This book starts with a well-written introduction to sustainable travel which is summarized as "tourism that delivers meaningful guest experiences and benefits locals without negatively influencing communities and the environment." As a traveler, it often means choosing a vendor that utilizes local resources or invests in their local community in a positive way. I was also surprised that many of the places highlighted in this were actually reasonably priced.
Right after the intro is a nice highlight of "Innovative Sustainable Tourism Attractions Around the World" which features 12 sites that were cutting edge in 2020 when this edition of the book was published.
The next chapter focuses on "Nature" with color-coded dots to showcase Wildlife Watching, Outdoor Adventure, and/or Conservation. Each listing includes bullet highlights of the location and a side bar which includes cost (when available), typical food offered, location and website. The chapter contains a guide on "7 Tips for Responsible Wildlife Interactions" which is a bit eye-opening.
"Relaxation" is the next chapter with color-coded dots for Eco-Luxury, Sustainable Dining, and Wellness. This chapter contains a note on "7 Ways to Reduce Waste on Your Travels" with simple tips anyone can try to incorporate.
Next is the chapter on "Culture" with color-coded dots for Community Interaction, Arts and Traditions, and Homestays. Within this chapter is a useful guide on "How to Choose a Responsible Tour Operator". The colored sidebar offers great suggestions on a responsible tour.
The next chapter is titled "Urban" for locations in cities and the color-coded dots include Eco-Luxury, Sustainable Dining, and Community Interaction. Many of the places in major cities are actually reasonably priced. The guide "Identifying a Sustainable Sleep" has some tips on picking a good place to spend the night (not necessarily a resort or hotel).
Next is a chapter on "Learning" where you can combine your travel with education but some of these tours might be a bit of a monetary stretch such as the Antarctica Scientific Expedition Cruise running over USD$14,000. But that is offset by the absolutely free Australia Beach Clean Up 10 day Expeditions. This chapter also contains the guide "How to Choose a Sustainable Volunteering Project"
Since this book was published back in 2020, you will want to verify all the information before making reservations or heading out.
Overall, this was a great book to find locations to stay at or visit that will minimize your impact on the planet and, for many locations, without spending gobs of money. Try to find this book at your local library or through inter-library loan programs.
Title: Lonely Planet Sustainable Escapes
Author: Lonely Planet Authors
ISBN: 978-1838690373
Pages: 256
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