Sand – Our most important resource after water

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

Using sand, Singapore added landmass

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

Sand theft for luxury resorts?

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

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

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

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

Sustainable eco-hotels on dream beaches

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

#1: ADLER Spa Resort SICILIA – Protected beach

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#5 Gili Lankanfushi – Fine sand, palms and corals

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

#6 Lifestylehotel SAND at the Baltic Sea Beach

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

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

9 Tips for a sustainable beach vacation

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

Vacation by the sea – without a sandy beach

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Paradiso Pure.Living on the Alpe di Siusi, Italy

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

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

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

LA VIMEA, South Tyrol, Italy

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

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

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

Okelmann’s, Lower Saxony, Germany

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

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

Dates 2024:

10.05.2024 – 12.05. 2024 Yoga-Retreat Spring Break

30.05.2024 – 02.06.2024 Heart-connected Retreat

14.06.2024 – 16.06.2024 Yoga Summervibes

19.07.2024 – 21.07.2024 COOL DOWN – YOGA.RETREAT

29.07.2024 – 01.08.2024 Flow & Relax – Yoga of the elements

23.08.2024 – 25.08.2024 Open your heart and shine retreat

30.08.2024 – 01.09.2024 Ground & Glow Yoga & Breathwork Retreat

12.10.2024 – 15.10.2024 Balance and inner Peace Retreat

31.10.2024 – 03.11.2024 Let it go, let it flow

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

STURM, Rhön, Germany

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

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

Dates 2024: Private lessons on request

HUBERTUS Mountain Refugio Allgäu, Germany

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

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

Yoga-Retreats 2024: 

28.04.2024 – 27.11.2024: Mindfullness-days with Doris Iding

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

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

18.07.2024 – 21.07.2024: Yoga Retreat with Ranja Weis

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

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

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

05.12.2024 – 08.12.2024: Meditation – Retreat with Annet Münzinger

Keemala, Thailand

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

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

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

The Pavilions Himalayas – The Farm, Nepal

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

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

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

Puri Dajuma, Bali, Indonesia

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

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

Dates 2024: daily

Yoga retreats for the annual cycle at Gut Sonnenhausen

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

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

Yoga retreats 2024:

22.09.2024: Day retreat: Autumn equinox – Finding Peace

10.11.2024: Day retreat: Sound & cocoa ceremony

08.12.2024: Day retreat: Preparation for the winter solstice

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

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

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

One of the easiest ways to make your life more sustainable often starts in the bathroom. There are now so many great alternatives for shampoo, shower gel, make-up and the like that you’ll hardly notice the change!

The environment, however, does notice – and so does your body! According to statistics, the average person uses 10 different cosmetic products every day. And thus, has the potential to ingest up to 130 toxins! These include silicones, parabens, microplastics and fragrances, to name just a few. None of these substances are acutely life-threatening, but in the long term, both the environment and humans can suffer. Natural cosmetics do not contain any of these problematic ingredients.

Natural cosmetics can help to improve your skin and hair, many people can have reactions or irritations to some of the ingredients in conventional cosmetic products. Fragrances in particular can cause redness, blemishes and swelling. Many of these issues can be solved by switching to natural cosmetics.

How to recognize good natural cosmetics

Although animal testing for cosmetics is banned in the EU, this does not apply to chemical ingredients. These are not only used in cosmetics, but also in other products such as cleaning agents or medicines. With certified natural cosmetics, consumers can usually be sure that no animals had to suffer for the product. The various certifications have cut-off dates for this: for the BDIH seal, for example, no raw materials are allowed that were tested on animals after 1 January 1998. The well-known bunny logo with the protective hand even applies to the period from 1979.

You can also use barcode scanner apps such as Toxfox and Codecheck to find out how much nature is really in your natural cosmetics. Or, you can simply use one the cosmetics lines from one of our Green Pearls® partners.

