Sleep at community-owned eco-resorts. When done right, tourism can “give rural regions the incentive—and the means—to care for their natural treasures.” Staying at eco-lodges and locally run establishments supports “both nature and villagers.” The sustainable-tourism index (Eco-indextourism.org/en) can identify places to stay.
Travel with conservationists. “Venerable green groups” such as the World Wildlife Fund and Conservation International offer ecologically safe trips to the “planet’s most spectacular places.”
Volunteer while you vacation. “Lend a hand on projects that directly benefit your destination.” The Earthwatch Institute and companies such as ResponsibleTravel.com and Planeterra offer numerous trips that use tourism to support conservation and community development.
Source: Town & Country
