Attaining Sustainability, Maintaining Luxury: Tips for Travel Accommodations

Oct 24

Whether you’re checking into a high-end hotel or renting a private villa, you can enjoy the finer things while remaining mindful of your environmental footprint.

Here are a few tips to help you plan a getaway that both you and the planet will appreciate.

Find Certified Accommodations

Many luxury hotels embrace sustainability by earning certifications like LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) or Green Key. These certifications are a good indicator that the property is committed to reducing its environmental impact. Look for hotels that prioritize energy efficiency, water conservation and waste reduction — all while offering the plush amenities you’re after. Other sustainable accommodation certifications include:

EarthCheck
Green Globe
Travelife
Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method (BREEAM)
Green Seal
Rainforest Alliance Certification

Opt for Locally-Owned and Operated Accommodations

Instead of booking with big chains, consider staying at locally owned eco-lodges or boutique hotels. These establishments often source locally produced food, use eco-friendly materials and reinvest profits into the local community. Plus, they offer a more authentic experience, giving you a taste of the local culture and environment.

Say Yes to Renewable Energy-Powered Properties

Luxury hotels that use renewable energy, like solar or wind, are a win for the planet. Some high-end resorts even produce their own energy on-site, allowing you to relax in style knowing sustainable sources will power your stay.

Prioritize National Park Stays

Staying near or within national parks isn’t just an incredible way to experience natural beauty — it’s also a way to contribute to conservation efforts. Many accommodations within national parks are designed to operate in harmony with their surroundings, offering eco-luxury while supporting the park’s long-term sustainability goals.

For example, China’s Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, known for its breathtaking sandstone pillars that inspired the floating mountains in Avatar, offers nearby luxury stays that immerse you in nature without sacrificing comfort. Plus, there are also opportunities to experience attractions like the Bailong Elevator — the tallest outdoor elevator in the world — standing at 1,070 feet tall.

Another example is the Kruger National Park in South Africa, renowned for its wildlife and stunning landscapes. However, it’s also home to several eco-friendly lodges. You can relax in lavish suites, indulge in gourmet meals and enjoy private safari tours, all while knowing your stay contributes to the park’s conservation efforts.

Indulge in Farm-to-Table Dining

Sustainability extends beyond the lodging and into your dining choices. When possible, opt for hotels or resorts that offer farm-to-table dining. Locally sourced, organic food tastes fresher, supports regional farmers and reduces the carbon emissions involved in transporting ingredients long distances. Many luxury resorts now feature on-site gardens or work directly with nearby organic farmers to craft their menus.

Stay in Eco-Luxury Villas

If you value privacy, eco-friendly villas perfectly balance sustainability and high-end living. These properties often have features like rainwater harvesting, natural cooling systems and even private gardens.

Check Water Conservation Efforts

The typical American family uses roughly 300 gallons of water per day, and even more in drier parts of the country. One of the easiest ways to identify a sustainable accommodation is by looking at its water-saving practices. Luxury hotels often make a point of advertising their conservation efforts. This may look like:

The use of low-flow toilets, faucets and showerheads
Allowing guests to opt out of daily towel and linen changes
Using graywater or borehole water for irrigation
Using energy-efficient laundry practices
Landscaping with drought-resistant plants

Explore Off-Grid Locations

If you’re a traveler looking for something truly unique, consider staying in an off-grid accommodation. These remote luxury cabins or tiny homes often run on solar power, use composting toilets and offer a chance to disconnect from the real world. You get the best of both worlds — high-end comfort while treading lightly on the planet.

Support Hotels With Carbon Offset Programs

Some hotels offer carbon offset programs, allowing you to balance out the carbon emissions from your stay by supporting environmental projects such as reforestation or renewable energy development. This is a great way to enjoy luxury without increasing your carbon footprint.

Enjoy the Finer Things in Life, Consciously

Traveling in style doesn't have to come at the expense of the environment. By making mindful accommodation choices, you can maintain your opulent preferences while ensuring a more sustainable future for the planet.

Sea Going Green provides services to luxury hotels and resorts to help them lower their environmental footprint, while offering one-of-a-kind experiences to guests. Want to know more? Schedule a discovery call.