Concepts such as organic farming and permaculture strengthen local cycles, rebuild soil, promote diversity, and create and secure fair jobs. “Farm-to-table” is not just a marketing phrase here; it’s the essence of the cuisine.

5  hotels with their own farms in Germany, Austria, and South Tyrol

#1 ADLER Lodge RITTEN, South Tyrol 

The ADLER Lodge RITTEN, a consciously managed five-star hotel in South Tyrol’s Ritten region, has incorporated a farm-to-table concept from the beginning. On around 4,000 square meters of land right next to the main building, a diverse farm garden with fields, fruit bushes, and herb gardens has been created. Summer wheat, potatoes, various vegetables, berries, and aromatic herbs grow there.

The garden is not only a source of produce, but also an experiential space with paths, benches, and signs indicating what is currently growing.

The cottage garden is tended by Christian Fink and his girlfriend Johanna, who also run the neighboring Viehweiderhof farm. They take a natural, diverse, and ecological approach: they grow mixed crops in the beds and plant flowers that strengthen the soil and attract pollinators. The bees at the lodge benefit from it as well—and provide the honey for the breakfast buffet.

Farm-to-table concept by Cristian Cinquemani

What was once a labor of love for Chef Hannes Pignater is now continuing. His successor, Cristian Cinquemani, the chef at ADLER Lodge RITTEN, is keeping the open kitchen concept alive by using local organic ingredients, homegrown produce, and interacting directly with guests, while adding a touch of island flair from his native Elba to the cuisine.

#2 Hotel Klosterbräu, Tyrol, Austria

The Hotel Klosterbräu in Seefeld continues the establishment’s more than 500-year history with its own agriculture. The Augustinian monks cultivated the land of the former monastery themselves, engaging in arable farming, growing hops for the brewery, and raising livestock. Today, Alois Seyrling, the hotel’s owner, is reviving this tradition with a sustainable, contemporary, and consistent approach to organic farming — but with a vegetarian twist.

Since 2017, the Klosterbräu has run the vegetarian farm “Sigis Sauhaufen” according to organic and biodynamic principles. The fields on the parish hill are fertilized with compost made from the hotel’s organic waste. They grow potatoes, herbs, hops, and fruits such as apples, all tailored to their needs. A special project is the so-called “Plateau Potato” – unique in color and taste.

Hotel with farm and petting zoo

Their farming activities include animal husbandry and plenty of space: a free-range chicken coop with around 200 laying hens of old and rare breeds provides eggs for breakfast, among other things. Complementing this is a private petting zoo with goats, miniature cattle, and other small animals. The hotel is therefore particularly well-suited for providing your children with hands-on farming experience.

#3 Naturresort Gerbehof, Lake Constance, Germany

At the Bio Hotel Naturresort Gerbehof, agriculture is approached holistically. The hotel and farm are one entity, both certified 100 percent organic and part of a consistent cycle. As a member of Bioland, the business promotes mindful use of resources and intergenerational responsibility.

Here, the Wagner family cultivates organic apple and pear orchards spanning around 22 hectares. They sell part of the harvest to regional retailers and use the rest for their own processing, producing apple juice, distillates in their distillery, and breakfast buffet products on site. The farm also has pasture land for horses, free-range chickens, and a small herd of wild boars.

The Naturresort Gerbehof is also a prime example of how the hotel industry and climate protection can coexist. They’re consistent in their approach to energy and resources. For instance, they grow miscanthus grass on site and use it as fuel for heating and as bedding for the horses; later, they use the resulting horse manure as fertilizer on the fields. Additionally, they use rainwater cisterns and their own well for irrigation

#4 My Arbor, South Tyrol 

Though not directly adjacent to the hotel grounds, the luxurious My Arbor wellness hotel near Brixen has established an agricultural connection through its Agricoltura Pura project. About 170 kilometers away, near Albisano on Lake Garda, approximately 20 hectares of land are cultivated according to the principles of regenerative agriculture – as a large-scale permaculture project featuring fruits, vegetables, olives, grains, wine, and herbs.

Focusing on healthy soils, biodiversity, and functioning natural cycles, the project prioritizes long-term soil fertility and diversity over short-term yields. The harvested products are sent directly to the hotel, where they are processed fresh in the kitchen or refined for use throughout the year. The result is pickled vegetables, jams, preserves, and homemade oil, among other things.

#5 Gut Sonnenhausen, Bavaria, Germany

The principles of permaculture also guide agricultural practices at Gut Sonnenhausen, a hotel near Munich. In an interview, hotel gardener Marie Louise Troll tells us that permaculture is also a response to the climate crisis.

“We have been dealing with the effects of climate change on water resources and the increased occurrence of extreme weather events for years. Permaculture principles help make agriculture more resilient in the face of these changes.” – Gut Sonnenhausen

The Gut Sonnenhausen garden covers 2,700 square meters of vegetable cultivation, 500 square meters of culinary herbs, and an additional 25 hectares of nature surrounding the hotel with fruit and nut trees. To learn more (or pick up some tips for your own garden), you can participate in the hotel’s free “Gartentreff” (garden meeting).

Looking beyond the horizon— when agriculture changes more than just the menu

In the affluent DACH region, in particular, many hotels are showcasing the creative potential of their agricultural practices. However, travelers who look beyond the horizon—both literally and figuratively—will realize that organic farming has a different meaning in other parts of the world. It’s not only about taste, quality, and transparency; it’s also about securing livelihoods and real future prospects for local communities.

#1 The Pavilions Himalayas – The Farm, Nepal

The Pavilions Himalayas — The Farm was founded with a clear vision: to help local farmers transition from conventional to organic agriculture and secure their livelihoods. The fields surrounding the resort are home to seasonal vegetables and herbs, and the resort produces eggs and milk that are used in Nepalese cuisine. The food is fresh, pesticide-free, and in harmony with the seasons. Even the ingredients used to make dal bhat, curries, and momos come directly from the resort’s own land.

More important than the harvest, however, is the transfer of knowledge. In addition to learning organic farming techniques, local farmers have learned the basics of entrepreneurship and now supply the hotel kitchen with organic produce, providing themselves and their families with an income.

Douglas and Insuba Maclagan, the founders of the Nepalese eco-resort, have been involved in social projects related to education, health, and employment for nearly 30 years. They deliberately avoid a profit-oriented approach, instead focusing on using tourism to have a positive impact on the region, its people, and the tourism sector as a whole.

• To learn more about their impressive story, read our blog post about impactful tourism. 

#2 Canvas & Orchids Retreat, Cambodia

At the Canvas & Orchids Retreat, a sustainable resort featuring luxurious, partially floating tent villas nestled in nature, agriculture starts small. Yet it has a far-reaching impact. The resort’s farm grows basic vegetables, such as eggplants and cucumbers, as well as herbs, for daily cooking. This reduces transportation distances and ensures the freshest ingredients.

Guests taught the Cambodians how to farm chickens

In addition, the retreat intentionally incorporates the neighborhood and the guests. One particularly nice example is that returning guests with experience in poultry farming helped local families set up small chicken farms with their expertise and equipment. Today, these families supply the retreat with eggs and meat. Thanks to the initiative of these guests, a special farm-to-table connection has been created that continues to sustain livelihoods and strengthen local structures to this day.

Back to earth – and to more conscious travel

The Green PearlsⓇ hotels featured here demonstrate how travel can become more grounded. When you visit, you connect with more than just a place; you connect with what grows there, too. You can see vegetable plants, smell regional herbs, and enjoy food that could hardly be fresher.

At the same time, by vacationing at one of these hotels, you support people who practice responsible agriculture, whether in the Alps, on Lake Constance, or on the Tatai River in Cambodia. To us, this is what sustainable travel is all about: enjoying consciously and giving back to nature.

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More sustainable travel starts with better decisions—and sometimes simply with the right timing. While many destinations are overwhelmed with visitors during the traditional vacation months, countercyclical travel offers a sustainable alternative: consciously traveling outside of the high season.

The advantages of traveling in the off-season

Countercyclical travel means discovering destinations when they have room to breathe. Or to put it simply: when everyone else is flocking to the south, we discover the north. The advantages:

• Less crowds relieve pressure on nature, infrastructure, and local communities.
• At the same time, you often experience places that are more unspoiled, quieter, and more authentic—and (bonus!) cheaper.
• For hosts, too, this form of travel is an important lever for flattening seasonal peaks, securing jobs all year round, and making sustainable concepts viable in the long term.

Your countercyclical travel calendar for 2026

In our green travel calendar for 2026, we therefore show you twelve travel ideas – one inspiration for each month. All destinations follow a simple principle: travel sustainably, avoid overtourism, and experience special vacation moments when others are not even thinking about them yet.

1. January

Traveling to a region during the rainy season has two big advantages: fewer tourists and lush greenery! That’s why our tip for January is Peru. There is no classic dry season in the Amazon region anyway. However, it rains (even) more frequently and heavily until around April. And it is precisely this time of year that causes the rainforest to explode in lush greenery. (Sure, the paths can be muddy, but that’s just part of the jungle experience). You’ll stay right in the rainforest at the Inkaterra Reserva Amazónica. And if you want to enjoy the Andes during the rainy season, the highlight of Machu Picchu near the Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel is at least a little less crowded than during the high season.

2.February

February – neither winter nor spring. However, Freiburg doesn’t need spring to charm its visitors. The charming city center has a lot to offer, especially the historic architecture, the Freiburg Bächle (small streams) and the almost daily weekly market around Freiburg Cathedral, which are among the city’s landmarks. When the weather is bad, there is culture to discover in museums (Augustinermuseum, Natur und Mensch) and historic sites (Colombischlössle).

In Freiburg’s eco-friendly Vauban district, you will find particularly sustainable accommodation at the Green City Hotel Vauban after an eventful day. By the way: whether it’s the onset of winter or already spring-like temperatures, from here you can quickly reach the Black Forest countryside, which is beautiful in every season.

3. March

Skiing doesn’t have to take place in the middle of winter. In Switzerland, snow arrives later in many places, but it stays longer in the high mountains. March therefore often offers the best conditions – and that’s outside the high season. In Zermatt, the slopes are emptier, the temperatures milder, and the light particularly intense. Fabienne Anthamatten from Zermatt sums it up:

“Come skiing in March or April! You won’t be skiing on artificial snow – and that’s really fun.”

Naturally, we recommend the Hotel Bella Vista Zermatt. The Anthamatten family’s family-run hotel is located directly on the ski slope, is comfortably furnished with lots of wood, and offers a magnificent view of the Matterhorn – perfect for relaxed skiing days without too much hustle and bustle.

4. April

How about forest bathing instead of an Easter egg hunt this Easter? The Selfnesshotel SCHWALRZWALD PANORAMA is offers this relatively new treatment over the Easter holidays. “Black Forest bathing” with a private trainer.

Forest bathing (Shinrin Yoku) has health-promoting effects on your entire organism, strengthens the immune system, and soothes the soul. This meditative excursion into nature is particularly suitable for stress management. And forest bathing in Bad Herrenalb is especially worthwhile because the forest here is so wonderfully unspoiled!

5. May

A beach holiday on the Baltic Sea in May? Why not! The sun is already shining and the beaches are not very crowded at this time of year. Moreover, bathing in the (admittedly, still cold) sea promotes blood circulation and strengthens the immune system like a climate therapy. If you want to warm up afterwards, it’s best to enjoy the view of the rooftop sauna at the SANDnature on the Timmendorfer Strand.

6. June

Nepal is usually associated with the classic trekking season in autumn – but June is a particularly exciting time to travel. Shortly before the monsoon, the landscape is exceptionally green, the air is clear, and the trails are much quieter than in the busy months. Those who travel countercyclically will experience Nepal more intensely, more authentically, and more relaxed.

Our tip for this time of year is The Pavilions Himalayas – The Farm near Pokhara. This boutique resort is picturesquely situated amid organically farmed fields and rolling hills, with views of the Himalayas. In sustainable villas, you can experience traditional Nepalese life as well as modern, environmentally conscious comfort, yoga, meditation, and great excursion options, such as animal-friendly safaris.

7. July

When beaches and cities are crowded in July, the Tyrolean mountains offer a refreshing alternative. A cooler climate, green landscapes, and plenty of space to breathe deeply make summer in the Alps ideal for countercyclical travel.

In Seefeld, the Hotel Klosterbräu combines sustainable five-star wellness comfort with over 500 years of history. The sixth-generation family-run hotel offers peace, nature, and relaxation—far away from the heat and hustle and bustle.

If you’re looking for more space and privacy, the Summit Lodges Pfunds in the Tyrolean Oberland offer luxurious, sustainably managed vacation homes for up to six people. With a private sauna and close proximity to the mountains, you can enjoy a relaxing summer here.

