to a holistic, nature-oriented relaxation experience.

Inkaterra Suite | Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel, Peru

The “Inkaterra Suite” is not a typical hotel room. Rather, it is a 176-square-meter villa located on the grounds of the Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel. The villa features a private garden with a pool, daybed, and outdoor shower, as well as a spacious living area, multiple rooms, and a fireplace. Guided tours exploring the former Inca city of Machu Picchu depart directly from the hotel. For many years, the hotel’s operators have been committed to preserving this World Heritage Site and promoting environmental protection, species conservation, and sustainability throughout Peru.

ApartSuite L | OLM Nature Escape, Italy

Do apartments with private saunas and freestanding bathtubs seem wasteful to you? Fortunately, the OLM Nature Escape in Sand in Taufers, South Tyrol, is completely energy self-sufficient thanks to solar energy and geothermal probes, so it produces all of its own electricity. Each apartment is equipped with a kitchen, allowing you to choose between eating at the restaurant or cooking for yourself.

Family Room No. 2 | Relais del Maro, Italy

The Relais del Maro is an Albergo Diffuso, meaning this four-star hotel is spread across several old residential and commercial buildings in the village. Here in Borgomaro, Liguria, you’ll live right next door to the locals and experience authentic Italian culture in the Imperia countryside. According to host Elena, the most beautiful room is the “Family Room No. 2” — elegant, spacious, and bright.

Waldklang | SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA, Germany 

The “Panorama Deluxe Waldklang” suite is one of the hotel’s “Circular Living” rooms. The Schwarzwald Panorama in the spa town of Bad Herrenalb has won several awards for these rooms, which include the Falkenstein and Freigeist suites. Everything from the wall paint to the furnishings and fabrics is 100% recyclable or biodegradable and can therefore be returned to the cycle. Another highlight is the panoramic view of the Black Forest, which is particularly impressive from the “Waldklang.”

Stable room in a farmhouse | Gut Sonnenhausen, Germany 

The “stable rooms” of the farmhouse at Gut Sonnenhausen, located near Munich, feature lovingly restored antique cabinets from Lower Bavaria, as well as a blend of retro and modern furniture. The rooms are insulated with coffee jute sacks. Along with the clay plaster and plenty of spruce wood, the rooms boast a wonderful atmosphere and special charm.

Apis Royal | APIPURA hotel rinner, Italy

“Just like in a beehive, there is only one queen bee in our hotel — the “Apis Royal Suite,” the Rinner family explains with a grin. The Apipura hotel rinner in South Tyrol was designed by a nomadic beekeeper with bees in mind. The suit features a private spa area with a whirlpool tub offering light therapy (a honey hydro bath is recommended) and an infrared cabin for two.

Little Two+ | Lifestylehotel SAND, Germany

The Lifestylehotel SAND is located in the popular resort town of Timmendorfer Strand on the Baltic Sea. The reception staff highly recommend the “Little Two+” room, which is a double room with a balcony facing the sea and a COCO-MAT natural box spring bed. Tip: At the hotel, you can also spend one of your vacation nights in a beach chair on the rooftop!

Renewable Junior Suite | Hotel Luise, Germany

“We believe that our best room is our Renewable Junior Suite,” says the team at the Hotel Luise in Erlangen. “Like all our renewable rooms, the suite is designed according to the cradle-to-cradle concept. This means that almost all of its components are 100% biodegradable or recyclable.” You can also shower under an “astronaut shower,” which saves up to 90% of water and up to 80% of energy. The room has a corner balcony overlooking the hotel garden and green courtyard.

Gartenblick room | STURM, Germany

In 2023, STURM in Mellrichstadt, located in the Rhön region, expanded its hotel offerings with the addition of the “Gartenblick rooms.” In collaboration with architect Prof. Matthias Loebermann, they created rooms that offer “a unique connection with nature.” Located directly in front of the rooms’ terrace, the swimming pond, along with the absence of televisions and the use of natural materials, provides the perfect setting for slowing down and relaxing from everyday life. The rooms received the “Best Architects Award 2024.”

Signature Suite | Eco-Hotel Okelmann‘s, Germany

The Eco-Hotel Okelmann’s in Warpe, Lower Saxony, has a new room that offers extra peace and quiet. The “Signature Suite” has its own garden and can accommodate two to six people. A personal touch can be found in the bedroom, which features the original wedding wardrobe of the great-grandmother of the current Okelmann hosts.

Junior Suite | Naturresort Gerbehof, Germany

Naturresort Gerbehof reports, “Our most popular rooms are the junior suites and suites.” The resort sits on the German side of Lake Constance, surrounded by apple trees and its own forest. Craftsmen use wood from the forest to make the furniture and untreated wooden floorboards in the rooms. The “Junior Suite” offers a healthy living environment, extra space, and a private balcony.

So? In which of these rooms would you most like to spend the night?

Let us know in the comments!

Save the article on Pinterest – that way, you’ll always have inspiration for your next trip at your fingertips.

Der Beitrag Green & Gorgeous: The most beautiful rooms in sustainable hotels worldwide erschien zuerst auf GREEN TRAVEL BLOG.

Mad honey and man-eaters? Nepal is more than headlines and clickbait

Nepal’s cultural peculiarities exert a sometimes borderline fascination on the West. Among the most popular travel videos about Nepal are the harvesting of psychedelic “mad honey” (over 51 million views), the burning of corpses and a visit to a “cannibal” (around 5 million views), and a report on the Kumari, a young girl worshipped as a living goddess in Nepal (around 9 million views).

Sensationalizing and exoticizing people, exploiting strange traditions and behaviors for Western eyes to generate clicks, has nothing to do with supporting the country or promoting tourism. Nor does it have anything to do with education, informed criticism, or reassessment, which are often used as defenses for such images. So be careful and don’t let such things blind you to Nepal and your trip there. After all, Nepal is home to people just like you and me. Be open and show interest in the real culture of the country – not clickbait videos.

Douglas MacLagan, the English founder of The Pavilions Himalayas – The Farm, whose story we recently featured on our blog, paints a similar picture of his encounters with the people of Nepal:

„They had so little, but they were willing to share everything to make someone they had never met happy and to show them respect. (…) What also surprised me was how happy the people were. They don’t need the materialism I grew up with. Their evening entertainment consisted of sitting around the fire as a family, as a community, telling jokes, talking about village and family matters, and discussing what needed to be done on the land.“

 

Tourists are a challenge

More than a million tourists visit Nepal every year. According to hotel manager Rajiv Desraj Shrestha of The Pavilions Himalaya – The Farm, people of all ages travel to the small country. “And they are equally divided between adventure and cultural tours,” he adds.

The tourism sector is very important for Nepal. It provides thousands of jobs and plays a crucial role in preserving Nepal’s unique cultural and natural heritage. But it also has its downsides.

The highest garbage dump in the world

Deforestation, mountains of garbage, and overuse of water resources are just some of the pressing problems that tourism is causing to Nepal’s natural environment. For example, the many trekkers in the Everest region have turned the once pristine Khumbu region of the Himalayas into the “world’s highest garbage dump“. In the spring of 2024 alone, more than 77 tons of waste was collected at Everest Base Camp. Discarded equipment, cooking utensils, plastic waste, and “human waste” (i.e. feces and urine). Such statistics show that tourism needs to be made more sustainable – not only, but especially in the mountains.

New government measures

According to New Business Age, the Nepalese government has now taken action. These include:

• Waste disposal with the help of drones
• The requirement for climbers to bring back at least 8 kg of waste from Everest
• The imposition of a $4,000 “waste deposit” to encourage responsible behavior

However, the newspaper criticizes that the enforcement mechanisms are not strict enough. As a tourist, you should not only be guided by (possible) penalties and regulations, but also act on your own responsibility.

By the way, the government is taking a leaf out of Bali’s book. The Indonesian dream island had to pass a bunch of laws against garbage and disrespectful behavior because of overtourism.

Tips for sustainable mountaineering in the Himalayas

If you are planning a trek in Nepal, you can make a big difference with a few simple choices.

• Rent your trekking equipment locally. This is very easy, especially in tourist centers like Kathmandu or Pokhara.
• If possible, choose routes and trails off the beaten track – not only to avoid mass tourism, but also to support smaller villages that have benefited less from tourism. This doesn’t mean leaving the trails, but simply choosing less frequented paths.!
• When choosing a tour operator, look for local guides, fair working conditions, and transparent sustainability policies. (TrekkingTeamGroup, for example, advertises “excellence in sustainability,” Royal Mountain Travel is committed to supporting local communities and solar energy, and Social Trek Nepal considers both social and environmental issues.
• Avoid disposable products and bring items such as a water bottle, lunch box, and soap dish.
• Use toilets whenever possible. If not, bury, cover, or collect your waste and dispose of it properly at the next opportunity.
• Find out in advance about waste disposal along your route.
• Don’t leave anything behind. Not even the smallest piece of trash. The mountains are not an adventure playground and certainly not a garbage dump, but a very sensitive ecosystem.

