SustainableTrip.org Blog

Making a Difference: Hidden Valley Inn

Fri, 04 May 2012 09:52:00 -0700

This month's Making a Difference award winner is Hidden Valley Inn, a luxury eco-resort set high in the Mountain Pine Ridge in the Cayo District of Belize. This secluded forest escape has miles of well-groomed trails as well as its own restaurant, massage rooms, and yoga studio. We spoke with Raul Rodriguez to find out more about this beautiful eco-chic hotel.

Q. Is Hidden Valley Inn a good place for travelers who want to see exotic plants and wildlife?

RR: Yes! Hidden Valley Inn is dedicated to nature conservation. We are located on a 7,200 acre private reserve comprised of two ecosystems: Caribbean pine forest and tropical broadleaf jungle. In our forests, you can find numerous cascades, pools, and waterfalls networked by over 90 miles of trails and roads.

Hidden Valley Inn is involved with multiple wildlife projects in the region. The first orange-breasted falcons born in captivity, five females and one male, were released by the Peregrine Fund on Hidden Valley Inn's private reserve in 2007. Other animals that live in the forest include jaguars, ocelots, and peccaries--and look out for otters swimming in the quiet streams on the property.

Q. What can your guests do to learn about local Belizean culture and customs?

RR: Travelers can visit nearby areas that reflect the multicultural communities of Belize. The villages of Cristo Rey and San Antonio are home to predominantly Mayan descendants, while the inhabitants of Georgeville and Progresso are of mixed Creole and Mestizo descent and the Barton Creek farming area is occupied by an Amish community. Further down the Western Highway is Spanish Lookout, where the Mennonites reside and farm.

We have a "Meet the People Tour" that takes guests into these areas to see, feel, touch, smell, and taste the Belizean way of life. Our guides are knowledgeable in Belizean culture and customs. Guests participate in educational tours conducted by local guides and attend cultural fairs and events. During these tours, you can support the local communities by purchasing local food, fresh produce, and arts and crafts.

Q. Why sustainability is so important for your hotel and what noteworthy sustainable initiatives are you carrying out?

RR: Sustainability is the mainstay of our tourism products, hotel, and tours. We believe that protecting the natural environment and its diverse ecosystems will be a great benefit to the tourism industry of Belize for generations to come.

We have environmentally-friendly procedures in place to minimize waste. We use eco-friendly chemicals and products from reputable suppliers as well as fresh local produce instead of imported packaged goods. We monitor our electricity, fuel, and water usage and have an eco-friendly garbage disposal system.

We rely on locals for our business and employ the majority of our employees from the surrounding villages. By economically empowering these residents, they in turn take ownership of the natural resources and are motivated to protect the wildlife and biodiversity of the area.

We offer educational tours and excursions to students from two local schools in Cristo Rey and San Antonio Village. We have also donated a photocopier to the Cristo Rey school and are in the process of assisting with the creation of a computer lab for the San Antonio school.

Q. Of all of the hotels in the Mountain Pine Ridge area, what makes Hidden Valley Inn special?

RR: Hidden Valley Inn is situated on a large property unrivaled by any hotel in the area, offering ultimate privacy and seclusion. Those in the mood for some romance can even reserve certain waterfalls and cascade pools for the day. With only 12 rooms on this vast property, privacy and a focus on wellness can be guaranteed. You can take advantage of our vast trail network, three yoga platforms, and our holistic spa, complemented by qualified local guides and employees that will bend over backwards for their guests.

Cloud Forests: A Natural Wonderland

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 10:27:00 -0700

Walking through a cloud forest can make you feel like you're in a fairy tale. Trees covered in moss and vines seem to almost glow in the white mist. Everywhere you look, from the forest floor up to the canopy, is bursting with green vegetation in a vast array of textures. You might see a sloth hanging peacefully from a gnarled tree branch, or a brightly colored butterfly flitting by. If you're really lucky (or have a skilful local guide) you might catch a glimpse of a jaguar or ocelot loping silently through the foliage. Cloud forests also provide ideal habitat for many spectacular species of birds, including the elusive resplendent quetzal, making them a top destination for bird watching.

Though cloud forests occur in tropical or subtropical zones, the temperature is relatively cool, usually not exceeding 68 degrees Fahrenheit (20 degrees Celsius). The pervasive mist and dense canopy softens the sunlight, giving this type of forest a mysterious, enchanting quality – in fact, in some places they are called "elfin forests." Scroll through the photos below and you'll understand why!

Check out these sustainable hotels located in cloud forests:

Tandayapa Bird Lodge in the Chocó bioregion, Ecuador.
Mount Totumas Cloud Forest Homestead in the Chiriquí province of Panama.
Cabañas Los Pinos Hotel in Monteverde, Costa Rica.

Photo of the Week: Bliss in Barbados

Fri, 20 Apr 2012 10:13:00 -0700

Everyone has their favorite place to curl up with a good book – but it would be hard to beat this spot. You're in Barbados, stretched out in a hammock on one of the wooden porches of Sea-U Guest House, the palm trees bowing gently in the breeze all around you. You look up for a moment, and your eyes are greeted by a calm blue expanse of Caribbean Sea, dotted by frothy white foam and the occasional surfer in the distance. You've done your part to conserve this beautiful natural setting by staying at a hotel that works hard to ensure all of its activities are environmentally friendly. Sounds like the perfect vacation, doesn't it?

Photo of the Week: A Wide-Eyed Peruvian Local

Wed, 11 Apr 2012 13:32:00 -0700

This striking creature is a night monkey (also known as an owl monkey) who lives in the rainforest surrounding the Posada Amazonas ecolodge. Though this guy's picture was snapped during the daytime, night monkeys are the only species of monkeys that is nocturnal. Those huge eyes help it see at night while searching for fruits, leaves, and insects to eat. Night monkey sightings are quite rare – spotting one of them in the wild would be any ecotourist's dream!