8. August

The Dolomites are the best place to enjoy late summer! When the mountains are bathed in red and gold by the setting sun in the evening (the locals call this spectacle “Enrosadira”), you won’t want to be anywhere else. The location of the Paradiso Pure.Living Vegan Hotel is perfect for this and also ideal for exploring the countryside on mountain bikes or discovering the hiking trails on the Alp de Suisse.

9. September

According to a British travel study, September is considered the most popular month for travel – “Super September.” That’s precisely why it’s worth consciously choosing not to go where everyone else is going, but to rethink your travel destinations.

Sicily shows its relaxed side in September: the intense summer heat is over, the sea is still warm, and life on the island returns to its own rhythm. Instead of the hustle and bustle of the high season, you can expect wide open spaces, peace and quiet, and a genuine dolce vita.

Our accommodation tip here is the ADLER Spa Resort SICILIA, which is secluded on a WWF-protected wild beach that is almost exclusively accessible via the resort. Surrounded by nature, with plenty of space, sustainable standards, and comprehensive wellness facilities.

10. October

October is the ideal time to consciously extend summer—without the heat, holiday crowds, and crowded beaches. On the Croatian island of Iž, you can now enjoy peace and quiet. It is precisely this time of year that makes the island a popular destination for countercyclical travel.

The sustainable Hotel Korinjak is located directly by the sea, surrounded by the scent of pine trees and salty air. Minimalist rooms with sea views, vegetarian Mediterranean cuisine, and the immediate proximity to the beach invite you to leave everyday life behind. Morning yoga, gong sound baths, or retreats support this slower pace.

11. November

When Central Europe becomes gray and cold, many people seek out the sun in faraway places. A little closer to home is Tenerife. In November, this Canary Island offers a mild climate (around 23°C to 26°C) and plenty of nature – and that’s outside the peak season.

The OCEANO Health Spa Hotel is located directly on the Atlantic Ocean in the northeast of Tenerife (i.e., a little further away from the tourist hotspots). All rooms offer sea views, and there is also light, regional cuisine, thalassotherapy, a seawater infinity pool, and direct access to the natural Piscina Natural (seawater pool). Exercise, yoga, and health programs make November the ideal time for conscious relaxation. A hiking vacation in Tenerife is also ideal at this time of year.

12. December

Winter sports in December are a classic and therefore have less to do with countercyclical travel, but instead of skis and snowboards, you could enjoy the winter landscape on snowshoes and leave the hustle and bustle of the slopes behind you. At the Naturhotel Outside in Matrei, East Tyrol, you can hike across the snow-covered Hohe Tauern National Park.

Twelve months, twelve opportunities to travel consciously. Where can you find me? Where others are not. 🙂

This is an update from January 8, 2019.

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We don’t want to stop you from traveling

In our opinion, travel has many advantages. It contributes to understanding and change, and it is the basis of life for many people around the world. If you are interested in this topic, please read the following articles after this blog post:

• “Are we still allowed to fly?”
• Social sustainability
• Traveling in times of climate change

Hotels shape society—research confirms this

Hotels are among the key players in the tourism industry. Consequently, their influence on the development and sustainability of our travels is significant.

The FutureHotel study by the Fraunhofer Institute confirms that hotels are playing an increasingly important role in society due to the growing tourism sector. Not only do they shape their guests’ travel experience, but they also influence working conditions, the regional economy, and local communities. The study states that hotels can initiate social change by providing safe, healthy, and inspiring environments that open up new perspectives.

Some of our Green Pearls® partners go to great lengths to achieve this. In our article on charity hotels, for instance, we discuss Pavilions Himalayas – The Farm, a hotel founded exclusively to support the local Nepalese population—70 percent of its profits go to children’s projects. Additionally, farmers in the surrounding area have been trained in organic farming and now have a ready market for their produce.

Social projects of our Green Pearls® partners

Of course, not every sustainable hotel needs to become an NGO. And you don’t have to devote your entire life to the public good, either. However, one can always share some of their prosperity.

What could that look like in practice? We asked Green Pearls® accommodations which social projects they support. Find inspiration—or simply enjoy the fact that your stay is promoting social initiatives around the world.

Let’s start in Cambodia, a beautiful yet troubled country. Many regions are still marked by a history of war, child poverty, and, in some cases, human trafficking.

Projects in countries of the Global South: Cambodia as an Example

Social engagement is firmly anchored in the identity of the Canvas & Orchids Retreat. Host Valentin tells us that it was obvious to him:

“Nature conservation only works if the local population benefits directly.”

Many of today’s employees used to make a living from illegal logging or poaching. Now, they are trained professionals who share their knowledge of the region and the rainforest with guests.

Two of the newly completed projects:

• Clean drinking water for the school in Tatai: After the school’s water supply was contaminated with waste, the Retreat team worked with other local companies to install a collection system.
• Construction of the Koh Kong Khnong School: A dilapidated, two-room, wooden hut was replaced with a new, safe school building in cooperation with NGOs, creating a long-term impact on the community.

Here’s how you can get involved as a guest

As a guest, you can easily get involved right on site:

• During village tours on Koh Andet Island, you can meet local families and learn about their lives.
• Mangrove tours directly support the community of Koh Kapik.
• During excursions, you can plant trees or donate school supplies.
• Support local producers by purchasing handicrafts or regional specialties, for example.

As Valentin sums it up: “Every stay helps strengthen the livelihoods of the people here.”

Focus on social projects: Green Pearls® hotels situated within more affluent regions

Now, we will focus on our Green Pearls® hotel partners in wealthier regions of the world – the main topic of this article. Many of these hotels are involved in an impressive number of social projects. The following examples are just a few of the many projects they undertake—chosen because they particularly touch our hearts.

It’s striking how sustainable accommodations impact their local communities. They support the people in their immediate surroundings, create opportunities, and promote local initiatives. Support for more distant countries usually takes the form of donation projects. For instance, several of our partners are affiliated with WIR (Water Is Right), an organization dedicated to providing clean drinking water in impoverished regions.

Supporting people with disabilities and those with an increased need for assistance

Social engagement is often about participation and inclusion, particularly for those who have fewer opportunities in everyday life or on the job market. Some of our Green Pearls® accommodations are prime examples of that commitment:

The OLM Nature Escape in Sand in Taufers, South Tyrol, supports the Sägemüllerhof in Gais, a work rehabilitation project for people with mental illnesses by

• Purchasing products from the Sägemüllerhof sewing workshop
• Donation shares on select items in the hotel shop
• Guests can donate directly at the front desk or request more information

The Klosterhof — Alpine Hideaway & Spa in Bayerisch Gmain — is also a customer of one of these workshops. “We continuously collaborate with the workshops at the Hohenfried facility in Bayerisch Gmain,” the hosts tell us. The products and workpieces are incorporated into everyday hotel life and truly appreciated.

ADLER Spa Resort SICILIA offers a monthly gourmet menu

The luxurious ADLER Spa Resort SICILIA came up with a wonderful idea to promote inclusion. Every month, the resort hosts a special evening of indulgence for people with disabilities or increased assistance needs. What makes this event unique is that the guests not only enjoy a gourmet menu, but also help organize the evening. They set the tables, help in the kitchen, and welcome other visitors. It’s an evening full of encounters that shows how much connection can be created when barriers come down. “This is a project that is truly close to our hearts,” says Sofia Rabanser.

Inclusion in practice at the Green City Hotel Vauban

The Green City Hotel Vauban in Freiburg takes it a step further. Ten of its 20 employees have disabilities.

The integrative concept is intentionally designed to be holistic:

• From the beginning, only regional craft businesses were commissioned for the construction
• Organizations such as Vereinigung Freiburger Sozialarbeit e.V. (Freiburg Social Work Association) and Freiburger Stadtbau GmbH (Freiburg City Construction Ltd.) stand behind the social mission
• The experienced integration company Hofgut Himmelreich from Kirchzarten provides training and further education

This hotel exemplifies what can be achieved when inclusion is considered not an add-on but the core of one’s actions.

How other Green Pearls® hotels are getting involved – sorted by theme & briefly introduced

In addition to the initiatives mentioned earlier, our Green Pearls® network is involved in many other projects. Many hotels are involved in several areas at once.

To avoid making this article too long, we have organized the projects by topic and provided concise summaries. You may find an idea here that you would like to support, whether at home or on the road.

TOPIC 1: Water & essential supplies

Clean drinking water is one of the most fundamental resources, yet it cannot be taken for granted in many regions. To actively give back, several Green Pearls® accommodations are committed to this cause. My Arbor has supported regional aid organizations for years through its “MY WATER campaign.” For this purpose, spring water from the 1,870-meter-high Plose mountain is bottled and sold for a good cause. In recent years, tens of thousands of euros have been donated to organizations such as Südtirol Hilft, the White Cross, and the Wünschewagen.

The ADLER Lodge RITTEN is setting an example as well by providing a public refill station on the hiking trail—a project that benefits hikers, locals, and guests alike while reducing the need for plastic bottles.

You can find more water projects by Green PearlsⓇ partners in the linked article.

TOPIC 2: Animal welfare

The protection of young wild animals is important to many people. That’s why Summit Lodges Pfunds supports Kitzrettung Tiroler Oberland, the Tyrolean Oberland Fawn Rescue, every year. Drones are used to track down fawns and move them to safety, away from mowing machines. Host Marco Spiss regularly participates in these missions — protecting young animals is important to him, and he actively promotes it.

The SANDcollection (SANDnature and SANDglow) has partnered with the WDC to offer a donation option for porpoise conservation in the North Sea and Baltic Sea through its booking engine. The two sustainable lifestyle hotels are located not far from the North Sea and Baltic Sea coasts. With a little luck, you may be able to observe whales there in person.

Here you can find more information on the topic of animal welfare when traveling.

TOPIC 3: Promoting neighborhood assistance and local expertise

Neighborly assistance means taking responsibility for one’s immediate surroundings—where one lives and works. The Hotel Bella Vista in Zermatt, Switzerland, demonstrates this commitment by supporting the organization “Nachbar in Not” (Neighbor in Need) and local youth programs every year, while the Naturhotel Outside in Matrei, East Tyrol, strengthens regional cultural and sports clubs and enables its guests to connect with local producers.

The LA VIMEA Vegan Hotel in Naturns, South Tyrol, promotes local knowledge by regularly organizing alpine herb courses with a regional expert who shares ancient knowledge about medicinal plants and demonstrates how to make natural cosmetics.

In general, many Green Pearls® hotels rely on local guides—from hiking guides to nature educators—to showcase regional expertise and compensate them fairly.

TOPIC 4: Strengthening education, children, and families

Education is one of the most important foundations for future opportunities, and sustainable hotels can provide valuable impetus in this area. The SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA, for instance, has a long-standing project called “SchwaPa Biokids,” in which children learn about the connections between nutrition, the environment, and climate protection over the course of a school year.

The Naturresort Gerbehof supports the children’s project Sternenland and encourages its guests to donate by offering discounted rates for guests who waive room cleaning services.

The ADLER Lodge RITTEN has supported the expansion of a nearby public playground—a place that benefits locals and guests alike. Gut Sonnenhausen participates in projects run by Children e.V. and provides accommodations for charity events. Meanwhile, SANDnature and SANDglow support young people in the region through their involvement with Round Table Germany.

Auctioning for a good cause—an idea you can also implement at home

Finally, we learned about another initiative from Hotel Das Rübezahl that is as simple as it is ingenious. Once a year, the hotel staff organizes a heartwarming evening where lost items from the Rohrkopf hut and the hotel, including donated sports equipment, vouchers, and small treasures, are auctioned off in a relaxed atmosphere. The proceeds benefit the mountain rescue service.

What begins as a cheerful gathering culminates each year in an impressive donation, which the host family, the Thurms, generously adds to at the end.

You can organize something like this at home, too. A small auction among friends, at the office, in a club, or in the neighborhood would be perfect. Everyone brings something to auction, and the proceeds go to a cause you care about. This way, items that would otherwise gather dust become tangible help for others.

How much should one actually donate to social projects?

The answer is individual—but there are inspiring models. Oxford philosopher Toby Ord, founder of Giving What We Can, suggests making a “Further Pledge” to donate all income above a deliberately low standard of living because doing so can make an incomparably greater difference for others. On the other hand, author Rutger Bregman inspires many people to donate 10% of their income, a concept promoted by Giving What We Can.

How wealthy am I?

If you’re curious about how privileged you are on a global scale, you can easily find out. The online calculator “How Rich Am I?” shows you where your income stands globally — often with surprising results that change your perspective and strengthen your desire to give back.

Regardless of your approach, small amounts, creative ideas, and conscious sharing can make a big difference. This includes consciously choosing your travel destinations and accommodations.

