Good reasons to plan your trips early

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

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

Why is early travel planning sustainable?

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

#1 Planning certainty and fairness

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

#2 More time for long-distance travel

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

#3 Time to get to know your destination

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

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

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

#4 Research green transportation options

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

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

#5 Off-season travel

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

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

#6 Plan regional events

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

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

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

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

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

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

#7 Choose sustainable accommodations

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

#8 Book directly with your chosen accommodation.

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

What is special about mindful travel planning?

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

Save this article to Pinterest!

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

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)

Save this blog article on Pinterest

Der Beitrag Singing bowl massage – On offer at these sustainable hotels erschien zuerst auf GREEN TRAVEL BLOG.

Tipp #1: Vacation without your phone

The OLM Nature Escape in South Tyrol recommends: “Try to spend time together without cell phones!” This applies to children and parents alike! The eco-aparthotel offers the “ApartSuite XL” with a kitchenette, two bedrooms, and a children’s bunk bed, where you can spend a great family vacation in nature with up to six people.

Fritz Karl, an Austrian theater actor and father of seven, tested a three-week cell phone-free vacation with his children this year. In the TV show Riverboat (see ARD-Mediathek from minute 00:02:00) he says: “At the beginning, it was very exhausting for everyone. But it was worth it! “Yes, but what did you do then?” he is asked incredulously. “Board games!” is his answer.

Tipp #2: Board and card games

This brings us to the next tip from Elena Scalambrin at the Relais del Maro in Liguria: board games. You don’t even have to bring them on vacation at the Relais del Maro because Elena will be happy to provide you and your children with a variety of games. Of course, you should still bring your family’s favorite game. There are also smaller travel or pocket versions of many classic and popular games!

Elena and her family have built an Albergo Diffuso in the picturesque village of Borgomaro. This means that the 4-star hotel is spread over several buildings in the village and you will be staying right next to the villagers. You are sure to see some Italian kids playing soccer in the street, and maybe your kids can join in 🙂

Great board games with kids (5 to 13 years old)

I also enjoy playing games with my kids. For newer games that you can easily take on vacation, I recommend these:

• Qwirkle (Preferably the travel version in the cloth bag)
• Mogel Motte
• Memoarrr!

And for classic games, of course, we love UNO, Chess, Mau-Mau, and Yatzy. If you have room for a whole box of games, Crazy Labyrinth and Labyrinth of the Masters are also great, as well as Nobody’s Perfect (you have to be able to write here).

Tipp #3: Introduce children to nature

A family vacation is a wonderful opportunity to get close to nature. For example, a vacation in Tirol, Austria. In Pfunds, you will find an “untouched” mountain world with meadows, wild water, and a traditional village. For a family vacation, we recommend the Summit Lodges. These are two log cabins, each about 120 square meters, for up to 6 people, with their own sauna and fireplace. Children can play safely in the surrounding garden and explore nature while parents relax on the terrace.

Peter Unterlechner of Biohotel Grafenast in Tyrol, Austria, has also set up family rooms and even offers a special children’s program during the holiday season. He has a few suggestions on how to introduce your children to nature:

• Playing in the garden
• Go hiking
• Crafting with natural materials
• Forest walks
• Mushroom picking
• Eating blueberries (in summer)
• Tobogganing in winter
• Snowball fights
• Learning to ski (a children’s ski school is within walking distance of the hotel)
• Snowshoeing (There is a family snowshoeing tour from the Biohotel Grafenast)

Tipp #4: Rent an e-bike with a child trailer

Hotel Bella Vista is located in car-free Zermatt, so the best way to explore the area around the Matterhorn is on foot or by bike. Fabienne Anthamatten, a member of the host family, recommends that families with children rent a Chariot e-bike in the village.

„That way, the family can get to great picnic spots and everyone is happy.” – Hotel Bella Vista Zermatt

Tipp #5: Adventure travel by train

As you probably know, getting to and from your vacation destination is often your biggest environmental impact. The next biggest impact is where you stay. At Hotel Klosterbräu in Seefeld, Tyrol, you can do both (as long as you live in Europe) and combine a sustainable hotel with a climate-friendly trip.

“Since Seefeld has a train station right in the center of town, it makes sense to travel by train. Children see it as an adventure and the trip is fun. Sustainable travel with children is an opportunity to teach them values at an early age and to raise their awareness of environmental protection.” – Hotel Klosterbräu

The hotel is family-run (the seventh generation is currently growing up) and there are great activities for all ages, including a small petting zoo! While the kids take a guided tour, make pizza, or play pool during the holiday program, parents can relax by the pool or take an extended hike.

Tipp #6: Learn interesting things

Learning is not boring (just don’t say “We are learning now”). At APIPURA hotel rinner, for example, you can learn a lot about bees and organic farming. The father/grandfather of the host family Rinner is a passionate beekeeper and likes to take his guests to the beehives. There is also a bee nature trail on the property. Of course, the hotel’s own organic honey is available at the breakfast buffet, and as a special feature, you can enjoy api-welness and inhale the air from the beehive.

A highlight for a vacation with children at the APIPURA hotel rinner is certainly the Ritten-Card, which you can get for free here. With this card, you can use all public transportation (including the cable car and the Ritten train, which stops right next to the hotel) for free. It also gives you free entry to many museums.

Tipp #7: Introduce children to the culture of the destination

The luxury eco-resort Keemala in Phuket, Thailand, sent us a number of suggestions on how to make a vacation with children more sustainable. They feel it is very important to always involve the children and give them lots of explanations – for example, separating waste together and explaining the problem of plastic pollution to children.

A vacation in a foreign country (such as Thailand) can be used to discover the flora, fauna, and culture of the country together with the children.

• Learn a few words of the local language
• Visit local markets
• Bring cotton bags instead of accepting plastic bags
• Bring water in a refillable bottle
• Pack a zero-waste lunch or avoid take-out packaging waste in other ways
• Book eco-tours with local guides and make sure they consider things like animal welfare, ethics, and conservation
• Visit cultural or religious sites (for example, from Keemala you can visit Buddhist temples in Phuket). Find out in advance what the appropriate behavior is and discuss it with your children.

Conclusion

Sustainability is a lifestyle that can be practiced in all areas of life, including on vacation. The best way to reach your children is to set an example by implementing sustainable practices with them. This can be done easily and authentically at sustainable hotels and vacation rentals. And who knows – maybe they’ll be even more “strict” than you are – it’s been known to happen 🙂

Der Beitrag Sustainable travel with kids – Tips from our Green PearlsⓇ partners erschien zuerst auf GREEN TRAVEL BLOG.

What is a place of power?