Have you ever seen a night monkey? What are some your favorite wildlife sightings? Tell us in the comments!

Eco-Friendly Spas for Sustainable Relaxation

Thu, 05 Apr 2012 10:18:00 -0700

Leave your worries at home, it's time for a relaxing spa vacation! There's no need to stress about your impact on the environment if you choose to book with a sustainable spa and wellness resort--while you're working on a happier and healthier you, you'll be contributing to a happier and healthier planet! Keep reading to learn about some of the amazing AND sustainable resort spas in Latin America and the Caribbean:

Tabacón Grand Spa Thermal Resort, Costa Rica Named by Condé Nast as the "Most Excellent Spa Hotel" of Mexico and Central America in 2011, Tabacón is consistently recognized as one of the best spas in the world. This five-star hotel is located in northern Costa Rica, at the foot of the majestic Arenal volcano and in the heart of the rainforest. Enjoy your spa treatments in open air bungalows surrounded by pools and waterfalls formed by natural hot springs from the volcano. Tabacón is carbon neutral and certified by the Costa Rican Tourism Institute's Certification for Sustainable Tourism (CST) program, Sustainable Travel International's (STI) Sustainable Tourism Education Program, and the Leading Hotels of the World's Luxury Eco Certification Standards (LECS).
Couples Tower Isle, Jamaica Couples Tower Isle is an adults-only resort in Jamaica, honored as the best hotel spa in the Caribbean by Travel+Leisure magazine and one of the top Caribbean all-inclusive resorts by Trip Advisor's Travelers' Choice Awards. The resort underwent a major renovation in 2009, reopening with a total of 226 rooms, a dive pool, and ten spa treatment rooms. The colorful and minimalist pastel décor, three swimming pools, Jacuzzis, and a private island for au naturel sunbathing make Couples Tower Isle a paradise of relaxation. As the name suggests, all the services and activities are tailored for couples. Couples Tower Isle has achieved a "Gold" level certification from EarthCheck.
Lodge at Chaa Creek & The Macal River Camp, Belize Chaa Creek is located on a huge 365-acre (148-hectare) private nature reserve, nestled in the rainforest in the foothills of the misty Maya Mountains. Choose from 23 eco-chic cottages, villas, and suites at Chaa Creek or, for those seeking more rustic accommodations, there are also 10 wooden cabins near the Macal River. Chaa Creek's spa uses natural, herb-based treatments such as mineral rich mud treatments, herbal wraps, and locally-sourced botanicals. Travel + Leisure magazine named it as one of the Top Hotel Spas in Latin America in 2011. Chaa Creek is certified as sustainable by Green Globe International.
Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel, Peru Nestled in 12 acres of private gardens at the foot of the mountains that surround the ancient citadel of Machu Picchu, Inkaterra offers an atmosphere of refinement and luxury within a rustic Andean village. Stay in one of their elegant white casitas or more opulent villas, designed with inspiration from traditional Andean culture. The UNU Spa at Inkaterra uses local botanical extracts and incorporates elements of traditional Andean mysticism for a unique experience. Inkaterra is Rainforest Alliance Verified.
Luna Runtun, the Adventure SPA, Ecuador Situated on a 63-acre (25.5-hectare) property within Sangay National Park, Luna Runtun is a refreshing change of pace from the sleek, modern spa resorts you often find in the Caribbean. This "adventure" spa resort combines ecotourism activities and beautiful mountain landscapes with a unique "Volcanic SPA." The spa uses fresh plants and fruits, employed for their natural healing properties and grown in the hotel's 300-acre (121-hectare) garden, as well as mineral water and ashes from the nearby and very active Tungurahua volcano. Guests can enjoy watching Tungurahua shower the skies with spectacular shows of fire and lava from the safety of the spa. Luna Runtun is certified by Smart Voyager and has created the Tungurahua Volcano Foundation, which oversees a number of environmental and community projects.

Making a Difference: Hotel Guancascos

Thu, 29 Mar 2012 14:35:00 -0700

This month's Making a Difference award winner is Hotel Guancascos, a charming inn situated in a lovely town in rural Honduras. Hotel Guancascos is perfect for those looking for a relaxing getaway in a bucolic setting, surrounded by beautiful landscapes and farming communities. We spoke with owner Fronica Miederma to find out more about her sustainable hotel.

Q. In what region of Honduras is Hotel Guancascos?

Miederma: Hotel Guancascos is located in western Honduras, in a small historic colonial town of approximately 10,000 inhabitants called Gracias. The hotel sits at the foot of the Celaque mountain range, which is home to the country's highest mountain. The region is known for its beautiful peaks, nature, and history. The first colonial routes passed through here, leaving an outstanding architectural legacy.

Gracias is part of a consortium of six small towns called Colusca, where some of the Honduras's oldest churches -- built during the colonial era -- still stand. The area is rural and vibrant with the culture of traditional agriculture and coffee production.

Q.What can your guests learn about local culture and traditions during their stay at Hotel Guancascos?

M: We recommend taking the city tour, so visitors can see and enjoy the architectural heritage and daily life of the local people. You'll visit many city sites including three colonial churches, an interpretive museum with a botanical garden, and the Castillo San Cristóbal. Along the way, you'll also stop to visit local craft sellers and traditional food vendors.

You can also visit the picturesque indigenous village of La Campa and interact with the people of this community. The women there are famous for their Lenca pottery, which is 100 percent handmade in the traditional way and exhibits an interesting legacy of beliefs and mythology.

Q.What kind of ecotourism activities are available nearby?

M: Gracias is surrounded by a 102-square mile (26,393-hectare) mountain range that includes Celaque Mountain, the highest mountain in Honduras at 9,347 feet (2,849 meters) above sea level. Celaque National Park is home to the largest cloud forest of Central America, which is very rich in biodiversity and has 16 miles (26 km) of well-marked trails to discover and explore the area's lush nature. In addition to hiking the trails of Celaque, visitors can go camping in the mountains, biking and bird-watching in the forest, swimming in the hot springs, and on excursions to the pottery cooperatives and organic coffee farms.