8 things to know about Nepal before you go

#1: Monsoon: During Nepal’s monsoon season (usually July/August), heavy rains and landslides can make travel difficult. Many resorts and tour operators close during this time for safety reasons. After monsoon, the country is very green.

#2: Mount Everest: At 8,848 meters, Mt. Everest is the highest mountain in the world above sea level and bears the surname of a British surveyor. In Nepal, the mountain is called सगरमाथा Sagarmatha. There are two base camps, one in Nepal and one in Tibet.

#3: Historical background: Nepal experienced ten years of civil war (1996-2006). One result was the abolition of the Hindu monarchy in 2008. Since 2015, the country has a new constitution and is now a parliamentary democracy.

The people of Nepal

#4:Ethnic groups and religion: The country is extremely diverse in terms of ethnicity and culture. The approximately 30 million Nepalese are divided into more than 100 ethnic groups. About 80 percent of the population is Hindu, and about 9 percent is Buddhist (especially in Mustang).

#5: Rural population: Compared to other countries in the world, Nepal has a very low proportion of urban dwellers. To this day, the country remains predominantly agricultural and rural.

#6: Climate Change: According to the Climate Risk Index 2021, Nepal is one of the ten countries most affected by climate change. This is mainly due to melting glaciers.

#7: Poverty: Since the end of the civil war, per capita income has increased and the country has made some progress in reducing poverty. Nevertheless, 17% of the population lives in poverty, according to the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ). Nearly one-third of children suffer from malnutrition, and basic infrastructure and health care are lacking.

#8: Animals: Rare animals such as the Bengal tiger, snow leopard, and rhinoceros live in Nepal. In the south of the country, a tropical jungle with a particularly rich fauna borders the foothills of the mountains. The famous Chitwan National Park is also located here.

Travel highlights in Nepal and how to explore them sustainably

Despite its relatively small size, Nepal has a lot to offer. Whether you’re looking for nature or culture, adventure or relaxation, there’s almost nothing you can’t find here. However, not all of it is compatible with sustainable travel. But don’t worry, even with a sustainable mindset, you don’t have to miss out on unique experiences. In fact, they are likely to be more intense because you will be interacting with the locals and experiencing the environment more directly than if you were rushing through it or flying over it.

You can have adventures without a helicopter

From trekking in the Annapurna region to expeditions to Everest, Nepal offers adventure and adrenaline-pumping attractions for this audience. Higher, faster, more extreme.

If you want to travel sustainably, we probably don’t need to tell you this. But for the sake of completeness, we’ll do it anyway: it’s best to avoid activities such as helicopter rides or skydiving – these cause enormous emissions and are at odds with environmentally responsible travel. If you’re looking for extreme thrills, try bungee jumping, ziplining, or whitewater rafting – adventures with much less impact on the environment. Of course, you should also make sure that the operators treat nature with respect.

Gentle wildlife viewing instead of elephant riding

From Chitwan National Park to Lake Rara, Nepal is a biodiversity hotspot. If you go on a nature trip, look for certified operators who respect protected areas, do not disturb wildlife, and involve local communities. Avoid elephant riding (unfortunately offered by many operators in Chitwan National Park), as elephant riding is always associated with animal suffering. Instead, choose eco-friendly safaris on foot or by canoe.

Respectful encounters with culture and tradition

Nepal’s cultural heritage is impressive. From centuries-old temples to vibrant cities like Bhaktapur and small traditional villages, there is much to discover. Take the time to understand the stories behind the facades. As mentioned above, when choosing a tour operator, look for those that specialize in supporting local communities and work closely with them.

Accommodation and support

Nepal has some wonderful sustainable accommodations, such as The Pavilions Himalayas – The Farm, an eco-resort in the Pokhara region. The resort is powered by green electricity, runs its own organic farm, and cooks with on-site biogas. The Pavilions uses its income to support organizations such as Right4Children. You can read more about their social commitment in our article on charity hotels.

Spirituality, Yoga and Ayurveda

There are many monasteries and spiritual places in Nepal. But be careful: some of them do not welcome tourists, and you should respect this. In general, make sure you behave respectfully, find out about rules of conduct and visiting hours in advance, and choose activities that aren’t just for quick selfies.

At the aforementioned resort, The Pavilions Himalayas – The Farm, you can book yoga retreats with Guru Shyam Gurung that delve deep into the theory and philosophy of yoga. Ayurvedic treatments are also available.

Tourism as an opportunity, not a burden

Sustainable travel allows you to experience Nepal without causing (major) damage. You will dive into a world full of contrasts – between snow-covered peaks and subtropical jungle. Experience ancient rituals and hospitable people.

Instead of consuming the culture or using nature as a mere adventure playground, you will interact with the country and its people on an equal footing. In this way, tourism and your trip can be a real support.

PS: You can find our position on air travel in the article “Are we still allowed to fly?”

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Sustainable cuisine is complex and in most cases cannot be described in general terms. Is organic always better than local? Should we avoid imports or is it better to support fair trade companies? Is it justifiable to eat meat or fish? And if so, how?

In this article, we will explore different concepts and introduce you to actors who are rethinking sustainable nutrition. At the end of the article, you will find concrete tips on how to make your own diet more sustainable.

Table of Contents

What is sustainable cuisine?

Digression: Is a sustainable diet a healthy diet?

The big questions: What is truly sustainable?

Local vs. organic – which concept makes sense where?

The benefits of local food

The benefits of organic food

Fair Trade vs. Import Bans – Global justice or local economic development?

No vanilla or coffee

APIPURA hotel rinner shows how to find the right balance

Animal Products vs. Plant Based Diets – Is veganism automatically more sustainable?

LA VIMEA created the vegan hotel industry in Italy

Seasonality, short supply chains and carbon footprint

Hotels and restaurants with their own agriculture

Trend concept: Farm-to-Table

Ancient grains and heirloom fruits

Nose-to-Tail and Root-to-Leaf

Waste prevention in gastronomy

1.9 million tons of food waste annually

Zero Waste Buffets

“Only 5 grams of food waste per guest”

Specialties and hot dishes to order

Sustainable Michelin-star cuisine – is it possible?

The Michelin Green Star

Sustainable culinary delights in Bavaria: 2-star restaurant Eisvogel

Vegan Fine Dining at OMNIA Plant-based Restaurant

Global Justice: Who pays the cost of our food?

Food justice and other fair concepts

Sustainable eating in everyday life – what can you do?

Conclusion: Small steps with a big impact

What is sustainable cuisine?

Sustainable cuisine means organizing food and beverage consumption in a way that minimizes environmental impact, conserves resources, reduces emissions and waste, preserves biodiversity, respects animal welfare, and ensures fair and social conditions for all people along the supply chain.

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) defines its vision of sustainable food and agriculture as one in which food is nutritious and accessible to all, and natural resources are managed in ways that sustain ecosystem functions to meet present and future human needs.

This brief definition illustrates the complexity of sustainable cuisine. In addition, there are regional characteristics and – something we don’t want to forget here on our blog – it should also be healthy and taste good! Sustainability alone is not enough when it comes to food, whether at home or in a restaurant or hotel.

Digression: Is a sustainable diet a healthy diet?

Not necessarily. Living on nothing but vegan, fair trade chocolate and organic wine may be okay from a sustainability standpoint, but it won’t improve your health. However, there is a lot of overlap between sustainable and healthy eating.

 

The big questions: What is truly sustainable?

Local vs. organic – which concept makes sense where?

The question of local vs. organic is somewhat controversial. A survey of sustainable hotels and accommodations in the Green Pearls® network shows that most restaurateurs (88.3%) try to implement both, i.e. mostly using regional products that are certified organic. If this is not possible, 46% give priority to regional products, while 11.5% give priority to organic quality.

The benefits of local food:

• Virtually no CO2 emissions from transportation: Imagine that you can buy “FIJI water” in Germany, even though the Fiji Islands are 16,000 km away, or that a hotel in Hong Kong serves its guests VOSS water from Norway. Delicacies such as special figs (each individually wrapped in Styrofoam) travel around the world by air and refrigerated transport. The ecological footprint of such luxury goods is disastrous! Buying local food directly from the producer eliminates emissions, transportation costs and often storage.
• Freshness: Especially hotels with their own agriculture according to the “farm-to-table” concept can cut, process and serve lettuce immediately. This freshness guarantees not only an intense taste, but also the full preservation of nutrients.
• Trust: Many restaurateurs visit the farm and see for themselves how the chickens that lay the eggs live, how the vegetables are grown, and how the workers are treated. Most importantly, they know the personal attitudes and beliefs of the farmer. In many cases, this is more valuable than a label.
• Strengthen your local economy: A hotel, restaurant, or even you are part of a community. By supporting local businesses, you are maintaining good neighborly relations and helping the people in your area.

