Essential tips for conscious travel

In the face of the hospitality industry’s resurgence, it’s not just about the bounce back, but the bounce forward. We’re not just returning to the old ways, but embracing new, greener, and more sustainable practices. A shining beacon in this green revolution is none other than Radisson RED Cape Town, a playful bastion of hospitality excellence that is nevertheless serious about sustainability.

By Leonie Andereya, Radisson RED Cape Town curator

Since its doors swung open in 2017, Radisson RED Cape Town has proudly held the prestigious Green Key certification, a testament to their unwavering commitment to eco-friendly practices and a greener industry overall.

The Green Key certification, operated by the Foundation for Environmental Education, is a leading standard for excellence in environmental responsibility and sustainable operation within the tourism industry. It's awarded to businesses that adhere to strict environmental criteria in their premises and operations.

Choosing to stay at a hotel with environmental certifications like the Green Key label implies an active role in environmental preservation. Such accreditations reflect a genuine commitment by these establishments to environmental sustainability and their local community. The hotel industry is making strides towards greener operations, and your support for these eco-conscious establishments helps encourage this positive trend.

As we continue to explore the world, it’s essential to do so responsibly. Here are some tips for green travel:

Every day is beach day

Skip heading to a mall for a shopping spree: an eco-friendlier choice is to drop out from hyper-consumerism, take some you-time, and simply mellow out at one of Cape Town’s world-famous beaches. Renowned for their immaculate condition, these are public spaces where travellers and locals alike immerse themselves in the elements, revelling in the restorative tranquillity of sun and sea. Moreover, the pristine beaches of Cape Town testify to the power of proactive governance and robust multi-stakeholder discussions. This inspiring world-class level of environmental custodianship is not a happy accident, but the result of collective, society-wide efforts. Volunteers from various groups –including school learners and corporate groups – regularly participate in beach cleanups, demonstrating a shared commitment to preserving the natural beauty of our coastlines.

Goodbye plastic!

Cape Town is home to several pioneering zero-waste stores and plastic-free shopping experiences. V&A Waterfront’s spaZa store, which offers functional everyday household items guided by environmental kindness and the upliftment of people, is just a few minutes’ stroll from Radisson RED. Nude Foods, one of the innovators driving the bring-your-own-container grocery market craze, is also conveniently situated nearby in the city centre. Intrepid conscientious foodies wanting to explore further-a-field should check out Shop Zero in Woodstock, and

Muizenberg’s Faithful to Nature, which boasts eco-friendly, organic, animalcruelty-free toiletries.

Go local

Supporting local goods and services is a sustainable choice that reduces carbon footprints associated with international freight, while also stimulating the local economy. This principle aligns with the growing ethos in the hospitality industry to actively contribute to the communities they serve.

Cape Town is rich in opportunities for visitors to engage with local businesses. A wealth of unique experiences awaits within Cape Town’s famously vibrant farm market scene. Route 44, Oranjezicht City Farm Market, and Lourensford Night Market are just a few of the city’s vibrant hubs. We encourage visitors to go and have a taste of real South African culture, all the while supporting small-scale regional farmers and artisans.

Use public transportation

Whenever possible, use public transportation, walk, or bike. These methods are not only more sustainable, but also allow you to experience the destination from a different perspective. Cape Town’s MyCiti system integrates bus, taxi, and train-based transport options — all of which save on fuel through vehicle pooling, as well as allow you to be fully immersed in the Mother City’s authentic vibe as you explore.

Respect nature

Leave natural places as you found them. Avoid disturbing wildlife and always dispose of waste properly. Learn about the environmental issues facing the places you visit. This knowledge can help you make more informed decisions and respect the unique cultures and environments that you encounter.

At Radisson Hotel Group, we’re committed to green practices across all our properties. This includes initiatives such as reducing water usage, implementing energyefficient technologies, and promoting recycling and waste reduction. We also engage in responsible sourcing and support local communities through various initiatives.

Green travel is not just a trend, but an imperative for the health of the planet. By making conscious travel and tourism choices, we can all contribute to a more sustainable and equitable world. Whether you’re a hotelier or a traveller, every step towards sustainability counts. Let’s embrace greener hospitality and save the planet together.

Who is Leonie Andereya ?

With over 12 years of hospitality expertise under her proverbial belt, curator (an embellished title for general manager) Leonie Andereya has continued the success which the hotel has enjoyed since its launch in September 2017. When not running an award-winning hotel, Leonie can be found curating world-class strategies to turn RED green, scaling Lion’s Head, running after two young children and writing children’s books. Universally, it’s well-known that long working hours are synonymous with the hospitality industry, but she instils in her team a sense of fun, belonging and purpose. “My team’s happiness is of paramount importance to me. I want them to be happy and to enjoy their lives, both inside and outside of work.” Leonie’s resume lists invaluable work experience in zhoozh establishments such as the Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts and the Savoy Hotel.