On Sundays, they can visit the churches of the Colosuca circuit and even participate in at least one traditional mass.

Q.Why is sustainability so important for your hotel? Tell me about your most outstanding sustainablility initiatives.

M: Our hotel policy is focused on doing the right thing. As we are in a historic city surrounded by nature, we're very aware of the significance of our natural treasures. We want to take an active role in the conservation of the area's natural and historic legacies and to contribute to the region's economic development in a way that is inclusive. In our daily activities, we try to respect local architecture and culture, form alliances for the welfare of the community, and promote a better quality of life for the company's personnel -- helping them make improvements to their homes and supporting them with bilingual education for their children, for example.

In partnership with Fundacion Miramundo, we raise funds for scholarships and construction projects in the local community. We are also in the process of creating a Tourism Training Center where students can earn a bachelor's degree in tourism, as well as a high school degree.

Q.Of all the accommodations near Celaque National Park, what makes Hotel Guancascos special?

M: Our hotel is known for its comfort and simplicity, a lush garden and restaurant with the best view of the city, and a genuine, family-friendly atmosphere. The hotel also aims to be a liaison between responsible travelers and the local community. We have a lot of experience in the region, and our passion is sharing this knowledge with our guests.

Ecotourism in Mexico on the Rise

Wed, 14 Mar 2012 14:16:00 -0700

Each year, Mexico hosts millions of tourists attracted by the country's extensive and unique natural and cultural wealth--especially its famous beaches and luxurious seaside resorts. However, in recent years, the numbers of tourists heading to Mexico looking for small-scale, responsible tourism are growing.

To support the carefully planned development and growth of ecotourism businesses and activities in the country, the Secretariat of the Environment and Natural Resources of Mexico (SEMARNAT) created the Mexican Standards for Ecotourism, a third-party certification program. We talked with César Rafael Chávez, Director General of Environmental, Urban and Tourism Development for SEMARNAT, who explains more about this certification program and what travelers can do to enjoy and support ecotourism in Mexico.

Question: What explains the recent ecotourism boom in Mexico?

Chávez: A trend toward mass tourism has dominated since the late 1940s, when Acapulco was created and was later solidified in the 70s, when Cancún, Los Cabo san Lucas, and Ixtapa emerged, also offering many large-scale tourist developments. The trend toward ecotourism began in the late 90s, led by groups concerned about the environment and by communities living in or near protected natural areas that had to find other means of earning a living when government decrees prevented their direct use of natural resources. At the same time, interest in taking advantage of Mexico's enormous potential for ecotourism development continued to grow. After the Year of Ecotourism in 2003, this interest became widespread and concrete actions began to take form.

Q: What gave rise to the Mexican Standards for Ecotourism?

Chávez: The Standards are a direct consequence of the Year of Ecotourism and were created to establish the criteria necessary for an activity or business to truly be considered "ecotourism." Through this tool, the guidelines and standards for sustainable ecotourism were developed. Similarly, SEMARNAT's certification program and the certification logo were designed to help promote ecotourism.

Q: What are some of Mexico's important sustainable tourism destinations?

Chávez: Baja California is a sustainable destination that has been developed to accommodate tourists interested in whale watching. There, we have certified businesses around San Ignacio Lagoon and in Guerrero Negro. The Lacandon forest is another region that is considered an ecotourism pioneer, but it is not as popular as the beaches or archeological sites. With that in mind, we are educating tourists about Mexico's sustainable destinations and are promoting sustainable activities available at mass tourism destinations so that visitors can also enjoy eco-destinations. For example, in Cancún, tourists can take tours of the north-south tourism circuits to that after a few days of sun and sand tourism, they can see the country's other treasures and also support ecotourism businesses.

Q: What kind of tourism businesses does your program certify?

Chávez: Community, indigenous, and rural ecotourism businesses as well as private ecotourism businesses can participate. The important thing is that they fall under the context of ecotourism.

Q: What kinds of businesses make up the majority of those that have been certified?

Chávez: We currently have 40 certified businesses - 38 of them are small-scale, rural, indigenous, or farmer-owned businesses, and most are in or near protected areas. There are two large companies certified in the Baja California area.

Q: Do you find that large and small hotels have different levels of interest in becoming certified?

Chávez: Large companies have discovered that certification gives them access to the most discerning international markets and allows them to be included on the itineraries of major tour operators in Europe, North America, and Asia. Small businesses, those located mainly in protected areas, are closer to the environment and are more focused on the importance of their rich natural and cultural heritage; they understand that sustainable tourism is essential for the conservation of the natural resources on which they directly depend.

Q: What aspects of sustainable tourism do the standards evaluate?

Chávez: First we evaluate the project plans, the business plan, the environmental impact assessment, and the planning of all the stages of development. Then we evaluate the tourism facilities, for example, water and energy use, waste treatment, relationship with wildlife, design features, construction materials, use of cleaning products , and vendors and purchasing, among others. There are also specific requirements for addressing the relationship between the business and the tourists, nature trails, signage for the facilities and natural areas that are visited, interactions with wildlife and aquatic ecosystems, community relations, and any conservation and environmental education initiatives they promote or support.

Q: What are the main challenges in becoming certified?

Chávez: The large companies usually have no problems. The smaller businesses and marginalized groups often have less capacity to make the changes they must make to become certified and they need training and financial support throughout the certification process, as well as after they have become certified so that they can maintain their certification.

Q: What recommendations do you have for tourists who want to travel responsibly in Mexico?

Chávez: When planning their trip, they should use websites like SustainableTrip.org for information about sustainable tourism businesses, activities, and key destinations. Our program also has launched a website called Ecoturismo Certificado (in Spanish), where tourists can find a list of our certified businesses, a description of several eco-destinations in the country, and a series of recommendations for planning their eco-trip in Mexico. In addition, there is an official website about sustainable tourism in Mexico.