Natural cosmetics from and in sustainable hotels and where to get them

Traditional natural cosmetics

Bali has its own beauty secrets to share with the world. However, one of the most important pieces of advice from the Indonesian island is: moisture keeps you young! Both internally, by drinking plenty of water, and externally, by making use of nourishing creams. The Puri Dajuma team reveals that in Bali, this includes recipes that have been passed down through generations.

Puri Dajuma’s skincare collection is based on essential oils and 100% natural ingredients such as coconut oil, jungle honey, lemon, cucumber and banana. You can try these out directly at the Dajuma, specifically at the Lola Spa. There you can enjoy head massages, a cream face massage or a hair mask.

Holistic care according to Ayurvedic teachings

In the Mountain Ashram Spa of the CERVO Mountain Resort in Zermatt guests can enjoy a specially developed natural, vegan, animal-free cosmetics line. The products are inspired by Ayurvedic medicine and have a calming, energising or detoxifying effect. The cosmetics and oils are an ideal match for the holistic treatment approach of the Mountain Ashram Spa.

With the ‘Alpine Woman Apricot Sensation’ for women and the ‘Pioneer Man Alpine Herbs’ for men, CERVO has launched its own collection of cosmetic lines. In addition, there are other series such as the moisturizing ‘Aloe Vera ‘, or the ‘Flow and Ayurveda Massage Oils’. Other products are also currently being developed.

One of the new signature products is the “Mountain Ashram Detox Body Scrub“, made with natural ingredients from the Swiss mountains: hazelnut oil, pine needles and sage. Allow 5 minutes for application, massaging the body scrub in circular motions from the feet to the heart. This should not only refine your skin texture, but also promote blood circulation.

Regional ingredients for natural cosmetics in the hotel

In South Tyrol, you can also experience a special natural cosmetics line – that of the ADLER Resorts & Lodges. For the ‘ADLER SPA Aktiv’ line, they use the best ingredients from three different regions of Italy, where the ADLER Resorts & Lodges are located: Plants and flowers from South Tyrol for skin cell protection and regeneration, grapes and thermal water from Tuscany for prevention and nourishing the skin, and algae extracts, citrus fruits and seawater from Sicily for cleansing and detoxification.

Only raw materials from organically controlled cultivation which are free of preservatives and colorants are used for the ADLER cosmetics line. The innovative technology ensures that the raw materials are gently broken down, and the active ingredients can be optimally absorbed into the skin. You can buy the products not only on the spot, but also in the ADLER online store.

South Tyrolean BergSea cosmetic line

In South Tyrol, on the Ritten, the Hotel Weihrerhof has also developed its own cosmetic line using ingredients from the region. The BergSea cosmetics line is certified organic and packaged in recycled PET. The basis of the skin care line is the water of the Wolfsgruben Lake. Located at 1,200 meters above sea level, Lake Wolfsgruben is one of the cleanest bathing lakes in Italy. There are also other ingredients from the Ritten, such as Swiss stone pine and hay. The products can be purchased from the hotel’s online shop for as little as 19 euros.

What natural cosmetics do sustainable hotels use?

Of course, not all of our Green PearlsⓇ partners have developed their own line of cosmetics. That’s why we also asked them what natural cosmetics they use – both for spa treatments and for you as a guest in your hotel room. Here are some of the brands our partners recommend:

TEAM DR. JOSEPH

Several of our partners rely on certified natural cosmetics from Team Dr. Joseph. The brand has been around since 1986 and is produced in Italy (South Tyrol). Team Dr. Joseph is vegan, cruelty-free and produced and packaged climate- and plastic-free. The natural cosmetics are also designed for holistic treatment. In addition to consumer products, the brand also has a partner program for hotels and spas.

Team Dr. Joseph natural cosmetics can be found at the sustainable Hotel My Arbor, also in South Tyrol (on the Plose near Brixen), and in Germany at the romantic Hotel Das Rübezahl in the Allgäu and at STURM in the foothills of the Rhön.

“Team Dr. Joseph is characterized by outstanding quality and delivers excellent results. The active ingredients include local trees, which suits us very well” – My Arbor (The hotel is built on stilts in the middle of the forest).