Do you have any other ideas or examples? Write them in the comments.

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Male Solo Travel Role Models in the Media

Many people dream of taking a year off after school to travel the world or quitting their jobs to become travel bloggers, and (thanks in part to media hype) it seems as if they all succeed. Or at least, a lot of them. The truth is, very few do. Out of my entire graduating class of over 100 people, only one went solo traveling to Thailand. And he didn’t even become a travel blogger. How many do you know?

Travelers on YouTube are trending

Some male YouTubers that I enjoy watching with my family are Joe Khatab (Saudi Arabia, 18.3 million subscribers) and Ibn Battuta (Palestinian refugee from Jordan, 3.1 million followers). Both make a living from traveling and have been on the road alone for years.

Johnny Ward left Ireland in 2006. Since then, he has traveled to every country in the world in 11 years and earned around $3 million with his blog, “oneStep4ward”. (However, he is no longer traveling alone, as he has married and settled in Thailand with his wife. He discusses this in his post about visiting Keemala in Phuket in cooperation with us.)

Traveling to Improve the World

Many men seek adventure while traveling. Some do so sustainably and try to help others along the way. For example, I found the late German survival expert Rüdiger Nehberg very likable.

“Can one person really make the world a better place? Of course, who else!” –  Rüdiger Nehberg

Douglas Maclagan, an Englishman, also traveled alone in his younger years until fate brought him to Nepal. There, he built the sustainable resort The Pavilions Himalayas – The Farm. Learn more about the inspiring story of the resort with impact here.

Today’s Solo Traveler (Findings from the ITB)

When the travel industry says that solo travel has recently become a trend for men, too, they are primarily referring to those who lead “normal” lives. For example, there’s Uwe, my father’s former colleague, born in 1960, who always books group tours for his solo vacations. (He books alone and connects with his fellow travelers.)

At the ITB Berlin 2025 tourism trade fair, Sonja Salzburger from the Süddeutsche Zeitung examined the solo travel trend.

Her findings and the resulting 2026 forecasts

• Many solo travelers are older (One indication of this is that, according to Tui, solo travelers prefer to arrange meetings via Facebook.)
• They are not tied to vacation periods and prefer to travel in the off-season
• According to a Tui survey, only 4% travel alone because they lack travel partners.
• The most frequently cited reasons in the Tui survey are: “I value independence” (33%), “time for a personal challenge” (25%).
• According to the Research Association for Vacations and Travel (FUR), 11.1% of German vacationers (7.13 million) traveled alone in 2023
• Solo travelers do not differ from others in their choice of destinations.

Ready for a (sustainable) solo trip?

As you can see, when traveling alone, you don’t have to worry about seeming friendless. Instead, you can enjoy having time to yourself and being flexible, free, and independent. If you travel in the off-season, you’re also being sustainable because it spreads out tourism, secures jobs, and makes it easier to regulate environmental impact.

To make your trip more sustainable, there are two things you should keep in mind:

• Getting there (by train, if possible, to be eco-friendly)
• Accommodation (here, of course, we recommend our Green Pearl® partners)

Sustainable vacation packages for solo male travelers

We asked our network which Green PearlsⓇ hotels often welcome male solo travelers and if any have special offers for this group.

“Men’s Active Health” at OCÉANO Health Spa Hotel in Tenerife

The OCÉANO Health Spa Hotel on the Canary Island of Tenerife (with a warm climate all year round) is one hotel where you will find many solo travelers. The hotel is located directly on the Atlantic Ocean and offers wellness programs, fasting cures, and health programs. “More women travel alone because of the focus on yoga, wellness, and the spa,” says Simone Schleicher from the hotel. “But we also have a steady stream of men traveling alone.”

There is a special activity program designed for this target group to help them achieve a defined shape and increase their energy levels:

• Single room with a sea view
• Health spa diet (made with regional, organic ingredients)
• Use of the spa area, including the thalassotherapy pool, fitness center, saunas, and seawater pool
• Introductory consultation with a doctor and HRV (heart rate variability) measurement
• Three therapeutic treatments
• Three personal training sessions
• One foot reflexology massage
• One Express Power Lift for Men
• Five free sessions in the yoga and relaxation program

To the offer: OCÉANO Men’s Active Health

“Me Time” at the My Arbor Tree Hotel in South Tyrol

Would you rather be in the mountains than at the beach? If so, the adults-only, sustainable hotel My Arbor near Brixen is a great choice. At this luxurious wellness hotel, you can enjoy the solar-powered sauna and meet other solo travelers. The hotel welcomes guests aged 16 and older and ensures that they can tailor their stay to their preferences.

“We have indeed noticed an increase in solo travel. Solo travelers are certainly welcome here and can choose from a wide variety of activities.” —Alexandra Huber, My Arbor host family

The trend of solo travel is popular among both women and men. Although there are no special offers exclusively for men, the MY SPECIAL TIME offer is suitable for everyone.

Sustainable hotels for motorcyclists/bikers?

The Relais del Maro in Liguria, Italy, reports that men who travel alone often come for a biker getaway, some of whom have already formed groups beforehand. As a motorcyclist, you’re never really alone. “They enjoy motocross tours in the mountains and cold beer on our terrace,” says Martina Dellarbar. The hotel itself is an Albergo Diffuso, or a dispersed hotel, spread across several former residential and commercial buildings in the village of Borgomaro.

Bikers frequently check in as guests at the STURM Wellness Hotel in Mellrichstadt, Germany. Before the hotel transitioned to offering only organic, natural, and sustainable products and services, it was a “biker hotel,” which many guests fondly remember.

Solo male travelers are welcome guests at the STURM. Julius Schulze-Diekhoff, a member of the host family, reveals that a special offer for men is already in the works.

Question: Is vacationing by motorcycle environmentally friendly?

It depends primarily on the type of motorcycle you have. As the ADAC explains in its 2025 market report, electric motorcycles are still relatively rare. In contrast, some of the latest motorcycle models are 20 times dirtier than cars with combustion engines because they have huge engines. In other calculations, a motorcycle performs better than a car if only one person is in the car.

However, the problem is that motorcycling is usually practiced as a “leisure sport” and thus blows extra CO2 into the air. Therefore, we only consider electric motorcycles to be acceptable as a “hobby.” If at all. Here, it works out well: Both the Relais del Maro and the STURM provide electric charging stations 🙂

“Men’s time out” at the Hotel Das Rübezahl

As a man, you don’t necessarily have to drink beer and ride motorcycles (honestly, we can return that cliché to the 90s). In 2026, men can treat themselves to a wellness retreat. That’s at least how the Hotel Das Rübezahl in the Allgäu region sees it. They offer back massages, head and neck massages, and a four-course meal at a Michelin-starred restaurant—just for you! Wouldn’t that be nice?

• Click here for the offer: Men’s Package! 16.06.2025 – 23.12.2025, Hotel Das Rübezahl

Men traveling alone and sustainably

As you can see, the world is your oyster when traveling alone, and many hotels have special offers just for you. A recent survey showed that many people use solo travel for self-reflection.

Consider your relationship with your environment and the planet. Every decision you make has an impact, and that includes travel. By choosing the hotels we’ve introduced you to, you can help make travel more sustainable.

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Der Beitrag This is what solo travel for men will look like in 2026 erschien zuerst auf GREEN TRAVEL BLOG.

Lush greenery instead of dusty heat

The thought wouldn’t leave me. Why are we so quick to view the rainy season as a disadvantage when it may be the most beautiful time to travel? Not only that, but it’s also more sustainable because you’re usually away from the crowds of tourists. So, you get less crowded sights, lower prices, and pure nature. That’s why I asked people in our network what traveling during the rainy season is really like. First up is Cambodia.

“Deodorant is useless” — rainy season in Cambodia (June–November)

“The rainy season in Cambodia is fantastic,” says Valentin Pawlik. He runs the Canvas & Orchids Retreat in the Cambodian rainforest with his wife, Anna. Here, you can stay in tent villas on floating platforms right on the river. Surrounded by lush greenery — especially during the rainy season.

The arrival of the monsoon season brings not only rain to Cambodia but also new life: landscapes are transformed into verdant oases, rivers swell, rice fields are replanted, and wild animals return. “Anyone who has never experienced monsoon rains should definitely do so—they’re incredible,” enthuses Valentin.

As a rule, it only rains for a few hours a day, and it’s pleasantly warm even then. Afterwards, the weather is calm and fresh. “Angkor Wat in the rain is magical,” he continues. “Sometimes it’s worth getting wet.” There’s also no need to pack deodorant — the heat and humidity render it completely ineffective!

The rainy season is the best time for taking photos!

Incidentally, the rainy season is a well-kept secret among photographers. Valentin explains, “The light is clearer, the sky is more exciting, and the colors are more intense.” That’s why it’s the best time to take photos. With a little luck, you might even capture some of the unique wildlife.

Bonus tip: Attend a yoga retreat near Angkor Wat

When visiting Angkor Wat, consider combining your trip with a wonderful *three-day yoga retreat, which includes authentic yoga, spa treatments, sound healing, and modern fitness activities.

The retreat at the Angkor Grace Residence & Wellness Resort offers classes in English for both beginners and advanced practitioners.

Challenges posed by the monsoon

Of course, the rainy season brings its own set of challenges. Flooding can occur in rural areas, some accommodations close for the off-season, and travel in the countryside sometimes takes longer. “It used to be difficult to travel during the rainy season because of poor roads and broken bridges,” Valentin explains. “But today, the main connections are well developed, and many of the concerns mentioned in old travel guides are outdated.”

The impact of climate change on the monsoon season

However, climate change could soon cause new problems. In this article, Greenpeace explains how the climate crisis is disrupting the monsoon cycle. The Indian Ocean is warming, dry seasons are lengthening, and rainy seasons are becoming more unpredictable. These changes mean that future rainy seasons will probably be different.

Monsoon season in Nepal (June to September) – accompany the locals during the rice harvest

Rajiv Desraj Shrestha, the general manager of The Pavilions Himalayas – The Farm, raves about the rainy season in his homeland.

„The landscape comes to life with its rice terraces, misty mornings, and colorful flora. The ever-changing view from your villa is like a living painting that touches the soul.“ – Rajiv

From mid-June to the end of September, the monsoon season brings new life to the hills around Pokhara. Wafts of mist drift through the valley, lush green rice terraces cascade down slopes, and the air fills with the scents of wet earth and sprouting plants.

From mid-June to the end of September, the monsoon season brings new life to the hills around Pokhara. Wafts of mist drift through the valley, lush green rice terraces cascade down slopes, and the air fills with the scents of wet earth and sprouting plants.

A special highlight during this time is the traditional Ropain Festival, which marks the beginning of the rice harvest (dates: June 29, 2025; TBD, June 2026). The festival is celebrated in various ways, but if you want to post an authentic Instagram photo, you’ll need to be covered in mud by the end of the day. 🙂

At the award-winning, eco-friendly, charitable hotel The Pavilions Himalayas – The Farm, the connection to local agriculture and the switch to organic production play a special role.

Read this article to learn more about the resort’s unique history.

If you’d like, you can lend a hand around the resort by wading barefoot through the soft, wet soil and planting rice seedlings alongside the farmers.

Maldives and rain? Definitely a sign to get in the water!

“Why would you care about rain underwater?” That’s how our partners at Gili Lankanfushi sum it up. If you’ve ever dreamed of encountering whale sharks and manta rays while diving or snorkeling, now is the perfect time.

From May to November, during the southwest monsoon, huge quantities of plankton gather in Hanifaru Bay in Baa Atoll — and the giants of the sea love it. As many as 200 manta rays and 20 whale sharks have even been spotted here in a single day. Snorkelers can get an up-close-and-personal view of them. So make sure not to miss this true natural spectacle, which only occurs during the rainy season.

Info: Sharks are an endangered species worldwide. As the WWF points out, sharks are at the top of the underwater food chain. Therefore, an imbalance in their population affects all other marine animals. Therefore, before booking a tour, find out about your tour operator’s sustainability practices. Learn the correct behavior on the boat and in the water. Keep your distance, and treat all animals with respect above and below the water. If you are unsure whether your chosen operator complies with animal welfare standards, cancel the trip.

At Gili Lankanfushi, you will stay in luxurious water villas — perfect for jumping straight into the lagoon after a dive or enjoying a warm rain shower on your terrace. The sustainable Green PearlsⓇ resort is actively committed to protecting coral reefs and works with local marine biologists. Guests can take guided tours, learn about endangered species, and even help plant coral.

Tip: Eight-day diving camp with tiger sharks — for experienced divers only!