AMTAVE.org (in Spanish), The Mexican Association for Adventure Tourism and Ecotourism's (AMTAVE) website, also has more information about environmentally-friendly vacation choices. Another tool that every tourist should know is the World Tourism Organization's Global Code of Ethics for Tourism

Finally, it is important to remember that as tourists, we should not leave any environmental footprints but we should take away cultural footprints. That's the best thing about traveling!

Check out businesses certified to the Mexican Standards for Ecotourism available in the SustainableTrip.org directory.

A Journey to Bliss with Sustainable Yoga Travel

Wed, 07 Mar 2012 10:30:00 -0700

Picture this: you're on a secluded beach, the sun warming your face as a gentle breeze tickles the back of your neck, the tide rolling in rhythmically not far from your feet. You feel focused, relaxed, and in tune with yourself and your surroundings.

Sounds like a yogi's paradise, doesn't it? The practice of yoga has much to do with discovering new frontiers, both physically and mentally--so it's no surprise that travel can help deepen your yoga practice. A yoga retreat in a beautiful and faraway tropical location is the perfect way to cultivate new experiences, both inward and out. Many retreats combine yoga practice with other fun nature activities, such as forest hikes, horseback riding, and wildlife tours. Or if you'd prefer to just take a yoga class or two on your trip, there are plenty of hotels that offer single classes.

As we derive benefits from the environment when practicing yoga in a pristine natural setting, it makes sense to return that kindness by traveling responsibly. As we mention on our Sustainable Yoga Travel activity page, sustainability and yoga are natural partners--sustainable travel emphasizes new and authentic experiences in harmony with nature and local cultures, which is in tune with the classic yogic principles of peace, balance, and conscientiousness.

Choosing a sustainable hotel or tour operator makes a huge difference to the environment and to the local community whose home you are visiting. This is because sustainable businesses, like those in our sustainable tourism directory, have made a demonstrated commitment to best practices such as reducing waste, managing consumption of natural resources, protecting wildlife, and paying their employees fair wages. It's important to book your retreat at a sustainable hotel, or with a tour operator that includes sustainable hotels in their itineraries, to make sure your trip has a positive impact on the destination you'll be enjoying on your journey to yogic bliss.

Below we've included few key destinations for sustainable yoga travelers. Or, grab your mat and head to any of these sustainable destinations offering yoga in Latin America and the Caribbean.

Samasati Nature Retreat

This eco-resort is nestled in a tropical rainforest on the Caribbean coast of Costa Rica. They offer several options for yoga practitioners including daily yoga classes, one-week yoga and meditation retreats, and yoga teacher trainings.

Bodhi Surf School

How's this for new experiences: a combined yoga and surf retreat! The school has its own yoga instructor who specializes in Asthanga, Vinyasa, and Anusara yoga. No prior experience is needed in either yoga or surfing, so this retreat may be more appealing for beginner and intermediate practitioners.

Banyan Tree Mayakoba

This strikingly beautiful and high-end resort on Mexico's famed Riviera Maya offers several daily yoga and meditation classes for beginner, intermediate, and advanced practitioners. There are also special yoga classes for aching backs and golfers.

Making a Difference: Lima Tours

Thu, 01 Mar 2012 14:05:00 -0700

SustainableTrip.org's Making a Difference award winner this month is Lima Tours, a sustainable tour operator in Peru that uses its employees' insider knowledge to craft authentic experiences for travelers. We spoke with Lima Tours' Humberto Medrano to find out a little bit more about this innovative industry leader.

Q. What are the top three attractions that travelers must experience when visiting your country, and why?

A. First is Machu Picchu for its rich historical background and amazing mountain views. But bear in mind that one can only fully understand the site after having experienced Choquequirao, another Inca city in the south of Peru. Machu Picchu was once as remote as Choquequirao is now, but ironically the latter was built afterwards. Building these cities in the midst of a sacred geography is something the Incas pondered for the location of both sites.

Second is Lake Titicaca, a true pacarina, or birthplace of ancient civilizations. Inca myths narrate how the founding couple emerged from the waters and settled in Cusco. The Tiahuanaco peoples who populated the area influenced Inca imperial architecture. The Kallawaya, traditional healers that still exist today, live around the lake and spoke Puquina, known as the "secret language of the Inca." You can look at the photographic masterpieces of Martín Chambi de Coaza and Juan Manuel Castro Prieto to grasp the dreamlike sensation of Titicaca's waters.

Third is the Amazon, more precisely the Pacaya-Samiria Natural Reserve. It is a colorful, buoyant hotspot the traveler can enjoy while cruising on an elegant boat. Meeting those who "haven't forgotten the old ways," as world renowned scholar Wade Davis has pointed out, is immediately appealing while in this remote and untouched part of the earth.

Q. Why is sustainability so important for your business and what noteworthy sustainable initiatives are you carrying out?

A. Today, being sustainable is important to every business, but it is crucial to businesses within the travel industry. Tour operators make a living from taking travelers to places where deep, moving, enriching experiences can be enjoyed. These places are almost all very fragile, such as intact ecosystems, communities with cultures very different from the West, and thousand-year-old buildings that house delicate pieces of ancient art. Ensuring a sustainable culture is the first step towards establishing a sustainable business. Sustainability is part of our core business model and we work hard to ensure our suppliers consider it as such, too. In the end, a virtuous cycle is established to everyone's benefit.

Some of the activities in our sustainability program include recycling all plastic bottles that our passengers use, training our guides in environment responsibility, ensuring that passengers properly dispose of their garbage, improving the working environment in Lima Tours offices, encouraging and requiring sustainability from our suppliers, and honoring the Lima Tours' paperless promise.