“Places of power are in vogue. But their effects are not scientifically proven.” SRF in its article on magical nature

A place of power is a geographical location in nature where, according to esoteric belief, a particular energy or earth radiation exists. Scientific methods cannot prove this; instead, people identify such places using a pendulum or divining rod.People also designate some power places based on ley lines or Feng Shui principles.

Some (or many) also use the term for places in nature that are simply beautiful and subjectively uplifting. You can probably think of an example right now, can’t you?

Places of power and tourism

Powerful sites are key attractions in the tourism industry—take Stonehenge, for example! In 2019, authorities closed Ayers Rock in Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park after the Anangu people protested. They opposed the increasing number of tourists climbing their sacred mountain, damaging the environment, and trampling on their cultural heritage. Uluru holds deep cultural and religious significance for Australia’s indigenous people.

However, with our Green PearlsⓇ partners, we don’t get the impression that power places are being exploited for tourism. Instead, they often align with the personal worldview of the individual hotel hosts, particularly in the case of Feng Shui power places.

Lifestyle Resort Zum Kurfürsten – An entire hotel as a Feng Shui place of power

“The entire hotel has been declared a place of power by a Feng Shui master from Beijing.” – Zum Kurfürsten Lifestyle Resort

Feng Shui and TCM play an important role at Lifestyle Resort Zum Kurfürsten. The wellness hotel in Bernkastel-Kues on the Mosel River used to be a simple hotel for coach tours – until Heiner Buckermann took over and transformed it into the lifestyle resort it is today. Today, it boasts a 4,500-square-foot wellness area with saunas, pools and a natural swimming pond, as well as a diet based on the Five Elements and TCM therapy.

Heiner Buckermann remembers the construction phase and the Feng Shui master: “The master was visiting Germany from Beijing and met one of our TCM therapists. We were building at the time and asked for his help. The master explained the details of how to connect the energies in the place of power.”

The goal was to ensure that the entire place stayed coherent and, like a turtle’s shell, blocked negative energies. To achieve this, they directed the water from the various pools to flow in a specific way, and followed precise instructions on maintaining contact with the street or hotel staircase to protect the energy of the Power Place.

By connecting all the outbuildings to the main building, the energy can “flow freely”. The choice of materials, the polygonal tiles, the nine flags on the street – everything follows the Feng Shui rules for a place of power.

According to Heiner Buckermann, the Feng Shui instructions were all “logical” and “pleasant” and “contributed positively to the design of the hotel. The master himself then declared the entire hotel to be a place of power, and anyone sensitive to this can still feel it today.

Biohotel Grafenast – A place of power, confirmed by geomancers

Peter Unterlechner of the Biohotel Grafenast in Tyrol, Austria, also believes in flowing qi and has had the hotel, now in its third generation, aligned accordingly.

“We had the grounds designed according to Feng Shui and then had them tested by a geomancer,” says Peter Unterlechner. The geomancer confirmed that both the hotel and the surrounding nature are places of power. The hotel sits beautifully in the mountains, offering stunning views of the valley.

“The panoramic location and the combination of an old house and a fresh spirit bring the power to life and make it tangible” – Biohotel Grafenast

You can create your own places of power

As you can see from the examples, you can create your own places of power by implementing certain esoteric rules.

“We have created various places of power ourselves,” reports the HUBERTUS Mountain Refugio Allgäu. There are various retreats in the wellness area of the Mountain Spring Spa and the “Power of Silence” place with a bonsai tree. The sustainably managed hotel is also an advocate of Ayurveda and mindfulness, offering yoga classes and retreats throughout the year.

At Naturhotel Gerbehof, the owners strongly believe in the Philippi method. They offer bioenergetic motivation sessions in-house, and there is a stone circle in their private forest where guests can experience a “meditation on the four primary elements.”

Crystal Garden at Gut Guntrams

If you are interested in crystals, the Gut Guntrams near Vienna has an impressive crystal garden with some huge exhibits. However, owner Stefan Gergley does not make any esoteric connections. He simply has a passion for crystals, petrified wood and minerals, he explains, and shares them in his private collection and his own nature museum at Gut Guntrams.

Places of power around sustainable hotels

Many Green PearlsⓇ accommodations are located near one or more places of power. The way these sites are transformed into a tourist experience varies widely.

The “Snake God’s” place of worship must not be disturbed

For example, Rajiv Desraj Shrestha, general manager of The Pavilions Himalayas – The Farm in Nepal, knows of a place of power near the resort – but he won’t take you there because he thinks tourists (and people in general) are a disruptive factor.

“We have a place of power. It is a very old place of worship according to Hindu understanding, dedicated to the ‘Snake God’ and according to Hinduism can only be worshipped on certain auspicious days. In general, it is disturbed by human presence and therefore a visit is not recommended.” – Rajiv Desraj Shrestha

Temples and the “holy forest” to experience in Thailand

At Keemala in Phuket, on the other hand, the surrounding power spots are integrated into the program. They tell us there are three areas:

• The “sacred” forest: “The nearby ancient forests are said to have spiritual significance and energy.”
• Buddhist Temples: “The temples and spiritual sites in our area are known for their peaceful atmosphere and historical significance and can be visited.
• Nature and Meditation: “Special guided hikes through these power spots are part of our wellness programs and combine immersion in nature with meditation exercises.”

The enchantingly beautiful Keemala Resort is nestled in the tropical forest of Phuket.

Guests of the Hotel Weihrerhof in South Tyrol will receive a “power places booklet”.

The Pichler family, who run the Hotel Weihrerhof* on the shores of Lake Costalovara in Renon, South Tyrol, actively sought out places of natural power in the area around their hotel. This came about because the host family carefully studied the surrounding nature.

Of particular interest are the Celtic-Rhaetian sites and settlements typical of the Ritten. When exploring places of power, their goal is to “feel more and think less”. In order to understand the energy involved, they have enlisted the help of geomancer Bernd Traber.

As a guest, you will find a small booklet in your room in which you can learn more about each place and get ideas for consciously experiencing them. Afterwards you can visit them with a new feeling and let nature have a deeper effect on you.

Hotel room design inspired by a place of power in Bad Herrenalb

The SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA has just renovated its hotel rooms (according to Cradle to Cradle™) and created the room category “Falkenstein”. The Falkenstein is a local landmark in Bad Herrenalb, and according to hotel owner Stephan Bode, the “vibrating primeval energy” is particularly noticeable here. He wanted the new hotel rooms to reflect this: “As soon as you enter the room, you feel a unique and unbridled energy – powerful and balanced. Falkenstein is the perfect design concept for every guest who wants to feel primal power.”

Bad Herrenalb – a place of power

There are also other places of power in the area, such as one “directly above the junction of the two supercontinents of Gondwana and Laurasia”. The entire town of Bad Herrenalb is considered a healing place of power, evident from the unusually large number of twin trees, a wonder pine growing on an archway, and its healing water and climate.