Disadvantages:

• Local food may come from conventional agriculture, where pesticides are used
• Local farms may be among those that use genetically modified seeds
• Local meat products may come from factory farming (animals are given antibiotics, live in unnatural conditions, unnatural environments, receive high-tech feed, and are tortured)

The benefits of organic food:

• Support for organic farming
• Organic farming works without pesticides: The absence of chemical pesticides is of enormous value, especially for:
  • Your health: No pesticide residues in your food. However, there is no scientific evidence that organic fruits and vegetables contain more vitamins and nutrients. We took a closer look at the research in the article on whether organic food is healthier.
  • The health of field workers by eliminating the need to work with chemicals and potentially harmful substances.
  • Biodiversity: Organic farming has been shown to increase biodiversity. Pesticides not only kill pests, but also beneficial insects.
  • Soil and groundwater protection: Pesticides and fertilizers leach from fields into the soil, entering the water cycle. In organic farming, both soil water and groundwater are measurably less polluted.
  • Soil fertility: is measurably higher than on comparable, conventionally farmed areas.

Disadvantages:

• If organic food is grown on the other side of the world, it has traveled a long way, causing more CO2 emissions.
• The organic label tells us nothing about the working conditions.

We would categorize it as follows:

Best: Regional organic products

Second best: Regional products that may not have an organic label, but where there is a personal relationship with the producer and the conditions under which the animals are raised and the food is produced are known.

Third best: organic food from the wider region (e.g. Europe)

By far the worst: industrial mass production of food (keyword: factory farming) and export products shipped from far away when local alternatives are available.

 

Fair Trade vs. Import Bans – Global justice or local economic development?

The question of whether local is always best brings us directly to the issue of fair trade and the distribution of wealth through trade. Just as there are people and companies in the restaurant industry who buy Fair Trade products to offer their guests variety or a certain level (e.g. in Michelin-starred cuisine), there are also some who refuse to import. Which is the right way? For most, it is a compromise and a constant re-evaluation of the arguments.

No vanilla or coffee

One such chef who completely avoids imports is Ricky Saward of Seven Swans in Frankfurt. He was the first vegan celebrity chef and takes a number of radical approaches, including avoiding almost all spices. Not just vanilla from Madagascar, but pepper, lemon and olive oil.

Would you be willing to limit your diet to local products so consistently? And does it even make sense in terms of the global community? We see a parallel here with travel. If we all just vacationed in our (already quite rich) home countries and nobody traveled further, there would be less emissions from air travel, but an important (and for some countries the most important) economic factor would be lost.

Many people find well-paid, secure jobs in fair trade cooperatives, enabling them to provide for themselves and their families. This income allows children to go to school instead of earning money. It strengthens women’s independence and often supports small or family-run businesses and producers.

APIPURA hotel rinner shows how to find the right balance

We believe the best approach, shared by many of our partners, is to find a middle ground that works for each individual. For example, the APIPURA hotel rinner in South Tyrol is a hotel that is very committed to local organic food. They were one of the first businesses in the region to establish the “Bio Fair Südtirol” label in the hospitality industry. Chef and host Manfred Rinner uses organic meat, vegetables and fruit from the South Tyrol region in his kitchen. The hotel also serves coffee and desserts with chocolate. In this case, care is taken to use fair trade or organic products.

Animal Products vs. Plant Based Diets – Is veganism automatically more sustainable?

The answer to that question is a resounding yes. Meat and dairy products cause by far the highest CO2 emissions. According to a study by the Institute for Energy and Environmental Research (ifeu) in Heidelberg, Germany, which compared the environmental impact of around 200 food products in 2020, beef is second only to pineapples shipped by air. According to the study, vegans who eat half an air-transported pineapple for breakfast every day could be committing a greater ecological sin than people who eat a beef steak once a week. But there are far more of the latter than the former. To be honest, we doubt that vegans even exist… What we do know is that there are many, many people who eat butter, cheese, and sausage every day – and who may even eat beef more than once a week.

Incidentally, the study shows something even more important than that flying pineapples have a worse environmental impact than beef: plant-based foods have, on average, a significantly lower carbon footprint than animal products. It is therefore undeniable that sustainable cuisine should focus on plant-based cooking and limit the consumption of meat, fish, milk and eggs. It’s best to cook fresh food as often as possible! Vegan convenience foods (and especially non-vegan convenience foods) also have a fairly high environmental footprint.

LA VIMEA created the vegan hotel industry in Italy

Due to the growing popularity of veganism, more and more sustainable hotels are offering vegetarian and vegan dishes as standard on their menus. However, there are few that consistently and exclusively use vegan products.

The adults-only hotel LA VIMEA in Naturno, South Tyrol, can claim to be the first completely vegan hotel in Italy in 2016. Not only the food, but also all materials and products used in the hotel are vegan. The hostess, Valeria Caldarelli, comes from a long line of hoteliers and discovered the vegan lifestyle herself. Almost the entire family lives a vegan lifestyle – and gently teaches it to their guests. Daughter Franziska opened the first vegan accommodation in Tuscany and sons Maximilian and Alexander opened the first vegan hotel on the Seiser Alm.

Seasonality, short supply chains and carbon footprint

The products with the smallest ecological footprint are the plant-based products that are in season where you live. So, eating sustainably also means eating seasonally.

Hotels and restaurants with their own agriculture

There are a few hotels and restaurants that use their own products in their kitchens. The ADLER Lodge RITTEN and the ADLER Spa Resort SICILIA are exemplary in this respect. During the planning and construction of the latter, agricultural fields and gardens were taken into account, from which the hotel kitchen can directly obtain products. A few years ago, a diversified cottage garden was created on the Ritten, tended by the young farmers of the area. They cultivate what is native to the area and grows well there. In Sicily, for example, they grow oranges and lemons, while in South Tyrol they cultivate tubers such as potatoes and beets.

The Pavilions Himalayas – The Farm in Nepal has even managed to convert the surrounding fields into certified organic farms. Local farmers have received special training and the resort provides them with a direct market for their organic produce.

Trend concept: Farm-to-Table.

There are now a number of terms that describe the concept of hotels and restaurants with their own agriculture, as explained above:

• Farm-to-table – This term, probably the best known, describes the direct link between agricultural production and gastronomy. Ideally, the chef picks up the produce directly from the field.
• Farm-to-Fork – Similar to farm-to-table, this term emphasizes an extremely short supply chain from the field to the kitchen to the diner’s plate (or fork).
• Field-to-Fork – is another expression for this.
• Zero-Kilometer-Food– This term, used primarily in Italy and Spain, means that food is sourced locally, which not only ensures it is seasonal and fresh, but also minimizes transportation emissions.
• Garden-to-Table – This is a term used specifically for hotels and restaurants that have their own garden or small farm.
• Pasture-to-Plate – Specific to sustainably raised meat and dairy products.
• Hyperlocal Food – A modern term for food that is produced and consumed locally, often on the premises of a hotel or restaurant.

Ancient grains and heirloom fruits

In this context, we would like to mention another trend in sustainable cuisine. For many people, it is not just a matter of using locally grown produce that is organically grown, but also of preserving and using natural ingredients

Benjamin Profanter, a natural baker from Brixen, uses and recommends baking breads from ancient grains. Heirloom grains are grains that were grown before industrial agriculture. According to Benjamin, heirloom grains are ideal for organic farming because they do not require pesticides and herbicides, unlike highly bred grains. From a nutritional and psychological point of view, heirloom grains are also better because they contain more nutrients.

The Bread Sommelier supplies his all-natural bakery to two of our sustainable Green PearlsⓇ partners in the region: My Arbor, a wellness hotel built on stilts in the treetops, and OLM Nature Escape, an energy-independent aparthotel in the middle of nature.

Nose-to-Tail and Root-to-Leaf.

Another interesting thing about sustainable cuisine is that, as far as possible, EVERYTHING is used from the slaughtered animal or food. Offal, for example, went out of fashion for a long time, but is now coming back with the idea of sustainability. One proponent of the nose-to-tail concept is chef Manuel Madei of Gut Sonnenhausen near Munich. In our culinary guide to Bavaria, he recommends classic Bavarian dishes like “Saures Lüngerl” and “Leberknödelsuppe”. 

Modern chefs (who still prepare meat) are beginning to boil down bones for broth and turn the fat back into lard. The landlord of Gut Sonnenhausen, Georg Schweisfurth, is a trained butcher himself and gets his meat from nearby organic partner farms of the Herrmannsdorfer Landwerkstätten.

Root to Leaf is a similar concept for plants, using the leaves, stems and skins to create chips, vegetable broths, unusual garnishes and more.

Waste prevention in gastronomy

From root to leaf or nose to tail, it is not difficult to make the connection to waste management. After all, holistic recycling is part of the Zero Waste Cooking concept, which declares war on food waste in the restaurant industry. But packaging waste is also a huge problem. Preventing both touches every aspect of a restaurant, hotel, café, or even your home:

• Planning
• Purchasing
• Storage
• Training staff (or training other family members in the household)
• Presenting the dishes
• Involving guests

1.9 million tons of food waste annually

In Germany alone, 1.9 million tons of food is thrown away every year, according to the Verbraucherzentrale Bundesverband. According to the German Hotel and Restaurant Association (DEHOGA), food waste at buffets is a particularly big problem.

