In a world where the phrase “green is the new black” is more than just a fashion statement, eco-friendly travel has become all the rage. If you’re ready to swap your carbon footprint for a sandal print on the earth’s most pristine places, then buckle up (or maybe not, because TheGlitz is going green) as Sumita Chakraborty, Editor-in-chief, TheGlitz, embarks on a journey to seven of the world’s most fabulously eco-conscious destinations. Get ready for fun, frolic, and a bit of fabulousness—because saving the planet doesn’t have to be boring!
Green Get Set Go…
Costa Rica: The Jungle Gym of Central America
Costa Rica isn’t just a vacation; it’s Mother Nature’s playground. Swing through the treetops in the Monteverde Cloud Forest like a Tarzan wannabe, but with a better haircut. Zip-lining here is the adrenaline rush you never knew you needed, complete with the chance to see a sloth giving you the slowest wave ever. And after you’ve conquered the skies, take a lazy float down the Pacuare River—because nothing says eco-friendly like letting the current do all the work.
Must-Do: Channel your inner Jane Goodall with a sustainable wildlife tour. The howler monkeys are judging your selfies, so make them good!
Iceland: Where Hot Meets Cold
Iceland, where fire and ice coexist in the most Instagrammable way possible. Take a dip in the Blue Lagoon, which is basically nature’s version of a luxury spa (minus the robe, but with more selfies). And if you’re feeling a little extra, explore the glaciers via an eco-friendly snowmobile—because who said environmentalism can’t be cool?
Must-Do: Hunt the Northern Lights, but with your eyes, not a net—leave that to the professionals. Just remember to practice your surprised face for when they actually show up.
New Zealand: Middle Earth’s Greener Cousin
Sure, New Zealand might be famous for hobbits, but it’s also a treasure trove of eco-adventures. Hike the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, which sounds like a bad idea until you realize it’s one of the world’s most stunning walks. Or go kayaking in Abel Tasman National Park, where you might just paddle past a penguin. Yep, you heard that right—a penguin.
Must-Do: Take a sustainable wine tour. After all, eco-friendly doesn’t mean you have to be sober.
Bhutan: Happiness is a Warm Eco-Village
In Bhutan, Gross National Happiness is a thing, and they take their environmentalism as seriously as their smiles. Visit the Phobjikha Valley, where you can stay in a farmstay and learn how to milk a yak (or just take a selfie with one and call it a day). And don’t miss out on a hike to the Tiger’s Nest Monastery—because nothing says “green traveler” like sweating it out on a mountain.
Must-Do: Participate in a traditional archery competition. It’s like darts, but with more bragging rights.
Norway: Fjords, Fun, and Fewer Fossil Fuels
Norway’s fjords are what desktop screensavers aspire to be. Take a ride on a hybrid-electric ferry through the Nærøyfjord, and bask in the glory of nature while smugly knowing you’re not burning any diesel. For those who need more excitement, try a midnight sun hike—because who needs sleep when you have 24-hour daylight?
Must-Do: Indulge in some whale watching in Tromsø, where the only thing more exciting than seeing a whale is realizing you did it without harming the planet.
Kenya: Safari with a Side of Sustainability
Kenya is the place where “the circle of life” isn’t just a song—it’s a lifestyle. Go on an eco-friendly safari in the Maasai Mara, where the Big Five will leave you big-eyed. Stay at an eco-lodge that’s so luxurious, you’ll forget you’re in the middle of the savannah until you hear a lion roar. And if you’re feeling brave, try hot air ballooning—because nothing says eco-warrior like floating over the plains in style.
Must-Do: Visit a Maasai village and learn about sustainable living from the pros. Spoiler: They’ve been doing it long before it was cool.
Japan: Green in the Land of the Rising Sun
Japan is a masterclass in balancing modernity with nature. Explore the eco-friendly town of Kamikatsu, where recycling is an art form. And when you’re done being green, soak in an onsen that’s been sustainably sourced from natural hot springs. It’s like a bath, but with a side of zen and a dash of smugness.
Must-Do: Wander through the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove in Kyoto. It’s like stepping into a different world—one where you might actually feel like meditating for once.
TheGlitz Says: Green is the New Fun
Going green doesn’t mean giving up on the fun. In fact, these eco-friendly destinations prove that you can have your (sustainably sourced, organic) cake and eat it too. So pack your bags, grab your reusable water bottle, and get ready to explore the world with a conscience as clear as the waters you’ll be swimming in. Happy eco-traveling!
