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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7 environmental sins to avoid while hiking

Before we discuss how you can best enjoy your hikes, including recommendations on footwear and other essentials, we would like to point out the most common environmental sins.

#1 Ignoring prohibited areas

Blocked paths, nature reserves, and “no trespassing” signs aren’t there for fun; they’re there for your safety and the protection of ecosystems. In the Alps, for instance, mass tourism is causing an increasing number of problems, including the destruction of flora and fauna, as well as rescue operations resulting from carelessness and the use of closed sections. Therefore, always stay on designated routes and respect signage.

#2 Wild camping

Spending the night under the stars sounds romantic—but so does staying at an official campsite, designated bivouac, or trekking site. These places also have important amenities, such as toilets and trash cans.

#3 Leaving trash and cigarette butts behind

Even seemingly small items, such as candy wrappers, tissues, and chewing gum, take decades to decompose. If they decompose at all! So, take your trash with your—even organic waste, such as fruit peels, does not belong in nature.

#4 Leaving dog waste behind

For many people, dogs are an integral part of the hiking experience. However, their waste contains nutrients and germs that can alter alpine flora. Always carry bags with you and dispose of them properly. This applies to both your dog’s waste and your own!

#5 Swimming in protected mountain lakes

Some bodies of water, such as Lake Antermoia in the Dolomites and Lake Bodensee in Styria, Austria, are closed to the public to protect their ecosystems. Swimming can disturb animals, destroy shore plants, and deteriorate water quality, so it’s important to stick to the rules, even when the water looks tempting (find more info here).

#6 Picking (protected) wildflowers

According to § 39 of the Federal Nature Conservation Act (BNatSchG), the so-called “hand bouquet rule” applies. This means that you may pick a small amount of wild herbs, mushrooms, berries, or flowers for personal use (but you should only do so if you have a use for them).

However, many people don’t realize that many wildflowers are endangered. In Germany, for instance, nearly one-third (26%) of all wildflowers are protected. This includes popular flowers like pussy willows, monkshood, gentian, and crocuses. Tip: Use Google Lens or various apps to identify plants on the go and ensure that you don’t pick any protected species.

#7 Disturbing animals

Animals need peace and quiet. Noise and cameras can be sources of stress. The Nature Conservation Union says: “Keep a respectful distance from animals and breeding grounds. Stay on paths and refrain from using flash photography or approaching animals.” Following these guidelines will prevent behavioral disturbances and ensure that you remain a respectful guest in their habitat.

Tips for sustainable hiking

Now that you know what not to do, you might be wondering: What is the right thing to do? That’s what we’re going to talk about now! 🙂

Preparing for your hike

It’s worth investing a little time in planning before you lace up your hiking boots.

• Choose a route that matches your fitness level to prevent overexertion or having to turn back.
• Find out in advance about nature reserves, closed trails, and special local rules so you won’t encounter any surprises along the way.
• Research the animals and plants you might encounter, and find out if any of them are endangered or dangerous.
• Pack only the essentials to reduce weight.
• Use reusable containers for your provisions.
• Pack weather-appropriate clothing, preferably in layers for different conditions. Remember that the weather can change quickly, especially in the mountains. It gets much cooler at higher altitudes than in the valley!
• Book sustainable accommodations—we’ll recommend some options further down!

The right outfit for the mountains

Of course, we understand that you want to look good while hiking. You can do that with sustainable hiking clothing. Many eco-friendly labels produce functional clothing made from recycled plastic bottles or organic natural fibers that are environmentally friendly yet stylish. The product range extends from shoes to hats. If you want to take it a step further, look for the Fair Wear Foundation label, which guarantees fair working conditions.

Some sustainable clothing brands include Patagonia, Vaude, Icebreaker, Engel Natur, and Löffler. For shoes, consider Hanwag, Ethical Wares, Lowa, Eco Vegan Shoes, Will’s Vegan Store, and Doghammer. (The brands are mentioned for informational purposes only. We do not receive money or other benefits for mentioning them.) If you can recommend any other sustainable outdoor brands, please share them in the comments!)

5 sustainable hiking hotels and vacation homes in the DACH region

#1 Naturhotel Outside, East Tyrol – Hike with guides through the national park

The Naturhotel Outside in East Tyrol will pick you up at the Lienz train station and take you back on your departure day. Located in the heart of the Hohe Tauern National Park, this official hiking hotel is the perfect home base for hikes of all difficulty levels.