Zero Waste Buffets

Sustainable accommodations, such as those in the Green Pearls® network, have sophisticated concepts to avoid waste and wastefulness at the hotel breakfast buffet.

“Only 5 grams of food waste per guest”

The Hotel Luise in Erlangen, for example, has managed to ensure that each guest leaves an average of just five grams of food at the breakfast buffet. An “intelligent plate allocation with small plates” is particularly effective. At the end of breakfast, the trays are not automatically replenished, but the staff actively asks the guests what they would like. Another slice of cheese? Another slice of cheese. Whatever is left over from the buffet is distributed among the staff at the end.

Specialties and hot dishes to order

The combination of buffet and table service has proven to be a good solution for many restaurants and accommodations. The Lifestylehotel SAND at the Baltic Sea, for example, has a buffet and a front cooking station where egg dishes are freshly prepared on request. This also makes it economically viable to use high-quality organic eggs.

At the SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA in Bad Herrenalb, you can also experience an exemplary zero-waste buffet. For example, there is no disposable packaging. Instead of portions of butter, there is a butter machine, and instead of packaged jams, there are small jars. You won’t find any disposable plastic, only organic products. Food waste from the kitchen (even cooked food) goes to ReFood. The company uses the organic waste to produce electricity, heat, organic fertilizer, and biodiesel. Composting and recycling with subsequent reuse, for example, in vegetable growing, is also known as circular gastronomy.

Sustainable Michelin-star cuisine – is it possible?

Cuisine cannot be about sustainability alone. Taste and enjoyment are always part of it. However, to this day, there is a misconception in the fine dining industry that “exquisite ingredients” must come from far away.

South Tyrolean three-star chef Norbert Niederkofler, who has sustainably revolutionized Italian haute cuisine, proves that this is not true. With his “Cook the Mountain” concept, he pursues a philosophy based exclusively on seasonal and regional ingredients. He places great emphasis on respecting natural cycles and reducing waste to a minimum..

His consistent focus on sustainability has been recognized many times: in addition to the three Michelin stars, his former restaurant St. Hubertus also received a Green Star, which is awarded for special commitment to sustainability. Incidentally, Berni Aichner was Norbert Niederkofler’s sous chef for many years. He is now the executive chef at OLM Nature Escape.

The Michelin Green Star

The Green Michelin Star was introduced in 2020, recognizing restaurants that stand out for their environmentally friendly operations and respectful use of natural resources. Criteria for this award include using local and seasonal products, reducing food waste, and using energy-saving technologies. ​

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“We wanted to give more visibility to restaurateurs who focus on sustainability and recognize them for their efforts” – Director of the Michelin Guide for Germany, Austria and Switzerland in conversation with Green Pearls®.

 

Sustainable culinary delights in Bavaria: 2-star restaurant Eisvogel

The Eisvogel restaurant, part of the 5-star Der Birkenhof***** Spa & Genussresort wellness hotel in Bavaria, also shows that sustainability and Michelin-star cuisine are not mutually exclusive.

Chef Sebastian Obendorfer – a member of the host family – runs the two-Michelin-starred restaurant with great devotion to the region and the seasons. His philosophy: modern German cuisine with deep roots in the Upper Palatinate and international influences.

The dishes are prepared with fresh ingredients from mostly small, regional producers, wild herbs that grow in the surrounding forests, or fish from nearby waters. Careful preparation and short transport routes are also consistently observed. Still, the hotel cannot do without imports. In some areas, guest expectations stand in the way. However, in combination with the resort’s overall sustainable concept – from renewable energy to regional architecture and plastic-free room furnishings – the Eisvogel is a prime example of what responsible gourmet cuisine can look like today.

Vegan Fine Dining at OMNIA Plant-based Restaurant

The Paradiso Pure.Living Vegan Hotel on the Seiser Alm has been home to the OMNIA restaurant since December 2024, a project dear to the hearts of Chef Aggeliki Charami and the two hotel managers, Maximilian and Alexander. There are only six tables and a special dining experience with nine vegan courses, each personally explained by the chef. Vegan cuisine is still rarely awarded with stars, but it doesn’t necessarily need them for an exclusive fine dining experience. What do you think?

Global Justice: Who pays the cost of our food?

Sustainable cooking does not end with the product – it also takes a critical look at the global context of food. Often, it is others who pay the price for our (cheap) food: people working in precarious conditions in agriculture or food production, often without fair wages or adequate occupational safety.

At the same time, many people around the world are denied access to healthy, sustainable food due to economic, geographic or social barriers. The massive food waste mentioned above, which occurs primarily in wealthy countries, is also an ethical issue: while we throw away tons of food, millions of people around the world go hungry.

More and more culinary concepts are addressing these challenges. The Planetary Diet, for example, focuses on a diet with the lowest possible carbon footprint. In the self-test of the Planetary Diet app, we found that, in addition to meat, chocolate bars are also big emitters. Regenerative Cuisine supports farmers who use regenerative methods to conserve and even restore soil, water, and biodiversity.

Food justice and other fair concepts

Sustainable cuisine also focuses on social aspects – or at least it should. Food justice advocates for fair conditions in food production and fair distribution. Other approaches to promoting global justice in the food system include:

• Slow Food – A counter-movement to fast food with a focus on local food and traditional craftsmanship.
• Ethical Eating – Eating with ethical considerations, e.g., fair trade, animal-friendly products.
• Blue Economy – Sustainable use of marine resources in the culinary arts.

Technological and practical solutions, such as solar cooking, also show how conscious cooking can be made more energy sustainable.

Sustainable eating in everyday life – what can you do?

As you can see, the issue is complex and not nearly as private or personal as we sometimes imagine. Sustainable cuisine and sustainable nutrition always take place in the context of our society and our planet. This may sound big and confusing, and like it might ruin your appetite, but don’t worry! There are some simple choices you can make in your everyday life that will make your culinary enjoyment a little more sustainable.

#1 Use leftovers creatively

Get creative with what you already have around the house. Use vegetable scraps to make soup, toast old bread, or turn them into breadcrumbs or dumplings. Plan your grocery shopping to minimize leftovers, and freeze leftovers before they go bad.

#2 Buy local and seasonal produce or grow your own

Locally grown food travels farther and often has a smaller carbon footprint. Seasonal calendars can help you buy local fruits and vegetables at the right time of year. Or you can go to the market and be inspired by what’s available. It tastes fresher – and you’re supporting local businesses.

You can also grow your own herbs and vegetables. Here are some tips for planning a raised bed. But be careful: urban gardening is not always better than its regional counterpart at the market.

#3 Look for seals – and understand them

Not every green label represents true sustainability. Learn what the organic, fair trade, or MSC seals mean. Choose products with credible and comprehensive certifications such as Demeter, Naturland, or Bioland.

For example, Utopia’s seal guide gives you a good overview.

#4 Explore alternatives

Sustainable living is an ongoing process, and you will always learn something new. Be open to new products. Try the soda or cola from the local brewery instead of the sugary varieties from the soft drink giants. Instead of orange juice, try other (local) fruit juices. And how about mushrooms instead of chicken?

#5 Boycott crazy luxury trends

Example: Voss or FIJI water. Such products come from far away, have a devastating impact on the environment, and in the vast majority of cases are completely unnecessary. Tap water in Germany, for example, is strictly controlled and usually of excellent quality. It’s better to invest in a water filter (if you live in an area with very hard water) and a nice, reusable bottle for when you’re out and about.

Likewise, you don’t have to try every ice cream flavor from Korea that goes viral on social media. Sure, it tastes delicious, but really, come on?

#6 Radically reduce meat consumption – or go vegetarian or vegan

From an environmental point of view, going vegan right away is definitely the best decision. However, we understand that this is not an option or possible for everyone. If you don’t want to give up meat or animal products completely, choosing to eat only local organic meat can make a big difference. Such meat (and other animal products of higher organic quality) is considerably more expensive, and for that reason alone, you will buy it less often and enjoy it more consciously. Find a source in your area. Avoid all meat products in the supermarket, as well as any meat whose origin you do not know (e.g. the salami on a pizza).

Conclusion: Small steps with a big impact

Sustainable food is more than a private project – it is a community effort. Restaurateurs, hoteliers, and producers have as much responsibility as we do as consumers. Every conscious purchase, every saved food item, and every plate without factory-farmed meat is a contribution to a more just and ecological food system. Of course, we realize that we as individuals cannot necessarily save the world. But every climate- and society-friendly decision is an important step in the right direction.

Our Green Pearls® partners demonstrate that sustainability and enjoyment are not mutually exclusive. Every day, they prove that respectful use of resources, fair conditions, and culinary excellence can go hand in hand. And that is exactly the kind of change we need – at all levels.