Phamos Nature

Hotel My Arbor also uses certified natural cosmetics Phamos Natur in the spa. The founder of the German company, Margot Esser, was involved in a car accident in the USA in the 1980s and suffered severe burns to her face and upper body. She was taken to a shamanic natural healing clinic where she was treated with Aloe Vera. The beneficial treatment and convincing effect led her to develop her own Aloe Vera products – and she has been doing so very successfully for over 35 years.

The Aloe Vera plants are grown in a sustainable mixed culture in Ecuador. Following the wisdom of the Mayan farmers, Phamos Natur ensures that “all plants want to grow together in families”.

Walde Organic Soap

At Hotel Klosterbräu in Seefeld, Austria, you will find Walde’s organic lavender liquid soap in every room. Walde is the oldest soap factory in Austria, with almost 250 years of history. Although the soap is not certified as a natural cosmetic, there is an organic line where all ingredients are organically grown.

Doctor Eckstein

The Birkenhof ***** Spa & Genussresort in the Upper Palatinate Lake District uses the indie brand Doctor Eckstein. The entire product line is based on nature and is produced in Germany. However, they are not certified natural cosmetics.

Is natural always better?

You may have guessed from our last two examples that we are cautious about this. As with food, it may be that smaller companies or start-ups cannot (yet) afford certification. For us, this simply means: read the ingredients (yes, we know how difficult it is with cosmetics!), look at the company website and if you have any doubts, ask critically. If the company is truly and honestly committed to sustainability, they will be happy to answer your questions!

What do you look for when choosing your cosmetics? And do you have any tips for sustainable beauty lines?

What do you look for in your cosmetics? Would you try a hotel’s collection? Let us know!

Continue Reading: How beauty care and environment are related

Continue Reading: Organic, plastic-free and zero-waste: What makes cosmetics sustainable?

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Save freshwater with low-flow showers

Low-flow shower – Doesn’t sound like a relaxing hotel stay, does it? It sounds like drips and trickles and low water pressure. All nonsense! When you’re under the shower at Berghotel Rehlegg, you won’t even know you’re being sprayed by a water-saving showerhead. And the 7.5 million liters of water saved per year (the hotel’s own figures) speak for themselves. The fact that the entire mountain hotel is equipped with water-saving shower heads and water-saving bathroom fittings alone means that 41 percent less water is used than in comparable hotels.

The family-run Hotel Klosterbräu in Seefeld, Tyrol, also reported a 30 percent reduction in water consumption after installing flow reducers in all of its showers.

The German Hotel and Restaurant Association (DEHOGA) has also calculated that low-flow showerheads pay off both environmentally and financially: A hotel with 11,000 overnight stays per year (50 rooms, 100 beds and 60 percent occupancy) could save about 1.3 million liters of water and about 4,700 euros in one year by switching from 15-liter to 7-liter shower heads. Without sacrificing guest comfort!

Are low-flow showers fun?

Let’s get back to the question of whether low-flow showers actually provide a good showering experience. Klaus Pichler of the Hotel Weihrerhof in South Tyrol has a very simple answer for you: “Yes, of course.” At the hotel on the Ritten, showers use only 6 liters per minute. “Less than that wouldn’t give you the right vacation-feeling”, he says. But since the sustainable hotel is located directly on Lake Wolfsgruben, one of the cleanest bathing lakes in Italy at an altitude of 1,200 meters, guests can also get wet in a natural way – without using up drinking water resources!

Astronaut showers in the Creativhotel Luise

The sustainable Creativhotel Luise in Erlangen, Germany, even has astronaut showers in the rooms. These were invented by Swedish industrial designer Mehrdad Mahdjoubi while he was researching resource-saving measures for a trip to Mars for NASA. The special feature: You don’t actually shower with less water, but the water is used several times.

The OAS recirculating shower collects used water, filters it, heats it, and pumps it back into the shower head. Thus, an OAS shower requires a total of only 5 liters of water for a complete shower! (Compare that to a 6-liter economy shower, which uses 30 liters for 5 minutes, and a regular 12-liter showerhead, which uses 60 liters – the “average European showerer” is said to use 100 liters per shower).

