The Sustainable Traveller Magazine, October 2019

Issue 01

October 2019

THE

SUSTAINABLE traveller T H E

H U B

F O R S U S T A I N A B L E T R A V E L N E W S A N D E X P E R I E N C E S

Price $5.50 50c donated to Manta Trust

5 WAYS TO EASE INTO #SUSTAINABLE TRAVEL

SWIMMING WITH MANTA RAYS AND WHY IT'S IMPORTANT FOR CONSERVATION

REASONS TO VISIT COSTA RICA

DURING THE GREEN SEASON

HOTEL REVIEWS CAYUGA COLLECTION AND MORE...

WWW.THESUSTAINABLETRAVELLER.COM

TO CHANGE OUR WAYS, WE NEED TO START WITH CHANGING OUR DAILY HABITS

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T H E H U B F O R S U S T A I N A B L E T R A V E L N E W S A N D E X P E R I E N C E S

www.thesustainabletraveller.com

PHOTO BY SCOTT UMSTATTD ON UNSPLASH

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editor's

letter

To say I'm EXCITED is an understatement!!

Welcome officially to the digital magazine on all things sustainable travel, The Sustainable Traveller™ This is your hub for sustainable travel, news and updates, where you can learn all about the awesome things the travel and tourism industry is doing to make a positive difference to our planet, wildlife, people and culture.

And importantly how you can travel as sustainably as possible.

This magazine is for you.

The biggest problem we have right now is the confusion and stigma about what is sustainable travel? Will it cost more? What do I have to do and what does it mean?

And I've spent the last few years asking those very questions from the travel industry and I can tell you it's truely inspiring what they are doing for you, people and nature around them.

These insider travel stories need to be shared and I'll be bringing you the latest updates and news straight from the source.

So join me as we head down the path of sustainable travel together. For Planet, People, Wildlife and Nature.

Mother Nature Thanks You

Dayana Brooke dayana@thesustainabletraveller.com

A special Thank You goes to my first readers for their amazing feedback to help get this and future editions going. Thank You Indiana, Havana, Sonia Jones, Patricio Alwyn, Nicholas Wright and Emma House xx

Issue 01

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October 2019

contents page 5 - 6 Welcome letter + 3 tips for sustainable travel page 8 HOTEL REVIEWS

Heckfield Place, UK The Lodge at Blue Sky, America Ocio Territorial, Chile

page 11 HOW TO MAKE YOUR NEXT TRIP AWAY SUSTAINABLE page 13 - 14 TRAVEL OFFERS AND NEWS

Intrepid Tours Kokomo Private Island Fiji Inkaterra Macchu Picchu Peru

page 17 FEATURE STORY SWIMMING WITH MANTA RAYS How conservation is playing an important role

page 25 ECO TRAVL GUIDE - COSTA RICA page 29 - Learn about Cayuga Collection in Central America

SUBSCRIBE Receive your monthly edition of The Sustainable Traveller direct to your inbox to be viewed on any mobile device. You will also receive exclusive offers just for our readers.

Subscriptions are $5.50 per month with 50c from each issue donated towards a charity or conservation linked to the Feature Story. www.thesustainabletraveller.com/magazine Our cover image is by Photo by Sebastian Pena Lambarri on Unsplash All other images supplied by the travel companies they are referred to.

Copyright The Sustainable Traveller™ Eco Travel Company, 2019. All rights reserved. All content and images have been supplied and referenced to the company or photographer to the best of our ability. Our content can be shared but must be referenced back to The Sustainable Traveller™ or #thesustainabletraveller. All efforts have been made to ensure content is accurate, The Sustainable Traveller shall not have any liability for errors or omissions. Prices accurate at time of publishing. This is a monthly magazine and produced as a digital copy only to save on paper, trees, ink, distribution, logistics and minimise our impact on the environment. Mother Nature Thanks You.

THE SUSTAINABLE TRAVELLER welcome

Photo by Ishan @seefromthesky on Unsplash

Climate change, going ‘green’, being sustainable are

And one of the biggest offenders is the global

words we seem to be hearing more and more.

travel and tourism industry, contributing 5% of CO2 emissions into our atmosphere.

From governments to airlines, to your local supermarket and the recent global #climatestrike,

So how can we make a positive difference?

everyone is looking for change and companies and governments to reduce our impact on the

Sustainable and responsible travel is the key to

environment.

reconnecting with nature, people and wildlife. It's the future of how we will all travel and the only way

As travellers, there is so much we can do on a daily

forward if we want to create a balance of travel

basis to reduce our own CO2 footprint.

and nature.

