Joanna James
Known as an ethical and responsible approach to tourism, ethical travel is a potential game-changer today. This opens doors for more meaningful travel experiences while protecting the environment and the local culture. Here are some eco-friendly tips to follow in the Maldives.
The Maldives is renowned for its diverse and abundant marine life. It is a paradise for snorkeling and scuba diving experiences due to this fact. However, make sure you do not approach sea creatures during your diving excursions or avoid touching coral reefs as you swim past. Adapt green practices like using reef-friendly sunscreen. You can also take part in conservation efforts aimed at turtles, manta rays and coral reefs. Engaging in such activities not only puts your stay there to good use but will also give you a high for having done your bit on behalf of the environment.
Increased environmental awareness among travellers and the Maldivian tourism sector has spurred many resorts and hotels to turn green. Sustainable practices, such as using solar energy to run operations, have been initiated to minimise the impact on the environment. Properties like Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives even harvest rainwater, recycle waste, and curb electricity consumption by converting to inverter air conditioners and LED light bulbs. Such places are also set in beautiful landscapes, so you will have lush views all around to unwind in.
Single-use plastic has a hazardous effect on the environment. Therefore, one of the best moves you can make is to stay at a sustainable resort in the Maldives, which has banned the use of plastic bags, straws and other single-use plastic products. Instead, environmentally-friendly products made out of natural materials have been introduced to the settings. Reusable glass bottles may be used in such settings to carry around with you during your excursions. These help not only to keep the environment safe but also support the local community by opening doors to more business opportunities.
Transportation methods have a great impact on the environment. Use eco-friendly means of travelling such as ferry rides, taking bicycle tours and walking to different destinations close by. Seaplane rides and speedboats can be used to visit long distances. Also, keep in mind to pack only your essentials so that you do not have luggage with you. This actually has an impact on the fuel being consumed.
If you are hoping to immerse yourself in the culture of the destination, the first thing you need to understand is to respect the communities and their customs. Do some research and familiarise yourself with the customs and traditions there, and also purchase some local handicraft items like lacquer products, traditional jewellery items, coconut-based souvenirs and Thundu Kunaa mats to support the livelihood of the people engaged in making them. Sample some traditional Maldivian dishes like bajiyaa (fish cakes) and bis keemiyaa (samosas) at the street stalls, which are scattered around the local markets.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