For example, you can discuss which route suits you best with hiking concierge Karin Steiner. We interviewed her for this article, and she shared some insider tips for hiking in the national park.

“We offer free hikes with our hiking guides several times a week. In addition, there are ranger tours in the Hohe Tauern National Park (also free for our guests). Backpacks and hiking poles are available to borrow free of charge at the hotel.“ – Naturhotel Outside

#2 Hotel Das Rübezahl, Bavaria – Discover the Allgäu with hiking concierge ”Bergbaschdi”

At the Hotel Das Rübezahl in Füssen, the hiking concierge, Bergbaschdi, is ready to show you the mountains in a unique way. In our interview, he reveals how he encourages even the most seasoned hikers to take breaks along the way.

In addition to guided tours, the hotel has a spacious spa area that’s perfect for unwinding after a hike.

• Tip: If you want to experience the mountain feeling even more intensely, you can extend your stay with an overnight stay in the hotel’s own Edelsberghütte

Füssen train station is 3 kilometers (5 minutes by car) from the hotel and there is a free shuttle service.

#3 LA VIMEA, South Tyrol – vegan hiking hotel

The LA VIMEA in Naturns makes climate-friendly travel easy; the hotel offers a shuttle service from the train station in Naturns. Another eco-friendly option is taking a long-distance bus, such as FlixBus, to Merano and then taking the train for the last leg of the journey.

As Italy’s first 100% vegan hotel, La Vimea is committed to sustainable cuisine. Hiking enthusiasts not only benefit from the animal-friendly packed lunches but also from the hotel’s ideal location in the heart of the South Tyrolean mountains, within walking distance of the Texel Group Nature Park. Numerous tours await you. After an active day, unwind in the saltwater pool, natural swimming pond, or sauna.

• • Tip: Here you will find the hiking routes recommended by the hotel

#4Lifestyle Resort Zum Kurfürsten, Moselle — Combine hiking with Far Eastern wellness

If you want to combine hiking with wellness and culture, the Lifestyle Resort Zum Kurfürsten on the Moselle is the perfect choice. This region offers gentle, circular trails through vineyard-covered hillsides and picturesque riverside paths, as well as challenging trails with narrow paths, climbing passages, and ladders. There are also various excursion destinations around Bernkastel-Kues. Designed according to Feng Shui principles, the resort features a TCM center and five-element cuisine.

• Tip: Here you will find 10 hiking trails on komoot near the hotel.

#5 Summit Lodges Pfunds, Tyrol – log cabin in the heart of the mountains

If you prefer having your own space instead of staying in a hotel, the sustainably operated Summit Lodges Pfunds are perfect for you. The two log cabins can each accommodate up to six people, and they are ideally located for exploring the surrounding Tyrolean mountains. I asked owner Marco Spiess what else he would recommend besides hiking. His answer? Instead of long hikes, he recommends short trips. For example, it takes just 1.5 hours to reach the Pfundser Tschey, and then you can continue on to the Frudiger (Pfunds’ local mountain).

Otherwise, he recommends relaxing in the lodges. You can sit comfortably in the living room and enjoy the mountain view in front of the open fire.

Sustainable Hiking Hotels in Tenerife and Peru

Of course, there are also wonderful hiking destinations outside of Europe. Depending on where you start your journey, it may not be quite as sustainable to get there, but there are Green Pearls® accommodations that consistently operate in an environmentally friendly manner.

#1 OCEANO Health Spa Hotel in Tenerife — Holistic Hiking on the Volcanic Island

#2 Inkaterra Hotels in Peru — your dream destination on the Trail of the Incas

The legendary Inca Trail in Peru is on many hikers’ bucket lists. Spanning several stages, it winds through the Andes, passing by ruins and cloud forests and crossing high mountain passes en route to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Machu Picchu. At the end of the trail, the Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel awaits, offering the perfect opportunity to reflect on your hike while surrounded by lush tropical gardens.

We also recommend the Inkaterra Hacienda Urubamba. It is located in the Urubamba Valley near Cusco. There, your guide, Hiroshi Sánchez, will accompany you on hikes where you will discover nature and learn about the region’s traditional agriculture. Birdwatchers will particularly enjoy themselves — Hiroshi will be happy to show you colorful hummingbirds and rare Andean birds!

Here’s a tip for anyone who wants to hike more sustainably: try plogging

WAnother brilliant tip that we learned from the Swedes is to always pack a trash bag. You can use it to dispose of your trash and to collect anything that others have left behind in the forest or mountains, just like plogging (a portmanteau of the Swedish words “plocka” for picking up and “jogga” for jogging).