From bringing your own bags to carry groceries,

It is my goal to show you ways to become a

using reusable straws, saying no to single-use plastic

Sustainable Traveller and share with you the best

products and consuming more plant based and

environmentally friendly travel options out there.

locally grown produce, all in the effort to reduce our

So collectively we can become a positive travel

carbon emissions from heavy-laden industries.

force on the environment, planet, wildlife and ourselves.

So why should we care?

Dayana Brooke

Because our daily human activities create a massive

EDITOR AND CREATOR OF

impact on nature and all of its resources which is

SUSTAINABLE TRAVEL EXPERIENCES

unsustainable and affecting our civilisation.

thesustainabletraveller

PAGE 6 | THE SUSTAINABLE TRAVELLER

TIPS TO GET YOU STARTED ON YOUR SUSTAINABLE TRAVEL JOURNEY Only travel with ethical operators When choosing where to stay, a tour or even a cruise, ensure they have a sustainability ’green’ policy, accreditation or certification. We only book travel with tour operators doing the right things by the planet, people and wildlife.

Pack light with multi purpose items The secret to packing light is multi purpose.

Find shoes that you can wear on more than one occasion, outdoor sandals and a fancy pair too.

A pair of plain dark pants, a couple of khaki coloured tops, weatherproof jacket, foldable hat and bamboo cotton intimates are multi purpose items.

Go plant based The rise of plant based meals and cuisine means an exciting new food option to choose when flying, cruising travelling. Grab a plant based meal for breakfast, lunch or even your meal on the plane. It takes good and good for you too.

Want to keep up to date?

Connect with us on social for daily posts

Nanuku Auberge Villas Fiji, Image by Founder Dayana Brooke

WHAT INSPIRES YOU TO TRAVEL? Is it wildlife, seeking adventures, meeting new people or spending time with family? There are many reasons we are inspired to travel and our numbers are steadily growing year on year.

The UNWTO* estimates 1.3 billion of us are travelling each year which is expected to rise to 1.8 billion by the year 2030.

The same year UN scientists predict our climate will reach a tipping point of no return.

Be inspired to use the transformational power of travel to reconnect with nature, humans and wildlife. We can use our tourism dollars wisely and with purpose to support a resort that employs local people, uses locally sourced materials, a safari experience that supports wildlife conservation or choose a direct flight with an airline with a carbon offset program for neutral travel.

Be inspired to travel sustainably, so it create minimal impact on the environment but gives back preservation of nature, communities and people. @thesustainabletraveller *UN World Tourism Organisation

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COUNTRIES LEADING THE WAY WITH

TREE PLANTING Ireland Have officially committed to planting 22 million new trees every year by 2040 as part of their climate action plan.

That's 440 million trees which will help Ireland achieve zero CO2 emissions by 2050.

India In 2017, India set a world record of planting 66 million trees in 12 hours, which involved 1.5 million volunteers.

India is committed to the Paris Agreement and showing the world a nation of 1.3 billion can balance wildlife and humans and increase their forests by 5 million hectares by 2030.

Ethiopia In July of 2019, the Prime Minister of Ethiopia tweeted the nation had planted 150 million trees in 6 hours!

After 12 hours, a total of 353,633,660 tree seedlings were planted. Which is believed to be a world record for the number of trees planted in any one time.

Ethiopia hope to plant 4 billion trees as part of the nation's 'green legacy' initiative.

Find us on Twitter and LinkedIn

Photo by Dmitry Dreyer on Unsplash

WHY PLANTING TREES IS IMPORTANT Trees naturally absorb and store carbon dioxide from our atmosphere and clean our air of pollutants and harmful gasses. In short, the more trees we have, the cleaner our air will be.

According to Greenfleet Australia "Our forests capture millions of tonnes of carbon emissions from our atmosphere, conserve biodiversity, improve water quality, reduce soil erosion and provide vital habitat for native wildlife".

Tree planting is a win win for the environment and the good news, everyone can get involved.

Scientists have given it the seal of approval and believe it is the most cost effective and naturally efficient way to dramatically remove billions of tonnes of carbon from the air without the need for technology.

The more trees we start plant today the more carbon will be absorbed in 10 years from now.