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An encounter that changed everything – The story of Douglas Maclagan

Nepal is a country of majestic mountains, spiritual places and warm people that attracts travelers from all over the world. One such traveler was Douglas Maclagan from England. It could have been a “normal” trip had a woman not pressed her sick infant into his arms. “Help!” Her look seemed to say. But all he could do was hand it back to her. “I’m not a doctor,” he said helplessly. The child died that night.

Douglas learned that at the time (1993), infant mortality in Nepal was extremely high. Approximately 34% of children did not reach school age. Preventable causes such as infectious diseases, diarrhea, and pneumonia were responsible. There was a lack of both a reliable health care system and adequate facilities for the care and treatment of children.

An inheritance opened up new possibilities

Shortly after that fateful encounter, Douglas’s grandfather died, leaving him a house in England. With the money from the sale of the house, he did what he had wanted to do since the day the woman gave him her sick child: he flew to Nepal and opened two daycare centers for young children in 1995. These grew into today’s Right4Children organization, which has helped more than 40,000 children to date.

Die Daycare-Zentren bestehen aus kindgerechten Betreuungsräumen mit geschultem Personal, wo Eltern ihre Kinder im Alter von 1 bis 5 Jahren tagsüber hinbringen können. . Es gibt Spiele, warme Mahlzeiten und eine hygienische Umgebung mit Gesundheitsvorsorge. Der erste Bericht zeigte: Kein einziges der betreuten Kinder starb.

Daycare centers for strong and healthy children

People in neighboring villages also wanted daycare centers for their children, so Douglas approached the provincial government about opening more centers. However, the government told him that he would first have to set up more daycare centers throughout the province and provide a detailed report on their development to demonstrate the benefits of these facilities. The only support he received from the monarchy was recognition of his work as an NGO. But he still had to raise the money for the centers himself.

In 1996, he used his last money to fly to Hong Kong (then still British) to promote his project. On the side, he waited tables at the Hard Rock Cafe. Through newspaper and television reports, he was able to publicize his idea and raise funds. First one daycare center was added, then three more. Gordon Oldham became Chairman of the Child Welfare Scheme (CWS) in Hong Kong and is still Chairman of the entire Pavilions Hotels & Resorts Group.

Love in Nepal – Douglas and Incuba

During this time, Douglas also met another important person: Incuba. The Nepalese was one of the women who had been trained as caregivers in the daycare centers. They shared not only a vision for the children of Nepal, but also love. Today, they are married and have three daughters. From the beginning, Douglas had a partner who knew the local conditions and people. This turned out to be very important because war was coming.

Nepal in the grip of civil war (1996-2006) – Sustained commitment in difficult times

Until 2008, Nepal was a Hindu kingdom ruled by a brutal king. In 1996, the Communist Party rose up against him. A Maoist guerrilla force attacked police stations, robbed banks, and drove out landlords. They demanded the removal of the ruling elite and land reform. A ten-year civil war ensued, leaving more than 16,000 dead, 100,000 refugees, and scores of missing persons and political prisoners.

Douglas and Incuba look back on those days in their eco-booklet:

“Many NGOs left the country out of fear, but CWS stayed to help people when they needed it most. In remote areas, hundreds of children were recruited as soldiers. Fear led to a mass exodus from villages to cities in the hope of safety and protection. Unfortunately, the reality was that many children left school and became child laborers, street children, or domestic slaves. Young girls and women were trafficked across borders and forced into prostitution.”

During this time, they built:

• A center for street children
• A vocational training center for practical trades such as plumbing and electrician (running until 2015)
• The Asha Primary Health Clinic in Pokhara (still in operation)

Tourism as a source of income

When the global financial crisis hit in 2008, many of the donations Douglas and Incuba had been receiving (mostly from the UK and Hong Kong) suddenly stopped. The couple recalls this as a wake-up call. They felt the need to start a company that could fund charitable projects.

Financial support from the family

Before Douglas’ mother died in 2011, she visited the couple in Nepal and showed them the property near Pokhara that is now the Green PearlsⓇ Resort Pavilions Himalayas – The Farm. “I will leave you money,” she said in essence. “Money to start a business that will fund the charity projects that have already done so much good for the people of Nepal.”

Thus, the property with agricultural land in Chisapani was purchased and The Pavilions Himalayas – The Farm was born. It opened in 2015. The resort consists of 15 spacious villas that combine traditional Nepalese style with luxury. There is a swimming pool, outdoor hot tub, spa area with sauna, gym, yoga and meditation room, clubhouse and restaurant. It became part of the Pavilions Global Collection, which includes boutique resorts in other locations around the world, including Bali and Phuket.

Organic farming and sustainability

Nepal is a largely agricultural country. “About 70 percent of Nepal’s working population is engaged in small-scale subsistence farming,” writes the UN. The Chisapani property has been transformed into a certified organic farm. Douglas and Incuba have been a role model for local farmers, showing them an alternative yet profitable way to transition from traditional agriculture to organic farming.

The local farmers employed on the farm have learned all about organic farming and have received business training. The first recipient of the harvest is the hotel kitchen. So by staying at Pavilions Himalayas – The Farm, you are not only eating absolutely fresh food, you are also supporting the farmers and nature.

Green Initiatives

But it is not just the farming that makes the lodge sustainable. The electricity is generated by solar panels, there is a biogas plant on the property that produces energy for cooking, gray water is used and biodegradable cleaning products are produced.

“We set out to create one of the most environmentally friendly hotels in the world, and I think we’ve succeeded.” – Douglas Maclagan, interviewed by Nepali Times

Looking back on 30 years of helping children and 10 years of running a hotel

Douglas began working with the daycare centers in 1995, and Pavilions Himalayas – The Farm opened in 2015. In a press release in February 2025, they looked back on the project. They highlighted the now-completed Child Friendly School project, which has reached more than 14,000 students, and a new initiative to combat human trafficking. This initiative has already reached more than 4,400 young women and girls.

Travel and do good

Nepal attracts travelers from all over the world. But behind the breathtaking scenery lies a moving story. The Pavilions Himalayas – The Farm is not only a sustainable retreat for travelers, but also a source of support for the community.

Here you have the opportunity to have an unforgettable vacation in Nepal while doing something good for the environment and the local people.

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Transformative travel can’t be forced, but it can be planned.

Transformative travel, of course, is another new buzzword. It’s not just about having “travel experiences”, it’s about experiences that go beyond and go deeper. Experiences that change you in your everyday life.

The question is: what kind of change? When you climb the mountain to the top, how will you feel up there? What kind of change will it bring? Of course, you don’t know yet. So Transformative Travel is a little adventure in itself, requiring courage and openness.

After all, “formative experiences” can lurk around every corner – maybe even tonight when you go to the grocery store to pick up a few things. But you are more likely to have a life-changing experience when you leave your daily routine and spend a month traveling in the jungle.

Travel Tip: Rainforest

To experience the rainforest in a sustainable way, we recommend Inkaterra Reserva Amazonica in Peru. Here you can explore the Amazon with experienced guides and learn about the sustainable work of the Amazon Field Station by Inkaterra. Among other things, the station works to protect species and promote the medicinal use of rainforest plants.

How does transformative travel look?

We have already explained that for transformative travel and meaningful travel experiences, you have to or should leave your everyday life and especially your comfort zone. Most special experiences don’t happen when you’re lying on a beach for two weeks, but when you’re out and about getting to know a country and its people. Don’t get us wrong: total relaxation or discovering a secluded beach can be transformative, too. And often it is the many small moments on a journey that ultimately trigger the transformation.

To get you started, and to help you plan your transformative trip (after all, we can’t travel to Asia every three months), we’ve asked around our sustainable hotel network, and here we present a selection of accommodations and experiences. This will give you a starting point for your journey.

#1: Support a social project in Cambodia

The Farmhouse Smiling Gecko in Cambodia is located about 60 kilometers from the capital Phnom Penh and is the centerpiece of the Smiling Gecko Campus. The campus was founded over ten years ago by a Swiss NGO and now covers 150 hectares.

In addition to the resort, the Smiling Gecko Campus includes a school, kindergarten, agriculture, fish farming, and several vocational training centers, such as a carpentry and tailoring workshop. Many of the families employed here come from the slums of Phnom Penh and through Smiling Gecko have found fair work, a healthy environment, and a perspective in their lives.

Travel with a sense of purpose

By staying at the farmhouse with its 34 luxury bungalows and rooms, you will get to know the entire campus on guided tours and may even become a long-term supporter of the project!

Cambodia is a beautiful country with a tropical climate and world famous attractions such as Angkor Wat. As you travel around the country, you will see amazing flora and fauna. But you will also see the poverty that exists in many places. By staying at the Charity Hotel, you are already actively helping the local people. If you want to do more, take your time choosing an organization and avoid projects that offer visits to orphanages, for example. Responsible voluntourism takes effort, but it can be very formative and allow you to experience your destination country intensively.

#2: Experience the climate change in the wild: glaciers in Switzerland and endangered islands in the Maldives

Climate change is a serious threat and many people are actively involved in understanding and taking action, such as Fridays for Future. To see and understand the extent of climate change already taking place, a (sustainable!) trip to the main indicators is a good idea.

