SUSTAINABLE TRAVEL FOR ECO-FRIENDLY TRAVELERS

Ecotourism is not simply traveling responsibly for the sake of the environment – that’s only part of it. The opportunity to visit a natural destination, while respecting the environment and aiming to improve the wellbeing of locals is essentially the ethos of ecotravel. It’s a unique value proposition to enjoy a vacation, while being a steward of conservation and responsible travel. The idea that sustainable travel experiences all look and feel the same is a misconception that doesn’t do justice to the variety of destinations, activities and accommodations out there. From endless sea and sky views with contemporary food and drink programs, to tropical rainforest spa treatments between outdoor adventures, there really is something for everyone to get excited about.

Imagine luxury and adventure as nature intended, and feel right at home with the relaxed mountain lifestyle. The Lodge at Blue Sky in Utah, 35 minutes from Salt Lake City airport, was designed with deep reverence for nature’s beauty – and does not disappoint – showcasing contemporary design against undeveloped surroundings. With an exclusive setting on 3,500 acres of lush, untamed landscape, guests can choose from three distinct accommodation styles on the property, each celebrating the unique elements of the natural environment they’re situated: Sky Lodge, Earth Suites, or Creek Houses. Guests are encouraged to connect meaningfully with the environment through the organic architecture, farm-to-table cuisine, a wellness sanctuary and The High West Whiskey Distillery, which lovingly crafts small batch whiskey from grain to glass. The property is deeply committed to environmental and community issues and has a strong social purpose initiative, that includes efforts to prohibit single-use plastics, mindfully source local materials, run a regenerative farm, implement sustainable practices for recreational activities like clay shooting, fund emergency care for uninsured people in neighboring communities, foster rescue horses and manage a wastewater treatment facility. All of the sights and activities available at Blue Sky stoke the soul of guests, visit after visit and cultivate a rich appreciation for mountain heritage.

If water is more your element, perhaps a surprising island getaway is the ideal plan…it just may not be what you’d first expect. Fogo Island Inn is on an island, off an island, at one of the four corners of the Earth. Are you still following? Situated along Iceberg Alley, the Inn delivers genuine, place-specific hospitality in a stark, unforgiving Newfoundland wilderness but offers an undeniable charm for which it’s affectionately earned the moniker “salty Narnia”. All rooms and suites feature floor-toceiling windows opening onto the North Atlantic, and furnished with handmade luxury amenities by locals. Snowmobiling, snowshoeing, berry picking, foraging, hiking, fishing, watching icebergs or listening to local music, are just some of the ways to truly experience the island. Each season provides a different perspective for getting to know the place, and perhaps even yourself.

If warmer climates yield the most enjoyable getaways, Costa Rica is a perfect beginning for ecotourists. Nayara Gardens provides an authentic rainforest experience in the heart of the Arenal Volcano National Park with the environment and social responsibility at the heart of everything they do. With three properties set in a lush paradise – Nayara Gardens, Nayara Springs and Nayara Tented Camp – each has views of one of the most active volcanoes in the world, and all are luxurious accommodations in their own right. Whether it’s a bungalow, private villa or glamorous tent situation, all lodgings are designed to immerse guests in this rainforest setting (think outdoor showers, pools, terraces and Jacuzzis), and discover the natural tropical delights that await. The private and tranquil surroundings make this a popular choice for couples and families alike, and the resort reinvests into the rainforest, planting thousands of trees to preserve the natural habitat for sloths, monkeys and birds. Staff are all local and provide “heartfelt hospitality” to all guests, hoping to share Costa Rica through their own eyes. This is most definitely a natural wonder where travelers can savor peace and quiet while marveling at the surrounding flora and fauna.

Encounters with the places, people, and culture that make a destination special are certainly authentic and memorable aspects of travel and natural extensions of ecotravel. Experiencing things as they were, as they are and as they will be for years to come – with little interference and influence – is a rarity, but most definitely worth exploring.

For more information about these, or other sustainable travel experiences, reach out to your SELECT advisor.