Hike with respect for yourself and nature

You are now well-equipped for your sustainable tour – from start to finish:

1. You know what to avoid: No environmental sins, no traces, and no stress for nature or animals.
2. You are prepared: You have the right equipment and have chosen the right tour — because less is often more.
3. You travel consciously: Whether by train, shuttle, or bus, you keep your carbon footprint small.
4. You are well accommodated: In accommodations designed not only for hikers but also to promote the experience of nature – from alpine national parks to tropical gardens.

This makes hiking a valuable experience for your body, mind, and the environment. Together, we can ensure that we enjoy and preserve the landscape, step by step.

This is an update from April 12, 2019

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Like so many things, there are two sides to a vacation in Bali because the locals live from tourism. So it’s up to you to shape your Bali vacation. With these ideas and eco accommodations, you can travel green to Bali and give something back at the same time.

5 reasons not to travel to Bali

There are a few things that speak against a trip to Bali – starting with the journey: Getting to an island is costly, and flights, as well as boat trips, are not very climate-friendly. Bali, in particular, is one of the destinations that people visit again and again because of cheap flights and only for a short stay – although for many it is a long-distance trip.

Info: You can stay in Bali for 30 days without a visa. A visa for 60 days currently costs 87 euros and can be extended to six months. Find out more here.

#1 Garbage problem in Bali

The beautiful white sandy beaches for which Bali is so famous sometimes resemble more carpets of plastic waste than paradise. This is marine plastic, which washes up in huge quantities during a constellation of strong westerly winds and currents. In just a few days, over 100 tons can lie in the sand at once. Local garbage collectors and volunteers then spend days cleaning up the beaches. As the newspaper “Bali Sun” reports, some tourists also take part in such clean-ups.

Mass tourism has significantly increased the garbage problem on the island. Because where there are more people, there is also more garbage. On top of that, they also want to be fed and need resources, which are scarce on an island per se.

Since February 2024, tourists have had to pay an entry tax of 150,000 rupiah (approx. 9 euros) when entering the country. According to Al Jazeera, this tax was introduced specifically to combat the waste problem.

#2 Damage to the culture

When traveling, people don’t always consider that the authentic culture of a region often suffers from the tourists’ urge to experience it.

Since 2023, you have been asked to download a catalog of etiquette rules to your cell phone via QR code when entering the country, where you are specifically asked to treat the shrines with respect. (You can find out more about this in the section “7 things tourists do wrong in Bali”)

One reason for this new code of conduct is said to be Russian expats in particular. Since the Russia-Ukraine war, many Russians have made their way to the surfers’ paradise before they could be drafted into military service. Ukrainians have also come for the same reason.

#3 Water shortage on the dream island

Back in 2012, Stroma Cole pointed out in her study “A Political Ecology of Water Equity and Tourism – A Case Study from Bali” that tourism consumed over 65 percent of the water and that hotels and luxury resorts used groundwater for their pools while the locals’ wells dried up.

As Al Jazeera English reported in this video in 2019, too low a groundwater level on the island causes the freshwater lenses to mix with the salty seawater. The IDEP’s Bali Water Protection project is working on the ground. Among other things, they are building cisterns for the population to use rainwater.

#4 “Sex ban” in Bali?

This is no reason to miss out on a trip to Bali (because it’s not true at all), but since there have been headlines about it, we’d like to clear things up here:

In 2025, a law came into force in Indonesia that prohibits a man and a woman who are neither related nor married from booking a hotel room together. However, due to various hurdles (who can report whom, when and how), this law is designed from the outset in such a way that it only affects Indonesians themselves and not tourists and certainly not tourists in Bali.

As you probably know, Indonesia is an Islamic country, but in Bali most of the inhabitants are Hindus.

#5 In Bali, you are a mass tourist

There’s no other way to put it because Bali is one of the most famous tourist islands in the world. Many people find this mix of surfers, expats, honeymooners and locals so exciting. However, wanting to go exactly where everyone else is going has many downsides, as we explain in more detail in our blog article on over-tourism.

In the long term, it would be best if tourism were spread out over more islands. Many people are already traveling to the Gili Islands. The neighboring island of Lombok is still a little quieter.

The solution? Plan, inform, and act consciously

If you plan a few things in advance, you can easily implement environmentally friendly actions during your vacation.

