Eco Travel Guide

In a world characterized by breathtaking beauty and cultural diversity, it is increasingly important to approach our travels with consciousness. Traveling is not just about exploring new places; it is also about protecting the environment and supporting local communities. We have compiled some useful tips for sustainable travel and invite you to implement them as much as possible during your journeys.

We are pride in being the first tour operator / travel agency to carry the Sustainability Travel Agency Certification from the World Sustainability Foundation and are dedicated to explaining the benefits of sustainable travel to people and raising awareness about it.

Always remember, every journey is an opportunity to discover the world and actively contribute to the protection and preservation of our environment.

To travel sustainably, it doesn't require significant efforts, but rather a few small changes in behavior. Here are some recommendations and tips on how you can contribute to making your journey more environmentally friendly and sustainable:

Avoiding Single-Use Plastic

Single-use plastic poses a significant threat to our environment. Plastic bottles, bags, and packaging pollute our oceans and endanger wildlife. Therefore, it's crucial to reduce plastic usage as much as possible, implementing the following measures:

  • Reusable water bottle: Carry a reusable water bottle and refill it whenever possible to reduce the consumption of single-use plastic bottles.
  • Fabric bags: Use reusable fabric bags or backpacks instead of single-use plastic bags when shopping.
  • Avoiding single-use utensils and tableware: Choose restaurants and food stalls that do not use disposable tableware.
  • Refillable containers: Use refillable containers for shampoo, soap, and other personal care products to avoid plastic consumption.

Conscious Water and Energy Use

Water and energy are limited resources, especially in many travel destinations. People often unconsciously consume more water than necessary. In some regions, water scarcity is a significant issue, and it's essential to be mindful of this resource during your travels.

Here are some tips for water conservation:

  • Showers and faucets: Ensure to close faucets and showers when not in use. Long, hot showers unnecessarily consume water and energy. Don't let the water run while brushing your teeth.
  • Reusable towels: In hotels, request to use towels multiple times instead of receiving fresh ones daily to reduce water consumption for laundry.
  • Toilet flushing: Use toilets sparingly, and in some places, there may be different flush modes.
  • Local water sources: Drink water from local sources when it's safe. This reduces the need for packaged water and decreases the ecological footprint.
  • Conscious Consumption: When purchasing products, especially beverages, opt for those with minimal packaging to reduce indirect water consumption associated with packaging material production.
  • Dishwashing: If you have a kitchen in self-catering accommodations, use efficient dishwashing methods, such as soaking dishes before washing, to minimize water consumption.
  • Air Conditioning and Heating: Use air conditioning and heating sparingly, and turn them off when leaving the room.
  • Lights: Turn off lights when leaving the room or when natural sunlight is sufficient.

Responsible Wildlife Observation

Observing wildlife during a journey is not only fascinating but also provides a unique opportunity to experience the beauty and diversity of our flora and fauna. However, it is crucial to conduct these observations responsibly to protect and preserve wildlife in the long term.

Here are some examples of how to approach wildlife observation responsibly:

  • Respect the distance: Always maintain a reasonable distance from wild animals to avoid disturbing them.
  • No animal shows or attractions: Avoid places where animals are captured or exploited for shows or attractions.
  • Follow guide instructions: If participating in guided wildlife observation tours, follow the guides' instructions to protect the wildlife.
  • No animal touch: Avoid touching animals, promoting a respectful attitude towards nature and its inhabitants. Wild animals are not pets, and their natural behaviors should be respected.

Supporting Local Communities

Supporting local communities is a crucial aspect of sustainable travel, as it helps secure existing jobs and create new ones. Here are some ways you can promote the local economy:

  • Regional Cuisine: Enjoy local cuisine made from fresh and regional ingredients. Visit restaurants and markets that offer local specialties.
  • Purchase of Crafts and Souvenirs: Buy crafts and souvenirs from small businesses and local markets. This not only supports the local economy but also allows you to take home authentic mementos.

Education and Awareness

Education is a crucial step towards sustainable travel. Inform yourself in advance about the environmental impacts of your trip and how you can minimize them.