How is your country contributing to global tree restoration?

from around the world

SUSTAINABLE HOTEL REVIEWS heckfield place, hampshire, UK Just over an hour from London, this respectfully restored Georgian family home is now welcoming guests to come, stay and experience a piece of english history with a modern contemporary hotel feel. The 400 acres of land offers space for adults and children to roam, chemical free produce, arts, wellness, relaxation, family friendly and a chance to disconnect and reconnect with nature. Rates from GBP£400 per night twin-share with breakfast daily.

the lodge at blue sky, utah, US A brand new contemporary luxury resort on 3500 acres of private land, designed to offer guests a ‘powerful opportunity to reconnect with nature’. With rescued cows as pets, goats, chicken, horses, 10,000 bees and all produce grown and harvested by hand with off the grid thermal energy dug 5 feet for the greenhouse. A resort for both animals and humans to connect with the life force of Mother Earth. Double rates from USD$975 per night twin-share with breakfast daily.

ocio territorial hotel, chiloe, chile Experience one of the real authentic cities of Chile on the island of Chiloe located close to the gateway of Patagonia. The sustainably designed build offers rustic wooden panelled rooms, hand woven rugs, throws, slippers and local cuisine sourced from the land and waters of the island. You'll feel at home taking in the serenity with stunning views overlooking the city of Castro and a naturist guide for local excursions. Average rates USD$509 per night double, all inclusive.

Privileges Just for You You can book these hotels directly with us and receive exclusive privileges with every booking.

Such as room upgrade on arrival subject to availability, daily breakfast for two, early checkin and late checkout if available and a hotel or resort credit to use during your stay. Some conditions apply, contact our Travel team on travel@thesustainabletraveller.com

say

to plastic bottles

Photo by Brian Yurasits on Unsplash

s ay

to re u s able bottl es

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T H E H U B F O R S U S T A I N A B L E T R A V E L N E W S A N D E X P E R I E N C E S

www.thesustainabletraveller.com

Photo by averie woodard on Unsplash

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HOW TO EASE INTO SUSTAINABLE TRAVEL WITH FIVE SIMPLE STEPS

BY DAYANA BROOKE

Travelling is a part of life for many of us.

Whether it be for work or pleasure. Use these 5 simple steps on any trip away and you will quickly learn how to become a sustainable traveller and importantly create newfound habits you can adapt to any travel experience or lifestyle.

Single use is out and BYO is in. Always Bring Your Own refillable water bottle, straw, coffee cup, food container, carry bag and cutlery to be in a position to say no to any plastic items that are used once and thrown away.

Photo by Ibrahim Rifath on Unsplash

Consider where you travel and when. Try and travel before or after ‘peak season’ to avoid an influx of people, crowds and inflated prices. Off peak travel reduces the stresses on towns, infrastructures and also a great way to save with lower prices.

'When travelling, always try and think what is your impact on the evnironment and how can you minimise that impact?'

Photo by Ümit Yıldırım on Unsplash

When choosing where to stay, booking a tour or even a cruise, ensure they have a sustainability ’green’ policy, accreditation or certification. Choose to book travel with tour operators doing the right thing by the planet, people and wildlife. Such as G Adventures, Intrepid, Crooked Compass (checkout page 7-8 on the Llama Pack Project you can be a part of), Big 5 and Six Senses resorts. For a full listing, be sure to check out our webpage.

Carbon offsetting of flights and on your entire trip, is a tangible way of knowing you are investing in renewable energy projects, protecting forests and reforestation, wildlife sanctuaries and more. Opt in to carbon offset flights directly with the airline or choose a reputable operator such as Climate Care or GreenFleet. We will be deep diving in CO2 offset in future issues.

Grab a bike. It's such a fun and interactive way to get around a city. Look out for bike city tours with Urban Adventures.

Or choose a bike holiday with BackRoad Touring or DuVine Cycling. We love bikes and will share some cool bike travel in future issues.

Try out these 5 simple steps next time you are travelling to ease into sustainable travelling. It will make you feel great knowing your travel experience will create a positive impact on the environment, wildlife, people and planet.