• Book sustainable accommodation that is environmentally conscious and socially committed.
• Make sure you choose excursions that are organized by locals and small ethical organizations.
• Find out about traditions and customs and respect them so that Bali remains authentic and is not westernized.
• Avoid crowded places, such as trendy bars, and stop at a small, owner-run restaurant instead. This way you support the locals in a meaningful way and experience the real Bali.
• Avoid trips to questionable animal attractions such as cockfights.

Slow travel instead of Instagram hopping

And another important keyword for your green trip is slow travel. Take your time for your vacation on the island and don’t just go there for a few days. You can find more tips on how to travel eco-friendly and green in general (which are of course also Bali-friendly) in our blog articles on social sustainability and animal welfare when traveling.

7 things tourists do wrong in Bali

In 2023, the Indonesian Lucienne Anhar, who lives in Bali, reported on Buisness Insider how Bali has changed since the 1980s as a result of tourists. She points out things that many tourists unfortunately don’t know, but which Balinese consider to be disrespectful or unwise:

1. Don’t show too much bare skin: Balinese are too polite to say anything, but it is considered inappropriate for tourists to wear tight shorts or lie topless on the beach.
2. Respect the sanctity of nature: In Bali, not only the temples but also nature is sacred. Tourists who cling half-naked to sacred banyan trees for the perfect photo or pose in suggestive poses in front of the sacred Mount Agung are disrespectful.
3. No intimacies in public: While holding hands or hugging is not a problem, Indonesians consider it inappropriate for couples to kiss in public (or go even further).
4. Don’t just lay on the beach: Most tourists come for the beautiful beaches and magical sunsets, she says, but Lucienne Anhar always recommends that tourists also check out the temples, rice paddies and waterfalls inland.
5. Respect that ceremonies determine the schedules of Balinese people: Throughout the year, Balinese perform various ceremonies that are very important to them and for which they do not come to work. You should respect this and not demand that they are there for you during these times.
6. Avoid tourist traps: There would be two tourist traps that you should be wary of: 1.) Fake “healers”, 2.) Drivers who take you to jewelry stores (since they work on commission, tourists would often feel pressured to buy something)
7. Driving a car or scooter without swearing and honking: Even though traffic in Bali is getting heavier and heavier, it is not customary in Bali to get upset or honk your horn. Instead, go with the flow 🙂

The government-run website Love Bali has published a update in 2025 on the “desired behavior” of visitors to Bali. This includes, for example, a ban on disposable plastic and a ban on the use of “swear words”.

Ecotourism with a dream beach in Puri Dajuma

Choosing the right accommodation is significant if you decide to travel to Bali.

In the west of Bali, you will find the Puri Dajuma eco-resort with a hotel and cottages located directly on a beautiful beach. The cottages were built from local materials in the Balinese architectural style and are scattered among tropical trees.

In addition to traditional Balinese massages and wellness treatments, you can take cooking classes and get to know the traditional cuisine. Authentic experiences like these help you to better understand and appreciate the region, as you gain insights into its characteristics and thus better understand the traditions and people. Of course, the cooking here is organic.

In addition to many other activities such as yoga, you can also book eco-tours to Pekutatan in the Pulukan eco-tourism area. Explore plantations of rubber trees, coconuts, and bananas and learn how cloves and vanilla grow. You enjoy your packed lunch at an altitude of 300 meters with a view of rice fields and the ocean.

As you can see, with the right preparation, you can always find responsible alternatives to classic mass tourism – even in Bali.

This is an update of our article on Bali from 21.09.2018 and includes all new tourism developments (and problems).

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You can find all kinds of plastics in normal bathrooms: packages, hygiene products, or microplastics in cosmetics. However, there are some easy steps to avoid synthetic materials in your bathroom – thus, contributing to environmental protection. Any piece of plastic we avoid is not going to waste the oceans. And we actually think so: Zero waste or rather a plastic-free lifestyle is easiest to start in the bathroom!

Buy loose goods for your plastic-free bathroom

Some products might not contain any synthetic materials, but they are still often wrapped in plastic. However, there are alternatives: various products are available in so-called “unpackaged shops,” which are present in many larger cities. There, you can bottle liquids and jug loose products in jars you bring along. Moreover, you find more or less anything you need for your bathroom – toilet paper, soaps, cleaning detergents, and washing agents for instance. Even shaving foam and shampoo can be bought as soap bars and thus avoid many plastic bottles. By the way: In addition to bars of soap, you can now also find solid shampoo, solid deodorant, and solid shaving foam in most drugstores. These are then only packaged in paper or cardboard.

