Sustainable destinations? Is there really such a thing as a sustainable destination? Well, yes. Sustainable tourism refers to traveling with the commitment to protecting natural and cultural heritage while improving the lives of local people. This means traveling to less exploited destinations, where the tourism industry isn't quite active and local economies are still based on individuals. Places where rivers, lakes, animals and all kinds of nature reserves co-exist in harmony with people, in a more traditional way of life. So, by visiting sustainable destinations, not only you get to see amazing unexploited locations and experience traditional lifestyles, but as well you support local economies in need. And all this while traveling the eco-friendliest way possible. Motivated enough? Either way, we made a list of four great sustainable destinations you can visit.
Flinders Chase National Park
As National Geographic says "The Australian state is home to more nature reserves and parks than any of its peers and sets the pace for renewable energy across the continent, and you've got a surefire eco-traveler's dream destination on your hands. " Can't get any better, can it?
Osa Peninsula
Costa Rica cared for sustainable tourism before anyone else. And while mass tourism have began in this area, threatening to spoil the eco-party, the Central American nation still earns its keep as a global green-travel icon.
Mount Rinjani
A community- based trekking project run in the area can get you see views like this one. With local villagers as guides, the expedition to Rinjani’s 12,000-foot-plus summit, which is Indonesia’s second highest peak, allows visitors to see thick tropical forests rich in flora, bird life, and butterflies.
Kumano Kodō
Japan's traditional villages, for more than a thousand years, have been not only a place for nature lovers, but as well forJapanese spiritual seekers who regarded the mountains as holy. Today, it is still accesible with the help of a handful of eco-minded tourism operators that offer guided walks through the cedar forests and rugged hillsides that are typical in this area.