Q. Of all of the tour operators in Peru, what makes Lima Tours special?

A. Lima Tours is special because we have 56 years of experience in spearheading the Peruvian travel industry.

The company has been awarded the "Great Place to Work" prize a number of times. What this means to our clients is that they will have a proactive, thankful, enthusiastic travel specialist eager to share their knowledge of and passion for Peru. Any self-respecting traveler knows the value of insight that only locals can unveil. At Lima Tours, our passion for Peru is what drives us to share those insights with clients and to keep crafting magnificent experiences in Peru, one guest a time.

Go on a Green Valentine’s Day Getaway! SustainableTrip.org’s Top 5 Romantic & Sustainable Hotels

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 15:26:00 -0700

It's Valentine's Day and love is in the air... Love for that special someone--and love for the planet! A romantic getaway to a tropical destination is the perfect way to celebrate, and you can make sure your trip has a positive impact on the environment by booking a room at a sustainable hotel. Here are our top 5 picks for romantic and sustainable hotels in Latin America and the Caribbean:

1) Bosque del Cabo Rainforest Lodge, Costa Rica Bosque del Cabo is perfect for the ecotourist couple that wants to be surrounded by nature. Accommodations consist of ten beautifully crafted thatched-roof bungalows, privately set among lush gardens with views of the Pacific Ocean. Each has a modern bathroom with a delightful outdoor garden shower and porch furnished with hammocks and easy chairs. The beach and the rainforest are just steps away from your porch. Set high on a cliff overlooking the confluence of the mighty Pacific and the Golfo Dulce, these romantic bungalows are stirred by warm tropical breezes that echo with the rhythms of the pounding surf below. There are trails through the rainforest that will lead you to secluded beaches--and what could be better than a deserted tropical beach to spend some quality alone time with your Valentine?
2) Hotel Casa Velas, Mexico This luxurious adults-only, all-inclusive resort is on the Pacific coast of Mexico in Puerto Vallarta. The resort is on the Marina Vallarta Golf Course, overlooking Banderas Bay and surrounded by verdant hills covered in lush vegetation. The Bay is famous for its dolphin and whale watching as well as its beautiful sites for snorkeling and scuba diving. Or if you'd rather take it easy with your sweetheart, relax on one of several sandy beaches just minutes away, have a soak in your suite's private Jacuzzi, or book one of their lavish spa treatments. Hotel Casa Velas was ranked as one of the Top 25 all-inclusive resorts in Mexico by Trip Advisor's 2012 Traveler's Choice Awards, and it's certified by the EarthCheck program
3) Hotel Villa Colonial, Guatemala Hotel Villa Colonial is located in La Antigua, Guatemala, the former Spanish capital of Central America. The city itself is a UNESCO World Heritage Site thanks to its wonderfully preserved colonial architecture. Many religious and government buildings with their intricate designs, some preserved as ruins after being destroyed in earthquakes, are considered masterpieces of colonial architecture. Exploring the city with your significant other will be a experience neither of you will forget, as you navigate through the cobblestone streets, spotting colorful bougainvillea flowers among the ruins, facades of pastel colors under tile roofs, parks with fountains, all at the base of three volcanoes: Agua, Fuego, and Acatenango.
4) Xanadu Island Resort, Belize Xanadu Island Resort is right on the beach of the beautiful island of Ambergris Caye in Belize. The hotel overlooks the Caribbean Sea and the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef. All of their gorgeous suites offer fully-equipped kitchens, a dining area, and living room. The unique monolithic domes, thatched roofs, wooden decks, and colorful hammocks provide a luxurious tropical ambiance. If you can tear yourselves away from the beach, rent a golf cart or take a stroll and explore the bustling town of San Pedro. Xanadu was ranked as one of the top resorts by Trip Advisor's 2012 Traveler's Choice Awards in three categories: Central America, Service, and Bargain.
5) Hotel Patio del Malinche, Nicaragua This charming boutique hotel is a restored colonial house that's part of the vibrant history of the beautiful colonial city of Granada. The oldest colonial city in Nicaragua, Granada will charm you with its colorful buildings, friendly locals, and interesting history. You'll spend hours wandering around this small city, seeing old fashioned horse-drawn carts, lovely cathedrals with stories of their own, and visiting the lively local market where you can get just about anything. Nature enthusiasts can explore the islets of Lake Cocibolca or take a swim in Laguna de Apoyo, a crystal clear lake in the crater of a volcano.

Check out our other Top Sustainable Destinations lists:

Top Sustainable Hotels under $50 per Night

Top 5 Destinations to Discover Indigenous Communities

Top Family-Friendly Sustainable Vacation Destinations

Top 5 Sustainable Luxury Destinations

A Trip to Honduras: The Land That Has Everything

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 14:01:00 -0700

How does tropical beaches washed by turquoise waters, towering mountains draped with dense forest, colonial cities and Mayan architecture sound? If the answer is "good!", look no further than Honduras.

Thanks to its diverse geography and considerable size – it's the second largest country in Central America – Honduras holds a patchwork of varied microclimates, ecosystems, peoples and landscapes; enough variety to please any traveler. It is Central America's most mountainous country (although the only one that lacks volcanoes) and about 40% of it is covered with tropical rainforest. Its long Caribbean coastline has white sand beaches, whereas its Pacific corner has black sand beaches.

The Honduran Caribbean is known for the Bay Islands, which include the idyllic destination of Roatan. The islands are surrounded by the southern end of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the second longest coral reef in the world. In addition to Roatan, the islands of Utila, Guanaja and the Cayos Cochinos are world-class scuba diving and snorkeling destinations, since their crystal clear waters are home to a wealth of marine biodiversity. They are also great places for people who just want to relax on a sunny beach, stroll through a tranquil coastal village, or listen to the tales of pirates that the locals like to tell.

The country's shorter Pacific coast has important historic sites, though few tourists venture there. Those who do will discover hidden gems such as San Lorenzo, Choluteca, and the Amapala beaches on Isla de Tigre.

