Eco-Hotels?
The trend now, as I have read about from various places, is to buy products that are eco-friendly. But did you know, that now when you travel, there are several eco-friendly options available? Many hotels have advertised that they are eco-friendly, and have done so in different ways. Some of them operate from solar or wind power, some of them use eco-friendly linens and materials, some serve organic food, some organize environmental activities for their guests, and some of them do a combination! This new fad, named “eco-tourism” is hoped by environmentalists to expand to other hotels as well, and draw attention to an important issue while providing a relaxing vacation for travelers.
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One such hotel is the Rosario Resort and Spa. They offer a “green package” for vacationers that allows guest to go hiking, clear thier own trail, and still have a good time. They also give discounts for people who reserve this package.
A hostel in Ireland called Gyreum uses solar and wind powered machinery, and has a living garden and roof. For better insulation, they use sheep wool.
In the more urban areas, hotels are still able to take action. Fairmont Hotels and Suites offers recycling services to their guests and discounted parking for hybrid cars. They have also updates their electrical systems and purchase energy-saving appliances.
These hotels in turn, to reward them for their good deeds are given environmental awards, which helps advertise their business. Hopefully this is a trend that other hotels will catch on to.
This is a great way to be in tune with global issues while still enjoying a relaxing vacation. I think the idea of offering guests discounts further promotes the earth’s conservation, because people are rewarded for it. By suggesting hiking trips, people can become closer to nature, and hopefully gain more respect for it.
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Therese said,
April 20, 2007 at 9:53 pm
This article caught my attention. As someone who travels a lot, I have often thought about the energy used to watch my used sheets, towels, and to clean my room everyday. Most hotel chains give you the option of having your towels and sheets changed everyday or not, which I think shows their understanding of how much waste is produced through hotels. I am very excited to hear about these eco-friendly hotels and I hope that soon I can talk my parents into staying in one of them, even if it’s a little out of the way.