Green Accommodations: Booking Sustainable Stays for your Holiday

Sustainable travel options are becoming a more pressing need for travelers as concern for our planet increases. The Sustainable Travel Report 2023 contained insights gathered from more than 33,000 travelers across 35 countries and territories, that highlights a dilemma where people feel potentially forced to choose between cutting costs and being more mindful about making more sustainable travel choices.

The report highlighted the growing popularity of eco-accommodations among travelers, as 65% of respondents confirmed that they would feel better about staying in a particular accommodation if they knew it had a sustainable certification or label. In addition, 59% would like to filter their accommodation options for those with a sustainable certification next time they book. Furthermore, travelers are actively seeking accommodations that prioritize sustainable practices, such as energy-efficient infrastructure, recycling programs, and locally sourced amenities.

Sites like Booking.com and Expedia have a variety of great deals on accommodations as well as flights, car rentals, and attractions – making them a convenient option. There are numerous rating systems, certifications, and criteria that might be followed by hotels and other types of accommodation facilities. One way to distinguish an eco-friendly accommodation is to see if they are taking visible and viable steps to reduce their environmental impact.

Hilton Labriz Resort & Spa, Silhouette Island, Seychelles – The Silhouette Island is made up of 93% National Park and is surrounded by the largest National Marine Park in the country. The implementation of a state-of-the-art water filtration system which provides water in reusable glass bottles for guests and their organic, pesticide-free garden has reduced the resort’s energy and water consumption levels by 20% (so far). Solar-powered panels have also been fitted to all the buggies which staff and guests use to travel around the island.

Grootberg Lodge, Namibia – A 100% community owned venture in Palmwag where profits directly benefit the local #Khoadi//Hoas people. Grootberg’s surrounding conservancy was initially established to combat illegal hunting and human-wildlife conflict.

Emboo River Camp, Kenya – Emboo River is positioned in the heart of Kenya’s Maasai Mara. It is the perfect spot to explore this spectacular ecosystem and spot all its wildlife. The camp has the first full fleet of Electric Safari Vehicles in the East Africa. The Electric Safari Vehicles are silent, 100% solar powered, can take guests on full day game drives.

Mosetlha Bush Camp & Eco Lodge, South Africa – With no electricity or showers, and only an old ‘donkey boiler’ for heating water, this family-run camp in Madikwe Game Reserve offers the lightest of footprints. It’s named after the local Setswana word for the weeping wattle tree.

Tongabezi Lodge, Zambia – The lodge is powered by solar energy with paraffin lamp supplements and the wastewater system pump is also solar-powered. All the local bush guides and lodge staff are upskilled in environmentally friendly practices.

1. Reduced environmental impact: These lodges often utilize renewable energy sources, practice water conservation, and incorporate sustainable waste management.

2. Support for local communities: Many eco-friendly accommodations are built and staffed by locals, ensuring that your stay directly benefits the community.

3. Immersive experiences: These accommodations often offer unique experiences like organic farming, wildlife conservation activities, and guided eco-tours.

4. Connection with nature: Stay in harmony with nature in serene locations that leave minimal impact on the environment

“Travel can be a force for good and travelers themselves are proving to be today’s changemakers, adopting more sustainable travel habits and seeking responsible experiences. We are listening and together with our partners across the industry, we are leading positive change and examining every part of the trip to support travelers and benefit local communities and environments. More sustainable travel is an investment for the world, and we are committed to making it easier for everyone to experience travel in a more mindful and responsible way, no matter where they are on their sustainability journey.” said Glenn Fogel, CEO of Booking.com.

Booking.com 2023 Sustainable Travel Report (full report in pdf)