1.   Trip to the Gorner Glacier in the Monte Rosa Massif

Glaciers are the most important source of fresh water on the planet. The ongoing shrinking of glaciers caused by global warming is reducing this natural water reservoir and also causing sea levels to rise.

At our Swiss Green PearlsⓇ partner, the Hotel Bella Vista Zermatt, you can experience the effects of glacier shrinkage first hand. From Zermatt, the Gornergrat Railway takes you up to the Gorner Glacier in 35 minutes. Here you can either admire the glacier from the viewing platform or cross it yourself with a mountain guide. After a glacier hike (which is offered in different levels of difficulty) you are sure to take home new insights and an unforgettable experience.

At over 12 kilometers long, the Gorner Glacier is the second largest glacier in the Alps. But it has been shrinking steadily since the 19th century. That’s how the hostess at the Hotel Bella Vista Zermatt found the trunk of an 8,000-year-old larch tree (read the full story in our Glaciers blog post).

2.   Coral dives in the Maldives

As mentioned above, the melting of glaciers and icebergs is causing a rise in sea level. The ICPP report states that sea levels will rise between 43 and 84 centimeters by 2100 (less than 75 years from now!). However, it also says that a rise of up to 200 centimeters cannot be ruled out. This may not sound like much, but it will affect the entire planet. Countries like the Maldives will be the first to be affected.

The Maldives consists of over 1,000 coral islands and the highest elevation is only 2.40 meters. You can read more about this in our blog post on endangered islands.

At the Gili Lankanfushi Eco-Resort you can have a sustainable vacation in the Maldives. The resort offers diving and is committed to preserving the coral reefs with its Coral Line Project. See for yourself how global warming is affecting coral reefs and how the fascinating underwater world of the Indian Ocean is adapting.

#3 Mountaineering in the Alps

Hiking concierge Karin Steiner of the Naturhotel Outside has set herself the goal of climbing the Großglockner. (She told us about it in this interview.) At 3,798 meters, the Großglockner is the highest mountain in Austria, and the climb to the summit alone takes about seven hours (for experienced mountaineers)! And to answer the question from the beginning: Imagine how you will feel when you are up there!

Bergbaschdi, the hiking concierge at the sustainable hotel Das Rübezahl in Germany’s Allgäu region, also told us about his mountaineering in an interview. He has climbed 54 five-thousanders and traveled to Asia, Africa, and South America.

If you have no mountaineering experience, you must (and should!) start small and not try to climb the really big mountains right away. Sure, it can be impressive, but also very dangerous!

Karin Steiner’s job is to organize the right hike or climb for everyone. The Nature Hotel Outside is located directly in the Hohe Tauern National Park in the middle of the East Tyrolean mountains. Here you can not only face physical and mental challenges, but also have an intense experience of nature.

Tip: To learn more about mountain and hiking guides and their services, check out our article on sustainable hotel guides.

#4 Combine your vacation with a marathon

Have you ever run a marathon? I have run three myself and I can assure you that it is definitely a life changing experience! If you can currently run for 60 minutes at a time, you can do it!

In this article, we present several marathon dates for 2025 that you can combine with a vacation, for example in Italy. The Milan Marathon, for instance, will take place on April 6, 2025, and is one of the most famous marathons in the world.

Imagine training for a marathon for 12 to 16 weeks – and then, after all that training, traveling to Milan (we recommend staying at the zero-emissions Hotel Milano Scala, not far from the race course) and actually running 42.2 kilometers in this special environment! A goal to work towards and achieve – one of the best conditions for a transformative journey.

#5 A yoga retreat for a transformative journey

Sometimes the place you want to visit is just around the corner. What about traveling to yourself? A yoga retreat is another example of transformative travel. The eco-hotel Okelmanns in Warpe, Lower Saxony, Germany, for example, offers yoga retreats throughout the year, some led by Marion from the Okelmanns host family in person and some with external trainers.

Each retreat has a different focus. For example, you may want to learn to “trust the flow of life” or work on stress management techniques.

Yoga in the Himalayas

If you want to combine authentic yoga with breathtaking nature, Pavilions Himalayas – The Farm in Nepal is the place for you. Located on an organic farm, this eco-resort offers yoga retreats from three to nine days. You will be guided by a professional Nepalese yoga guru who will share theoretical knowledge in addition to the exercises.

In addition to the yoga retreats, the resort also offers a “Lifetime Experience” package that allows you to experience Nepal in all its facets. It includes a bird watching tour, a boat tour, a visit to the organic farm and the resort’s school and education project. The goal is to reconnect with nature.

“I’m doing Transformative Travel this year!”

But seriously, transformative travel is not about showing off with the latest buzzword and visiting potentially “transformative” destinations as far away as possible, but about connecting travel with a deeper purpose and being intentional about destinations and experiences. And this fits beautifully with the intention to travel more sustainably.

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What are charity hotels?

The term “charity hotel” was coined by Trivago, a hotel search engine, to describe hotels that are actively involved in social causes and donate a portion of their resources or income to charitable causes. Charity hotels are either part of or have a partnership with a non-profit organization.

The benefit to you is that you can have a direct positive impact on the local community at your destination without spending extra money or volunteering.

Here are three hotels that have made a commitment to a good cause.

#1 Farmhouse Smiling Gecko – Luxury Resort and Work & Education Campus in Cambodia

The Farmhouse Smiling Gecko in Cambodia is part of the Smiling Gecko Association based in Switzerland. In 2014, the organization founded the “Smiling Gecko Campus” there. With an initial nine hectares, about 60 kilometers from the capital Phnom Penh. The campus has since grown to 150 hectares and is home to a school, kindergarten, handicraft businesses and training centers, as well as agriculture and livestock.

A central component is the Farmhouse Smiling Gecko Resort. There are a total of 34 rooms in luxurious houses and bungalows, a swimming pool with pool bar and sundeck. And the hotel restaurant, the gourmet restaurant UN, where chef Mariya Un Noun has made Cambodian fine dining famous far beyond the borders. (You can read more about the restaurant in our blog article about hotel restaurants).

Smiling Gecko is all about education and jobs. The jobs are fairly paid and the workshops – such as carpentry, sewing and butchery – are run according to modern Swiss standards. The furniture for the accommodation is made by the carpentry workshop. While the food in the restaurant comes from their own agriculture, cattle breeding and fish farming.

A way out of poverty

Many of the people who have found work here originally came from the slums of Phnom Penh. As described by the Taramana organization, Cambodia is one of the poorest countries in Southeast Asia. And life in the slums is characterized by overcrowding, unemployment, inadequate sanitation, poor educational opportunities, and poverty.

The Smiling Gecko Campus is able to accommodate many people with their whole family. While the parents work on the farm, the children go to kindergarten, school or start an apprenticeship in one of the workshops or at the resort. To ensure that there is enough work for everyone, tourists are encouraged to visit the resort.

Here you can enjoy a relaxing and sustainable vacation and use the Green PearlsⓇ Resort as your base to explore Cambodia. Top attractions include temple complexes such as the famous Angkor Wat, floating villages, river markets and pepper plantations. If you are interested in the campus, there are also tours that will give you a better understanding of the entire project. And when you return home, you may find yourself continuing to be a supporter and voice for the project.

#2 The Pavillons Himalaya – The Farm – Support for children and organic farming in Nepal

According to USAID, Nepal is one of the poorest countries in the world. Poverty particularly affects young girls and women. And tragically, illegal human trafficking is widespread, with many being trafficked to India and beyond.

The Pavilions Himalayas – The Farm raises awareness and supports the organization Right4Children by donating 70 percent of its net profits to the empowerment of children.

Right4Children supports children and youth

Since 1995, Right4Children has operated day centers that provide free childcare and hot meals. There are programs for all ages up to adolescence. As The Pavilions Himalayas reports, funding the Right4Children center in Pokhara (on the same site as the resort) was a motivation from the beginning to build the sustainable tourist accommodation.

There are 15 spacious, luxurious Nepalese style villas with stunning views of the countryside and a swimming pool. Sightseeing tours and safaris are available, as well as in-house yoga and meditation. (Learn more about the yoga offerings in our article on sustainable yoga retreats for pros.)

Das zweite Standbein ist die ökologische Landwirtschaft, welche das Resort umgibt. Auch hier ist The Pavilions von Anfang an engagiert und baut selbst Bio-Produkte für die Küche an. Zudem motiviert die Nachfrage nach Bio-Produkten, die das Hotel generiert, den Umbau konventioneller Landwirtschaften zu Biobetrieben in der Region. Weitere nachhaltige Maßnahmen sind die Verwendung von Solarenergie, Grauwasser, Erzeugung von Biogas und die Herstellung biologisch abbaubarer Pflegeartikel aus natürlichen Zutaten der Region.