The hotel team emphasizes that you don’t have to believe in the special power of Bad Herrenalb to feel it:

“Even guests unfamiliar with the special qualities of the place often confirm at check-out that they feel relaxed and energized.” – SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA

Recharge your batteries in Warper Wood

Sisters Maren Geisler-Okelmann and Kristin Okelmann of eco-hotel Okelmann’s in Warpe are spiritually open. The water that flows through their pipes has been revitalized using the Grander method, and the hotel offers yoga, meditation, and sound massages.

“Our power spot, almost on our doorstep, is the magical Warper Wood. We do some retreats that include forest bathing. We spend as much time there as possible.” – Hotel Okelmanns

“Heartstone” Place of Power near Hotel Klosterhof – Alpine Hideaway & Spa

The health hotel Klosterhof – Alpine Hideaway & Spa has a focus on medicine and is happy to offer scientifically based methods (e.g. medical liver fasting instead of other types of fasting). Additionally, you can participate in a guided forest bathing tour. The guide Jana likes to integrate the power place Herzstein into her tour.

It is only a 5 minute walk from the hotel. Lisa-Maria Standl from the hotel says: “I’ve been there several times, and even though it’s a bit esoteric, I think the word ‘place of power’ is appropriate.

Hexenbödele on the Ritten in South Tyrol

Near the APIPURA hotel rinner* on the Ritten in South Tyrol, there is a mystical place called “Hexenbödele”. It is a forest clearing with a larch tree in the middle. Legend says that devils and witches once danced here. One night, a young boy, wanting to prove his courage, visited the place. By morning, they found him lifeless—trampled to death by the witches. After this tragic event, they hung a crucifix in the larch tree to honor the boy, and since then, the witches are said to avoid the place.

In addition to the Hexenböderle, Karin Rinner from the hotel’s host family recommends the Waldner Eck and the Mitterstieler See viewpoint.

“I often visit the places of power around us because they are breathtaking sites where you can get a lot of strength.” – Karin Rinner

Stone circle in Seefeld

In Seefeld, where the sustainable Hotel Klosterbräu is located, there is a stone circle as a place of power. They built it on the Pfarrerbichl as a “magical place.” In 2000, they measured the constellation, and in 2007, they inaugurated the place of power. The 12 stones are meant to represent the 12 apostles, and in the middle, there is a way of the cross, starting from the parish church in Seefeld.

The Hotel Klosterbräu was built on the 500-year-old walls of an old monastery. The staff here likes to play with biblical names. The sunbathing area by the outdoor pool is called the “Garden of Eden.” And down in the vaults is the “Cellar of Sin“.

Places of natural power with our Green PearlsⓇ partners

As we researched the places of power among our Green PearlsⓇ partners, many emphasized the natural treasures of their surroundings.

The sea as an inexhaustible source of energy in Tenerife

At the OCÉANO Health Spa Hotel on the island of Tenerife, they believe that the Atlantic Ocean, which borders the hotel, is a powerful source of energy.

“The sea gives peace and strength. You can feel and experience this source of strength and find your own rhythm.” – OCÉANO Health Spa Hotel

The sea also plays an important role in the various health therapies offered by the hotel, such as “Ocean Balancing” or “Thalasso”.

Subjective places of power in East Tyrol

The Naturhotel Outside in Matrei in East Tyrol immediately named four places that, in their opinion, are suitable for subjective experience as a place of power.:

• Zedlacher Paradise: Here you can find larches that are more than 500 years old with a trunk circumference of up to seven meters. This place is especially beautiful in the fall..
• St. Nicholas Church: This 12th century Romanesque church is the oldest preserved sacred building in East Tyrol. Research by the University of Innsbruck proved that a Roman tomb stood here 1,800 years ago. It is a 45-minute walk to the church.
• Innergeschlöss: This is one of the most beautiful valley heads in the Eastern Alps. It offers a great view of the Großvenediger.
• Glacier River Isel: The last free-flowing glacial river in Austria is also within walking distance of the hotel.

The best way to experience the power of the East Tyrolean Alps is by hiking. The Outside Nature Hotel is an official hiking hotel located in the heart of the Hohe Tauern National Park. Find out more in our interview with hiking concierge Karin Steiner.

Place of Power Matterhorn

Switzerland’s most famous mountain, the Matterhorn, is also often described as a “place of power” – with no esoteric overtones. “The mountain is often seen as a place that gives people energy and inspiration,” reports the CERVO Mountain Resort in Zermatt. The nature-oriented design resort offers direct views of the Swiss landmark.

Recharge your batteries with a forest bath in South Tyrol

At the adults-only wellness hotel My Arbor*, the surrounding forest is mentioned. It not only provides “a picturesque backdrop for the hotel,” but also “a retreat full of peace and natural energy. My Arbor offers forest bathing at least once a week as part of its weekly program.

“Forest bathing is a wonderful way to reduce stress, clear the mind and harmonize body and soul. The soothing effects of the trees and pure mountain air are appreciated by many of our guests.” – My Arbor

The Riva Waterfalls in Sand in Taufers

From the energy-self-sufficient OLM Nature Escape* in Sand in Taufers, South Tyrol, it is only a 30-minute walk to the Reinbach Waterfalls. These are three spectacular waterfalls in the Tauferer Ahrntal. The upper and middle ones are about 50 meters high and the lower one is over 10 meters high.

According to OLM Nature Escape, the Reinbach Waterfalls are one of the most beautiful destinations in the area. Definitely an energizing place to recharge your batteries. The aparthotel itself is also a special place – the round building blends harmoniously into nature.

Do places of power work?

Many people visit a place of power and “recharge their batteries” – from nature, from pausing, from consciously pausing. There are scientists who are trying to scientifically prove the healing effects of nature (e.g. through forest bathing). There are already some indications, such as the reduction of stress hormones or a positive effect on the cardiovascular or immune system. However, we are talking about nature in general, not “places of power”.

The most important thing is that both “official” and purely subjective places of power are always a personal feeling in the sense of “that does me good”, “that gives me strength.” Visitors to places of power do not need scientific proof of this.

*CIN CODES Italien

IT021072A1L46PNBHX (Hotel Weihrerhof)

IT021072A1UOWUIDH4 (APIPURA hotel rinner)

IT021011A1AE4737IT (My Arbor)

IT021017B4CPKU6WK9 (OLM Nature Escape)

Save this article as an inspiration for your next journey!

Der Beitrag Discover places of power on your sustainable vacation erschien zuerst auf GREEN TRAVEL BLOG.