For outdoor enthusiasts, Honduras has 15 national parks, 2 biosphere reserves, and 10 biological reserves that together protect a treasure trove of tropical nature. Its vast and varied wilderness areas hold opportunities for climbing mountains, paddling down white water rivers, experiencing the adrenaline rush of a canopy tour, or hiking through exuberant forests that hold amazingly varied flora and fauna.

The small city of La Ceiba, on the Caribbean coast, lies near such a wealth of natural and cultural attractions that it has been dubbed an "ecotourism capital." The verdant mountains that tower to the south of it are protected within Pico Bonito National Park, which holds lush cloud forest, rocky peaks, about 46 rivers, and countless gorgeous waterfalls. It offers perfect conditions for climbing, rafting, kayaking, hiking and horseback riding. La Ceiba also has some lovely beaches nearby, such as Corozal and Sambo Creek, where the local communities preserve the Afro-Caribbean Garifuna culture and language. Each year in late May, these towns overflow with celebration during the Gran Carnaval de la Amistad.

National parks such as La Tigra, Celaque and Cusuco, among others, provide comparably spectacular settings for various ecotourism activities. And in Honduras, you have the option of enjoying nature while learning about an ancient civilization, at the Mayan city of Copán.

Those sprawling ruins, located near the country's border with Guatemala, consist of more than 1,400 sites and 4,500 buildings that retain remnants of impressive Mayan architecture. Copán's sculpted monoliths, called "stelae," exhibit such detail and craftsmanship that it is considered one of the best places in the region to experience Mayan art. In recognition of this, UNESCO designated Copán a World Heritage Site. Among its most impressive attractions are the Archaeological Park, the sites of Las Sepulturas and Los Sapos, the Museum of Mayan Archaeology and the Museum of Mayan Sculpture.

The Spanish colonial era also left important heritage for travelers to enjoy. Comayagua, Yuscarán, Santa Rosa de Copán, Danlí and Trujillo (where Columbus landed in 1504) are among the dozens of Honduran cities with significant colonial architecture. Their cobbled streets are lined with distinctive Spanish balconies, as well as splendid churches, cathedrals, town halls and central squares.

The colonial cities also provide glimpses of the country's history as a mining center, since the Spanish priority was to exploit its mineral wealth. The churches of villages such as Yuscarán hold beautiful altars adorned with gold and silver that were extracted from abandoned nearby mines.

Yet one of the most enjoyable things about visiting Honduras is experiencing the friendliness and culture of its people – a mix of indigenous, Afro-Caribbean, and Mestizo races with their varied traditions, crafts, music, and food. In each of the country's regions, you can discover different rituals, folk dances, music, and celebrations, as well as handicrafts made of wood, leather, seeds, cloth, and other natural materials.

Honduran cuisine also varies by region, though nearly every meal includes the national staples of beans and corn tortillas. Visitors can also enjoy local meats and seafood, fried plantains, or Honduran tamales – corn dough stuffed with meat and vegetables, wrapped in a banana leaf, and boiled. You can also choose from various international cuisines in most destinations.

Honduras also has large cities, where much of its population are based. The capital, Tegucigalpa, San Pedro Sula, La Ceiba and Choluteca all have international hotel and restaurant chains, shopping malls, contemporary cultural centers, modern medical services, and other facilities.

Recently, the Honduran government, entrepreneurs, and local and international organizations have started working together to develop a sustainable tourism model that helps conserve Honduras's rich biodiversity, architecture, culture and history while also supporting local communities. Last year, the already established Smart Voyager program began certifying hotels in the country. Casa del Árbol Centro and Casa del Árbol Galerías, located in San Pedro Sula, are two of the first hotels recognized with this international seal and we're excited to have them featured in SustainableTrip.org.

It should come as no surprise that the slogan chosen to promote tourism in the country is: "Honduras, everything is here." Dare to discover it for yourself!

Making a Difference: Manu Learning Centre

Fri, 03 Feb 2012 11:13:00 -0700

SustainableTrip.org's Making a Difference award winner this month is Manu Learning Centre, a conservation research center and ecolodge in Peru's Manú Biosphere Reserve. We spoke with Francesca Lewis, Head of Marketing and Sales, to find out a little bit more about this valuable cultural, scientific, and economic resource in the Amazonian rainforest.

Q. What kind of wildlife can visitors expect to see at/near MLC?

Lewis: They will see a huge abundance of wildlife at MLC and in its surroundings. The list is too long to write here, but over 650 species were recorded in the vicinity of MLC last year alone!

Examples of wildlife visitors can see include the jaguar, puma, and ocelot as well as various species of primates such as the howler monkey and the endangered blue head macaw, to name just a few.

Q. Is MLC primarily a research center or lodge?

Lewis: MLC started as a research center but now serves as both. We've seen that being both a research center and a tourist lodge really complement one another. Travelers staying at MLC are keen to learn more about our projects and sustainability initiatives, and how we are helping to conserve Manu. The researchers benefit from tourism, as this provides much-needed funding for the foundation to continue its work.

Q. What is the history of Manu Learning Centre?

Lewis: The Manu Learning Centre (MLC) was built in 2004 on an abandoned hacienda, the first to be developed in the region. The initial concept was to demonstrate that it was possible to use novel land use techniques to rehabilitate large areas of degraded land and to empower and educate local communities throughout this process.

MLC in 2012 continues to be a great place from which the CREES Foundation bases all of its research, projects, and initiatives.

More recently, MLC has opened its doors to tourism and it now serves as a fantastic lodge where tourists can stay as part of their trip to Manu.

The lodge itself was built using local Matsiguenka building design and is comprised of large airy buildings which complement their surroundings and minimizes impact on the local environment.

Q. What kind of research is carried out at MLC?

Lewis: Conservation research based on the value of regenerating tropical forests and their potential importance for future biodiversity. We look at species richness, abundance, and diversity in birds, mammals, butterflies, amphibians and reptiles from forests with different disturbance histories.