#3 Green City Hotel Vauban – Ecologically oriented integration company in Germany

Although not a charity hotel in the strict sense, the Green City Hotel Vauban was founded as a hotel with a focus on inclusion and social responsibility from the outset. Located in Freiburg, in the south of Germany, the shareholders of the hotel are the association Freiburger Sozialarbeit e.V. and the municipal housing company Freiburger Stadtbau GmbH.

50 percent of its trainees and employees are people with disabilities who have found a fair and sustainable place to work. The hotel also works with other integrative organizations among its suppliers. For example, its coffee is sourced from a roastery that operates as an integrative organization, and the hotel works with Hofgut Himmelreich for the education and training of its employees.

The modern city hotel is largely barrier-free and built in an environmentally friendly way. You will stay in rooms with a bright and friendly architecture and you will be directly connected to the light rail, which will take you to the city center in just 10 minutes. A free regional ticket is available for your stay.

👉 See what you can experience on a sustainable weekend in Freiburg, Germany, here.

A stay at Green PearlsⓇ charity hotels offers you not only relaxation and experiences. But also the opportunity to actively contribute to the well-being of others.

Der Beitrag Charity Hotels – Stay the night and do some good erschien zuerst auf GREEN TRAVEL BLOG.

Peace and relaxation through singing bowls

“The massages bring about a state of absolute relaxation that is unique. Even highly stressed people find peace within a short time.” That is how Maren Geisler-Okelmann of the Yoga-Hotel Okelmann’s in Warpe describes the effect of the singing bowls. The hostess is a trained yoga teacher and conducts sound therapy according to Peter HessⓇ in her courses and retreats. The Peter HessⓇ Institute is only 7 km from Warpe!

Singing bowl massage according to Peter HessⓇ

The singing bowl massage, which is a wellness trend in many places today, was developed by Peter Hess about 30 years ago. The German engineer for physical technology came into contact with singing bowls during his travels in Nepal.

According to the institute’s website, he “succeeded in adapting ancient Far Eastern knowledge from the Himalayas about sound and rhythm and their healing effects on body, mind, and soul to the needs of people in Western societies.”

It is not entirely clear how singing bowls were originally used. Some researchers even suggest that they were simply used as cooking utensils and that the tradition was “invented” later on. Others suggest that singing bowls once played an important role in Buddhism – but that the tradition has been lost.

The Peter HessⓇ Institute (PHI) now has 16 academies in 14 countries and claims to have trained approximately 10,000 people in the Peter Hess Sound Massage Method (protected in Europe).

How does a singing bowl massage work?

During a Peter HessⓇ singing bowl massage, several singing bowls are placed on the (clothed) body and sounded. The bowls, which are cast in brass or bronze, produce a gong-like sound with fine vibrations. These vibrations are transmitted to the body and are said to “release blockages” and lead to relaxation. Both physical (muscle relaxation) and mental. A singing bowl massage usually lasts between 30 and 90 minutes.

“Circling thoughts come to rest,” reports Maren vom Okelmann’s. One enters a “pleasant state in which one can let go.” The vibrations emanating from the singing bowls spread through the skin, tissues, bones, organs, and fluids of the body, creating a “gentle, internal massage.”

“Experiencing sound is a wonderful and healing thing.” – Maren Geisler-Okelmann

👉Here you can book a sound massage at Okelmann’s.

Difference between singing bowl massage and a sound bath

In some wellness and yoga hotels, you can have a sound bath in addition to a singing bowl massage. The difference is:

For a singing bowl massage, the bowls are placed on the body, while for a sound bath, the bowls are placed in the room.

A sound bath is especially suitable for groups. The vibrations of the gong are transferred from the bowl to the body.

At the Biohotel Grafenast in Tyrol, a sound bath in small groups is part of the weekly program, and you can also book a “singing bowl massage with Sabine” at any time. 60 minutes cost 85 Euro and 90 minutes 120 Euro.

At Biohotel Grafenast you can experience a great combination of a Tyrolean nature vacation with an Alpine panorama and Far Eastern relaxation methods. The family-run hotel and its surroundings have been designed according to Feng Shui as a place of power, and yoga and Qigong classes are also available.

As part of its in-house treatments, the HUBERTUS Mountain Refugio Allgäu offers both a sound bath and a sound massage. The cost for a 50-minute sound bath is 120 euros alone and 180 euros with another person.

The sustainable hotel in Balderschwang practices an “Ayurvedic lifestyle” – both in the wellness area and in the culinary arts. The sounds and vibrations of the singing bowls are considered to be energy that “can set every single cell in the body vibrating.” This is believed to have a healing effect.

👉For more information, visit HUBERTUS Ayurveda.

Sound baths in the Italian ADLER Spa Resorts & Lodges weekly program

The sustainable and luxurious ADLER Spa Resorts & Lodges in Italy also believe in the benefits of sound baths and have made them an integral part of their wellness programs.

“At ADLER Spa Resort SICILIA, we offer the ‘Gong Sound’ experience every Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday,” the team explains. “This treatment uses the slow, rhythmic beats of the gong, punctuated by brief moments of silence.”

At the ADLER Lodge Ritten* the Klangbad takes place every Wednesday and Saturday. The location on the Ritten plateau in South Tyrol is ideal for combining an active vacation in nature with wellness.

“You may find yourself taking a short but sweet nap during the sound treatments. The gentle sounds promote such a deep relaxation that a relaxed sleep is simply part of the experience, making it even more intense.” – ADLER Lodge RITTEN

Sound bath as an included service

The German hotel Das Rübezahl in the Allgäu region, like ADLER Spa Resorts & Lodges, offers sound baths as an included weekly program. In addition to the sound massage sessions, yoga and Qigong are also offered.

Meditation with singing bowls

Some Green PearlsⓇ hotels combine singing bowls with meditation. For example, the spa at CERVO Mountain Resort Zermatt in Switzerland offers a “singing bowl meditation” as part of its weekly yoga and meditation program. The sound bath helps calm the mind and release tension in the body. Guests leave feeling “more balanced and serene.”

My Arbor* near Brixen in South Tyrol offers both singing bowl massage and singing bowl meditation.

“It is a special form of relaxation that many of our guests love. They report feeling a deep sense of calm and lightness during the singing bowl treatment.” – Hotel My Arbor

What is the difference between a singing bowl massage and a singing bowl meditation?

The Keemala Resort on the island of Phuket in Thailand has answered this question. According to the resort, singing bowl massage is more about relaxing the muscles and stimulating circulation, while singing bowl meditation focuses on the mind. The goal of meditation is to achieve “mental clarity” through sounds and vibrations.

Sound Healing Retreats

If you want to delve deeper into the world of singing bowl healing, there are also a few retreats available. The Hotel Klosterhof – Alpine Hideaway & Spa hosted its first “Sound Healing Retreat” with Lisa Schuster, a physician and sound therapist from Munich. The three-night retreat included various sound baths, singing bowl massage, singing bowl meditation, toning exercises, yoga, and a cocoa ceremony.

At the Gut Sonnenhausen near Munich, Germany, singing bowls and cocoa ceremonies were also combined during the “Finding Peace Day Retreat” held in the fall of 2024. The retreat was led by Thails de la Paz, who works regularly with the Sonnenhausen Estate.

Sustainable wellness hotels with a Far Eastern touch

Yoga, mindfulness, TCM, Ayurveda, singing bowls – much of the modern Western lifestyle has its origins in East Asia. In addition to the Okelmann’s, Grafenast, and HUBERTUS Mountain Refugio hotels already mentioned, the Green PearlsⓇ hotels, which are sustainably and individually managed, include many others inspired by Far Eastern culture.

Stephan Bode, owner of the SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA in Bad Herrenalb, Germany, draws his personal strength from the words of Buddha and has integrated a Selfness Center into the hotel. Here, guests are offered mindfulness training, resilience, forest bathing, and fasting cures. Singing bowl massages are an optional extra.

Heiner Buckermann designed the entire Lifestyle Resort Zum Kurfürsten in Bernkastel-Kues on the Mosel River according to Feng Shui (with the help of a Chinese master). He also integrated a TCM center into the hotel. He places great importance on the 5 elements and wants the life energy Qi to flow freely throughout the hotel.

Among the treatments available at the TCM Center is a singing bowl massage based on the 5 elements.

“Based on the five elements of traditional Chinese medicine, the goal is to achieve a healing balance of the organs, which stimulates the organism to regenerate itself. By placing and striking the body with singing bowls of different sizes, (…) qi, blood and emotions can flow freely again.” – Lifestyle Resort Zum Kurfürsten

A 30-minute sound massage costs 47 euros.

Singing bowl massage in Nepal

The Himalayan region of Nepal is where Peter Hess was introduced to singing bowls and where the trend that is sweeping the West began. At the Pavilions Himalayas – The Farm you can experience the original Nepalese version of the singing bowl treatment.

The sustainably managed resort is known for its yoga classes with Yogi Shyam Gurung, who we featured in our Yoga for pros blog post. His retreats are not only about physical exercises but also about a theoretical, traditional understanding of yoga.