#1 Tip: candles, candles, candles

One hotel that truly deserves to be called “magical” is the Hotel Klosterbräu in Seefeld, Tyrol. Built on the site of a 500-year-old monastery, the sixth generation of the Seyrling family to run the hotel has preserved many of the old walls and vaults.

Candlelight creates the perfect atmosphere. Hotel Klosterbräu is famous for its daily candle-lighting, with around 500 candles. However, a number of these have now been replaced by LED lights – fire safety and sustainability here go hand in hand. Piano music and a fireplace in the hotel bar, as well as the morning mist over the “Garden of Eden,” also add to the special atmosphere.

The Lifestylehotel SAND on Germany’s Baltic coast also uses candles to create a magical atmosphere.

“At SAND, we love real candlelight, and lots of it. It creates a very special, relaxed and warm atmosphere in all areas. Through the large glass windows you can especially enjoy the “blue hour” in November.” – Lifestylehotel SAND

Side note: How environmentally friendly are candles?

That depends on what kind of candles you use. Most candles on the market contain paraffin, a byproduct of petroleum refining, and many also contain palm oil. Both are environmentally questionable ingredients, as we explain in our look at sustainable candles. Soy candles are sustainable and vegan. Unfortunately, they are not very affordable.

Tip: Buy eco-friendly candles and use them selectively. For an hour in the afternoon or evening and not as a permanent light source (which would also take away the “magic” effect). It is also better for the air quality.

#2 Tip: Decorate with natural materials

At the Naturresort Gerbehof in Friedrichshafen near Lake Constance and at the SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA in Bad Herrenalb, natural decorations create a charming atmosphere during the winter season. Twigs and pine cones are especially popular during the Christmas season.

Floral decoration at Keemala in Phuket

The Keemala in Phuket, Thailand is part of the “zero waste” movement and tries to avoid plastic throughout the resort. This includes decorations, of course. For weddings and other celebrations, Keemala uses only natural flower garlands and floral decorations that are completely biodegradable.

Keemala owes its “enchanted” atmosphere to the unique architectural style of its villas, which blend seamlessly into the Thai rainforest – it would be difficult for you to recreate such a setting at home 🙂

Side note: How sustainable is decorating with natural materials?

The more natural, the better! Once they’ve served their decorative purpose, colorful leaves, chestnuts, pine cones and fallen branches can go straight to the compost, where they will decompose into soil.

It is less sustainable to paint or spray the leaves, especially with glitter. Glitter is made of plastic and essentially “microplastics in a can”. The small glitter particles spread quickly and can easily enter the water system.

Tip: Avoid glitter and varnish when making decorations, and use natural twine to hold your natural decorations together-it can also be composted. And if you must use glitter, opt for organic glitter..

#3 Tip: Fireplace

The two German Green PearlsⓇ hotels Birkenhof***** Spa & Genussresort in the Upper Palatinate and STURM in the Rhön Biosphere Reserve both recommend an open fire for a magical atmosphere.

Of course, this is not easily done at home, and major renovations are not feasible. Especially if you live in a rented property. The only option then is to enjoy candles. But if you want to spend this winter in a cozy hideaway with a fireplace, you can find our recommendations here.

Side note: How sustainable is a fireplace?

According to the German Environmental Agency, you should avoid using a fireplace as a heat source because wood (trees) is a major CO2 sink. If you do occasionally use a fireplace, such as in a vacation home, make sure you use seasoned, untreated wood and do not use paper to light it.

#4 Tip: Firebowl

While you can not easily build a fireplace into your home, a fire bowl is affordable and provides a safe surface for a cozy fire in the backyard or on the patio.

It is also a popular way for our sustainable partners to create a magical winter atmosphere for their guests.

Hotel Das Rübezahl

Naturhotel Outside

Hotel Weihrerhof*

Side note: How environmentally friendly is an open fire in a fire bowl?

According to the German Federal Environmental Agency, there are many dangers to be aware of when using an open fire, and pollutants can also be released into the air – especially when burning green waste or shrubs.

Tip: Use only untreated and well-seasoned wood in the fire bowl, and be aware of other things such as wind, flying sparks, and proper behavior around the fireplace (especially when children are present).

#5 Tip: Garden lighting

Garden lighting can also help create a magical atmosphere. For example, Gut Guntrams near Vienna illuminates its Crystal Garden (which is already magical) and its water lily pond features underwater lighting.

Side note: How sustainable is garden lighting?

At night, darkness is best. In particular, insects and other nocturnal animals can be disturbed by lighting. For this reason, some regions have designated light-protected areas.

Tip: You don’t have to leave your lights on all night. When planning your garden lighting, make sure you can turn it off. Some solar garden plugs, for example, are not designed to be turned off. Then you can use the lighting on a limited basis (when you’re expecting guests, like a hotel) and turn it off when it’s no longer needed.

Tip: Colorful foods to beat the winter blues

We recently received a rather unusual tip from the LA VIMEA Vegan Hotel** in Naturns, South Tyrol:

“We create a magical atmosphere during the dreary fall months with the fantastic colors of our all-vegan menu!”

Colorful food and bright colors in general lift the spirits and create a special magic! We hope these tips help you look forward to the magical season of fall with positivity and anticipation, and whet your appetite for coziness! Do you have a tip for creating a magical atmosphere in your home? Let us know in the comments below!

CIN-Codes:

* CIN: IT021072A1L46PNBHX (Hotel Weihrerhof)

** CIN: IT021056A1J4HHYSU4 (LA VIMEA Vegan Hotel)

Save the article on Pinterest for your next sustainable winter vacation!

Der Beitrag Magical Hotels – 6 tips to create a magical atmosphere at home erschien zuerst auf GREEN TRAVEL BLOG.

This is the eleventh in our series of ‘Tips for a sustainable weekend getaway’. Every three weeks there will be a new green idea on our blog!

Welcome to Keemala – The best resort in Thailand

“Truly perhaps the best hotel in Thailand.”– Johnny Ward on his Blog OneStep4Ward about the Keemala

Travel budget in Thailand

Most of us don’t have an unlimited travel budget. A night at Keemala costs between US$400 and US$1,500, depending on which of the extravagant pool villas you choose, what additional services you use and the time of year.

But if you’re travelling on a budget and looking for cheaper accommodation and homestays (you can find out more about sustainable accommodation in our Green Travel Guide for Southeast Asia) while you explore the country, you can add Keemala as a luxury highlight to your trip. A weekend just to enjoy and be pampered. No sightseeing and no fear of missing out 😉 Because you’ve already done that.

This is what your sustainable luxury weekend in Thailand could look like

Keemala is not on the beach in Phuket, but tucked away in the hinterland – with 38 spectacular villas built into the tropical Thai forest. Each villa has its own pool and fantastic views of the sea or rainforest.