Our tip: collect your soap remains in a little soap bag and use it as a body scrub while showering.

Our Zero Waste Shopping Guide

If you don’t want to go without liquid shampoo, you can consider using refill dispensers. The HUBERTUS Mountain Refugio Allgäu, for example, uses such dispensers. Especially in hotels, where shampoo, shower gel, and cream are often provided in small disposable packages, this is a good step towards reducing waste. In addition, all cosmetic products used in the bathrooms and spa treatments at the eco-wellness hotel are made from 100% natural ingredients.

Green substitute for plastics

Wherever you go, you’ll find plastic. That is why it is challenging sometimes to find something else but synthetic packaging. If you take a closer look, you can find glass jars and buy them as an eco-friendly alternative. Compared to synthetic materials, glass does not require delectable resources or plasticizers in its production. Often, cosmetics are sold in glass bottles or glass jars, which are available in organic supermarkets in a wide range. Why don’t you try out body oils instead of body lotion, as they are commonly stored in glass bottles? Do you miss a plastic-free alternative? Why don’t you contact the manufacturers, and ask for other packaging materials? If we are demanding a difference, there might be a greater offer in the future.

Well hidden: microplastics

Unfortunately, synthetic materials are not only in the packaging of products but also well hidden in the products themselves. This is called microplastics. Body scrub contains microplastics in the form of small beads, however, there are also liquid and jelly-like forms of it utilized as fillers or film-building substances. The liquid forms are too small to be filtered by sewage treatment plants and, in this way, reach the oceans. Microplastics can be found in lotions, hairspray, and toothpaste, but are also included in cleaning detergents. As there are many types of microplastics, it is difficult to recognize which products contain microplastics. Meanwhile, useful apps are helping to detect those products.

Many of our Green PearlsⓇ partners, such as CERVO Mountain Resort Zermatt or ADLER Resorts & Lodges, have developed their own cosmetic lines with natural ingredients. Free of microplastics and animal testing. The ADLER Resorts & Lodges use organic ingredients from Italy, where the hotels are located (e.g. ADLER Lodge RITTEN in South Tyrol and ADLER Spa Resort SICILI in Sicily).

The utilization of micro plastics is forbidden for natural cosmetics and natural cleaning detergents. However, you should check if those products are certified and show the right label.

When washing synthetic fibers, microplastics are washed out as tiny fibers as well. That is why your towels, bathmats, and cleaning rags should be manufactured of biodegradable natural fibers. Specifically, bathmats are usually made from synthetic microfibers. Many drugstores offer plant-based and biodegradable rags and sponges. Alternatively, there are also “catch nets” that attract and retain at least some of the microplastics. 

Re-using is always better

To avoid plastic consumption in the long run, it is always best to use reusable products. Anything reusable avoids plastic trash. Shavers are a common example of re-usable items in the bathroom. Nonetheless, even wasting the blades can occur plastic-free: there are full-metal safety razors, where only the metal blades need to be exchanged. There are some other ideas for reusable items, which you might not have thought of yet: washable cotton pads, reusable “Q-Tips”, washable panty liners or menstrual underwear, and menstrual cups. Just keep your eyes open for plastic-free alternatives, and you might be surprised to what extent you can avoid trash.

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There is, by the way, a new ecological trend for diving and snorkeling in which professional divers, beginners, vacationers and snorkelers can take part. Like Plogging where joggers collect garbage during their run, Strawkling (= Straw Snorkeling) encourages people to take care of the plastic garbage in the sea. Similar initiatives are supported by Reethi Faru Resort and sister property Reethi Beach Resort on the Maldives. Coral protection is one main topic as plastic garbage swimming around the sensitive and important animals, simply is a no go.

Sustainable diving holiday: three breathtaking places

Now, finally more about sustainable diving and snorkel equipment. Not everything I found is interesting for professional divers, but anyway, it is good to see there are companies out there dealing with the topic to produce environment-friendly materials.