We also look at how current hunting and logging pressures can affect the distribution and movement patterns of mammals and game birds.

Predator-prey interactions are also being researched within the regenerating forest and are considered in terms of temporal and spatial patterns, with a further focus on how different predators share the habitat.

Q. What can visitors do to learn about local and/or indigenous culture?

Lewis: Visitors can learn huge amounts about the local culture within Manu. Staying at the lodge itself provides a good insight into local way of life. The buildings are based on local Matsiguenga design, and much of the food cooked at the lodge is sourced locally and is grown in the gardens at the MLC.

Visitors will also be able to visit the Shintuya and Queros tribes of Manu and see firsthand their indigenous culture and way of life.

A key part of staying at MLC is learning how the projects we run help to conserve these local communities and their traditions.

Q. Why is sustainability so important for your hotel and what noteworthy sustainable initiatives are you carrying out?

Lewis: Manu Learning Centre is based on the single-minded goal of sustainability.

The lodge has been specifically designed to facilitate and support conservation and sustainability research. The Centre boasts a solar powered internet connection, an environmentally sound septic system, and gravity-fed water pumps in order to minimize our impact on the environment and reduce our carbon footprint.

Previous research conducted at the station has incorporated aspects of biology, geography, zoology, anthropology, politics, and art & design through projects focusing on reforestation, mammal behavior patterns, human impact studies, environmental management, monitoring of the endangered blue headed macaw, soil sustainability & agriculture, forest dynamics, carbon trading with local communities, and the legitimacy of local power structures, to name a few.

In addition to these, the MLC has hosted conferences organized by WWF-Peru, the Organization of Tropical Studies (OTS), and the Anniversary Conference of the Manu National Park.

Q. Of all of the hotels in the Manú Biosphere Reserve area, what makes MLC special?

Lewis: As the MLC has evolved over the years, it has remained true to its roots as a center for learning. It is a place where different groups of people can come together, whether they are tourists, volunteers, researchers, or local community members, and interact and take part in educational exchanges relating to the sustainable initiatives operated from the lodge.

The MLC is also special for the warmth and hospitality of the staff. Visitors always comment on this after their stay as being something really unique.

MLC is also the only lodge in Manu to actively offset its carbon footprint through reforestation projects with local communities, making us the only carbon neutral lodge in Manu.

Planning a Sustainable Spring Break

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 11:02:00 -0700

Sure, it's still winter in the Northern Hemisphere, but for teenagers and college students it's just about time to start planning (or at least dreaming about) that blessed one-week reprieve from classes, homework, and cold weather: spring break! For those who find the traditional spring break cliché of booze, bikinis, and nonstop partying to be not quite up their alley, we've got a few alternative ideas for the eco-adventurer, the animal lover and conservationist, and the surfer. So read on and get ready to green your spring break!

(Note: All the businesses we feature have made a demonstrated commitment to protecting the environment and supporting local communities. More info)

For the Eco-Adventurer:

There's tons of adventure and fun to be had for those who love the great outdoors. Buena Vista Lodge is a hacienda in northern Costa Rica bordering Rincón de la Vieja National Park, with more than 1,000 acres of protected forest on its property. Hike or horseback ride to three waterfalls--the first has a sulfur pit inside of it, the second has a natural water slide inside the mountain that falls into small pond, and the last is the biggest, most spectacular of them all.

Other activities include zipline canopy tours, Tarzan swings, natural hot springs, and a volcanic mud bath! Guests stay in comfortable wooden cabins with private bathrooms and hot water for about $40-50 per person per night. You have the option of cabins near the pool, bar, and restaurants, or more secluded cabins with beautiful lake or mountain views.

Nicaragua may not be the first destination that comes to mind when you think "spring break," but the eco-adventurer has no fear of traveling off the beaten path, right? Totoco Eco-lodge is located at the edge of a cloud forest on the island of Ometepe, known for its twin volcanoes and surrounded by the magnificent Lake Nicaragua.

Climb to the rim of the active Concepción volcano and peer down into the crater, or kayak the Istian River and see monkeys, turtles, aquatic birds, and caimans in their natural habitat. You can also hike through sustainable coffee plantations, or go on fishing trips with locals who will show you all the best spots. Discover the last traces of the pre-Columbian Nahuatl Indians through the mysterious petroglyphs (stone carvings) they left behind in the forest. Cabins are $30-45 per person per night, while dormitory beds are $10.

For the Animal Lover and Conservationist

SEE Turtles Mexico & SEE Turtles Costa Rica are volunteer programs for travelers who want to participate in hands-on conservation efforts to save majestic sea turtles. Did you know that all seven species of sea turtles are currently listed as threatened or endangered? SEE Turtles has programs in Baja California Sur, Mexico and several locations in Costa Rica where travelers and volunteers can get up close and personal with these amazing creatures while contributing to important conservation efforts in key habitat areas. This one's a win-win, because these areas also happen to be some of the most beautiful beaches in the world! Perfect for spring breakers looking to have some fun and give back. Trip prices range from $1,100 to $1,900 per person, including all ground costs (food, lodging, transport, guides, activities, and a donation to local conservation efforts), but not including airfare.

For the Surfer (or Surfing Newbie!)

You've always wanted to join the ranks of the surfer dudes and dudettes – so what better time to learn than spring break? If you're a seasoned surfer, you're probably already trying to figure out how to maximize the hours you spend in the ocean between your last class before break and your first one coming back (and skipping one class never hurt anyone, right?). Whether you're a seasoned vet or a surfing newbie, make your surf trip a sustainable one and you'll help to conserve the beautiful beach you'll be enjoying.

For the beginners who want to get their fundamentals down, Bodhi Surf School's knowledgeable instructors will have you standing up on the first day and well on your way to becoming a life-long surfer by the end of the week. It also doesn't hurt that the school is located in gorgeous Bahia Ballena, on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica, where the beach and the rainforest meet.

