An Overview of Current Global Hot Spots for Eco-Friendly Tourism

Ecotourism is a popular trend, one that has seen growing numbers of travelers who are willing to pass up on traditional destinations in order to visit natural areas or to more fully experience natural environments. While planning an eco-friendly holiday or vacation is much the same as any other trip, there are a few specific issues that travelers may need to address. Investing in additional travel insurance or trip protection can be a good idea when visiting destinations in areas that may be less developed or far from the beaten path. Choosing the right destination is another issue that will need to be weighed carefully.

Sustainable Travel

Ecological preservation is often an issue that is very important to ecotourists. The chance to visit a pristine natural environment is just part of the experience. The revenue generated by sustainable tourism is often essential for ensuring that regional governments are provided with a financial incentive to protect and conserve natural areas and environments. Finding ways to minimize the environmental impact of their travel plans and habits is another reason why tourists and travelers would do well to pick the right destination for their next trip or holiday.

Popular Destinations

Costa Rica – Costa Rica is strongly associated with ecotourism, and with good reason. Travelers will have access to countless beaches as well as inland destinations with tropical rain forests that cover fully one quarter of the country. Costa Rica has also been an early adopter and pioneer for many ecotourism trends and can provide visitors with many opportunities they may be hard pressed to find elsewhere.

Galapagos Islands – The Galapagos Islands feature a unique and diverse ecosystem that includes many species that can be found nowhere else on Earth. The Islands themselves were declared a Natural World Heritage Site in 1978. Those who are interested in sustainable travel would do well to learn more about the islands and what they have to offer.

Amazon Rain Forests – While pollution, climate change and industrial development have already done significant harm to the Amazon, ecotourism can provide travelers with the opportunity to help protect a diverse and vibrant ecosystem. The revenue generated through sustainable tourism offers a lucrative alternative to logging and other industrial efforts that are causing harm to the rain forests.

Norway, Greenland and the Arctic Circle – From glaciers and tundra to the aurora borealis, there are a number of unique sights and attractions that can be found in northern locations or destinations that lay above the Arctic Circle. Many Nordic countries are committed to the use of renewable energies and other efforts to promote long-term sustainability and can make for an ideal alternative to more traditional vacation spots where travelers might have trouble finding eco-friendly ways to explore their surroundings.

Emerging Trends in Ecotourism

Many ecotourists are interested in more than just seeing the sites. Emerging trends, such as issue-oriented travel destinations, using a vacation to help provide financial support for those who are working to protect natural areas and even using holidays as an opportunity to volunteer directly are all having an impact. When it comes to planning an upcoming trip, finding ways to make a bigger difference can be just as important as purchasing travel insurance or booking a hotel.

Planning the Perfect Trip

Effective planning is essential for any type of travel. Ecotourists who are planning to visit a remote destination or to spend time in areas far from civilization would do well to ensure that they have everything they need in order to stay safe and comfortable. Double checking all camping supplies, learning more about what is covered by a specific travel insurance policy or finding ways to minimize their impact on their destination can all be important concerns. A well-planned trip, holiday or vacation is more likely to provide ecotourists with greater enjoyment as well as the opportunity to help promote, celebrate and protect the natural environment.