Are you a certified diver looking for an authentic adventure (minimum AOWD or equivalent)? If so, this eight-day diving camp on Fuvahmulah Island could be just what you’re looking for! Removed from commercial tourist diving spots, Fuvahmulah is considered one of the last wild tiger shark hotspots. During the six-day diving portion of the camp, you can expect three dives each day with experienced, English-speaking guides. Information about the camp and booking can be found here: *8-Day Fuvahmulah Tiger Shark Diving Trip.

Experience Peru during the rainy season – between jungle rain and magical mist

Amazon rainforest: Wildlife watching in the rhythm of the water’s flow

There is no distinct dry season in the Peruvian Amazon. The daily cycle of evaporation and rainfall ensures that this area—one of the most species-rich habitats on Earth—thrives. However, the rainy season, which is from November to April, brings more frequent and intense rainfall. This is the ideal time for wildlife watching, as monkeys, caimans, sloths, and countless bird species come to the riverbanks in search of food.

Of course, paths can sometimes be impassable or very muddy. But I mean anyone traveling to the jungle is probably looking for adventure anyway and will be rewarded with lush greenery, spectacular sounds, and a unique nature experience.

Tip: Inkaterra Reserva Amazónica, a sustainable jungle lodge in the heart of the Amazon lowlands on the banks of the Madre de Dios River, offers direct access to a spectacular network of high rope bridges where you can safely walk through the treetops. Their experienced guides are always on hand to point out things you might otherwise miss.

For more information on preparing for your trip, including vaccinations and packing lists, check out our article on sustainable jungle adventures in the Amazon.

A mystical cloud forest instead of tourist crowds – the rainy season in the Andes

Above all else, the rainy season in the Peruvian Andes means one thing—fog. This gives places like Machu Picchu an almost mystical atmosphere. Many travelers prefer to visit during the dry season from June to August when large crowds are common. However, traveling during the off-season (October to March) is quieter and cheaper.

Incidentally, our Green PearlsⓇ partner, the Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel, is helping to reforest the cloud forest. The multi-award-winning hotel now stands on land that was once barren. In the 1970s, Inkaterra founder José Koechlin started planting trees here. It took 15 years for the cloud forest to return, along with birds, butterflies, and wild orchids. Today, over 300 bird species, 372 native orchid species, and 98 fern species can be found around the hotel, which has become a refuge.

Conclusion: The rainy season is a natural wonder that guarantees adventure

The rainy season is one of the most fascinating natural phenomena on Earth. As part of a global weather system, it gives life; however, it is increasingly being thrown out of balance by the climate crisis. Travelers who visit during this time will experience lush green landscapes and a deeper connection to nature and the local people.

But keep in mind that a vacation during monsoon season is not for those who prefer to relax on a beach chair or indulge in luxury—it challenges you, amazes you, sometimes requires a little improvisation, and, above all, helps you grow. However, with experienced local guides and hosts at your side, you will be well prepared for your rainy season adventure.

Here’s one last tip from Valentin in the Cambodian rainforest: When it rains, the locals wear flip-flops; however, you should opt for lightweight yet sturdy trekking shoes. Your feet will get wet, but you’ll stay sure-footed.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about traveling during the rainy season

1. Is it dangerous to travel during the rainy season?

No — at least, not necessarily. The infrastructure in many countries is much better today than it used to be. Valentin from Canvas & Orchids Retreat in Cambodia explains, “The road network has improved enormously in recent years. In the past, you could get stuck for days when it rained heavily — today, that’s no longer an issue.”

The important thing is to be flexible when traveling during the rainy season, learn about the region’s characteristics in advance, and have experienced local guides with you.

2. Which animals are particularly visible during the rainy season?

Many regions have especially good animal-viewing opportunities during the rainy season:

• Amazon, Peru: Higher water levels bring many animals closer to shore. There is a good chance of seeing monkeys, sloths, caimans, and rare birds.
• Cambodia: With a little luck, you can observe langurs, kingfishers, and water buffalo – often found near eco-resorts.
• Maldives: From May to November, large quantities of plankton gather in Hanifaru Bay, which attracts manta rays and whale sharks. Snorkelers can get amazingly close to these creatures.

3. What effect has climate change on the rainy season?

Climate change is disrupting the balance of the seasons — including the monsoon. Greenpeace explains that the rainy season has changed in many regions. “The rising temperature of the Indian Ocean is decreasing the intensity and regularity of the monsoon, while also making extreme heavy rainfall more frequent.” Consequences include longer dry spells, unpredictable rainfall, landslides, and flooding, especially in regions such as India, Bangladesh, and Pakistan.

4. How much does it rain during the rainy season?

Depending on the region, this can vary greatly. It is usually not continuous rain, but rather heavy showers, which often occur in the afternoon or at night. Sometimes these showers last several hours.

• In Cambodia, the rainy season lasts from May to October, with rain typically falling for one to three hours per day.
• In the Peruvian Amazon, it rains frequently, but the rainy season with particularly heavy showers lasts from November to April.
• In the Maldives, it rains more frequently during the southwest monsoon (May–October), but it is usually warm and sunny in between showers.

*For offers marked with an asterisk, we receive a commission if you book the offer. Of course, there are no additional costs for you! 

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Der Beitrag Traveling in the Rainy Season: Insider Eco-Tips from Cambodia, Nepal, Peru, and the Maldives erschien zuerst auf GREEN TRAVEL BLOG.

The “best room” is perfect to surprise and impress

A few years ago, when I was living in Tel Aviv, my parents came to visit. I recommended a hotel right on the beach with two types of rooms: some faced the street and others faced the Mediterranean Sea. The latter were more expensive. My father decided, “We’ll take the sea view. If we’re going to do it, let’s do it right.” They also opted for a room on one of the upper floors. Every day, I heard my mother rave about how beautiful the view was and how fantastic the room was. The extra cost? Totally worth it.

This memory inspired this article. I wanted to know: Do our partner hotels have rooms that amaze guests and make them want to rave about them and tell others about them? The answer: Yes, and beyond!

20 dream rooms with a focus on sustainability

What makes the rooms we are presenting here so dreamlike? They are not only individually and uniquely designed, but also sustainable. Here, luxury isn’t just for its own sake; it’s about conscious comfort: with renewable and recyclable materials, green electricity, and modern technology for saving water and energy. And as you will see, you won’t have to make any sacrifices or compromises.

Round Viw Suite | Der Birkenhof***** Spa & Genussresort, Germany 

The “Round View Suite” at the five-star Hotel Der Birkenhof features a wraparound balcony with panoramic views of the Upper Palatinate Lake District. The hotel was recently voted “Best Spa Hotel in Germany 2025” by the Falstaff Guide. It has several pools, a sauna area, and a two-Michelin-starred restaurant. And where does the electricity for all this come from? Completely from sustainable sources!

Chalet | The Pavilions Himalayas – The Farm, Nepal

Built in traditional Nepalese style and luxuriously furnished, the “Chalet” at The Pavilions Himalayas – The Farm is the perfect private retreat for you and your loved ones. It is located in the Pokhara area and is surrounded by organic farmland and some of the world’s highest peaks. The resort is a charity hotel that supports sustainable projects and is closely linked to the NGO Rights4Children.

Treetop Suite | My Arbor, Italy

The adults-only Hotel My Arbor has many beautiful rooms, but the highlight are the three “Treetop Suites.” These suites feature dreamlike balconies with views of the Plose, private saunas, and whirlpools.

Spa Loft | Klosterhof – Alpine Hideaway & Spa, Germany

A staircase leads to the “Spa Lofts” of the Klosterhof Alpine Hideaway & Spa, where you’ll find your own private spa area with a whirlpool tub and sauna. The best part? The stunning view of the Berchtesgaden countryside, which you can also enjoy from your private balcony. And by the way, all the furniture is made from applewood sourced from the same area.

AlmRausch | Hotel Das Rübezahl, Deutschland

The “AlmRausch Suite” at Hotel Das Rübezahl is not the largest suite, but it is the host family’s personal favorite. It boasts an unobstructed view of Neuschwanstein Castle and its own infrared cabin with a view of the Allgäu Mountains. The room’s chalet feel is enhanced by a fireplace, library, whirlpool, and walk-in closet.

Sky Suite | Hotel Bella Vista Zermatt, Swiss

In 2024, the Hotel Bella Vista Zermatt fully renovated its attic rooms. The highlight is the skylights, which allow you to lie in bed and gaze at the peak of the Matterhorn.

Family suite | Green City Hotel Vauban, Germany

“The heart of our hotel is our family suite,” reports the Green City Hotel Vauban in Freiburg. It is popular not only with families with children, but also with couples and bachelor parties. Equipped with two separate bedrooms and a beautiful roof terrace, the suite makes all guests feel at home. The inclusive hotel is part of the modern, ecological urban development of the Vauban district and has an integrative employment policy.

Roarer Suite | Hotel Weihrerhof, Italy

“The ‘Roarer Suite’ with its free-floating bay window is our best room,” explains Klaus Pichler, host at the Hotel Weihrerhof, without missing a beat. From there, guests have a direct view of Lake Wolfsgruben, one of the cleanest swimming lakes in Italy. The hotel is located in Ritten, South Tyrol, and is an ideal place to stay for a nature vacation, especially with children.

Lifestyle Loft 500 | Hotel Klosterbräu, Austria

The “Lifestyle Loft 500” is the Hotel Klosterbräu’s highest room and offers a view of the entire town of Seefeld. It includes a 66-square-meter south-facing terrace and a 20-square-meter east-facing balcony. Guests can also enjoy a private panoramic sauna, a private bar with a beer tap and a wine cabinet, and a secret room. Another highlight is the bed with a wooden canopy.

Pine suite | Naturhotel Outside, Austria

The “Pine Suite” at the Naturhotel Outside in the Hohe Tauern National Park in East Tyrol features Swiss stone pine wood furnishings that promote better sleep and create a natural atmosphere. The suite includes a bed made of solid Swiss stone pine with a high-quality pocket spring mattress measuring 180 x 200 cm, allergen-friendly bedding, and cushions crafted from Swiss stone pine. Hiking in the mountains, relaxing in the spa, and enjoying the excellent cuisine — the restaurant has received three Falstaff forks — contribute to a holistic, nature-oriented relaxation experience.

Inkaterra Suite | Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel, Peru

The “Inkaterra Suite” is not a typical hotel room. Rather, it is a 176-square-meter villa located on the grounds of the Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel. The villa features a private garden with a pool, daybed, and outdoor shower, as well as a spacious living area, multiple rooms, and a fireplace. Guided tours exploring the former Inca city of Machu Picchu depart directly from the hotel. For many years, the hotel’s operators have been committed to preserving this World Heritage Site and promoting environmental protection, species conservation, and sustainability throughout Peru.

ApartSuite L | OLM Nature Escape, Italy

Do apartments with private saunas and freestanding bathtubs seem wasteful to you? Fortunately, the OLM Nature Escape in Sand in Taufers, South Tyrol, is completely energy self-sufficient thanks to solar energy and geothermal probes, so it produces all of its own electricity. Each apartment is equipped with a kitchen, allowing you to choose between eating at the restaurant or cooking for yourself.

Family Room No. 2 | Relais del Maro, Italy

The Relais del Maro is an Albergo Diffuso, meaning this four-star hotel is spread across several old residential and commercial buildings in the village. Here in Borgomaro, Liguria, you’ll live right next door to the locals and experience authentic Italian culture in the Imperia countryside. According to host Elena, the most beautiful room is the “Family Room No. 2” — elegant, spacious, and bright.

Waldklang | SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA, Germany 

The “Panorama Deluxe Waldklang” suite is one of the hotel’s “Circular Living” rooms. The Schwarzwald Panorama in the spa town of Bad Herrenalb has won several awards for these rooms, which include the Falkenstein and Freigeist suites. Everything from the wall paint to the furnishings and fabrics is 100% recyclable or biodegradable and can therefore be returned to the cycle. Another highlight is the panoramic view of the Black Forest, which is particularly impressive from the “Waldklang.”

Stable room in a farmhouse | Gut Sonnenhausen, Germany 

The “stable rooms” of the farmhouse at Gut Sonnenhausen, located near Munich, feature lovingly restored antique cabinets from Lower Bavaria, as well as a blend of retro and modern furniture. The rooms are insulated with coffee jute sacks. Along with the clay plaster and plenty of spruce wood, the rooms boast a wonderful atmosphere and special charm.

Apis Royal | APIPURA hotel rinner, Italy

“Just like in a beehive, there is only one queen bee in our hotel — the “Apis Royal Suite,” the Rinner family explains with a grin. The Apipura hotel rinner in South Tyrol was designed by a nomadic beekeeper with bees in mind. The suit features a private spa area with a whirlpool tub offering light therapy (a honey hydro bath is recommended) and an infrared cabin for two.