“You can shower endlessly here,” says Ben Förtsch, owner of Creativhotel Luise. “But without a guilty conscience.” Another water-saving measure was to replace the whirlpool in the spa area with wellness-showers.

Outdoor shower instead of a pool

Many accommodations present now outdoor showers to offer their guests something extra. At the sustainably renovated former stud farm Gut Sonnenhausen near Munich, a charming outdoor shower in the middle of nature is located next to the sauna instead of a plunge pool.

Outdoor Shower as Instagram Spot

At ADLER Lodge RITTEN in South Tyrol, the owners have noticed that the cold water pool and outdoor shower in the forest spa are popular spots for Instagram photos. After all, taking a shower in the mountains isn’t something everyone does!

By the way, you can find out how to best pose for Instagram in our selfie blog-post

The outdoor showers at Keemala on Phuket Island in Thailand are also truly spectacular. Each of the naturally designed villas has a panoramic shower. Because of the elevation, you have a wonderful view of the tropical plants of Thailand all the way to the Indian Ocean while washing your hair.

At Puri Dajuma Cottages & Spa in Bali, Indonesia, you shower outdoors in front of a beautiful natural stone wall. You’ll stay in naturally designed cottages in a tropical garden. In addition to the path to the outdoor shower, paths lead to the beach, the ocean, or the pool.

In the apartments of A’ Cràpa Mangia in southern Italy you are directly on the Mediterranean coast. There is a shower in the bathroom and an outdoor shower with sea view.

Showers with air bubbles

“The fact that wellness is an energy guzzler is something you can talk about all you like,” says hotelier Daniel Ganzer of Naturhotel Outside in an interview with Green PearlsⓇ. The young East Tyrolean has just taken over the management of the sustainable hotel from his parents and will keep the wellness area for guests. But he is now fine-tuning methods to make it more sustainable.

The showers at Naturhotel Outside are currently being converted to a new water-saving system. Shower heads with added air save 30 percent of the water. According to Daniel Ganzer, the new showers use only 5 liters per minute and are also easier to clean due to less limescale.

The fact that you get a real shower experience despite the low water volume of 5 liters is, as mentioned, due to the air bubbles that make the water foamy and bubbly, so you feel like there’s more to it.

Tip: You can also buy a shower head with air bubbles from WOLF Umwelttechnologie for your home. The “BUBBLE-RAIN” shower head was the first shower head ever to be awarded the Blauer Engel “Protects the climate” eco-label from Germany. According to comparative calculations, this shower head saves about 1 kilogram of CO2 per hot shower.

Respect water resources

The reason we should all use water more sparingly is that clean water is becoming increasingly scarce around the world. According to the United Nations (UN-Water), 2.3 billion people already live in water-stressed countries. Here, more fresh water is needed than is available. In addition, global water consumption is increasing every year, while groundwater in many places is suffering as a result of the climate crisis. For example, floods cause groundwater to become saline, and forest fires and droughts reduce groundwater supplies.

You can read more about global water scarcity in our blog post on sustainable rainwater harvesting.

The Naturresort Schindelbruch in Saxony-Anhalt, Germany, is concerned about preserving nature. The Harz Mountains are home to numerous springs, lakes, rivers, ponds, and waterfalls, and it is here that one becomes aware of what a great treasure water is. The showers at Naturresort Schindelbruch are equipped with aerators that add air to the water jet, making it pleasantly soft. There are also flow restrictors.

As you can see, even with the water and energy conservation measures in place, there are wonderful showering options at sustainable hotels. The Casa León Royal Retreat in Gran Canaria is also looking to get in on the action. “The switch to water-saving showers is imminent for us,” says the resort.

At home, too, there are plenty of ways to make your showering habits more sustainable. In addition to a new showerhead, you can save water by turning off the faucet while soaping up. The natural cosmetic shampoo and shower gel used at Lifestylehotel SAND on the Baltic Sea is aptly named “Stop the water while using me“. A call we can all take to heart to live a little more sustainably every day.