Out of love for the ocean

Conviction and the will to protect the oceans made the company SCUBAPRO change to a sustainable company philosophy.  SCUBAPRO Cares summarize all plans benefiting the environment – and above all the oceans:

• Sustainable material, as for example X-Foam, a neoprene made from limestone or solvent free adhesives >> more
• Support of conservation groups >> more
• Minimizing footprint, e.g., by recycled packaging and efficient office buildings >> more
• Donations to the support research facilities or underprivileged people >> more

Caught in the fishing net

Beside plastic packaging of our everyday life old and “lost” fishing nets are a big problem in the ocean. The Italian company Aquafil wants to counteract against plastic garbage and processes these “lost” nets. From the old fishing nets, they produce the fiber Econyl ®, recycled nylon that is used to produce bath fashion and diving accessories. Equipment for diving or swimming from Econyl you may find at the fourth element.

Mermaid for one day

I guess for the confirmed divers among you this product is probably not suitable;) Mahina Mermaid offers a swimming fin for “mermaids”: Formed in a piece like a fish fin you can move with this equipment from recycled, natural rubber as elegantly as a mermaid through the water!

Farewell plastic bottles  

Unfortunately, many people still buy plastic bottles PET and thought-out recycling procedures for plastic are still rare! Therefore, the sports and swimwear manufacturer Aqua Sphere has developed a special, strong fiber called Repreve ® made form plastic bottles. The material provides a new life for plastic bottles and, besides, has a 50th UV filter – perfectly for a snorkeling tour in summer;)

Are you a diver yourself? Do you have some more tips on eco-friendly diving gear?

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Home in the trees

For the inhabitants of tree and hedges like birds, garden sleepers or squirrels, nesting places and resting places are vital. In the SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA, sparrows and co. therefore find bird houses and a nesting place on the roof. For your own garden you can buy aviaries, for example, at DIY companies or you build it yourselves, then you know the material. Untreated timber stimulates your creativity to design small bird’s villas or comfortable small houses 🙂 you can find numerous instructions online. Beside trees, bushes often offer hiding place for many animals – and also are an important feed source. Therefore, you can find many local hedges in the garden of the Bio-Agrivilla i pini. To extend the living space of the wild animals, The Tongsai Bay plants new trees regularly.

Water is as important as food – also for insects! Maybe in your garden there is a protected place for bird’s bath? Not only for birds but also squirrel and insects – in particular in drought times is important to provide water for the animals. Our pinnate friends also love to take a bath her 😉 Or you hang up a water dispenser in the trees, like the Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel in Peru.

Info

The opinions on all-year feeding of birds strongly vary. The idea was to protect the birds threatened by the insect death. It requires a sensitive handling, because the insectivores belong to the soft food eaters and are not interested in punches. Hence, you can buy either dead insects at a zoo shop, or provide soft feed like oatmeal, poppy, bran, raisins and fruit. If you are unsafe to you whether you should feed or not simply contact a conservation group in your region. “

Chaos in the garden for happy animals

Of course, gardens are not as natural and “chaotic” as forests or wild meadows. But exactly these messy places are important for hedgehogs, mice and co. Hedgehogs need a warm and secure hiding place for a restful hibernation. In autumn you can built a hideaway with dead wood, green waste and foliage where the spiny little animals comfort themselves. Therefore, the team of the Bio-Agrivilla i pini every year creates small biotopes offering a hiding place for the garden inhabitants.

In autumn people oftentimes save the hedgehogs in theirs gardens, sometimes, however, without any reason. If you find a hedgehog and you are unsafe whether it will survive winter, have a look at the guidebooks of conservation groups (e.g., Oak and Furrows) or ask a veterinarian. For the protection of snakes and lizards, stone heaps or stone gardens offer the ideal protection for summer.  

Humming garden

We hear the same thing time and again: Insects are inalienable assistants. They pollinate plants, decompose foliage and dead branches, fortify the ground with minerals and break it – only some reasons why the protection is so important!  The insects find food and you get fruits – a true win win situation. The Keemala Resort sources herbs, fruit and vegetables from its own bio-garden;)

Just as the tree dwellers, insects also need places to gather strength. In shops you can therefore find so called insect hotels. In the garden of the SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA in Bad Herrenalb you can discover these hiding places. By the way, they can easily be built by oneself – filled with fir cone, bark, hay or floors they offer shelter and are decorative 😉 Or what about your own beehive, as can be found at found at the Creativhotel Luise? Beehives need professional care, which is why they are not necessarily suitable for amateur gardeners.

Der Beitrag Close to nature garden design: A paradise for wild animals and insects erschien zuerst auf GREEN TRAVEL BLOG.