You can see more on our website www.thesustainabletraveller.com

from around the world

SUSTAINABLE TRAVEL OFFERS intrepid travel tours 10% off select Australian adventures in small group tours. Just some of the adventures are 6 days in Tasmania, 5 day Top End and Arnhem Land Adventure, 10 days Perth to Broome overland or 5 day outback camping adventure. 'Intrepid is committed to protecting our planet' and have been offering carbon neutral tours since 2010. All trips use public transport where possible, reusable water bottles, minimal flights, waste and energy usage. Offers of up to 10% off Europe and Middle East and 10% off for students*

kokomo private island, fiji Book a stay of 5 nights or more and receive free air transfers from Nadi or Suva International airport to Kokomo island for two guests per bedroom. As mentioned in our Manta Ray feature on page 15.

Includes gourmet breakfast, lunch and dinner daily, non alcoholic beverages, non motorised water-sports, 1 x Introductory spa treatment per stay, 1 x Tank scuba dive per stay, Kids Club daily, Nanny services (0 – 3 years) from 9am to 5pm daily. Offer for travel between 06 Oct - 19 Dec 2019 and 12 Jan to 31 Mar 2020*

inkaterra machu picchu pueblo hotel Book 2 nights at Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel and get a 3rd night for free. This boutique hotel of just 83 casitas, is a member of National Geographic Unique Lodges of the world and home to 214 bird species and the world's largest orchid collection of 372 species.

Rates include daily breakfast, welcome kit, upgrade on arrival (if available) and a complimentary 25 minute de stress massage. Valid for reservations with stays from now to December 31st, 2019, with limited availability and full payment upon booking* *Terms and Conditions *You can book these and many other offers with us. Generally not combinable with any other deals or specials and subject to availability. All bookings are subject to a booking fee from $150 per twin share and more for complicated multi country destinations. This covers time spent putting together your unique travel itinerary and your point. For more travel@thesustainabletraveller.com

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LATEST SUSTAINABLE TRAVEL NEWS Theme for 2019 #worldtourismday is 'Tourism and Jobs - A Better Future For All' Prince Harry advocating for sustainable tourism The latest hotel chains removing single use plastic amenities from your hotel room

The need to better understand Sustainable Travel and Eco Tourism is on the rise. Which is good news for the planet, people and wildlife.

Prince Harry amplified the

We stand by the fact that travel is a huge privilege,

change the impact of travel,

enjoyed by few but the affects are felt by many. The need for sustainable travel is now at the forefront of travel industry discussions and world leaders and will eventually become the norm.

The theme for this year's UN World Tourism Day is

message by announcing 'Travalyst' a global alliance with booking.com, Ctrip, Skycanner, TripAdvisor and Visa 'with the ambition to for good' A message we share too Harry.

To further help you on your sustainable travel journey, global hotel brands of Marriott, International Hotel

"Tourism and Jobs — A Better Future For All" and Goal

Group IHG, Shangri-La and

8 of the Sustainable Development Goals. This is a

Ovolo have announced they

reminder to travellers that they have a unique

are ditching single use

opportunity to  spend their 'tourism dollars' on travel

bathroom amenities. Finally

that will directly benefit the local communities,

we say.

employment, empower minority groups and job

Join our weekly mailing list for regular travel updates www.thesustainabletraveller.com

creation.

PAGE 17 | THE SUSTAINABLE TRAVELLER

SWIMMING WITH MANTA RAYS WRITTEN DAYANA BROOKE

PHOTO BY SEBASTIAN PENA LAMBARRI ON UNSPLASH

PAGE 18 | THE SUSTAINABLE TRAVELLER

PHOTO BY MAX GOTTS ON UNSPLASH

If you have recently watched Our Planet  series on NetFlix narrated

by Sir David Attenborough, I'm sure you felt an admiration and perhaps desperation to protect and preserve the planet we call home.

As travelers, we seek experiences that excite us and takes us out of our everyday lifestyles and routines and that tends to involve nature .

With the collaboration of UK based charity Manta Trust , many resorts encourage guests to bring along an underwater camera to help capture photographic images of the belly of each Mantra which helps identification and tagging.

KOKOMO PRIVATE ISLAND

SWIMMING WITH MANTA RAYS

located in the south pacific nation of Fiji, is a luxury resort that opened in 2017.

is an eco tourism experience, that attracts travellers from the around the world to just a few unique dive spots in places such as Maldives, Fiji, Hawaii, Indonesia and Australia.

The location is ideal for snorkelers and divers with direct access to the fourth largest reef in the world,

An opportunity for travellers to snorkel or dive with these large fish, but importantly to help contribute to valuable research at the same time.