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Der Beitrag Take a shower and save the world erschien zuerst auf GREEN TRAVEL BLOG.

Southeast Asia: A travel paradise surrounded by water

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Coral protection on Ko Phi Phi Leh at Zeavola Resort

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

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

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

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

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

Litter prevention at Keemala in Thailand

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

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

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

Sustainable holidays in Indonesia

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

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

Garbage problem in the national park

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

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

Animal welfare rules for sustainable travel in Southeast Asia

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

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

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

Gibbon Project

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

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

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

Stray gibbon sponsorship

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

Combine sustainable travel in Southeast Asia with social projects

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

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

Create sustainable prospects

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

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

Read more about social sustainability in tourism

Southeast Asia etiquette guide: Respect local culture

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

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

Islam predominates in Indonesia, Malaysia and Brunei.

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

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

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

Codes of conduct in South-East Asia:

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

Tourists not affected by ban on extramarital sex

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

 

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

Traveling to Southeast Asia – can we still fly?

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

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

These include:

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

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

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

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Other countries, different celebrations

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

Celebrating in Thailand

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

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

Christmas in Thailand

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

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

Real Thai holidays: Songkran und Loi Krathong

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

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

Sustainable travel tips for the Songkran festival

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

Luck and Wealth

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

Maldives and Islamic festivals

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

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

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

Sustainable Travel in the Maldives at Gili Lankanfushi

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

A Creolian Christmas in Seychelles

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

Colourful festive tradition

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

Calm Getaway for the Carnival International

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

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

Divers Indonesia

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

Holidays on Bali

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

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

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

Celebrate festivities as they fall

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

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

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The ocean always has a fascination for humans—does that apply to you as well? That is probably not least because much of the oceans are still unexplored.

Of the 300 million square kilometers of the ocean floor, only about 5 percent has been discovered so far. After all, from 200 meters water depth, the darkness, cold, and pressure are so high that for a long time the depths of the sea were regarded as hostile to life in the same way as the universe.

Marine diversity is severely threatened

However, this colorful and varied diversity, which you can watch in documentaries, is under severe threat. Plastic is one of the biggest drivers of this. Whereas in the 1950s nearly 1.5 million tons of plastic were produced each year, the figure today is approaching 400 million tons. And far too much of it is ending up in the sea.

The United Nations Environment Program (UNEP) states that up to 18,000 pieces of plastic of different sizes are now floating on every square kilometer of the ocean’s surface. This doesn’t include the more than 90 percent of waste that sinks to the ocean floor. 

Furthermore, overfishing and pollution from oil and co. are playing a role. Diving can also be useful in explaining the effects and why it is worth protecting the sea. Many divers are so excited about the biodiversity underwater that they are committed to the protection of the oceans. 

Amateur divers can help

Many movements of diving groups are taking place to clear the ocean floor from trash and dangerous nets, saving animal lives. There are a few relevant rules for recreational divers to be taught before they dive. Three most important rules: don’t touch anything, don’t take anything with you, don’t break anything.

Sports and leisure divers may even be helpful to notify changes in the waters to the relevant authorities at an early stage.

If you are now eager to see coral reefs and colorful marine life through your eyes, then we have good news for you: Great diving offers are available by our Green Pearls® partners!

At the Gili Lankanfushi in the Maldives, you can enjoy a colorful seascape. Experienced multilingual dive instructors provide day and night dives and courses for all levels. 

Colorful underwater world in the Maldives

This resort is considered to be one of the most environmentally friendly dive centers in Southasia. You can even participate in a science dive here and collect data for organizations like SharkWatch and the Manta Trust.

For those who have never dived before, a Discover Scuba Diving course is a great option. This basic course also lasts only three hours. Especially worth seeing are the manta rays that can be seen around Gili Lankanfushi all year round.

And if you want to get a glimpse of the underwater world but prefer not to dive directly, put on your snorkel mask and a pair of fins—and you’re ready to venture to the 15-meter-deep drop-off at the edge of the resort. Exploring the dazzling coral walls is like swimming in an aquarium—only in the ocean. There’s a good chance you’ll see a few turtles and rays here, too.

