Monday, June 16, 2025

As the travel industry continues to evolve in 2025, the conversation is no longer just about where to go – but how to go. With the impacts of becoming harder to ignore, destinations like , the , and are leading a movement toward . are redefining what it means to travel responsibly to these still unspoiled locations – offering a deeper and sustainable connection with nature, culture, and purpose.

stunning landscapes and spiritual heritage have long made it one of the world’s most sought-after destinations. In 2023 alone, over arrived on the island. The island produces over , and plastic pollution threatens its beaches and marine life. has become critical in some areas, with agriculture and local communities competing with luxury resorts for dwindling resources. is not just a trend – it’s a lifeline for .

Two hotels, in particular, are championing a new future for :

While much of battles the consequences of , the – a remote archipelago in the – remain one of the continent’s last true natural wonders. With over and some of , these islands are a living case study of . But even here, and careless tourism pose threats. Promoting is essential to safeguard this rare haven.

On , stands as a leader in . Built using like and , the resort minimizes its ecological footprint with , , , and . Their sustainability ethos extends to daily operations – running , , and maintaining a to supply the resort’s restaurant.

Nearby, and further elevate the standard. Both hotels employ , with and . These properties run on through and utilize and to support their conservation goals. Their food philosophy focuses on local, – comes from nearby suppliers – while also maintaining robust recycling and waste management systems. In a region where could easily disrupt fragile ecosystems, these hotels are modeling and .

, off the coast of , is renowned for its , , and rich . But like many island destinations, it faces rising , , and . As tourism grows – up compared to 2019 – the challenge lies in balancing with .

Enter , a visionary project with a goal to become by 2027. Set within a , has purposefully limited development to just to protect its surrounding ecosystem. The resort is already powered in part by and integrates to reduce emissions. Its restaurant sources produce from , ensuring a that reduces transport emissions and supports local food security. A minimum of of every is funneled into the , which supports , , and in . This is a model for how can grow responsibly – creating jobs and supporting communities while safeguarding its .

All of these hotels are proud members of , a curated platform of reshaping the hospitality industry. Every property undergoes a rigorous verification process across aligned with . More than just a booking site, is a movement – committed to making the right way of traveling. Through , , and impactful storytelling, empowers travelers to make choices that truly matter – for the and for future generations.

In , a popular tourist destination for years, the influx of visitors has contributed to a growing environmental crisis. With overwhelming its beaches and systems struggling to keep up, the impact of has become evident. initiatives are crucial for the future of , its local communities, and its cultural heritage.

The innovative solutions being implemented at and show the power of mindful tourism. These properties not only minimize their carbon footprints but actively contribute to preserving the island’s lush natural beauty. Their sustainable practices range from solar-powered energy systems to water conservation initiatives that protect precious local resources. travelers who seek to connect with nature and culture can now enjoy Bali in a way that leaves a positive impact on both the environment and the community.

The represent a unique opportunity for . With much of the archipelago protected by nature reserves, the islands are an ideal destination for . Hotels like and are raising the bar for what it means to be and in a tourist hotspot.

These resorts are committed to not only reducing their environmental impact but also to improving the lives of local residents. By sourcing food from local farmers and empowering local communities with leadership opportunities, they demonstrate that tourism can be a force for good. With sustainable practices in place, visitors to the Azores can enjoy an unforgettable experience without leaving a detrimental mark on the landscape.

With the looming threat of sea level rise and coral bleaching endangering its unique ecosystem, Zanzibar must strike a balance between economic growth and environmental protection. Ycona Luxury Eco-Resort is leading this charge by offering a model for responsible tourism that minimizes its ecological footprint while providing guests with luxurious and sustainable accommodations.

With an emphasis on locally sourced food, renewable energy, and community investment, Ycona is setting a standard for the East African tourism industry. Their innovative approach, including reinvesting profits into local education and sustainable farming initiatives, is a perfect example of how tourism can grow in a way that benefits both visitors and residents while safeguarding the destination’s natural beauty.

The Ownia Collection is creating a platform for travelers who care about the environmental and social impact of their trips. Whether in Bali, the Azores, or Zanzibar, travelers can choose hotels that embody the principles of sustainability, social responsibility, and environmental stewardship. By choosing destinations and accommodations that are committed to these values, travelers not only ensure their own enjoyment but also contribute to the protection and preservation of the places they visit.

As overtourism continues to take its toll on some of the world’s most precious destinations, it is increasingly important to think about the long-term sustainability of travel. By supporting hotels and resorts that prioritize eco-friendly practices, travelers can help create a future where tourism enriches both local communities and the planet. The future of luxury travel lies in sustainability, and destinations like Bali, the Azores, and Zanzibar are leading the way in creating a responsible and rewarding experience for all.