Students love their traveling, and this is why we’ve organised this guide of eco-friendly getaways ideal for group experiences!
Everyone seems to be going green these days. Eco-friendly getaways are the latest trend for eco-conscious students, as eco-tourism is becoming the most sought-after travel trend of the century.
Although air travel is not particularly sustainable, there are many ways for students to offset their carbon footprint, such as supporting companies that practise sustainable tourism and visiting places more aligned with eco-tourism. Below, we’ve rounded up a list of eco-conscious getaways perfect for students.
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1. Group Tours in Albania
Dubbed the “Land of the Eagles,” Albania is an underrated Balkan country that deserves a spot on everyone’s bucket list of places to visit. While it’s not as popular as Italy or France, this beautiful European country is a fantastic destination for students seeking eco-conscious getaways.
Joining group tours in Albania is one of the most sustainable ways to discover the country. Run by local guides, booking these tours allows you to support the local economy while immersing yourself in the local culture and communities. Some of these tours will take you to hidden gems you won’t be able to discover on your own.
One of the things to look forward to on your group tour is the opportunity to meet the locals. Albanians are generally welcoming to tourists. They are happy to share their unique traditions and appreciate it when foreigners visit their country. They won’t hesitate to invite you for coffee and meaningful conversations. Even those who don’t speak English are eager to meet visitors with a smile and a wave.
Eco-conscious students should consider joining a group tour focused on nature and wildlife. These tours will take you to the country’s stunning natural attractions, from the spectacular Osumi Canyon to the stunning Karavasta Lagoon.
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2. Glamping in the UK
While many adventurous students enjoy camping, those not ready to rough it might be better off with glamping. Glamping adds a touch of comfort and luxury to traditional camping since you will sleep in furnished accommodations, surrounded by nature. Thus, one of the eco-conscious getaways to consider is glamping trips in the UK. The UK has many eco-friendly glamping sites offering a chance to relax and unwind.
When glamping in the UK, choose those sites that offer sustainable accommodations. Find out if they are taking steps towards providing an environment-friendly experience. For instance, you can stay in eco-friendly glamping sites that use renewable energy sources like wind and solar power.
When planning your glamping adventure in the UK, find ways to reduce your carbon footprint. Limit the energy you use and stay in accommodations that use energy-efficient appliances. Minimise your reliance on single-use plastic by bringing reusable containers.
You’ll likely go on outdoor activities during your glamping adventure in the UK. Some glamping sites can arrange hiking excursions for you. But be mindful of the environment when taking part in these activities. Never leave a trace, which means taking all trash with you. Stay on designated trails and respect all the plants and wildlife.
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3. Hiking in Italy
For students who are keen hikers, consider an eco-friendly hiking trip in Italy. From the plunging cliffs of the Amalfi Coast to the craggy peaks of the Dolomites, Italy boasts some of Europe’s most scenic hiking trails. The Italian Alps provide some of the country’s most spectacular scenery. And if you go further south, you’ll find stunning coastal paths leading to picturesque villages and crystal-clear lakes.
Planning your route is essential for eco-friendly hikes. It may be best to avoid places suffering from over-tourism. Look for alternatives, such as places with less traffic. If you’re hiking in popular sites like the Dolomites, venture off the beaten path. Check out the trail from Lagusel to Val di Fassa, a 3-hour hike offering breathtaking views of the Catinaccio peaks.
Be sure to adhere to local laws that aim to protect the environment. For instance, avoid building a fire to keep warm when camping. Many hiking trails in Italy prohibit lighting a fire as it can devastate the environment. More importantly, never leave a trace. Leftover rubbish can be harmful to the local ecosystem. Animals can mistake it for food, and plastic products take hundreds of years to decompose.
4. Sightseeing in Germany
Germany provides several tourism options to benefit local communities and the environment, making it an ideal location for students looking for an eco-friendly getaway. Furthermore, the availability of low-cost flights to Germany for students increases the accessibility of visiting this ecologically aware tourist destination. In addition, many hotels in Germany follow sustainable practises, such as conserving resources and reducing emissions.
When sightseeing in Germany, choose eco-friendly transportation options, such as electric vehicles and public transport. These options help to reduce energy use and minimise pollution. Visit German cities that are walkable and have bike-friendly paths, allowing you to explore on foot or by bike.
As Germany pushes for sustainable tourism, students will find plenty of ways to support the country’s eco-conscious efforts. For instance, you can tour from one bio hotel to another, taking you to the country’s most scenic regions, from the Bavarian Forest in the south to Lüneburg in the north.
When dining out during your sightseeing tour in Germany, prioritise organic and vegan cuisine that protects diversity. You will find various options in Germany, especially in major cities like Berlin, Hamburg, and Munich.
5. Cycling in Spain
Cycling holidays are becoming increasingly popular in Spain, especially for eco-conscious travellers. Whether you want to cycle around picturesque cities or conquer longer cycling routes towards the countryside, you’ll find cycling routes in Spain to suit your preferences.
Spain offers numerous trails for all levels of bikers. Many would take you to impressive landscape scenery, immense cultural and historical interests, and charming villages.
Work with a local company that can arrange eco-friendly cycling holidays in Spain. Aside from hiring local guides, these companies will put you in accommodations that adhere to sustainable practices. In addition, they can look for cycling paths not ruined by over tourism.
When cycling in Spain, you can pass local producers and a few farms where direct sales are customary. Support the local economy by shopping from them. It’s also a fantastic way to sample local specialities that may be inaccessible to tourists.
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