As summer approaches, many of us are in the midst of figuring out our travel plans. If you are looking to reduce your ecological footprint while on your next travel, here are some off the beaten road, eco-friendly destinations to discover this year:
- Explore the ancient Silk Road route, Shaxi (Shaxizhen), China
About Shaxi: Deep in the Himalayan foothills of southwest China’s Yunnan Province lies the ancient village of Shaxi. The town once played an important trade role on the Silk Road connecting Southeast Asia to Tibet. The dramatic mountainous landscape and beautiful weather make for a complete and enjoyable experience.
Unwind at the Old Theatre Inn and take in the sights of unending rows of mountains and rice fields. Photo: Trip Advisor Where to stay: Shaxi Old Theatre Inn offers a truly unique and holistic travel experience. The inn is a registered cultural landmark, and has developed policies that reduce waste and protect the environment. The rooms are opulently decorated, cosy and rustic. The centrepiece is an impressive ancient theatre. The Inn can help link you with local farmers, under the worldwide WWOOF movement (linking volunteers with organic farmers and growers). An ideal location to gain new experiences, unwind, and experience authentic Bai hospitality!
Discovering Shaxi Old Town with a foldable reusable bag in tow – Say goodbye to bulky daypacks. Conveniently carry your travel essentials the eco-concious way! 
Exploring Shaxi Old Town by bicycle, with Hummingbag’s exclusive Whole Foods foldable reusable bag – An environmentally friendly way to travel! 2. Glam it up & unwind at the Karpaha Sands, Sri Lanka
About Sri Lanka: Sri Lanka is quickly becoming one of the world’s leading eco destinations. The lesser-travelled East Coast of Sri Lanka offers natural and authentic cultural treasures, including the country’s most wonderful beaches and its rich Tamil culture.
Where to stay: Nestled in the East Coast of Sri Lanka, is the luxurious Karpaha Sands Resort. The resort offers an authentic holiday gateaway while preserving a low environmental impact. This exclusive holiday destination offers discerning travellers a comfortable stay within its lavish tented suites, cosy gardens, individual terraces and rubble stone outdoor showers. (Can we book a ticket there already?). Karpaha Sands Resort is also the only resort on the pristine white sands and turquoise waters of Kalkudah beach, so an intimate gateway is assured!
3. Soak in Nature at Tiamo Eco Resort, Bahamas
About Bahamas: The Bahamas has some of the most intriguing, exotic, and mysterious natural phenomena on the planet: the world’s deepest blue hole, third-largest fringing barrier reef, and largest colony of pink flamingos.
Where to stay: Located on the mostly undeveloped Island of South Andros, Tiamo Eco Resort features minimalistic, discreet and elegant eco-lodges. Built with the intention of minimizing its impact on the environment, the resort uses solar powered electricity for its infrastructures (it also features fan cooled rooms, compositing toilets and thermal heaters that generate hot water). The resort occupies a stunning beachfront stretch, surrounded by an impressive wilderness preserve and offers its guests the unique experience of a pure Caribbean retreat!
4. Try Agritourism in Menorca, Spain
About Agritourism: This year, get an entirely new experience of traveling with this trending activity! Agritourism gets you involved in agriculture-oriented activities while you stay in rustic and comfortable bed and breakfast type farms.
Where to stay: Spain’s Turmaden des Capita is a quality, farmstay in a restored 19th-century traditional Menorcan farmhouse. It is a 75-hectare organic, eco-friendly farm. The entire house can be rented or individual room; outside there is a terrace with cosy outdoor seating, a swimming pool and barbecue facilities.The organic, eco-friendly farm contains limousin cattle, horses, bee hives and olive trees that guests can help at.
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Finally, for a true eco-conscious holiday, look no further than your own backyard – discover your local destinations and give camping a try! 😉