Sound bowls are used here in conjunction with meditation, Reiki, self-healing, and Ayurvedic treatments.

“We offer yoga, meditation, and sound bowl sessions either as individual sessions or in small groups that know each other well,” the resort says.

Singing bowl massage in Cambodia

In Cambodia, you can receive a singing bowl massage at the Farmhouse Smiling Gecko. Buddhism is the state religion and singing bowls have a long tradition in Buddhism. It is said that singing bowls existed at the time of the historical Buddha. However, little is known about their exact origin and original meaning.

At the luxurious Farmhouse Smiling Gecko Resort, you can experience the country authentically while supporting the Smiling Gecko Project. It supports the local population through training centers, a school, organic farming, and fair employment.

Sound bowl meditation and science

Finally, it is important to note that the effectiveness of a singing bowl massage is not scientifically proven and falls within the realm of alternative medicine. However, you may find that sometimes a beautiful sound is more pleasant than a long speech 🙂

*CIN: IT021072A1QCJQTLUQ (ADLER Lodge Ritten)

*CIN: IT021011A1AE4737IT (My Arbor)

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Support, not undermine, the efforts of sustainable hotels and accommodation

When it comes to the do’s and don’ts of travel, this article looks at it from a sustainability perspective. In other articles of this kind, for example, one of the first rules is often: “Don’t dress like a tourist!” Trekking sandals and necklaces (as you probably know) are not considered fashionable – but from an ecological point of view, we don’t see a problem here! However, too much revealing clothing on vacation can offend the religious and cultural sensitivities of local people, as Indonesian Lucienne Anhar explains in our Bali blog post.

On this blog, we feature privately and individually owned hotels and vacation rentals that demonstrate sustainable and environmentally friendly practices in all areas. You will often see small signs reminding you that you can do without fresh towels every day (a simple measure that contributes significantly to the conservation of energy, fresh water, and detergents in the tourism industry). But sometimes, as guests, we may not even be aware that our behavior is undermining the resort’s sustainability efforts in one way or another. So it’s time to ask our hotelier partners what we might want to avoid doing.

Don’ts for a sustainable vacation at a hotel

#1 Use your own shampoo

At The Pavilions Himalayas – The Farm (just named one of the 22 “Absolute Best Hotels in Asia” by Fodor’s Travel), guests are not encouraged to use their own shampoo and shower gel. The simple reason is that the Nepalese resort is run according to ecological criteria and is surrounded by organic farmland. The water cycles of the farm, the kitchen, and the resort are all connected. Chemicals, pollutants, and microplastics, which are often found in many conventional shower products, can harm the farm, the hotel team explains.

“We encourage our guests to use the bathroom products we provide because they are all natural and chemical free.” – The Pavilions Himalayas – The Farm

#2 Balloons at hotel parties

Have you ever considered that balloons are not environmentally friendly decorations or gifts? For this reason, they are not allowed on Gut Sonnenhausen in Glonn (near Munich).

“We do a lot of weddings and one thing we don’t do is balloons. Since we are in the middle of a nature reserve, too many balloons and strings end up in the trees or on the ground, where they are nibbled by animals. But this is well accepted by our guests.” – Gut Sonnenhausen

#3 Bringing snacks and food to the resort

Don’t bring your own snacks, drinks, and take-out food to the resort – you might think, sure, they want to make money. But as Farmhouse Smiling Gecko in Cambodia tells us, they are particularly concerned about the packaging waste. The food that is brought in is usually wrapped in plastic, which ends up as garbage at the resort.

And by the way, it’s not a bad thing to support the farmhouse and its Smiling Gecko project. It runs an organic farm, a school, and training centers for employees (or their children) and the local population on its premises.

#4 Take bread from the breakfast buffet – yes or no?

Should you take bread from the breakfast buffet to make a sandwich for lunch? Our Green PearlsⓇ partners have very different answers to this question, depending on the region in which the hotel is located. At the HUBERTUS Mountain Refugio Allgäu in Balderschwang, for example, the breakfast buffet offers extra “Jausesackerl”, which you can take with you for a snack on the mountain.

At the Naturhotel Outside in East Tyrol, however, this is not welcomed. The hiking hotel is located in the middle of the Hohe Tauern Alpine National Park and believes it is important to support the local huts. For them, this is an aspect of economic and social sustainability.

“We want our guests to stop and eat at the huts. That’s why we only offer a snack in the afternoon and don’t make snack packs to give away for hikes or anything like that.” – Naturhotel Outside

#5 Smoking in Paris

In Paris, people smoke a lot more than in other European cities. Every year, the city disposes of about 350 tons (!) of cigarette butts! The Green Spirit Hotels (Hotel Le Pavilions, Amelie and Malar, all in the lively 7th arrondissement, within walking distance of the Seine and the Eiffel Tower) are not happy about this. The small, independent hotels use special air filters to ensure fresh air, and smoking is only allowed in the green courtyard. Sometimes guests stub out their cigarettes in the flower pots! “Even though there are plenty of ashtrays outside!”

In case you didn’t know, a cigarette butt is made of plastic and toxins, and especially when watering your plants, the toxins get into the plants, which is why you really shouldn’t do it! Neither in the garden nor outside (because the same thing happens there, only on a larger scale)! The correct place to dispose of them is the garbage.

#6 Stealing hotel equipment as a “souvenir” – Please do not do this on vacation

Do we really have to say that? Unfortunately, yes. Just on my last vacation (in a nature wagon in the Eifel) we asked the operator if we could have cutlery. “There is cutlery,” he was sure. But apparently, the previous tenants had taken it home…

In 2023, the hotel portal Wellness Heaven conducted a survey of around 1,400 European hoteliers, which showed that towels and bathrobes are the most frequently taken items, especially in 5-star hotels.

The AC Hotels by Marriott chain reported that approximately 1,250 towels per hotel (!) are stolen each year in a total of 64 hotels.

Our partner, the aparthotel OLM Nature Escape in South Tyrol, only opened a year ago and is currently considering how to deal with this problem.

“We place more trust in our valued guests than usual; we use valuable items and amenities. For example, a high quality sauna towel in the ApartSuite, high quality kitchen utensils, glasses, porcelain… Some guests take advantage of this and steal from us. They do not appreciate the generosity.” – OLM Nature Escape

As you can see, the many little “oh, it won’t be noticed” actions of individual guests add up to a lot of damage, and are therefore clearly antisocial, unsustainable behavior, and things you shouldn’t do on vacation. (And you’re not legally allowed to do them either.)

#7 Wasting energy

At home, people conserve electricity because it costs money, and in hotels – it’s free. People who think like that don’t think very deeply. You would think that people who book sustainable hotels would have a certain sensitivity when it comes to conserving resources. Unfortunately, that is not necessarily the case.

The Naturresort Gerbehof on Lake Constance is surprised by guests who “take showers several times a day, want their towels changed daily, or use a large number of towels in the sauna”. Hotel Bella Vista Zermatt in Switzerland also had guests who wanted their sheets changed “every day. Also sad is when guests “take too much food and then leave everything on the table”.

Here are a few more tips for saving energy – at the hotel, too:

• Turn off or lower the heat or air conditioning when you leave the room or open the windows
• Turn off lights when not in use
• Do not waste unnecessary amounts of water when showering, washing, etc
• Do not use fresh towels or even bed linens every day
• You can also cancel the daily room cleaning service at some hotels (often a small amount is donated to charity)
• Separate trash (if offered)

#8 Trash

“Waste is a big problem in general,” says Marco Spiess of Summit Lodges in Pfunds. Guests at the vacation homes in Pfunds, Tyrol, cook for themselves and bring their own food. The host notes: “In some cases, huge amounts of unopened food are thrown away, even though it is still fresh. He tries to point this out to his guests, but it often falls on “deaf ears”.

The luxurious Keemala Resort in Thailand has a zero-waste policy and there are no plastic bottles, straws, or the like throughout the resort. Therefore, it is annoying when people bring plastic products from outside. It would also be desirable for guests to recycle their waste properly.

There are signs of improvement

The Lifestylehotel SAND in Timmendorfer Strand on the Baltic Sea has a positive story to tell about “guest education”. They started early to communicate their “sustainable lifestyle” both internally and to their guests.

“It is important not to formulate prohibitions, but to ask for help.” – Marion Muller, Lifestlyhotel SAND

She considers it a success that the demand for to-go cups, for example, has become an “exception”.

The Biohotel Grafenast in Tyrol is also proud to report that it is very satisfied with the ecological awareness of its guests:

„Most of our guests are very conscious of sustainability and live sustainably.“ – Biohotel Grafenast

In general, you should continue to do the sustainable things you do at home while you are on vacation. Even though some sustainable practices may not be as common in the country where you are vacationing. “Going wild” on vacation is not trendy at the moment. And it never really has been.

Do you have other experiences, examples, or tips for vacation dos and don’ts? Write them down in the comments!

Der Beitrag 8 things you should NOT do on vacation erschien zuerst auf GREEN TRAVEL BLOG.