![](https://images.suitcasemag.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/10151505/five-easy-ways-to-help-the-environment-while-travelling_653a2234376d6.jpeg)
Pick your destination wisely
Staycations and locations that are closer to home obviously
reduce your transport-based footprint. For New Yorkers we’ve found
places
to rival The Hamptons; Parisians can head to these
weekend getaways, while Londoners have plenty of
beautiful stays less than two hours from the city. Wherever you
live, there’s plenty more inspiration online. But if home turf no
longer floats your boat, consider countries that are working in
harmony with their environment. Namibia‘s
conservation and anti-poaching work set them apart from other
safari destinations, while
Costa Rica‘s focus on ecotourism has seen hotels like Lapa
Rios Ecolodge and Pacuare Lodge sexing up
sustainability.
Research your destination carefully. Visiting countries that
have a water shortage will put strain on the community, though
travelling to an area recently struck by a natural disaster may
help boost the local economy (and spirit). When you’re visiting
tourist-popular natural wonders such as Iceland’s Gulfoss Waterfall
or Phi Phi in Thailand, be mindful of how you behave. It sounds
simple, but don’t touch coral and always put your rubbish in the
appropriate bin – it’s alarming how much irresponsible tourism goes
on, often due to ignorance.