The more experienced surfer might want to check out Tamarindo, one of the most famous surf spots in the world. Hotel Villa Baula is right on the beachfront at Playa Grande, and at $23-$30 per person, there will be plenty of money left to explore the bars and restaurants this fun town has to offer.

Have more sustainable spring break ideas? Share them with us in the comments!

10 Reasons to Travel Sustainably

Fri, 27 Jan 2012 14:11:00 -0700

The holidays are over and the winter blues have set in. It's time to get away! As you start to plan your vacation, do you consider how much good your trip could do for others? Some of the world's most breathtaking destinations are now being managed sustainably, which means that in addition to benefiting your own mental health, your next trip could also benefit the environment and local communities. Here are 10 reasons to travel sustainably:

1. Make a Difference One of the world's largest industries, tourism employs more than 235 million people and generates 9.2 percent of the global GDP. The choices made by travelers like you can enormously impact community-run businesses, local cultures and biodiversity. Your decisions will have consequences, for better or worse, so why not choose better? Visit our tourism business database to find responsible hotels and tour operators.

2. Conserve Natural Environments When you follow designated trails, respect local rules about interacting with nature, and pay entrance fees to parks and protected sites, you help conserve the beautiful environments that you've traveled all that way to visit.

3. Protect Wildlife By participating in bird-watching expeditions and forest hikes, you send the message that those species and their habitats are worth protecting. On the flip side, refrain from buying clothing or other products derived from protected or endangered wildlife since those purchases encourage harmful practices.

4. Reduce Consumption & Waste Sustainable tourism companies--like those on SustainableTrip.org --are smart about managing their waste and reducing their consumption of resources such as water and energy. By choosing sustainable hotels and tour operators, you voice your support for responsible business. Visit our Making A Difference page to see a list of companies that have made an exceptional effort to incorporate sustainable business practices.

5. Support Local Economies Choosing a sustainable tourism business keeps money in the community -- these companies rely on local suppliers for goods and services, hire staff from neighboring towns and support community conservation, development, and education efforts.

6. We're In This Together People who operate sustainable businesses understand that well-trained, justly compensated staff members are loyal to their employer and often help improve a company's efficiency. Well-treated employees also provide excellent service, which is a key component of a great travel experience.

7. Preserve the Past Your visits to historic and cultural sites help maintain these local treasures by giving the local community a reason--and the means--to protect them. Plus, learning about new cultures is a great way to discover new things about yourself.

8. Get the Inside Scoop Who knows more about a place than the locals? Whether it's through home stays, tips on the most scenic hikes and best regional dishes, or insights into cultural traditions, interacting with locals will only enhance your vacation experience.

9. Reduce Your Carbon Footprint Traveling by car, plane or train produces greenhouse gas emissions, which lead to climate change. But by choosing sustainable travel providers, you are supporting businesses that make an ongoing effort to mitigate these impacts. And if you also purchase carbon offsets, you're really thinking ahead to a greener tomorrow. Here are some tips for how to reduce your vacation's carbon footprint.

10. Look to the Future So you're on your trip and you're having a great time. Don't you want the option of returning to that destination in the future? By supporting sustainable tourism businesses, you help ensure the long-term conservation of some of the world's most spectacular places.

Here are some practical tips for planning your next sustainable vacation. Visit the nonprofit Local Travel Movement to share your stories about past trips.

Can Travel Ever Really Be Sustainable?

Thu, 12 Jan 2012 10:46:00 -0700

Unless you're traveling on foot, tourism inevitably has an impact on the environment. Though cars, buses, trains, and planes have made leaps and bounds in recent years in terms of mitigating environmental impact, they still use gasoline and yes, often release harmful emissions into the atmosphere. This has led some to call for people to stop traveling altogether and to ask, "What's the point of sustainable tourism, when any kind of travel is still bad for the environment?" We'll attempt to answer this question and leave it to you to decide whether sustainable travel does more harm or more good.

900 million people travel each year, making tourism a major global industry and an important source of income for many countries and communities, many of which are located in extremely biodiverse and fragile areas. Some communities that once turned to poaching or cutting down trees in order to support themselves have realized that they can earn a more sustainable living by conserving their natural surroundings and promoting their communities as a sustainable tourism destination.

However, not all tourism businesses support local communities. This is why sustainable tourism is so important: because it ensures that travelers' money goes to businesses that have made a commitment to supporting local communities and protecting the environment. There are sustainable hotels and tour operators of virtually every type and price range; it just takes a bit of research to find them. The SustainableTrip.org directory is a great tool to help travelers find sustainable businesses in Latin America and the Caribbean. To be listed on the site, businesses must be: 1) certified by an independent, third-party sustainable tourism certification program or 2) verified by the Rainforest Alliance. In countries where a certification program is not available or the Rainforest Alliance is not currently working, we accept recommendations from reputable organizations. These guidelines ensure that all businesses listed on SustainableTrip.org have met rigorous environmental, social, and economic standards and travelers can rest assured that they are truly "green."

Travel is also just as (if not more) beneficial for the traveler--it broadens your horizons by giving you the opportunity to learn about new cultures, meet people whose lives are entirely different from your own, and explore nature in all of its diverse splendor. In addition, people who get to discover and enjoy nature firsthand are far more likely to feel passionate about protecting it. Similarly, those who experience other cultures are more likely to be open-minded and tolerant as well as conscientious when it comes to their purchasing choices. For example, someone who spends time with a small forestry community in the Amazon is more likely to buy sustainable wood products from a company that treats its workers fairly and protects the ecosystem from which their product is derived.

While we can learn about other countries on the internet and in the classroom, it doesn't have the same effect as first-hand experiences. In fact, many believe that travel is vital for cross-cultural understanding and peace. We posted an entry a while back that explains more on how cultural travel can be a force for good in the world.

Have we convinced you that sustainable tourism is a positive thing? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!