Friday – Arrival

As soon as you arrive, you will realise that you are not staying in just any hotel. You will be greeted with coconut tea and a butler waiting for you. He will take your bags to your villa and give you a short tour of the resort. You will immediately notice that there is almost no plastic, everything is made from natural materials from the region.

Once you have settled into your accommodation, take some time to explore the grounds with its enchanted forest, waterfalls, organic garden and other wonders. Welcome to Keemala!

In the evening you can dine at the “Mala Restaurant” and finish the day with a moonlit drink in your private pool.

Saturday – A day to enjoy

Start the morning with a sumptuous breakfast buffet that leaves nothing to be desired. Enjoy fresh fruit, some grown on the property, blended into a smoothie of your choice. There are also European classics such as freshly baked croissants. The dough takes four days to make and is folded 28 times by Mala’s kitchen team.

Afterwards you can use the resort’s gym or swim in the large communal pool.

“ The (communal) pool has such a beautiful setting. It feels like you’re deep in the Thai jungle, but with a swim-up bar and staff on hand with cold water and coffee.” – Johnny Ward

Spa treatment, yoga or cooking class

In the afternoon, take advantage of one of the resort’s many activities. These include

• Spa treatments at the Mala Spa (various massages and beauty treatments for individuals and couples)
• Cooking classes (where you first learn about typical Thai ingredients in the resort garden, then cook under supervision and for example learn how to make your own coconut milk – bookable daily, min. 2 people)

The resort also specializes in ‘holistic retreats’ with yoga and meditation, though these are 3- or 6-day packages. However, if you are interested, you can book a private yoga session (60 minutes) with one of the experienced teachers.

In the evening, another sumptuous dinner and your personal villa await.

Sunday – Departure

Before you check out, enjoy a final dip in your private pool and take time to savor your zero-waste breakfast.

Avoiding disposable products is part of Keemala’s commitment to sustainability. Instead of paper napkins, they use washable cloth napkins; water is only available in refillable bottles (which are always available to guests as a service) and at the buffet, small portions are served in hygienic glass containers. Not only is this better for the environment, it is also of much higher quality.

Keemala is owned by a family that has lived in Phuket for generations – not a common occurrence in Thailand. The villas also reflect different ‘tribes’ and reference Thai culture.

You will find that at Keemala, many details and small touches reflect the overall concept, making it simply perfect.

Save this post for your trip to Thailand!

Der Beitrag A weekend of sustainable luxury at Keemala in Phuket – This is what it could look like erschien zuerst auf GREEN TRAVEL BLOG.

In the beginning: “We are a package deal”

When a relationship is new, couples often do everything together while on vacation. Many think that’s the way it has to be. Or they’re so in love that it doesn’t even occur to them to do anything separately.

The romantic hotel Das Rübezahl in Füssen in the Allgäu can confirm this. “We specialize in couples,” the host family tells us, adding: “As a rule, all couples do everything together.” On our last visit, we learned that a marriage proposal happens almost every week! It’s no wonder that most of the couples there are practically inseparable.

Traveling with different preferences

This changes over time. At least for some couples I know (and I have been married for 16 years now). You get to know each other better, accept different preferences and views, trust each other more, and maybe are just a little bit more honest. You may have started out watching the Olympics together, but four years later you admit that you’re not really interested in that and would rather do something else. It can be the same with vacations. The important thing is that you don’t see it as a problem, but as an opportunity for each part of the relationship to maintain its own character.

A partnership is about giving and receiving 

In a partnership, there is time to spend together, time when one person does something just for the other, and time for oneself. Children, work, and other people come into the relationship, and successful couples come to terms and find their way. In everyday life and on vacation. (Not that I’m always that successful, but I’m just saying that in general 😉 )

These Green PearlsⓇ accommodations frequently host pairs with different interests

#1 Hotel Weihrerhof, South Tyrol – He can go hiking, she takes a sunbath on the lake

“We often have couples with different interests at the hotel,” says Klaus Pichler of Hotel Weihrerhof in South Tyrol. The family-run boutique hotel is located 1,200 meters above sea level on the shores of Lake Wolfsgruben, amidst the mountain panorama of the Ritten.

“ The man is usually the more active and goes hiking, biking, etc. The wife enjoys the stay at the Weihrerhof with short walks along the lake, on the sunbathing lawn or in the SeaSpa with unique treatments.” – Hotel Weihrerhof

#2 My Arbor near Bressanone/Brixen in South Tyrol – Individual time management

„From wellness and outdoor adventures to sports and relaxation, we offer a wide range of options to meet a variety of needs.“ – My Arbor

 My Arbor is a luxurious adults-only hotel nestled in the treetops with fantastic views of the Dolomites. Each week there is a varied program of guided hikes (skiing in winter), spa treatments, forest bathing, etc. to choose from. To see what such a program might look like, click here.

#3 Hotel Bella Vista Zermatt – Couples have a lot to talk about in the evening

Hotel Bella Vista is “definitely ideal” for couples with different preferences, says host Fabienne Anthamatten. Her family’s hotel in car-free Zermatt has a beautiful terrace with a fantastic view of the Swiss icon, the Matterhorn. Couples sit here in the evenings (or in the cozy lobby by the fire in winter) and talk about their day. One of them has usually been on an outdoor adventure which starts right outside the front door, while the other has been relaxing in the adults-only spa or exploring Zermatt.

#4 CERVO Moutain Resort Zermatt – A resort with a lot of possibilities

Also in Zermatt is the CERVO Mountain Resort, which consists of several wooden buildings. There are three restaurants, a spa area, a gym, a climbing wall… and the Alps, glaciers and Zermatt village shops are just outside the door.

„One person can ski during the day and the other can spend a day at the spa. In the evening, you can have dinner or après-ski together.“ – CERVO Mountain Resort 

#5 Summit Lodges Pfunds, Tyrol – One goes skiing, the other goes snowshoeing

Interestingly, at the Summit Lodges Pfunds vacation houses, it is also very common for couples to plan their excursion program separately, says owner Marco Spiss. Pfunds is a quiet and traditional community in Tyrol, perfect for a nature vacation with all the freedom you need.

“ It is often the case that one partner is on the slopes (Serfaus, Ischgl, Nauders) and the other prefers snowshoeing or simply walking on the many hiking trails in the area (especially the Tschey in Pfunds)” – Marco Spiss, Summit Lodges Pfunds

But the sustainable accommodation also offers plenty of opportunities for togetherness, such as a private sauna and an open fireplace that is stocked with firewood when you arrive.

#6 Hotel Klosterbräu, Tirol – Two activity guides to choose from

If you prefer to stay in a hotel in Tyrol, the Hotel Klosterbräu in Seefeld is a good choice in the region.