Little Two+ | Lifestylehotel SAND, Germany

The Lifestylehotel SAND is located in the popular resort town of Timmendorfer Strand on the Baltic Sea. The reception staff highly recommend the “Little Two+” room, which is a double room with a balcony facing the sea and a COCO-MAT natural box spring bed. Tip: At the hotel, you can also spend one of your vacation nights in a beach chair on the rooftop!

Renewable Junior Suite | Hotel Luise, Germany

“We believe that our best room is our Renewable Junior Suite,” says the team at the Hotel Luise in Erlangen. “Like all our renewable rooms, the suite is designed according to the cradle-to-cradle concept. This means that almost all of its components are 100% biodegradable or recyclable.” You can also shower under an “astronaut shower,” which saves up to 90% of water and up to 80% of energy. The room has a corner balcony overlooking the hotel garden and green courtyard.

Gartenblick room | STURM, Germany

In 2023, STURM in Mellrichstadt, located in the Rhön region, expanded its hotel offerings with the addition of the “Gartenblick rooms.” In collaboration with architect Prof. Matthias Loebermann, they created rooms that offer “a unique connection with nature.” Located directly in front of the rooms’ terrace, the swimming pond, along with the absence of televisions and the use of natural materials, provides the perfect setting for slowing down and relaxing from everyday life. The rooms received the “Best Architects Award 2024.”

Signature Suite | Eco-Hotel Okelmann‘s, Germany

The Eco-Hotel Okelmann’s in Warpe, Lower Saxony, has a new room that offers extra peace and quiet. The “Signature Suite” has its own garden and can accommodate two to six people. A personal touch can be found in the bedroom, which features the original wedding wardrobe of the great-grandmother of the current Okelmann hosts.

Junior Suite | Naturresort Gerbehof, Germany

Naturresort Gerbehof reports, “Our most popular rooms are the junior suites and suites.” The resort sits on the German side of Lake Constance, surrounded by apple trees and its own forest. Craftsmen use wood from the forest to make the furniture and untreated wooden floorboards in the rooms. The “Junior Suite” offers a healthy living environment, extra space, and a private balcony.

So? In which of these rooms would you most like to spend the night?

Let us know in the comments!

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Der Beitrag Green & Gorgeous: The most beautiful rooms in hotels with a focus on sustainability worldwide erschien zuerst auf GREEN TRAVEL BLOG.

Nature conservation through tourism

If done right, wildlife tourism can also mean protection. In countries such as Kenya, for example, safari tourism is a mainstay of the economy. It generates revenue that finances national parks, secures habitats, and helps combat poaching. The years of the pandemic have shown that when tourists stay away, poaching increases. In Europe, birds of prey are particularly sought after by poachers, while rhinos are especially targeted in Africa.

The decisive factor is how and where you observe animals. Are they in their natural environment or are they an attraction? In our article, “Animal Welfare While Traveling,” we explain what responsible behavior toward animals looks like while traveling. We provide specific tips on topics such as selfies, feeding, souvenirs, rescue centers, and more.

If you would like to join us on our journey of respect for the animal world, here are a few places where you can do so in a sustainable way, including suitable accommodation!

#1 Safari in Nepal: On the trail of tigers and elephants

Amidst the dense jungles, lush green grasslands, and mysterious riverways of Nepal lies Chitwan National Park, the country’s oldest national park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With a little luck, you can observe rare animals such as rhinoceroses, Bengal tigers, sloth bears, and Ganges gavials—all in a sustainable way.

Our Green PearlsⓇ partner, the eco-resort The Pavilions Himalayas – The Farm in Pokhara (about a five-hour drive from the national park), highly recommends safaris with its partner, Tiger Tops. The small, family-run lodge is located on the edge of the park and offers a comfortable, nature-immersive experience, whether you choose a charming room or one of nine safari tents in the middle of the jungle.

Tiger Tops has worked closely with the International Trust for Nature Conservation (ITNC) for decades, supporting conservation projects such as the Long-Term Tiger Monitoring Project and Nepal’s first Ganges Gavial Breeding Program. The Ganges Gavial is the only surviving member of the Gavialis genus in the crocodile family.

Elephant riding? No, thank you

When you think of an Asian safari, elephant rides probably come to mind. But did you know that this practice causes the animals enormous stress? That’s why, in 2015, Tiger Tops stopped offering elephant safaris and developed a new, more respectful concept.

Rather than riding the elephants, you spend the day with them in a different way. You can watch them eat, rest, and run around while getting to know their different personalities. They live on an 18-hectare site where they have plenty of space to move around, socialize, and relax. This fosters a quiet closeness, allowing you to learn not only about elephants but also about yourself and your impact as a traveler.

By choosing this option, you support a new model for elephant treatment and set an example for sustainable travel in Nepal.

Spend the night and make an impact — back to Pokhara!

Rajiv, the manager of The Pavilions Himalayas – The Farm, recommended Tiger Tops to us. In the Pokhara region, responsibility and impact are also important: organic farming, social engagement, and a charity project to protect women and children.

👉 Read the full story here:
Tourism with Impact: A resort in Nepal combats child mortality and human trafficking

#2 Underwater World – Encounters with dolphins, coral, and porpoises

Croatia: Dolphins around the Island of Iž

Are you looking for peace and quiet in nature—and hoping to catch a glimpse of a dolphin? If so, the Hotel Korinjak on the Croatian island of Iž is the place for you. The island is located in the Adriatic Sea surrounded by pristine nature. With a little luck, you can spot the dolphins that live in its clear waters during a boat trip.

“Encountering the dolphins that inhabit the Zadar archipelago is an unforgettable experience. I was there myself, and watching the animals was truly unforgettable. Seeing them swim and play made me feel like a child again—excited and happy.” – Anna from Hotel Korinjak

You can also spot wildlife on land, including seabirds, owls, and lizards, on hikes led by local guides. This is a great way to experience the island’s wild beauty. In an expression of its love for animals, the hotel avoids using any meat, milk, or eggs.

Maldives: Protecting the Coral Reefs at Gili Lankanfushi

The Maldives’ underwater world is breathtaking—and seriously endangered. Climate change and pollution have already destroyed many reefs. And tourism is not entirely blameless…. However, at Gili Lankanfushi, you can be part of the solution. Here, you can observe marine biologists breeding new corals and learn how the fragile ecosystem functions in lectures. If you can dive, you can actively participate in cleaning up the ocean or building new coral lines. Your commitment will have a positive impact here. Read our blog article to find out more about sustainable vacations in the Maldives.

Germany: Porpoises in the Baltic Sea

Did you know that porpoises still inhabit the Baltic Sea, making it one of the last whale species in German waters? If you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of them from the Lifestylehotel SAND when the sea is calm. The hotel actively supports the protection of these endangered animals because, as they say, “Whale protection is climate protection.”

If you’re curious about encountering one of these rare animals in the wild, read this report by Beatrice from Reisezeilen. She stayed at the Lifestylehotel SAND and had the following experience when the porpoises appeared.

 👉 Click here for the article

#3 Nature and national parks in the Alps and Middle Franconia

Dolomites: Wild animals right outside your hotel door

At the Paradiso Pure.Living Vegan Hotel in the heart of the Dolomites, your nature adventure begins right at your doorstep. The vegan-friendly hotel sits at an elevation of over 2,000 meters in the Schlern-Rosengarten Nature Park, a UNESCO-protected area. While hiking around the hotel, you may encounter deer, foxes, marmots, mountain goats, eagles, and falcons. The Schlern forests are also home to a variety of species, including berry-bearing dwarf shrubs, woodpeckers, owls, and capercaillies, which are large wild grouse.
 👉 Learn more about the Schlerm-Rosengarten Nature Park here.

Hohe Tauern National Park: Out and about with a Ranger

The Hohe Tauern National Park is one of the oldest and largest national parks in Austria. It preserves the stunning Alpine landscape surrounding towering peaks over three thousand meters high, such as the Großglockner, Großvenediger, and Kitzsteinhorn. Due to its size, the park is home to nearly all of the Alps’ animal and plant species. Alpine ibexes, chamois, marmots, and golden eagles inhabit this area, and experienced rangers are highly trained to guide you through their habitats (and help you find them, which can be difficult).

If you stay at Naturhotel Outside, you will receive a free guided ranger tour. In addition, the hotel has its own hiking guides and an in-house hiking concierge who provided insider tips on Hohe Tauern National Park in this article. Other highlights include the large wellness area with several pools and the excellent cuisine. The restaurant has been awarded three Falstaff forks.

Middle Franconia: Wild horses and a microforests

Just a few kilometers from the Hotel Luise in Erlangen lies the extraordinary Tennenloher Forest nature reserve, home to wild horses, goats, and rare bird species. Various guided tours are also offered here. However, the wild horse tour requires a minimum of 15 participants.

There is also plenty to discover on the hotel grounds because, despite being a city hotel, biodiversity is promoted here. A microforest has been planted right in front of the hotel and is already home to hedgehogs, dragonflies, frogs, and squirrels.

#4 Are wildlife enclosures sustainable?

From a sustainability perspective, wildlife enclosures themselves are not problematic; it’s the concept behind them that matters. Those that focus on species-appropriate husbandry, environmental education, and the protection of endangered species can be useful for conservation and protection, especially in areas with limited refuges. For these enclosures to be effective, it’s important to have large areas, natural habitats, and places of refuge for the animals. Additionally, educational work must be transparent and distinguish itself from pure animal entertainment, as found in zoos. So, when visiting a wildlife enclosure with your children or friends, take a closer look. Does the place serve to protect and educate? Or is it just for quick entertainment? Below are some enclosures recommended by our partners (some of which they run themselves):

Dobeltal Game Reserve — a Black Forest idyll in Bad Herrenalb

If you’re traveling with children or simply want to experience native wildlife up close, check out the Dobeltal Wildlife Park in the Black Forest. Not far from the SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA, you will find a small paradise with deer, roe deer, and wild boars nestled in the tranquil setting of the German model forest. The winding paths offer completely new perspectives of native animals in their natural habitat. Taking a walk here is a real nature experience, especially in autumn or winter.

Feichti wildlife enclosure — above the rooftops of Pfunds, on the Kobl

Deep in the forest and high above the Tyrolean village of Pfunds lies the Feichti wildlife reserve on the Kobl. From the end of May to the beginning of October, guided hikes are offered there free of charge on Fridays with the Summer Card. Perfect if you are staying at one of the Summit Lodges Pfunds! These two log cabins are eco-friendly vacation rentals with mountain views, private saunas, and fireplaces. From there, the climb to the wildlife enclosure takes about 30 minutes. Once you arrive, you will find yourself in a peaceful forest clearing with views of deer, roe deer, and wild boars. Tip: Take the hiking bus for a relaxed, car-free experience of nature.

Wolf Center Dörverden: A fascinating encounter with the pack

Most of us will never see wolves in the wild. However, at the Wolfcenter Dörverden, you can observe these fascinating animals up close. Here, you will learn how wolves live and why they nearly disappeared from Western Europe. The Wolfcenter is clearly committed to education and considers its animals ambassadors for their wild counterparts. It’s an exciting trip for elementary school children and teenagers interested in wild animals (or Twilight 😉). We recommend staying at the nearby Eco-Hotel Okelmann’s, a family-run hotel with a cozy atmosphere, yoga, singing bowl massages, and a mindful lifestyle.

Naturresort Gerbehof — Wildlife watching right on the grounds

If you’re traveling to Lake Constance in search of sustainable relaxation, Naturresort Gerbehof is the perfect place for you. On the grounds, you will find an enclosure with pigs and wild boars, which is ideal for observing animals with children and learning about their way of life. With a little luck, you may even spot deer, foxes, or badgers in the surrounding area. It’s a perfect combination of contact with nature and a sustainable vacation in the countryside.

#5 Wildlife feeding in Schwangau: A winter tour with an “aha” moment

In the Allgäu region, a centuries-old tradition continues in the winter: feeding wild animals. Though it may seem like interference with nature at first, it is actually a protective measure for the forest. Without additional food, deer would nibble on young trees and endanger their own habitat in the long term. In Schwangau, hunters have set up permanent feeding stations, and the Hotel Das Rübezahl offers guided tours to them.

Hiking through the snow-covered landscape, whether on foot or by horse-drawn carriage, is a highlight in itself. When a deer suddenly emerges from the forest and slowly makes its way to the feeding station where you can watch it feed from a safe distance, it’s an unforgettable experience. The tours are led by mountain guide Baschdi or the Thurm family, who are the innkeepers and also share interesting facts about the region. Important to know: Dogs are not allowed during feeding time to protect the wild animals.

#6 Discover animals in their natural habitat

If you pay attention and take your time, you can spot wild animals on vacation without paying an admission fee or seeing any fences. Many of the sustainably managed Green PearlsⓇ accommodations are so close to nature that animal encounters are almost guaranteed, especially during the early morning or evening.