Here are some ways to do so:

  • Stay Informed: Learn more about the environmental impacts of tourism in your travel destination and how you can actively contribute to environmental protection.
  • Local Conservation Projects: Research conservation projects and initiatives in your travel destination. Many organizations and communities actively work towards environmental protection and offer opportunities for voluntary participation.
  • Shared Responsibility: Remember that sustainable travel is a shared responsibility. Every small step you take to protect the environment makes a difference.

Enjoy Regional Products

In the world of travel, the choice of destination is not the only crucial factor; what ends up on your plate matters as well. Opting for regional cuisine goes beyond satisfying your taste buds. The decision on what foods and beverages to consume plays, like many other aspects, a significant role in both the environment and the local communities.

Why does your food choice matter for your ecological footprint, and how does enjoying regional products contribute to environmental protection?

  • Supporting Local Agriculture: By purchasing regional products from local, often family-run businesses, you can strengthen their economy and ensure their survival.
  • Reducing the Ecological Footprint: Transporting food over long distances results in substantial CO2 emissions. Enjoying regional products reduces the need for lengthy transportation, thus contributing to the reduction of energy consumption for transportation.
  • Preserving Regional Diversity: Each region has its own culinary delights and flavors. Consuming regional products promotes the preservation of these flavors and simultaneously supports traditional farming methods.
  • Transparent Supply Chains: Buying regional products enables a more transparent supply chain. You know exactly where your food comes from and can be confident that it was produced under ethical and sustainable conditions. This builds trust and allows you to make informed consumption decisions.
  • Freshness and Quality: Regional products are often fresher and of higher quality since they are not subjected to long transportation and storage times. Enjoying fresh food not only enhances your culinary experience but also supports sustainable agriculture that prioritizes quality and taste.

Your Contribution to Conservation

At NiCe Dive & Trips, we take pride in actively promoting conservation efforts. As part of your journey, you have the opportunity to directly participate in conservation projects.

Here are some ways you can contribute:

  • Volunteer Conservation Projects: Explore local conservation projects you can join during your trip. This may include participating in beach clean-ups, reforestation projects, or wildlife protection initiatives. Feel free to reach out to us, NiCe Dive & Trips, for more information.
  • Project Donations: We support selected conservation projects, allowing you to contribute a portion of your travel expenses directly to these initiatives. By doing so, you actively contribute to the preservation of nature and the protection of endangered species.
  • On-Site Engagement: Be curious and inquire about opportunities to participate in conservation activities locally. Often, there are spontaneous opportunities to get involved in environmental protection.

Recommendations for Eco-Friendly Transportation

The modes of transportation we choose not only shape our travel experiences but also have a significant impact on the environment. Every decision you make regarding your transport can contribute to the overall ecological footprint of your journey.

  • Public Transportation: Use public transportation whenever possible. Buses and trains are often more efficient and environmentally friendly compared to individual rides.
  • Eco-Friendly Modes of Transportation: Consider using environmentally friendly modes of transportation, such as bicycles, especially for short distances or exploratory trips. These options reduce carbon emissions and contribute to environmental conservation.

Recommendations for Eco-Friendly Accommodations

The choice of accommodation can also contribute to the sustainability of your journey. Here are some recommendations:

  • Energy Efficiency: Prefer accommodations that implement energy-efficient measures to reduce energy consumption. This can include the use of LED lighting, energy-efficient appliances, and renewable energy sources.
  • Waste Reduction: Ensure that your chosen accommodation implements measures to reduce waste. This may involve providing recycling bins, avoiding single-use plastics, and promoting waste separation.
  • Water Conservation: Water scarcity is a global issue. Therefore, prefer accommodations that introduce water-saving measures. This includes water-efficient showerheads, low-flush toilets, and the use of rainwater.
  • Environmental Certifications: Look for environmental certifications of hotels. Accommodations certified by organizations like the World Sustainability Foundation have committed to environmental protection and sustainability.
  • Local Accommodations: Prefer local small hotels and resorts to support the local community. This allows you to directly contribute to the local culture and economy, promoting authentic experiences.