“[Holidays with different interests] are definitely possible with us, as our two activity guides Clemens and Thomas plan on different levels. This means that if the woman (or man) wants to climb a via ferrata and the man (or woman) prefers a morning walk, there is something for everyone.” – Hotel Klosterbräu

The hotel is also ideal if you want to take your children with you. There is the hotel’s own petting zoo “Siggis Sauhaufen” and child care nearby. There is also a large spa area – something for everyone.

#7 Biohotel Grafenast, Tyrol – Nature vacation – also with children

The Biohotel Grafenast in Pill is another hotel where you can enjoy a great vacation together as a couple or with your children and where there are different options for everyone. It is located high above the Tyrolean Inn Valley and has a fantastic view of the valley. Some of the 23 rooms are equipped as family rooms and depending on the season there is a special program for the children.

„We are a great place to combine different interests“ – Biohotel Grafenast

#8 Naturhotel Outside, East Tyrol – Combined vacation in the Alpine National Park

Our Green Pearls® partner, the Naturhotel Outside in the Hohe Tauern National Park in East Tyrol, suggests several possible “combos” for you:

1. Outdoor sports and wellness (a new nature SPA with heated outdoor pool and a Deferegger healing water pool will open at the end of December 2024)
2. Hohe Tauern National Park and gourmet vacation (the hotel’s restaurant has 3 Falstaff forks)
3. Relaxation and shopping in Lienz

#9 Hotel Luise, Erlangen – Sustainable city vacation in Bavaria

For a sustainable vacation in Germany, there are also some sustainable hotels where you are in good hands as joint individual travelers. For example, the Hotel Luise in Erlangen:

“ Erlangen is ideally located for travelers with a variety of interests. You can take a city vacation or head out into nature – no matter which adventure you choose, you can relax in our spa after an exciting day.” – Hotel Luise

City vacation: The hotel is centrally located in Erlangen and Nuremberg, Fürth, Bamberg, Lauf a. d. Pegnitz are nearby and easily accessible by train.

Culture: Erlangen has a lot to offer culture lovers. The ComicSalon Erlangen takes place every two years and the Poet*innen Fest takes place every year. Nuremberg offers the Imperial Castle, the German Museum and other cultural highlights.

Nature: If you prefer to be outdoors, explore Franconian Switzerland (where you can climb, swim, hike, bike, explore caves, and more) – you can even bike right from the hotel to the Tennenloher Forest Nature Reserve. There are wild horses, goats, sand dunes, moors and more to discover.

Find out more about how to spend your time in Erlangen in our blog article: “Insider tips for a sustainable weekend in Erlangen” 

#10 Birkenhof***** Spa & Wellness, Upper Palatinate – Enjoy sustainable luxury

Looking for something more luxurious? Then there is a truly exceptional gourmet hotel for sports, wellness and culinary enthusiasts on a hill in the Opferpfälzer Seenland. The 5-star Hotel Birkenhof is committed to renewable energy and e-mobility at the highest level. Speaking of high standards: It is also home to the 2-star restaurant Obendorfers Eisvogel”.

“We are very good at catering to different interests. We have a wellness and relaxation offer and we are a hotel in the middle of nature with hiking possibilities, water skiing in the lake area, golf and cycling.” – Lukas Obendorfer, Birkenhof***** Spa & Genussresort

#11 Klosterhof – Alpine Hideaway & Spa, Berchtesgadener Land – For couples who not only want different activities, but also different menus

At Hotel Klosterhof – Alpine Hideway & Spa, couples often order different meals, according to the host family. A popular variation is when one person is vegan and the other is not. In this case, there is an all vegetable “Kraut und Rüben” menu every evening.

There are often babymoon guests at the health hotel. Here the pregnant woman can participate in a special program while the father-to-be can do other things. In the evening you can enjoy the famous Barbarossa Mocktails together – each to your own taste.

#12 Naturresort Gerbehof, Lake Constance Region – Sporty nature vacation

Naturresort Gerbehof is the perfect place for you if you want to be surrounded by a natural, organic atmosphere. The sustainable hotel is located amidst the famous orchards of the Lake Constance region and is especially beautiful during the blossoming and apple harvest season.

“ We have opportunities for wellness, hiking, biking, sailing and surfing.” – Naturresort Gerbehof

#13 Lifestylehotel SAND – Vacation at the Baltic Sea

“ We are currently experiencing a huge increase in demand for offers for couples,” says Marion Muller, hostess of the Lifestylehotel SAND in Timmendorfer Strand. We described what such a weekend for two could look like in our blog article Baltic Sea for two.

The Adults Only Hotel offers several specials for couples. It is not necessary to do everything together with your partner. In this case, the hostess recommends the combination of the two offers “SANDromance” and “SANDstarnight”. This means ” Feel Good” for one and ” Outdoor Experience ” for the other.

#14 STURM in Mellrichstadt – Adventure and relaxation

At the sustainable Hotel STURM in Mellrichstadt in the Biosphere Reserve Rhön, most couples with different interests combine “adventure” and “relaxation”. Each partner can plan their day as they wish – one can go on an adventure tour and explore the surrounding forests, moors and caves, while the other relaxes with sauna sessions and massages.

„Perfect balance: each partner organizes the day according to his or her own wishes. End the day together with a delicious organic menu in the restaurant, followed by a drink in the lounge or in front of the fireplace.“ – STURM

Holidays for couples with different interests in Thailand, Italy, France and Nepal

#15 Keemala Villas Wonderland on Phuket – Everyone is allowed dream

Our Green PearlsⓇ partner, Keemala, on the Thai island of Phuket, has just been named “Best Resort in Thailand” and “One of the Best Hotels in the World” by the One Step 4Ward blog – after travel blogger Johnny Ward spent 18 years traveling the world.

He was there with his wife and they did everything together (yes, he just got married in 2021 – so it’s still fresh :-)). They even had their booked spa treatments moved to the same room. But you can also experience something on your own as a couple.

“Keemala caters to the needs of couples with different interests with our wellness and outdoor adventure themes.” – Keemala

Wellness: Spa treatments, yoga, wellness classes and mediation sessions

Culinary delights: Indulge in nutritious and wellness-oriented cuisine

Outdoor Adventure: Explore the rainforest and local wildlife on guided eco-tours. There are trails for all levels.

Water activities: Kayaking and Snorkeling

#16 Holidays at the Albergo Diffuso Relais del Maro in Liguria

How about the idyllic setting of a Ligurian village for your vacation? Borgomaro, in the hinterland of the coastal city of Imperia, is home to the Relais del Maro – an Albergo Diffuso spread over several houses in the village.

In the morning one person goes to the pool while the other sleeps in – later one person walks through the olive groves and tastes the famous Taggiasca olives while the other hires an e-bike from the reception to cycle along the coast. In the evening you will meet again for dinner and end your day with good food and good conversation.