An early morning walk at the Birkenhof***** Spa & Genussresort in the Upper Palatinate Lake District is well worth it: deer, hares, and even foxes regularly appear on the forest paths around the hotel. The Hotel Weihrerhof in Ritten, South Tyrol, also offers great views — literally. From your room, you can watch squirrels, wild birds, and sometimes deer. You can also see Lake Wolfsgruben, which is used for swimming in the summer and ice skating in the winter.

If you stay at the OLM Nature Escape, an energy-self-sufficient aparthotel in Sand in Taufers, you have a good chance of seeing deer, wild hares, and foxes in the evening or at night. And all of this right in front of the aparthotel, which blends organically into the natural surroundings with its round design and is nestled in the valley. At STURM in the Rhön, species conservation becomes a vacation experience. Here, bees buzz in the garden, frogs croak in the natural pond, and the stars shine particularly brightly at night because the surrounding area has light protection zones where nocturnal insects also feel at home.

Conclusion: Experience wildlife with respect

Whether you’re on a safari, visiting a wildlife park, or participating in guided feeding sessions, or experiencing chance encounters at dusk, if you travel with your eyes open, you will see the diverse relationship between humans and animals in sustainable tourism. The key is to always maintain a respectful distance and understand that genuine animal encounters are facilitated, not staged. After all, the greatest nature experiences are often the quiet ones.

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Mad honey and man-eaters? Nepal is more than headlines and clickbait

Nepal’s cultural peculiarities exert a sometimes borderline fascination on the West. Among the most popular travel videos about Nepal are the harvesting of psychedelic “mad honey” (over 51 million views), the burning of corpses and a visit to a “cannibal” (around 5 million views), and a report on the Kumari, a young girl worshipped as a living goddess in Nepal (around 9 million views).

Sensationalizing and exoticizing people, exploiting strange traditions and behaviors for Western eyes to generate clicks, has nothing to do with supporting the country or promoting tourism. Nor does it have anything to do with education, informed criticism, or reassessment, which are often used as defenses for such images. So be careful and don’t let such things blind you to Nepal and your trip there. After all, Nepal is home to people just like you and me. Be open and show interest in the real culture of the country – not clickbait videos.

Douglas MacLagan, the English founder of The Pavilions Himalayas – The Farm, whose story we recently featured on our blog, paints a similar picture of his encounters with the people of Nepal:

„They had so little, but they were willing to share everything to make someone they had never met happy and to show them respect. (…) What also surprised me was how happy the people were. They don’t need the materialism I grew up with. Their evening entertainment consisted of sitting around the fire as a family, as a community, telling jokes, talking about village and family matters, and discussing what needed to be done on the land.“

 

Tourists are a challenge

More than a million tourists visit Nepal every year. According to hotel manager Rajiv Desraj Shrestha of The Pavilions Himalaya – The Farm, people of all ages travel to the small country. “And they are equally divided between adventure and cultural tours,” he adds.

The tourism sector is very important for Nepal. It provides thousands of jobs and plays a crucial role in preserving Nepal’s unique cultural and natural heritage. But it also has its downsides.

The highest garbage dump in the world

Deforestation, mountains of garbage, and overuse of water resources are just some of the pressing problems that tourism is causing to Nepal’s natural environment. For example, the many trekkers in the Everest region have turned the once pristine Khumbu region of the Himalayas into the “world’s highest garbage dump“. In the spring of 2024 alone, more than 77 tons of waste was collected at Everest Base Camp. Discarded equipment, cooking utensils, plastic waste, and “human waste” (i.e. feces and urine). Such statistics show that tourism needs to be made more sustainable – not only, but especially in the mountains.

New government measures

According to New Business Age, the Nepalese government has now taken action. These include:

• Waste disposal with the help of drones
• The requirement for climbers to bring back at least 8 kg of waste from Everest
• The imposition of a $4,000 “waste deposit” to encourage responsible behavior

However, the newspaper criticizes that the enforcement mechanisms are not strict enough. As a tourist, you should not only be guided by (possible) penalties and regulations, but also act on your own responsibility.

By the way, the government is taking a leaf out of Bali’s book. The Indonesian dream island had to pass a bunch of laws against garbage and disrespectful behavior because of overtourism.

Tips for sustainable mountaineering in the Himalayas

If you are planning a trek in Nepal, you can make a big difference with a few simple choices.

• Rent your trekking equipment locally. This is very easy, especially in tourist centers like Kathmandu or Pokhara.
• If possible, choose routes and trails off the beaten track – not only to avoid mass tourism, but also to support smaller villages that have benefited less from tourism. This doesn’t mean leaving the trails, but simply choosing less frequented paths.!
• When choosing a tour operator, look for local guides, fair working conditions, and transparent sustainability policies. (TrekkingTeamGroup, for example, advertises “excellence in sustainability,” Royal Mountain Travel is committed to supporting local communities and solar energy, and Social Trek Nepal considers both social and environmental issues.
• Avoid disposable products and bring items such as a water bottle, lunch box, and soap dish.
• Use toilets whenever possible. If not, bury, cover, or collect your waste and dispose of it properly at the next opportunity.
• Find out in advance about waste disposal along your route.
• Don’t leave anything behind. Not even the smallest piece of trash. The mountains are not an adventure playground and certainly not a garbage dump, but a very sensitive ecosystem.

8 things to know about Nepal before you go

#1: Monsoon: During Nepal’s monsoon season (usually July/August), heavy rains and landslides can make travel difficult. Many resorts and tour operators close during this time for safety reasons. After monsoon, the country is very green.

#2: Mount Everest: At 8,848 meters, Mt. Everest is the highest mountain in the world above sea level and bears the surname of a British surveyor. In Nepal, the mountain is called सगरमाथा Sagarmatha. There are two base camps, one in Nepal and one in Tibet.

#3: Historical background: Nepal experienced ten years of civil war (1996-2006). One result was the abolition of the Hindu monarchy in 2008. Since 2015, the country has a new constitution and is now a parliamentary democracy.

The people of Nepal

#4:Ethnic groups and religion: The country is extremely diverse in terms of ethnicity and culture. The approximately 30 million Nepalese are divided into more than 100 ethnic groups. About 80 percent of the population is Hindu, and about 9 percent is Buddhist (especially in Mustang).

#5: Rural population: Compared to other countries in the world, Nepal has a very low proportion of urban dwellers. To this day, the country remains predominantly agricultural and rural.

#6: Climate Change: According to the Climate Risk Index 2021, Nepal is one of the ten countries most affected by climate change. This is mainly due to melting glaciers.

#7: Poverty: Since the end of the civil war, per capita income has increased and the country has made some progress in reducing poverty. Nevertheless, 17% of the population lives in poverty, according to the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ). Nearly one-third of children suffer from malnutrition, and basic infrastructure and health care are lacking.

#8: Animals: Rare animals such as the Bengal tiger, snow leopard, and rhinoceros live in Nepal. In the south of the country, a tropical jungle with a particularly rich fauna borders the foothills of the mountains. The famous Chitwan National Park is also located here.

Travel highlights in Nepal and how to explore them sustainably

Despite its relatively small size, Nepal has a lot to offer. Whether you’re looking for nature or culture, adventure or relaxation, there’s almost nothing you can’t find here. However, not all of it is compatible with sustainable travel. But don’t worry, even with a sustainable mindset, you don’t have to miss out on unique experiences. In fact, they are likely to be more intense because you will be interacting with the locals and experiencing the environment more directly than if you were rushing through it or flying over it.

You can have adventures without a helicopter

From trekking in the Annapurna region to expeditions to Everest, Nepal offers adventure and adrenaline-pumping attractions for this audience. Higher, faster, more extreme.

If you want to travel sustainably, we probably don’t need to tell you this. But for the sake of completeness, we’ll do it anyway: it’s best to avoid activities such as helicopter rides or skydiving – these cause enormous emissions and are at odds with environmentally responsible travel. If you’re looking for extreme thrills, try bungee jumping, ziplining, or whitewater rafting – adventures with much less impact on the environment. Of course, you should also make sure that the operators treat nature with respect.

Gentle wildlife viewing instead of elephant riding

From Chitwan National Park to Lake Rara, Nepal is a biodiversity hotspot. If you go on a nature trip, look for certified operators who respect protected areas, do not disturb wildlife, and involve local communities. Avoid elephant riding (unfortunately offered by many operators in Chitwan National Park), as elephant riding is always associated with animal suffering. Instead, choose eco-friendly safaris on foot or by canoe.

Respectful encounters with culture and tradition

Nepal’s cultural heritage is impressive. From centuries-old temples to vibrant cities like Bhaktapur and small traditional villages, there is much to discover. Take the time to understand the stories behind the facades. As mentioned above, when choosing a tour operator, look for those that specialize in supporting local communities and work closely with them.

Accommodation and support

Nepal has some wonderful sustainable accommodations, such as The Pavilions Himalayas – The Farm, an eco-resort in the Pokhara region. The resort is powered by green electricity, runs its own organic farm, and cooks with on-site biogas. The Pavilions uses its income to support organizations such as Right4Children. You can read more about their social commitment in our article on charity hotels.

Spirituality, Yoga and Ayurveda

There are many monasteries and spiritual places in Nepal. But be careful: some of them do not welcome tourists, and you should respect this. In general, make sure you behave respectfully, find out about rules of conduct and visiting hours in advance, and choose activities that aren’t just for quick selfies.

At the aforementioned resort, The Pavilions Himalayas – The Farm, you can book yoga retreats with Guru Shyam Gurung that delve deep into the theory and philosophy of yoga. Ayurvedic treatments are also available.

Tourism as an opportunity, not a burden

Sustainable travel allows you to experience Nepal without causing (major) damage. You will dive into a world full of contrasts – between snow-covered peaks and subtropical jungle. Experience ancient rituals and hospitable people.

Instead of consuming the culture or using nature as a mere adventure playground, you will interact with the country and its people on an equal footing. In this way, tourism and your trip can be a real support.

PS: You can find our position on air travel in the article “Are we still allowed to fly?”

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Sustainable cuisine is complex and in most cases cannot be described in general terms. Is organic always better than local? Should we avoid imports or is it better to support fair trade companies? Is it justifiable to eat meat or fish? And if so, how?

In this article, we will explore different concepts and introduce you to actors who are rethinking sustainable nutrition. At the end of the article, you will find concrete tips on how to make your own diet more sustainable.

Table of Contents

What is sustainable cuisine?

Digression: Is a sustainable diet a healthy diet?

The big questions: What is truly sustainable?

Local vs. organic – which concept makes sense where?

The benefits of local food

The benefits of organic food

Fair Trade vs. Import Bans – Global justice or local economic development?

No vanilla or coffee

APIPURA hotel rinner shows how to find the right balance

Animal Products vs. Plant Based Diets – Is veganism automatically more sustainable?

LA VIMEA created the vegan hotel industry in Italy

Seasonality, short supply chains and carbon footprint

Hotels and restaurants with their own agriculture

Trend concept: Farm-to-Table

Ancient grains and heirloom fruits

Nose-to-Tail and Root-to-Leaf

Waste prevention in gastronomy

1.9 million tons of food waste annually

Zero Waste Buffets

“Only 5 grams of food waste per guest”

Specialties and hot dishes to order

Sustainable Michelin-star cuisine – is it possible?

The Michelin Green Star

Sustainable culinary delights in Bavaria: 2-star restaurant Eisvogel

Vegan Fine Dining at OMNIA Plant-based Restaurant

Global Justice: Who pays the cost of our food?

Food justice and other fair concepts

Sustainable eating in everyday life – what can you do?

Conclusion: Small steps with a big impact

What is sustainable cuisine?

Sustainable cuisine means organizing food and beverage consumption in a way that minimizes environmental impact, conserves resources, reduces emissions and waste, preserves biodiversity, respects animal welfare, and ensures fair and social conditions for all people along the supply chain.

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) defines its vision of sustainable food and agriculture as one in which food is nutritious and accessible to all, and natural resources are managed in ways that sustain ecosystem functions to meet present and future human needs.

This brief definition illustrates the complexity of sustainable cuisine. In addition, there are regional characteristics and – something we don’t want to forget here on our blog – it should also be healthy and taste good! Sustainability alone is not enough when it comes to food, whether at home or in a restaurant or hotel.

Digression: Is a sustainable diet a healthy diet?

Not necessarily. Living on nothing but vegan, fair trade chocolate and organic wine may be okay from a sustainability standpoint, but it won’t improve your health. However, there is a lot of overlap between sustainable and healthy eating.

 

The big questions: What is truly sustainable?

Local vs. organic – which concept makes sense where?