Cosmetic certifications

NCS

There are four groups for the Natural Cosmetic standard (NCS): Natural makeup, bio-natural makeup, vegan natural makeup, vegan bio-natural makeup. The demands for the certification apply for the environmental compatibility of the ingredients, sustainable production procedures, social aspects as well as the reusability of the packaging. Bio-natural makeup are required to have at least 95% ingredients from biological cultivation.

ECOCERT

The label differs between natural makeup (ECOCERT NATURAL) and bio-natural makeup (ECOCERT ORGANIC). For bio-cosmetics at least 95% of the ingredients must be sourced from biological cultivation, for the natural makeup at least 50% of all ingredients must be bio. Worldwide label for cosmetics products.

BDIH

Products marked with the BDIH label use ingredients from biological cultivation. Moreover, the label states the environmental compatibility of the product, certifies a resource-careful production and the biodegradability of the ingredients.

More reliable natural makeup labels and certifications in the blog:

Natural makeup: How beauty care and environment are related

Label for products of your everyday life

Blauer Engel

A true all-round label is the Blauer Engel to be found on products worldwide as „Blue Angel “. Almost all product categories from the everyday life are certified, for example, cleaning agent, paper products, textiles, electrical appliances, toys and furniture. The label guarantees a low pollution for health and environment, advices dosage of cleaning agents as well as the careful application of resources with recycling products.

NCP

Nature Care Product standard, briefly NCP, a quality label for natural products by the society for applied economic ethics certifying products from resource production up to consumer use. The label is to be found on cleaning agents and care products.

A.I.S.E – label with green wreath

A.I.S.E is the label for cleaning agent and soaps within Europe. The label informs about sustainable production procedures as well as the ecologically friendly ingredients, the seal without the wreath only relates to the manufacturer.

Learn more about sustainable seals in part 1.

Der Beitrag Like a sealed book: Sustainable certifications and their meaning – Part 2 erschien zuerst auf GREEN TRAVEL BLOG.

With today’s article we would like to create a little bit more clarity, so that you know what you can pay attention to with your next purchase. Nevertheless, we cannot describe all available seals here, we have chosen some especially demanding for you.

Organic farming & good food

EU-bio-label

The bio-label of the EU is a good start, but it gets even better! The label regulates the number of animals per hectare, species-appropriate keeping, requirements for the biological animal feed, the application of antibiotics, the number of additives in processed food, the application of chemical fertilizers and pesticides and, in addition, forbids genetic engineering. All following labels go beyond the requirements of the EU.

Biokreis

The aim of Biokreis is to develop the ecological agriculture in Germany in the sense of a circular flow economy. Besides, the association promotes the cooperation between farmers and processing companies meeting ecological and social standards.

Bioland

The requirements for the production of Bioland certified products go far beyond legal demands. Bioland aims to promote organic-biological agriculture, with main focus on the preservation of fertile grounds. The label is to be found in Germany.

Demeter

Demeter is the oldest bio-association of Germany already active since 1924. Partner companies are governed by the strict regulations of the biodynamic agriculture characterized by the living circular flow economy and one of the most sustainable forms of agriculture. In the USA the label is represented under the name Demeter Biodynamic^®.

Naturland

The association Naturland is active worldwide and stands for high ecological standards for the production and processing of food. In addition, there are also social requirements that are abided such as for example the esteem of human rights and the prevention of child employment. You can find this label on products like milk, coffee and cocoa.

Clothes & textiles

Fair Wear Foundation

This label is about fair terms of employment in the textile industry. Provided that the participant companies pass the audits, they are allowed to use the label FWF. The label only conforms fair working conditions and does not statement about the environmental compatibility of the textiles or production processes.

GOTS

The seal belongs to the Group on Worldwide Organic Textile standards and certifies an environment-friendly and socially acceptable production within the textile industry. The main aim is the renunciation of chemical pesticides, the cultivation of natural fibers and a worldwide standard as well as controllable social and ecological norms of the complete production chain. Therefore, you find GOTS also worldwide on textiles 😉

Cradle to Cradle^®

The label certifies products not producing waste, because they are either biodegradable or can be fully recycled. There are five steps to be incorporated in the Cradle to Cradle® label, platinum describes the highest standard. You find the label in many European countries as well as the USA.

If you want to get to know more about fair fashion, have a look here:

Sustainable Fashion, part 1: What our attire has to do with the environment

Learn more about sustainable seals in part two. You find an extensive listing and explanation of worldwide used seals in the Ecolabel index.