Special dive spots off Bali

But not only the Maldives offer colorful fish and seascapes. Moreover, Bali is a wonderful underwater world. After driving through the enchanting landscape of rice fields, starting from Puri Dajuma, you will reach Menjangan, which is the best snorkeling and diving area in Bali. The instructors there also offer courses for beginners and speak German and English. 

Particularly worth seeing in Menjangan? The eel garden, for example. In addition to the garden eels that give it its name, turtles, reef sharks and shoals of mackerel are also found here. 

Some dive sites in Thailand have already been temporarily closed because they were overcrowded. However, you can also visit great dive sites that are not so much affected from mass tourism. Among this is the Phi Phi National Marine Park, where Hotel Zeavola is located. 

Individualized tours in Thailand

Here you will find a wide range of stunning dive sites, including the breathtaking Bida Islands, less than twenty minutes away. Because there are so many options for dive trips, the staff will put together a customized trip for you, considering tides, boat traffic, and weather conditions. 

The dive sites, with depths ranging from 5 to 30 meters, provide a mix of different marine environments, ranging from sandy bays to coral wonderlands and dynamic rocky playgrounds, ensuring divers a variety of quality diving experiences.

For a diving vacation, you don’t have to travel all the way to Asia though, there are some beautiful spots in Europe definitely worth a visit as well! Located on the Croatian Island of Korcula is Eco-Apartment Hotel The Dreamers Club in Lumbarda.

Underwater wrecks off Croatia

Since the waters of the Adriatic are that clear, you can see as deep as sixty meters. The seafloor is dotted with shipwrecks, coral reefs, hidden caves and the remains of past civilizations, and if you are cautious, you might even see an octopus.

The most interesting diving sites here include Garda steamship wreck, Boka merchant ship wreck, Majsan archaeological site and Orlandusa wall. 

Do you want to go diving now? Or have you already been diving? Tell us about it!

Here are a few more tips for a sustainable vacation: 5 on-site tips for sustainable travel

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Nevertheless, let’s start in the Austrian mountains (Here you can find everything, you should know about cacationing in Austria). In Sölden  two beautiful, sustainable and pet-friendly destinations await you: LENI MOUNTAIN Apartments & Chalet and The Peak Sölden.

More than just winter sports

Sölden is impressive for its picturesque and prominent location. While the place is mainly known for winter sports and its après-ski parties, you can also go on great hikes with your four-legged friend. In the apartments you have comfortable space for your dog and in the kitchen, you can prepare your food of choice.

For fresh air we recommend the wide network of hiking and biking trails. Your reward for the steeper sections? Breathtaking views over the Alps! Picturesque mountain lakes or rest stops at lofty heights are perfect for a great break — or for you and your dog to splash around.

A dog-friendly oasis of peace

Are you feeling stressed? Then the next hotel is a good choice! Just before the German border lies Leutasch. Here you find the Naturhotel Aufatmen, an oasis of peace. The rooms provide for a comfortable stay with your dog. The Aufatmen is a pure vegetarian hotel, which also has a large selection of vegan dishes. Perfect for hiking or just to relax.

Carefree-Package for you and your dog

If you are looking for an all-round carefree package for your furry friend, you are in good hands at the HUBERTUS Mountain Refugio Allgäu. Your dogs are most welcomed. The package of the Allgäu hotel includes a food and water bowl, dry food from Happy Dog, a dog blanket, a dog bathrobe and even a dog drinking bottle for hiking. Sounds great already, right?

The nature around Balderschwang is also a dog paradise, especially the Nagelfluh Nature Park, where the HUBERTUS is located. Your furry friend is not allowed in the restaurant, but on request a table can be set up for you and your four-legged friend in the TeeStube (that’s in the lobby area) for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Dog-friendly fun in the water

Do you prefer a vacation by the water? Then visit the MANOAH houses. With the nearby beach house Da Rosario, the Bio-Seehotel Zeulenroda as well as the Pâtisserie Bergmann, the Zeulenrodaer Meer offers excursion destinations and culinary delights at the same time. Directly in the vacation home complex, an exclusive 24-hour market is ready for you — if you or your darling get hungry, you will always find a snack here.