The question of local vs. organic is somewhat controversial. A survey of sustainable hotels and accommodations in the Green Pearls® network shows that most restaurateurs (88.3%) try to implement both, i.e. mostly using regional products that are certified organic. If this is not possible, 46% give priority to regional products, while 11.5% give priority to organic quality.

The benefits of local food:

• Virtually no CO2 emissions from transportation: Imagine that you can buy “FIJI water” in Germany, even though the Fiji Islands are 16,000 km away, or that a hotel in Hong Kong serves its guests VOSS water from Norway. Delicacies such as special figs (each individually wrapped in Styrofoam) travel around the world by air and refrigerated transport. The ecological footprint of such luxury goods is disastrous! Buying local food directly from the producer eliminates emissions, transportation costs and often storage.
• Freshness: Especially hotels with their own agriculture according to the “farm-to-table” concept can cut, process and serve lettuce immediately. This freshness guarantees not only an intense taste, but also the full preservation of nutrients.
• Trust: Many restaurateurs visit the farm and see for themselves how the chickens that lay the eggs live, how the vegetables are grown, and how the workers are treated. Most importantly, they know the personal attitudes and beliefs of the farmer. In many cases, this is more valuable than a label.
• Strengthen your local economy: A hotel, restaurant, or even you are part of a community. By supporting local businesses, you are maintaining good neighborly relations and helping the people in your area.

Disadvantages:

• Local food may come from conventional agriculture, where pesticides are used
• Local farms may be among those that use genetically modified seeds
• Local meat products may come from factory farming (animals are given antibiotics, live in unnatural conditions, unnatural environments, receive high-tech feed, and are tortured)

The benefits of organic food:

• Support for organic farming
• Organic farming works without pesticides: The absence of chemical pesticides is of enormous value, especially for:
  • Your health: No pesticide residues in your food. However, there is no scientific evidence that organic fruits and vegetables contain more vitamins and nutrients. We took a closer look at the research in the article on whether organic food is healthier.
  • The health of field workers by eliminating the need to work with chemicals and potentially harmful substances.
  • Biodiversity: Organic farming has been shown to increase biodiversity. Pesticides not only kill pests, but also beneficial insects.
  • Soil and groundwater protection: Pesticides and fertilizers leach from fields into the soil, entering the water cycle. In organic farming, both soil water and groundwater are measurably less polluted.
  • Soil fertility: is measurably higher than on comparable, conventionally farmed areas.

Disadvantages:

• If organic food is grown on the other side of the world, it has traveled a long way, causing more CO2 emissions.
• The organic label tells us nothing about the working conditions.

We would categorize it as follows:

Best: Regional organic products

Second best: Regional products that may not have an organic label, but where there is a personal relationship with the producer and the conditions under which the animals are raised and the food is produced are known.

Third best: organic food from the wider region (e.g. Europe)

By far the worst: industrial mass production of food (keyword: factory farming) and export products shipped from far away when local alternatives are available.

 

Fair Trade vs. Import Bans – Global justice or local economic development?

The question of whether local is always best brings us directly to the issue of fair trade and the distribution of wealth through trade. Just as there are people and companies in the restaurant industry who buy Fair Trade products to offer their guests variety or a certain level (e.g. in Michelin-starred cuisine), there are also some who refuse to import. Which is the right way? For most, it is a compromise and a constant re-evaluation of the arguments.

No vanilla or coffee

One such chef who completely avoids imports is Ricky Saward of Seven Swans in Frankfurt. He was the first vegan celebrity chef and takes a number of radical approaches, including avoiding almost all spices. Not just vanilla from Madagascar, but pepper, lemon and olive oil.

Would you be willing to limit your diet to local products so consistently? And does it even make sense in terms of the global community? We see a parallel here with travel. If we all just vacationed in our (already quite rich) home countries and nobody traveled further, there would be less emissions from air travel, but an important (and for some countries the most important) economic factor would be lost.

Many people find well-paid, secure jobs in fair trade cooperatives, enabling them to provide for themselves and their families. This income allows children to go to school instead of earning money. It strengthens women’s independence and often supports small or family-run businesses and producers.

APIPURA hotel rinner shows how to find the right balance

We believe the best approach, shared by many of our partners, is to find a middle ground that works for each individual. For example, the APIPURA hotel rinner in South Tyrol is a hotel that is very committed to local organic food. They were one of the first businesses in the region to establish the “Bio Fair Südtirol” label in the hospitality industry. Chef and host Manfred Rinner uses organic meat, vegetables and fruit from the South Tyrol region in his kitchen. The hotel also serves coffee and desserts with chocolate. In this case, care is taken to use fair trade or organic products.

Animal Products vs. Plant Based Diets – Is veganism automatically more sustainable?

The answer to that question is a resounding yes. Meat and dairy products cause by far the highest CO2 emissions. According to a study by the Institute for Energy and Environmental Research (ifeu) in Heidelberg, Germany, which compared the environmental impact of around 200 food products in 2020, beef is second only to pineapples shipped by air. According to the study, vegans who eat half an air-transported pineapple for breakfast every day could be committing a greater ecological sin than people who eat a beef steak once a week. But there are far more of the latter than the former. To be honest, we doubt that vegans even exist… What we do know is that there are many, many people who eat butter, cheese, and sausage every day – and who may even eat beef more than once a week.

Incidentally, the study shows something even more important than that flying pineapples have a worse environmental impact than beef: plant-based foods have, on average, a significantly lower carbon footprint than animal products. It is therefore undeniable that sustainable cuisine should focus on plant-based cooking and limit the consumption of meat, fish, milk and eggs. It’s best to cook fresh food as often as possible! Vegan convenience foods (and especially non-vegan convenience foods) also have a fairly high environmental footprint.

LA VIMEA created the vegan hotel industry in Italy

Due to the growing popularity of veganism, more and more sustainable hotels are offering vegetarian and vegan dishes as standard on their menus. However, there are few that consistently and exclusively use vegan products.

The adults-only hotel LA VIMEA in Naturno, South Tyrol, can claim to be the first completely vegan hotel in Italy in 2016. Not only the food, but also all materials and products used in the hotel are vegan. The hostess, Valeria Caldarelli, comes from a long line of hoteliers and discovered the vegan lifestyle herself. Almost the entire family lives a vegan lifestyle – and gently teaches it to their guests. Daughter Franziska opened the first vegan accommodation in Tuscany and sons Maximilian and Alexander opened the first vegan hotel on the Seiser Alm.

Seasonality, short supply chains and carbon footprint

The products with the smallest ecological footprint are the plant-based products that are in season where you live. So, eating sustainably also means eating seasonally.

Hotels and restaurants with their own agriculture

There are a few hotels and restaurants that use their own products in their kitchens. The ADLER Lodge RITTEN and the ADLER Spa Resort SICILIA are exemplary in this respect. During the planning and construction of the latter, agricultural fields and gardens were taken into account, from which the hotel kitchen can directly obtain products. A few years ago, a diversified cottage garden was created on the Ritten, tended by the young farmers of the area. They cultivate what is native to the area and grows well there. In Sicily, for example, they grow oranges and lemons, while in South Tyrol they cultivate tubers such as potatoes and beets.

The Pavilions Himalayas – The Farm in Nepal has even managed to convert the surrounding fields into certified organic farms. Local farmers have received special training and the resort provides them with a direct market for their organic produce.

Trend concept: Farm-to-Table.

There are now a number of terms that describe the concept of hotels and restaurants with their own agriculture, as explained above:

• Farm-to-table – This term, probably the best known, describes the direct link between agricultural production and gastronomy. Ideally, the chef picks up the produce directly from the field.
• Farm-to-Fork – Similar to farm-to-table, this term emphasizes an extremely short supply chain from the field to the kitchen to the diner’s plate (or fork).
• Field-to-Fork – is another expression for this.
• Zero-Kilometer-Food– This term, used primarily in Italy and Spain, means that food is sourced locally, which not only ensures it is seasonal and fresh, but also minimizes transportation emissions.
• Garden-to-Table – This is a term used specifically for hotels and restaurants that have their own garden or small farm.
• Pasture-to-Plate – Specific to sustainably raised meat and dairy products.
• Hyperlocal Food – A modern term for food that is produced and consumed locally, often on the premises of a hotel or restaurant.

Ancient grains and heirloom fruits

In this context, we would like to mention another trend in sustainable cuisine. For many people, it is not just a matter of using locally grown produce that is organically grown, but also of preserving and using natural ingredients

Benjamin Profanter, a natural baker from Brixen, uses and recommends baking breads from ancient grains. Heirloom grains are grains that were grown before industrial agriculture. According to Benjamin, heirloom grains are ideal for organic farming because they do not require pesticides and herbicides, unlike highly bred grains. From a nutritional and psychological point of view, heirloom grains are also better because they contain more nutrients.

The Bread Sommelier supplies his all-natural bakery to two of our sustainable Green PearlsⓇ partners in the region: My Arbor, a wellness hotel built on stilts in the treetops, and OLM Nature Escape, an energy-independent aparthotel in the middle of nature.

Nose-to-Tail and Root-to-Leaf.

Another interesting thing about sustainable cuisine is that, as far as possible, EVERYTHING is used from the slaughtered animal or food. Offal, for example, went out of fashion for a long time, but is now coming back with the idea of sustainability. One proponent of the nose-to-tail concept is chef Manuel Madei of Gut Sonnenhausen near Munich. In our culinary guide to Bavaria, he recommends classic Bavarian dishes like “Saures Lüngerl” and “Leberknödelsuppe”. 

Modern chefs (who still prepare meat) are beginning to boil down bones for broth and turn the fat back into lard. The landlord of Gut Sonnenhausen, Georg Schweisfurth, is a trained butcher himself and gets his meat from nearby organic partner farms of the Herrmannsdorfer Landwerkstätten.

Root to Leaf is a similar concept for plants, using the leaves, stems and skins to create chips, vegetable broths, unusual garnishes and more.

Waste prevention in gastronomy

From root to leaf or nose to tail, it is not difficult to make the connection to waste management. After all, holistic recycling is part of the Zero Waste Cooking concept, which declares war on food waste in the restaurant industry. But packaging waste is also a huge problem. Preventing both touches every aspect of a restaurant, hotel, café, or even your home:

• Planning
• Purchasing
• Storage
• Training staff (or training other family members in the household)
• Presenting the dishes
• Involving guests

1.9 million tons of food waste annually

In Germany alone, 1.9 million tons of food is thrown away every year, according to the Verbraucherzentrale Bundesverband. According to the German Hotel and Restaurant Association (DEHOGA), food waste at buffets is a particularly big problem.

Zero Waste Buffets

Sustainable accommodations, such as those in the Green Pearls® network, have sophisticated concepts to avoid waste and wastefulness at the hotel breakfast buffet.

“Only 5 grams of food waste per guest”

The Hotel Luise in Erlangen, for example, has managed to ensure that each guest leaves an average of just five grams of food at the breakfast buffet. An “intelligent plate allocation with small plates” is particularly effective. At the end of breakfast, the trays are not automatically replenished, but the staff actively asks the guests what they would like. Another slice of cheese? Another slice of cheese. Whatever is left over from the buffet is distributed among the staff at the end.

Specialties and hot dishes to order

The combination of buffet and table service has proven to be a good solution for many restaurants and accommodations. The Lifestylehotel SAND at the Baltic Sea, for example, has a buffet and a front cooking station where egg dishes are freshly prepared on request. This also makes it economically viable to use high-quality organic eggs.

At the SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA in Bad Herrenalb, you can also experience an exemplary zero-waste buffet. For example, there is no disposable packaging. Instead of portions of butter, there is a butter machine, and instead of packaged jams, there are small jars. You won’t find any disposable plastic, only organic products. Food waste from the kitchen (even cooked food) goes to ReFood. The company uses the organic waste to produce electricity, heat, organic fertilizer, and biodiesel. Composting and recycling with subsequent reuse, for example, in vegetable growing, is also known as circular gastronomy.

Sustainable Michelin-star cuisine – is it possible?

Cuisine cannot be about sustainability alone. Taste and enjoyment are always part of it. However, to this day, there is a misconception in the fine dining industry that “exquisite ingredients” must come from far away.

South Tyrolean three-star chef Norbert Niederkofler, who has sustainably revolutionized Italian haute cuisine, proves that this is not true. With his “Cook the Mountain” concept, he pursues a philosophy based exclusively on seasonal and regional ingredients. He places great emphasis on respecting natural cycles and reducing waste to a minimum..

His consistent focus on sustainability has been recognized many times: in addition to the three Michelin stars, his former restaurant St. Hubertus also received a Green Star, which is awarded for special commitment to sustainability. Incidentally, Berni Aichner was Norbert Niederkofler’s sous chef for many years. He is now the executive chef at OLM Nature Escape.