#17 Couple vacation at the Green Spirit Hotels in Paris

If you are looking for an eco-friendly and personalized place to stay in Paris, we recommend Green Spirit Hotels: Le Pavillon, Hotel Malar and Hotel Amélie – all located in the lively 7th arrondissement and within walking distance of the Eiffel Tower, the Seine and other major attractions.

Because the Green Spirit eco-hotels are very small, you can’t do many things separately in the hotels themselves, says host Barbara Tascijevic with a laugh. But in the city of Paris, this is a matter of course!

#18 The Pavilions Himalaya – The Farm, Nepal – Safari and Yoga

Last but not least, The Pavilions Himalayas – The Farm Hotel also told us that couples with different interests are very welcome. The sustainable resort in the foothills of the Himalayas runs its own organic farm, helps farmers convert to certified organic farming, and donates a full 70 percent of its income to the local Right4Children project.

There are eco-tours to explore Nepal’s stunning nature, cultural temples and festivals, and safari tours. Alternatively, one of you could lounge by the pool at the resort or practice yoga with the local yoga guru.

As you can see, there are many ways to combine different vacation desires in one place. That way, you can both get your money’s worth and still spend your vacation together. Of course, going separately is also an option, but our interests at home aren’t that far apart, at least 🙂

What are your experiences? Would you like to do something on your own on vacation? Or have you maybe already been doing it for a long time? We look forward to your comments.

Save this article for your next vacation planning!

Der Beitrag Conflict issue: Vacationing as a couple with different interests erschien zuerst auf GREEN TRAVEL BLOG.

Sustainable vacation destinations near the equator

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

#1 The Maldives – 65 kilometers from the equator

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

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

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

#2 Indonesia – 555 km from the equator

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

By definition is the tropical rainy season

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

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

Holidays on the Canary Islands in October and November

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

Warm and dry

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

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

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

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

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

Sicily: Hot summers, mild winters

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

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

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

Traveling in times of climate change

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

The equatorial weather zone will shift

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

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

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

Balancing act

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

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

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

Mushrooms vs. meat – These are the advantages

According to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, the conventional meat industry is responsible for about 14.5 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions. Mushroom cultivation is a good alternative and has many other benefits:

• Carbon neutral food source: Although mushrooms emit methane, they increase the carbon uptake of trees and are therefore considered CO2 neutral.
• Little space required: Mainly due to the fact that mushrooms grow in vertical spaces and in some cases even underground.
• Rapid growth: Under optimal conditions, mushrooms grow in just a few weeks. You can harvest them all year round.
• Organic waste: Mushrooms can use organic waste as a growing medium and do not require fertilizers. This conserves resources and reduces waste.
• Low water consumption: Although mushrooms like a humid and warm climate, they require less water than most crops and much less than meat production.
• Versatile: Mushrooms grow in different climates and are all over the world.
• High in protein: Mushrooms are a nonfat source of protein. However, they are not equivalent to meat in this regard. However, if you include legumes in your diet, you will definitely get enough protein.

Are fungi plants?

Did you know: Science distinguishes between plants and fungi. Although they are generally assigned to botany (the plant world), according to the Max Planck Institute, they form a separate kingdom alongside animals and plants. The reason is that plants get their energy from light and carbon dioxide, while fungi get their energy from organic compounds.

Edible mushrooms therefore do not store CO2 in the same way as trees, but increase the CO2 reduction for our planet through their root symbiosis with trees. In 2023, a group of researchers argued that the production of edible mushrooms should be encouraged to sequester more carbon.

Thai oyster mushrooms as a meat substitute

The oyster mushroom, with its shell-like appearance, is native to Southeast Asia and loves tropical climates with high humidity. They grow in colonies on tree trunks. 

Thai people have been eating oyster mushrooms for a long time and use it as an ingredient in many dishes. Its function as a meat substitute originally came from the fact that the population often could not afford meat. As mushroom cultivation is cheap and easy, there are many farmers who make a living from it, as the Franco-German TV channel ARTE recently reported in a documentary.

Mushroom cultivation at Keemala

Our Green PearlsⓇ partner Keemala is located on the beautiful island of Phuket. The 38 villas (each with its own pool) are surrounded by a large forest and garden area where a variety of ingredients are grown for the resort’s cooking classes. In addition to herbs and vegetables, Keemala grows its own oyster mushrooms! If you are taking a cooking class, you can visit the mushroom farm, pick your own mushrooms and cook them fresh.

Chao Na Bowl with oyster mushrooms – Recipe from Keemala

Keemala also gave us their recipe for the popular “Chao Na Bowl”. It’s a Thai rice dish with vegetables, oyster mushrooms, anchovies and fish sauce (so it’s meat-free, but not vegan or vegetarian).

You can find the recipe here:

How sustainable chefs in Europe are using seasonal and regional mushrooms

The most popular mushroom in Europe is the porcini mushroom, which is especially common in spruce and mixed forests. It is one of the most protein-rich mushrooms (ahead of oyster mushrooms and button mushrooms) and therefore a good substitute for meat.

The Paradiso Pure.Living Vegan Hotel on the Seiser Alm uses porcini mushrooms in four ways

In July 2024, the Paradiso Pure.Living Vegan Hotel took the step from a purely vegetarian hotel to a 100% vegan hotel. No meat was ever served at the mountain hotel on the Seiser Alm in South Tyrol, but now all other animal products are banned as well. Both for reasons of animal kindness and sustainability.

The new kitchen concept developed by Greek vegan chef Aggeliki Charami in March 2024 has contributed significantly to this development. (We suggest you take a look at her Instagram account, which has over 13,400 followers and provides an interesting insight into the vegan gastrohype).

You can get mushrooms here in the form of porcini mushroom soup, for example. The trick is that they use porcini mushrooms, in four different forms in this dish: Roasted, ground, powdered, and broth. With chickpeas as an additional ingredient, the soup has another source of protein and is also very filling.

Click here for the Porcini Soup recipe

Naturhotel Outside: Handmade porcini tortelloni with home-picked mushrooms from East Tyrol

Nature surrounds the Naturehotel Outside, located in the Hohe Tauern National Park, South Tyrol. The sustainable hotel makes sure its food is sourced as locally as possible, and many of the mushrooms served in the restaurant are foraged by the hotel itself. “We mainly collect chanterelles and porcini mushrooms in the fall. We cook them right in our kitchen – fresh. Some of them we preserve for the winter,” says owner Daniel Ganzer.

One popular recipe is porcini tortelloni, for which you can find the recipe (including video instructions) in this blog post.