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Time travel in past days

After landing at the airport of Sukhothai the first day of the trip starts directly in the Sukhothai Historical Park in Amphoe Mueang Sukhothai. The world cultural heritage with its numerous Buddha statues, temples and the big pond with water lilies bears witness of the magnificence of the forgotten kingdom. Afterwards your way leads you to the Sukhothai Noodle House to strengthen yourselves with some food – here you are introduced to the art of preparing Sukhothai Noodles which you later enjoy with your hostess Khun Tia.

A good deed at dawn

On the second day you have to get up really early. At dawn you pull off to the Merit Bridge where Buddhist monks receive your gifts, a tradional act in Thailand. For the next program you are spoilt for choice, crafting swimming lights (krathong) or amulet molding. Our next target is in the south, the rural region of Amphoe Khiri Mat, where you learn about the circular recycling economy and the everyday life of the Ban Namphu community and the organic farmers.

Good hosts

Day three brings you to the north, more precisely to Amphoe Si Satchanalai, an area which is characterized by untouched nature and traditions. At the beginning you have to prove your craft talent: either while weaving, doing goldsmiths or enameling silver. When visiting the Ban Na Ton Chan community, awarded for their community-based tourism initiatives, afterwards, you are asked to work 😉 Together with the locals you harvest the ingredients for your dinner. And because hospitality is important, you stay here overnight in the homestays of some parishioners.

The last adventures

Unfortunately, the last day has come and before daybreak you head to the viewpoint Huai Ton Hai to experience an unforgettable sunrise over the green hills. To wake up your spirits freshly blanched coffee awaits you in carved bamboo mugs expelling your tired eyes 😉 Freshly strengthened you explore by bike the extensive rice fields and the breathtaking surroundings. The highlight before the trip ends, are the elephants in Si Satchanalai Historical Park, which you can observe in their natural surroundings.

You find more exact details of the tour “So Sukho, So Happy” online with HiveSters.

all images: © HiveSters

Der Beitrag Sukhothai: En route with HiveSters in the forgotten kingdom erschien zuerst auf GREEN TRAVEL BLOG.

Flower power in a different way

The situation is different with natural makeup. Unique in its care providing effects and often times even better than oil products. Thus the manufacturers use the power of nature to spoil us with good fragrances, humidity for our skin, powder for our cheeks or hair products- And often it applies: What is good for us from the inside, also maintains us from the outside: Aloe Vera for dry skin, pomegranate for cell regeneration and oat for friable hair – many plants have valuable ingredients.

Indeed, it is important to be cautious when purchasing natural makeup, because the term itself is not protected. Terms „close to nature”, “naturals”, “botanicals” or “green” promise nature where no natural or small measures of natural ingredients are used, Unfortunately, the same applies also for vegan cosmetics: though no ingredients of animal origin are used, but often times you can find synthetic materials in these products. The best-known natural makeup seals are NATRUE  and ECOCERT. You may find a good overview about the different certificates on cosmetics products at the consumer advice center.

Tip: Some applications help you to decipher the ingredients and explain which results you can expect, thus, e.g., Codecheck. This also applies for food and other budgetary products.

The smell of the nature in the hotel room

 Green Pearls® partner hotels use natural cosmetic products within their hotels. In the Selfness hotel SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA only certified natural products are used in the spa area, motivated by the advantages for the environment: products by Phamos and Dr. Hauschka are free of parabens, PEGs and mineral oil. Besides, the products are not tested on animals. A little bit further in the south of the Black Forest the natural Hotel Lamm in Mitteltal only uses natural oils and essence for its wellness applications, regional plants are used for own products, thus spruce needles and herbs.

Wild herbs and coffee soap

You become as beautiful as the region around Berchtesgaden using the homemade products of the Rehlegger herbal fairy Doris Hasenknopf from Berghotel Rehlegg. She harvests flowers and wild herbs from the meadow behind the hotel – the Rehlegger Leit’n – and processes them rich moisturizing creams and oils, spoiling you at the Almwies’n SPA.

At the Hofgut Hafnerleiten coffee soap from own production is used in the kitchen as it removes smells. Natural makeup is used by conviction: On the one hand it is more acceptable for guests with demanding and problematic skin, on the other hand better for the environment. As to the own sewage plant this is of course also from special interest for the hotel! In the rooms you can natural soap, shower gel and bath foam from whey products.

By the way: Are you looking for tips for a plastic free bathroom?

Practical tips for a plastic free bathroom

Der Beitrag Natural makeup: How beauty care and environment are related erschien zuerst auf GREEN TRAVEL BLOG.