The Michelin Green Star

The Green Michelin Star was introduced in 2020, recognizing restaurants that stand out for their environmentally friendly operations and respectful use of natural resources. Criteria for this award include using local and seasonal products, reducing food waste, and using energy-saving technologies. ​

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“We wanted to give more visibility to restaurateurs who focus on sustainability and recognize them for their efforts” – Director of the Michelin Guide for Germany, Austria and Switzerland in conversation with Green Pearls®.

 

Sustainable culinary delights in Bavaria: 2-star restaurant Eisvogel

The Eisvogel restaurant, part of the 5-star Der Birkenhof***** Spa & Genussresort wellness hotel in Bavaria, also shows that sustainability and Michelin-star cuisine are not mutually exclusive.

Chef Sebastian Obendorfer – a member of the host family – runs the two-Michelin-starred restaurant with great devotion to the region and the seasons. His philosophy: modern German cuisine with deep roots in the Upper Palatinate and international influences.

The dishes are prepared with fresh ingredients from mostly small, regional producers, wild herbs that grow in the surrounding forests, or fish from nearby waters. Careful preparation and short transport routes are also consistently observed. Still, the hotel cannot do without imports. In some areas, guest expectations stand in the way. However, in combination with the resort’s overall sustainable concept – from renewable energy to regional architecture and plastic-free room furnishings – the Eisvogel is a prime example of what responsible gourmet cuisine can look like today.

Vegan Fine Dining at OMNIA Plant-based Restaurant

The Paradiso Pure.Living Vegan Hotel on the Seiser Alm has been home to the OMNIA restaurant since December 2024, a project dear to the hearts of Chef Aggeliki Charami and the two hotel managers, Maximilian and Alexander. There are only six tables and a special dining experience with nine vegan courses, each personally explained by the chef. Vegan cuisine is still rarely awarded with stars, but it doesn’t necessarily need them for an exclusive fine dining experience. What do you think?

Global Justice: Who pays the cost of our food?

Sustainable cooking does not end with the product – it also takes a critical look at the global context of food. Often, it is others who pay the price for our (cheap) food: people working in precarious conditions in agriculture or food production, often without fair wages or adequate occupational safety.

At the same time, many people around the world are denied access to healthy, sustainable food due to economic, geographic or social barriers. The massive food waste mentioned above, which occurs primarily in wealthy countries, is also an ethical issue: while we throw away tons of food, millions of people around the world go hungry.

More and more culinary concepts are addressing these challenges. The Planetary Diet, for example, focuses on a diet with the lowest possible carbon footprint. In the self-test of the Planetary Diet app, we found that, in addition to meat, chocolate bars are also big emitters. Regenerative Cuisine supports farmers who use regenerative methods to conserve and even restore soil, water, and biodiversity.

Food justice and other fair concepts

Sustainable cuisine also focuses on social aspects – or at least it should. Food justice advocates for fair conditions in food production and fair distribution. Other approaches to promoting global justice in the food system include:

• Slow Food – A counter-movement to fast food with a focus on local food and traditional craftsmanship.
• Ethical Eating – Eating with ethical considerations, e.g., fair trade, animal-friendly products.
• Blue Economy – Sustainable use of marine resources in the culinary arts.

Technological and practical solutions, such as solar cooking, also show how conscious cooking can be made more energy sustainable.

Sustainable eating in everyday life – what can you do?

As you can see, the issue is complex and not nearly as private or personal as we sometimes imagine. Sustainable cuisine and sustainable nutrition always take place in the context of our society and our planet. This may sound big and confusing, and like it might ruin your appetite, but don’t worry! There are some simple choices you can make in your everyday life that will make your culinary enjoyment a little more sustainable.

#1 Use leftovers creatively

Get creative with what you already have around the house. Use vegetable scraps to make soup, toast old bread, or turn them into breadcrumbs or dumplings. Plan your grocery shopping to minimize leftovers, and freeze leftovers before they go bad.

#2 Buy local and seasonal produce or grow your own

Locally grown food travels farther and often has a smaller carbon footprint. Seasonal calendars can help you buy local fruits and vegetables at the right time of year. Or you can go to the market and be inspired by what’s available. It tastes fresher – and you’re supporting local businesses.

You can also grow your own herbs and vegetables. Here are some tips for planning a raised bed. But be careful: urban gardening is not always better than its regional counterpart at the market.

#3 Look for seals – and understand them

Not every green label represents true sustainability. Learn what the organic, fair trade, or MSC seals mean. Choose products with credible and comprehensive certifications such as Demeter, Naturland, or Bioland.

For example, Utopia’s seal guide gives you a good overview.

#4 Explore alternatives

Sustainable living is an ongoing process, and you will always learn something new. Be open to new products. Try the soda or cola from the local brewery instead of the sugary varieties from the soft drink giants. Instead of orange juice, try other (local) fruit juices. And how about mushrooms instead of chicken?

#5 Boycott crazy luxury trends

Example: Voss or FIJI water. Such products come from far away, have a devastating impact on the environment, and in the vast majority of cases are completely unnecessary. Tap water in Germany, for example, is strictly controlled and usually of excellent quality. It’s better to invest in a water filter (if you live in an area with very hard water) and a nice, reusable bottle for when you’re out and about.

Likewise, you don’t have to try every ice cream flavor from Korea that goes viral on social media. Sure, it tastes delicious, but really, come on?

#6 Radically reduce meat consumption – or go vegetarian or vegan

From an environmental point of view, going vegan right away is definitely the best decision. However, we understand that this is not an option or possible for everyone. If you don’t want to give up meat or animal products completely, choosing to eat only local organic meat can make a big difference. Such meat (and other animal products of higher organic quality) is considerably more expensive, and for that reason alone, you will buy it less often and enjoy it more consciously. Find a source in your area. Avoid all meat products in the supermarket, as well as any meat whose origin you do not know (e.g. the salami on a pizza).

Conclusion: Small steps with a big impact

Sustainable food is more than a private project – it is a community effort. Restaurateurs, hoteliers, and producers have as much responsibility as we do as consumers. Every conscious purchase, every saved food item, and every plate without factory-farmed meat is a contribution to a more just and ecological food system. Of course, we realize that we as individuals cannot necessarily save the world. But every climate- and society-friendly decision is an important step in the right direction.

Our Green Pearls® partners demonstrate that sustainability and enjoyment are not mutually exclusive. Every day, they prove that respectful use of resources, fair conditions, and culinary excellence can go hand in hand. And that is exactly the kind of change we need – at all levels.

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Der Beitrag Sustainable Cuisine – An overview of concepts, trends and challenges erschien zuerst auf GREEN TRAVEL BLOG.

An encounter that changed everything – The story of Douglas Maclagan

Nepal is a country of majestic mountains, spiritual places and warm people that attracts travelers from all over the world. One such traveler was Douglas Maclagan from England. It could have been a “normal” trip had a woman not pressed her sick infant into his arms. “Help!” Her look seemed to say. But all he could do was hand it back to her. “I’m not a doctor,” he said helplessly. The child died that night.

Douglas learned that at the time (1993), infant mortality in Nepal was extremely high. Approximately 34% of children did not reach school age. Preventable causes such as infectious diseases, diarrhea, and pneumonia were responsible. There was a lack of both a reliable health care system and adequate facilities for the care and treatment of children.

An inheritance opened up new possibilities

Shortly after that fateful encounter, Douglas’s grandfather died, leaving him a house in England. With the money from the sale of the house, he did what he had wanted to do since the day the woman gave him her sick child: he flew to Nepal and opened two daycare centers for young children in 1995. These grew into today’s Right4Children organization, which has helped more than 40,000 children to date.

Die Daycare-Zentren bestehen aus kindgerechten Betreuungsräumen mit geschultem Personal, wo Eltern ihre Kinder im Alter von 1 bis 5 Jahren tagsüber hinbringen können. . Es gibt Spiele, warme Mahlzeiten und eine hygienische Umgebung mit Gesundheitsvorsorge. Der erste Bericht zeigte: Kein einziges der betreuten Kinder starb.

Daycare centers for strong and healthy children

People in neighboring villages also wanted daycare centers for their children, so Douglas approached the provincial government about opening more centers. However, the government told him that he would first have to set up more daycare centers throughout the province and provide a detailed report on their development to demonstrate the benefits of these facilities. The only support he received from the monarchy was recognition of his work as an NGO. But he still had to raise the money for the centers himself.

In 1996, he used his last money to fly to Hong Kong (then still British) to promote his project. On the side, he waited tables at the Hard Rock Cafe. Through newspaper and television reports, he was able to publicize his idea and raise funds. First one daycare center was added, then three more. Gordon Oldham became Chairman of the Child Welfare Scheme (CWS) in Hong Kong and is still Chairman of the entire Pavilions Hotels & Resorts Group.

Love in Nepal – Douglas and Incuba

During this time, Douglas also met another important person: Incuba. The Nepalese was one of the women who had been trained as caregivers in the daycare centers. They shared not only a vision for the children of Nepal, but also love. Today, they are married and have three daughters. From the beginning, Douglas had a partner who knew the local conditions and people. This turned out to be very important because war was coming.

Nepal in the grip of civil war (1996-2006) – Sustained commitment in difficult times

Until 2008, Nepal was a Hindu kingdom ruled by a brutal king. In 1996, the Communist Party rose up against him. A Maoist guerrilla force attacked police stations, robbed banks, and drove out landlords. They demanded the removal of the ruling elite and land reform. A ten-year civil war ensued, leaving more than 16,000 dead, 100,000 refugees, and scores of missing persons and political prisoners.

Douglas and Incuba look back on those days in their eco-booklet:

“Many NGOs left the country out of fear, but CWS stayed to help people when they needed it most. In remote areas, hundreds of children were recruited as soldiers. Fear led to a mass exodus from villages to cities in the hope of safety and protection. Unfortunately, the reality was that many children left school and became child laborers, street children, or domestic slaves. Young girls and women were trafficked across borders and forced into prostitution.”

During this time, they built:

• A center for street children
• A vocational training center for practical trades such as plumbing and electrician (running until 2015)
• The Asha Primary Health Clinic in Pokhara (still in operation)

Tourism as a source of income

When the global financial crisis hit in 2008, many of the donations Douglas and Incuba had been receiving (mostly from the UK and Hong Kong) suddenly stopped. The couple recalls this as a wake-up call. They felt the need to start a company that could fund charitable projects.

Financial support from the family

Before Douglas’ mother died in 2011, she visited the couple in Nepal and showed them the property near Pokhara that is now the Green PearlsⓇ Resort Pavilions Himalayas – The Farm. “I will leave you money,” she said in essence. “Money to start a business that will fund the charity projects that have already done so much good for the people of Nepal.”

Thus, the property with agricultural land in Chisapani was purchased and The Pavilions Himalayas – The Farm was born. It opened in 2015. The resort consists of 15 spacious villas that combine traditional Nepalese style with luxury. There is a swimming pool, outdoor hot tub, spa area with sauna, gym, yoga and meditation room, clubhouse and restaurant. It became part of the Pavilions Global Collection, which includes boutique resorts in other locations around the world, including Bali and Phuket.

Organic farming and sustainability

Nepal is a largely agricultural country. “About 70 percent of Nepal’s working population is engaged in small-scale subsistence farming,” writes the UN. The Chisapani property has been transformed into a certified organic farm. Douglas and Incuba have been a role model for local farmers, showing them an alternative yet profitable way to transition from traditional agriculture to organic farming.

The local farmers employed on the farm have learned all about organic farming and have received business training. The first recipient of the harvest is the hotel kitchen. So by staying at Pavilions Himalayas – The Farm, you are not only eating absolutely fresh food, you are also supporting the farmers and nature.

Green Initiatives

But it is not just the farming that makes the lodge sustainable. The electricity is generated by solar panels, there is a biogas plant on the property that produces energy for cooking, gray water is used and biodegradable cleaning products are produced.

“We set out to create one of the most environmentally friendly hotels in the world, and I think we’ve succeeded.” – Douglas Maclagan, interviewed by Nepali Times

Looking back on 30 years of helping children and 10 years of running a hotel

Douglas began working with the daycare centers in 1995, and Pavilions Himalayas – The Farm opened in 2015. In a press release in February 2025, they looked back on the project. They highlighted the now-completed Child Friendly School project, which has reached more than 14,000 students, and a new initiative to combat human trafficking. This initiative has already reached more than 4,400 young women and girls.

Travel and do good

Nepal attracts travelers from all over the world. But behind the breathtaking scenery lies a moving story. The Pavilions Himalayas – The Farm is not only a sustainable retreat for travelers, but also a source of support for the community.

Here you have the opportunity to have an unforgettable vacation in Nepal while doing something good for the environment and the local people.

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