Ecotourism and Popular Travel Hotspots
Ecotourism has become one of the most popular forms of travel in recent years. Fuelled by an ever-increasing awareness of the potential harm that traditional tourism has caused the planet today, those traveling to enjoy Mother Nature's bounty are choosing to tread lightly. Some travelers want to avoid causing as little disturbance to the natural environment as possible, as well as contributing to the continued health and beauty of the natural world. The continued focus on ecotourism and popular travel hotspots looks to be a trend that will continue for the foreseeable future. Good news for the planet and for those who want to experience nature as it should be raw and undisturbed by the actions of man.
- Why is ecotourism so important?
- Do I fit the mold of an ecotourist?
- How can I be a good ecotourist?
- Enjoying some of the best ecotourism hotspots on the planet
Why is ecotourism so important?
There is an increasing realization among nature lovers that each and every ecosystem on the planet is delicate. Where in the past the focus has been on providing a "natural spectacle", sometimes by artificially manipulating the environment, we're moving towards a mindset of preservation. Many travelers realize that their experience of nature is far more rewarding when is seen in its full glory without being manipulated by the hand of man. There is also something tremendously positive in taking part in an ecotourism adventure. Those who make a special effort to enjoy the combination of ecotourism and popular travel hotspots will return home knowing that they have directly contributed to the continued health of an ecosystem.
Do I fit the mold of an ecotourist?
Making the extra effort to enjoy nature, while still being aware of the potential that human beings have to damage that which they love, has caused many to examine their choice of tourism destinations than was the case only a generation ago. It is not only experiencing the flora and fauna in their natural environment that makes ecotourism such an attractive option to many people. It also offers the opportunity to interact with local communities and learn more about their cultures, history, and, by extension, the world around us. If you have a curiosity about that world, how man and nature have coexisted, and would like to enrich your knowledge of what makes the world such a fascinating place, then you have the makings of an ecotourist.
How can I be a good ecotourist?
The first step in becoming a great ecotourist is to do your research into your destination. There are great ecotourism hotspots across the globe and they all seem to have many similarities in their approach. First, the lodges and other types of accommodation should have as little impact as possible on the environment. They make use of natural and sustainable materials in their construction and often enlist the help of the local community to build and run that accommodation. By providing an income to those who call an area home, they ensure that those communities have a vested interest in protecting the environment and building a better life for themselves and to the generations that follow. At the same time the operators, and the visitors to the ecotourism destination, should respect the beliefs of the local inhabitants and learn from their approach to the natural world. Consumables should also be harvested sustainably; many of the best ecotourism venues use renewable power and recycle water and other consumables. Vote with your buying power as your patronage makes you a great ecotourist. Become an "Ecotourism Ambassador" by spreading the word and sharing your travel experiences with those aruond you.
Enjoying some of the best ecotourism hotspots on the planet.
There is a vast and eclectic mix of ecotourism hotspots across the globe and each offers a unique experience and insight into what makes these environments so special. The rainforests of Costa Rica, the savanna in Kenya where wildlife safaris are the order of the day, the mountains of Cambodia, and the majestic isolation of Iceland all offer exceptional ecotourism opportunities. The choice is as wide as the great outdoors itself.
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For those who want to explore these ecotourism opportunities, find the latest flight deals on BudgetAir.