“Porcini mushrooms are everyone’s favorite” at Gut Guntrams 

About an hour’s drive from Vienna, Gut Guntrams is another Green PearlsⓇ partner offering special accommodations in nature. Fruits play an important role here, even more so than mushrooms. The stylish buildings made of local wood “float” above the fruit trees. The “Guntrams Ark” is dedicated to the preservation of old fruit varieties.

Mushrooms are on the menu, too. The owners like to go foraging themselves and also buy mushrooms that hunters bring in from the woods. Porcini mushrooms are a favorite of the owners and their guests.

Mushrooms au gratin as an appetizer

Tip from Gut Guntrams: Gratinate the mushrooms with Grana cheese, lemon and olive oil and serve as a starter.

OLM Nature Escape: “Our culinary chef knows all the mushroom places”

The chef of the newly opened OLM Nature Escape, Berni Aichner, forages for mushrooms himself and is known for finding the best “mushroom spots”. The circular aparthotel is located in Sand in Taufers, South Tyrol, and was built from the ground up as a sustainable, energy self-sufficient building.

There is a special culinary concept where you can book all meals (except the included breakfast) in a kind of modular system. OLM Nature Escape also organizes fine dining events with Berni Aichner and star chef Theodor Falser.

Berni Aichner’s porcini carpaccio with organic olive oil and coarse salt is particularly popular.

Eco-Hotel Okelmann’s uses cultivated organic mushrooms

Picking wild mushrooms is not enough to feed the world’s growing population – they also need to be cultivated. Brinkers Pilzdiele in Asendorf, Germany, shows how this can be done according to the guidelines of organic farming. Located just a few miles from the family-run Hotel Okelmann’s, it has long been a trusted supplier of organic mushrooms.

Info: Mushrooms may only be collected for “personal use”. (In some countries this is specified in kilograms (e.g. Austria 2 kg), in others (e.g. Germany) it is less precise. In any case, hotels are not legally allowed to simply pick mushrooms from the forest for their own use, but must obtain a permit or buy the mushrooms.

Hotel Restaurant Heimatliebe is also perfect for celebrations! The two sisters Maren and Kristin will lovingly and professionally take care of the right setting for your event, which can of course be completely meat-free.

Inspired? Save the article on Pinterest!

Der Beitrag Mushrooms as a meat substitute? A sustainability check on the trend and where to try it erschien zuerst auf GREEN TRAVEL BLOG.

Traveling is a luxury

Old luxury, new luxury

“an expensive, lavish, excessive, and self-indulgent expenditure of money or time on things considered pleasurable or enjoyable”.

Intangible values are part of the new luxury

New luxury is linked to the post-materialist perspective. It suggests that in modern societies, the material needs are so well met that immaterial needs become more important. One indication of this is that political parties increasingly represent “interests” and “values.

The myth that sustainability and luxury cannot go hand in hand is a persistent one, based on the idea that sustainability equals sacrifice,” explains Green Pearls® founder Stefany Seipp in an interview with Marrybylen, a sustainable wedding and event planning company. Fine dining can be local, a spa treatment can be relaxing with natural cosmetics, and amazing hotel suites can be built with eco-friendly materials.

Sustainable luxury vacations at Green PearlsⓇ accommodations

Time is seen as a modern, intangible luxury and is perceived by many hoteliers from their guests. The whole slow movement with slow travel and slow food  is part of the “time trend”. Travelers are looking for a balance to their otherwise stressful lives.

Culinary indulgence is also part of the luxury world. Gourmet travel is all the rage – although the classic “caviar and champagne” luxury is outdated. Instead, the buzzwords are creative, sustainable and local, and there is a growing demand for vegan alternatives.

When it comes to a vacation of pure indulgence, the Birkenhof***** Spa & Genussresort in Germany’s Upper Palatinate Lake District is a top address. The hotel has five stars and a restaurant with two Michelin stars. While luxury and spoiling are the name of the game, the hotel is also committed to sustainability, generating its own green energy through a combined heat and power plant and solar panels.

Another hotel known for its culinary delights is the Waldhotel Fletschhorn in Saas Fee, Switzerland. This small boutique hotel has been known for decades for its exquisite – and regional – cuisine, and is popular with non-hotel guests as well. The large wine cellar is also renowned. Guests receive wine recommendations with each course of their meal.

If you are ever in the beautiful German city of Freiburg im Breisgau, we recommend the Green City Hotel Vauban as a place to stay. This ecologically and brightly decorated hotel with a green facade employs people with physical and mental disabilities as an integration company. Thanks to its central location, you can reach all sights quickly and environmentally friendly by public transport.

Swim, sauna, steam, then relax in the quiet room. Maybe even a massage or a facial? For many, it means treating themselves to something special. Wellness is clearly a luxury, especially as clean, fresh water becomes an increasingly scarce and valuable resource worldwide. Sustainable hotels are careful not to waste excessive amounts of water in their spa areas and bathrooms.

The Hotel Luise in the Bavarian city of Erlangen takes a particularly sustainable approach. The “regenerative” rooms have “astronaut showers” that filter the water you use and pump it directly out of the shower head as new shower water. This way, you can take a shower without a guilty conscience.

For a truly expansive spa experience, look no further than the Lifestyle Hotel Zum Kurfürsten in Germany’s Mosel wine region. There are three pools and a natural swimming pond (no chemicals). The spa area covers a total of 4,000 square feet and includes several saunas, a forest infrared sauna, and steam rooms. There are also treatment rooms where you can be treated by TCM therapists.

Health

“Health is the new wealth,” they say. Healthiness and longevity are clearly among the immaterial trends also present in the travel industry. We owe the existence of “grand hotels” to the “spa hotels” that bourgeois families treated themselves to as a luxury in the 19th century. Today, however, it is no longer just the classic health spa guests who are doing something for their health, but a general trend.

One such sustainable health hotel is the OCÈANO Health Spa Hotel on the Spanish volcanic island of Tenerife. With fitness, thalassotherapy and healthy eating programs, you can enjoy a vacation while boosting your health.

Finally, we return to our starting point: Travel is a luxury in itself. Imagine, for example, a trip to Nepal. At our Green PearlsⓇ partner, The Pavilions Himalayas – The Farm, you will find yourself amidst the fantastic panorama of the famous Himalayas and can explore temples with local guides or go on a wildlife safari where you might even encounter a wild tiger!

This lodge is unique in that it was created to introduce local farmers to organic farming. The hotel is committed to the local community as well as the environment and groundwater protection, as organic farming does not use pesticides.

So here is another symbiosis of travel, luxury, and sustainability.

What is your personal definition of luxury? We would love to hear in the comments!

Want to show this article to friends or family later? Save it on Pinterest!

Der Beitrag What is luxury? A concept in flux – and in harmony with sustainability? erschien zuerst auf GREEN TRAVEL BLOG.