Circular paths like the “Staudammblick” lead you along the shore of the Zeulenroda Sea. On the way you will get an impression of the dams, you can enjoy the wide view of the countryside and the town of Zeulenroda-Triebes and you have many opportunities to rest or take a break.

Exciting forest for curious noses

No lake at the Naturresort Schindelbruch, but forests as far as the eye can see — which is also super exciting for your dog. The resort is happy to welcome dogs. Here, a water and food bowl are provided so that you can start your vacation completely relaxed (and with less luggage). Even a cuddly sleeping place will be prepared for your darlings, if you wish so. As a special bonus, there are some treats for your four-legged friend.

Souvenirs for your favorite fur-friend

Do you have a water rat who also likes to rummage in the forest? Then you should check out Okelmann’s. Dogs are allowed everywhere on a leash — except in the sauna area 😉.

Especially the rooms with terrace and garden access are ideal. Outside it is wonderful to romp and walk in the large lawn, the forest or garden. The welcome package for four-legged friends includes welcome treats, bowls and a dog blanket are available on loan. And if the treats have tasted particularly good to your dog, you can buy them in the hotel’s own concept store. And as a special souvenir: Grab a few dog accessories.

But it’s not just in the middle of Europe that you’ll find beautiful, sustainable and pet-friendly hotels. The Maslina Resort in Croatia is also happy to welcome you and your four-legged friend. Here you can enjoy the warm weather together and explore the stunningly beautiful beaches. 

Let’s hop across the globe: the Puri Dajuma in Indonesia and the Kasbah du Toubkal in Morocco are both pet-friendly hotels, too. Hike in the Atlas Mountains or relax on the beach in Indonesia: You can also spend great vacations here. However, you should spare your pet the long journey if you come from Europe.

Have you booked your trip? Here you can find some tips HOW TO PACK MORE SUSTAINABLE

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For fans of water, there are several possibilities to get their money’s worth — either near or far. Close to the vacation homes MANOAH there is for example the beach bath Zeulenroda. You can spend a whole day there swimming, splashing in the top-quality-water or simply sunbath on the shore. 

Nearby there is also the water sports school “Thüringer Meer”. So if you or your kids are less into splashing around and prefer a little more action, you can get kayaks, rowboats, paddle boats and stand-up paddles including the right equipment here. 

Vacation in the Sun

For warm water fans a visit to one of our Green Pearls® partners in Thailand is a great option. Both the Tongsai Bay on Koh Samui and the Zeavola on the small island of Koh Phi Phi are located on the water and offer great swimming experiences. From Keemala, which is located in the mountains of Kamala on Phuket, you can also reach beautiful beaches. 

In order to disturb the environment no more than necessary, motor sports should be avoided: But with offerings like scuba diving, snorkeling, stand-up paddling, surfing, and kayaking and canoeing — who misses motorsports? For diving trips, the children should be older, but snorkeling or canoeing works great even at a young age.

If you like it a bit quieter but still like to be close to the sea, you should consider a visit to Puri Dajuma in Indonesia. Here, you can do yoga in front of the sea and enjoy the Indonesian landscape.

Activities in Europe

Those who prefer solid ground under their feet for their family vacation can look forward to the next offers from our Green Pearls® partners: In and around Erlangen is much to discover for families. The best starting point for exploration tours to the forest adventure center or wild horse and wild boar enclosure “Tennenlohe”? The Creativhotel Luise. From there, you can also find other exciting family activities nearby. For example, a summer toboggan run, a climbing forest and a stalactite cave in Franconian Switzerland. 

Children who are not particularly enthusiastic about hiking may change their mind: in the Rhön, very close to the Biohotel Sturm, alpaca tours can be enjoyed. These animals are not only particularly fluffy but also very gentle and sensitive and thus sweeten hiking in nature for big and small. 

