5 Eco-Friendly Destinations for the Green Traveller

It’s the June holidays and many are thinking of where to go for their vacation. June is also the month where World Environment Day and World Oceans Day occur, offering the perfect opportunity to take a step back and consider the impact we have on Mother Earth as we embark on our adventures around the world. While it is hard to cut down on our travels altogether, let us make conscious, responsible decisions that are sustainable – so that we can minimise our carbon footprint and preserve the natural as well as cultural landscapes for many years to come.

Check out the list below for some eco-friendly destinations and activities you can consider for your upcoming trip! Not only do these locations offer initiatives for guests to actively take part in, but they also play a big role behind-the-scenes in contributing to a healthier, greener earth.

Eco-friendly hot spring bath at Lake Taupo, New Zealand

At Hilton Lake Taupo, one can experience nature at its best. Nestled amidst picturesque rolling mountains, the hotel not only boasts breathtaking views of New Zealand’s largest lake, but also keeps its carbon footprint low by leveraging natural resources around it. The neighboring Onekenek Thermal Valley is an excellent source of natural gases, and is exactly what the property harnesses to heat up its pool, showers and spa in their Heritage Wing. Be sure to take a dip, and pamper yourself in this man-made hot spring!

Cut down food waste in Sydney, Australia

Located in the heart of the bustling metropolis, Hilton Sydney offers the best in comfort and convenience. While enjoying the luxurious amenities, you’ll be heartened to know that the hotel really goes the extra mile to remain sustainable, even when no one’s looking! Aside from initiatives like introducing biodegradable cutlery and installing LED lights in the lobby and ballroom, they are also a champion in food waste minimisation – having partnered with the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) to track their food waste and adopt new methods to reduce it further. In addition, they regularly donate food surplus to charity organisations, so these high-nutrient, quality foods don’t go to waste.

Keep the beaches clean in Bali, Indonesia

Honestly, who doesn’t love Bali? With its endless coasts, sunny weather and relaxed atmosphere, there’s no doubt it’s the perfect beach destination. However, even this paradise can get sullied, with tourists leaving behind plastic waste that ends up washed up on the beachfront. To combat this and prevent further pollution, Conrad Bali Resort and Spa, alongside Hilton Bali Resort, took part in an island-wide cleanup initiative which cleared over 30 tons of plastic waste! The beaches have never been so pristine. If you are lucky, you may be able to take part in one of these cleanups on your next trip, and play your part for the environment as well.  Of course, be sure not to leave your own trash behind!

Sustainable dining in Singapore

Foodies unite! We all know that food is a big part of the travel experience, but it can be difficult to find quality dishes that are sourced and produced sustainably. In the food haven of Singapore, head right on down to Verde Kitchen at Hilton Singapore for an authentic farm-to-table experience. All ingredients have been certified sustainable, and some are even grown at the property’s very own vertical garden! In conjunction with World Oceans Day, the Verde Kitchen is running a special “Pick the Right Catch” promotion from now till 30 September. It promotes sustainable seafood dining that is full of natural flavours – featuring refreshing options like sesame crusted, MSC-certified U.S. scallops, almond-crusted ASC-certified salmon, and MSC-certified nonya-style New Zealand rockling fish, among others. You definitely won’t be disappointed.

Or head to Bollywood Veggies where you can also engage in farm tours, get a farm-to-table experience as well as be part of the natural fertilisation process when you visit their outhouse. They also do have cooking classes suitable for children as young as 5 so that the whole family can have a fun and green activity to do together!

Go #plasticfree in Manila, Philippines

The #nostraws movement is going strong, but Hilton Manila has taken it one step further with its mission to cut down on all plastic! Aside from eliminating all plastic straws, complimentary drinking water in guest rooms is packaged in reusable glass bottles, and there are no plastic wrappings on slippers and laundry, among others. It’s certainly a good step forward, and a sobering reminder that we really don’t need to use that much plastic in our daily lives.

The next time you plan a trip, be sure to do your research and pick destinations that align with your values. You can definitely have the holiday of your dreams, while still being responsible and sustainable at the same time. Have a great, green trip!

Photos: Conrad Bali Resorts and Hilton Hotels