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When we think about making our itineraries more sustainable, a common stumbling block is the rapidly increasing costs associated with booking eco-friendly hotels or planning only train travel. But in a world where reducing one’s carbon footprint is increasingly important, it is important to find a middle ground.
According to a Sustainable Travel Research report from a leading travel company, 83% of Indian travelers want to switch to more sustainable options, but 64% feel that there are not enough options to choose from in the first place. The rising cost of goods and services makes it even more difficult to make planet-friendly choices. ‘If you move a little away from the mainstream hotel market and look at homestays or independently owned villas, you will find that costs are going down as sustainable practices naturally consume less electricity, plastic, natural resources etc.,’ says founder Devendra Parulekar. A hospitality group managing private homes and villas across India.
choose wisely
Travel expert Sneha Arora also votes in favor of looking for alternative accommodation and advises against fancy claims of greenwashing. ‘Find places to stay and eat that are local, invest a portion of your income in the community, employ local people but don’t necessarily advertise yourself heavily,’ she says.
Food is another industry that has seen a huge increase in pricing following the pandemic. Travel influencer and columnist Upasana Kochhar advises not to succumb to the temptation of finding familiar tastes in a new place. ‘Large fast-food chains contribute to the regional carbon footprint because the processed-food industry relies heavily on machinery and chemicals to make its dishes,’ she explains. He also said that the best way to avoid contributing is to ‘look for home cooks’. For traditional meals, eat at local markets instead of cafes, carry eco-friendly storage containers for takeaways, or grab a snack on the go.’
travel wisely on budget
Although budget travel or luxury travel and sustainability go hand in hand, they are not necessarily related. For example, you can live in an ultra-luxury residence that is extremely sustainable and vice versa.
Devendra Parulekar, founder of a hospitality group that manages private homes and villas
By exploring ecotourism opportunities, conservation programs and environmentally conscious businesses and by avoiding tourist traps, you not only reduce your impact and save money but also support a developmental curve that slows down negative travel impacts globally. Can help.
Upasana Kochhar, travel influencer and columnist
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