The Röhn is of course also known for its extensive biking trails. There are countless bike paths here — for beginners or experienced cyclists. Where you can ride a bike, you can also hike (although the other way around is probably not true). And there are also beautiful tours in the mountains with breathtaking views. Great starting points: the Naturhotel Aufatmen, the Outside or the LENI MOUNTAIN. 

In winter, skiing is great here, but in summer, hiking is also fun. Great mountain lakes or resting places in airy heights are perfect for a relaxing break and if you dare to take a look back you will see how far you have already hiked — a great experience for young and old!

Prepared for the bad weather

But let’s face reality: As great as these activities are, and as much as we would like to have only good weather on our family vacation — sometimes it rains. Or, as a parent, you’re just tired from the day before, the trip, or you’re not feeling very well. Convenient, if the hotel has also provided for such a case!

At Naturresort Schindelbruch, children can also be entertained in the hotel with i.e., classic board games. In addition, there is the opportunity to spend a cozy evening full of action with the Wii. And even the wellness of the small guests is ensured: In the large wellness area admittedly only children older than 14 years are allowed. However, there is a separate family area with a swimming pool, relaxation rooms and a separate family sauna, where small wellness guests from the age of 4 can enjoy the soothing warmth at around 75 degrees.

It’s best to plan and book your sustainable summer vacation now. We wish you a lot of fun! Have fun discovering!

This text is also all about family – because some of our hotels have been in their families for generations: SUSTAINABILITY WITH TRADITION

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Der Beitrag Sustainable family vacation – but where? erschien zuerst auf GREEN TRAVEL BLOG.

Discover new yoga practices

Yoga combines elements of movement with mindfulness. It is both a sport and a philosophy, creating harmony between body and mind. But not all yoga is the same, as there are many practices and techniques. A great way to try it out is to take classes at the hotel. This way you can get involved with new things in a very relaxed way and also recover.

Yoga on the island of the gods

The Puri Dajuma on Bali is the ideal place to do yoga. Bali also called the Island of the Gods by its inhabitants, most of whom belong to Hinduism. Tini has been responsible for the wellness and yoga activities at the hotel for almost 10 years and guides you with her long experience. Many hotel guests report a special kind of reconciliation with their inner self during their stay. There is a yoga workshop every morning, either in the hotel’s large yoga room or right on the beach. It’s best to sign up at the front desk a day in advance, or alternatively book a private lesson with Tini. 

Exercises in nature 

The Biohotel Sturm in the Rhone also provides beautiful places for a relaxing yoga class. You can for example use the hotel garden around the swimming pond. The weekly program of the hotel offers yoga sessions and yoga retreats at regular intervals according to different themes. From dynamic Vinyasa Flow to gentle mindfulness training and Asana to a special relaxation technique called Yogaindra, there is a program for everyone. 

“Finding the beauty in simplicity”

At LA VIMEA, you’ll also be offered a variety of classes led by trained yoga instructors. Mobilize your spine in back yoga or let your breath flow in a relaxed way in yin yoga, which especially stresses the joints, connective tissue and ligaments. Strengthen your inner center with Vinyasa Yoga or find your inner balance with Hatha Yoga.  

Yoga on the roof

The OCÉANO Health Spa Hotel convinced us with its multifaceted health concept. From Monday to Friday, take advantage of the daily yoga classes offered by experienced yoga instructors or book your individual private class. We keep our fingers crossed for good weather because then the classes take place in the sun- and wind-protected yoga space on the roof terrace with a view of the sea — simply fantastic.

Yoga courses in Tyrol

To intensively promote your relaxation, the Biohotel Grafenast offers regular yoga courses. In the monthly schedule of the hotel you will always find the current offers. In October, the focus of the courses is on your well-being and in November, there is a “Yoga and Hiking” weekend. 

Are you curious about the yoga courses? Just try it out on your next vacation, maybe you’ll even find your new favorite yoga practice.

Read more: DIGITAL-DETOX: GREEN OASES OF TRANQUILITY

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