THE GREAT ASTROLABE REEF. The resort has a PADI certified diving centre and year round diving sites with Manta Rays. For snorkelers, the best times are from April to September.

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PHOTO BY KOKOMO ISLAND

Since opening, Kokomo has collaborated with Manta Trust and committed to the research of Mobuild Rays , their habitat and providing measures for conservation.

Plus you can now 'adopt a manta ray' which helps contribute muchneeded funds to further research, ID and ways in which their habitats can be protected.

And more recently, the resort announced the 'Kokomo Acoustic Manta Project' the first of its kind in scientific research of Manta Rays in Fiji and South Pacific.

THE MALDIVES

Marine Biologist and Project Leader of Mantra Project Fiji, Luke Gordon saids, "The feeding aggregations (around Kokomo) are currently seen no where else in Fiji; being in the middle of a cyclone of 40+ huge manta rays is an experience you will never forget..."

Pack your underwater camera to help capture photographic images for identification and tagging.

in the Indian Ocean has grown to become the location for beach-loving travelers, seeking a secluded romantic island experience.

It was here in 2005, that Manta Trust began with the help of Four Seasons Hotel Landaa Giraavaru.

More recently, Six Senses Resort Laamu has joined forces with Manta Trust, Blue Marine Foundation and Olive Ridley Project and created The Maldives Underwater KOKOMO ISLAND Initiative (MUI).

PAGE 20 | THE SUSTAINABLE TRAVELLER MANTA TRUST RESEARCHER HAISHAM RASHEED APPROACHES A WILD REEF MANTA RAY TO SCAN IT AT SIX SENSES LAAMU

This collaboration brings together a team of 10 visionary marine biologists, Duo-Scan technology and veterinary efforts to the 125 reef manta rays that call Laamu home.

The resort is also close to a manta ray cleaning station which makes it even more unique.

Unlike other resorts where sightings are seasonal, ‘We are lucky to have year-round sightings’ says Megan the Sustainability Manager of the resort.

Only certified divers can swim with the manta rays as the dive location is 16 metres deep and under a surf break and channel.

Divers can also get involved with research as ‘citizen scientists’, photo identification, learning how research is conducted and even measure and detect pregnancies.

The resort also directly contributes to many community initiatives such as clean drinking water to the local islands and schools, plastic-free waste management and marine life research in partnership with Blue Marine Foundation and Manta Trust .

Dives last one hour and include light refreshments from a single trip to a full day experience and even night dives for certified divers.

Minimum age is 8, so a great way to get the children involved and learning about marine life and conservation at an early age.

Have you swum with Manta Rays?

Would you like to help with conservation?

We would love to hear your stories using hashtag #swimmingwith mantarays

PAGE 21 | THE SUSTAINABLE TRAVELLER

PHOTO BY SIX SENSES LAAMAU PHOTO BY JAKOB OWENS ON UNSPLASH

The Marine Protected Area (MPA) of Raja Ampat in Indonesia is described as one of the best dive and snorkel sites on the planet.

The best way to explore the archipelago islands of Raja Ampat is undoubtably by sailing and the ideal times from October to April.

This geologically blessed destination is nutrient rich with diverse coral reefs and marine life and where you can find both species of mantas, the reef and oceanic rays and a manta cleaning station.

Aqua Blu is the newest luxury vessel to offer 7 night voyages to Raja Ampta and 12 nights to include Flores or Spice Island.

Each expedition will be led by expert crew, guides and dive guides with the inaugural voyage being the 16th of November this year.

In other parts of Indonesia, mantas are extinct due to the pressure of fishing for their gills which are dried The vessel is boutique in size with and used in traditional Chinese only 15 suites, indoor and outdoor medicine. spaces, five star dining and a menu inspired by local cuisines and The Raja Ampta Manta Project was sustainably sourced seafood. set up in 2010 by Manta Trust, and has built a database of 700 mantas You can see more on our website which they use as a tool to lobby www.thesustainabletraveller.com/ against fishing in Indonesia. mantarays

PAGE 22 | THE SUSTAINABLE TRAVELLER PHOTO BY MAX GOTTS ON UNSPLASH

Plan Your Getaway Kokomo Private Island Resort is located in Fiji and accessible by international airports of Suva and Nadi. Your daily rate is all inclusive of meals, non alcoholic drinks, non motorised sports, 1 x 45 minute spa treatment, 1 x tank scuba dive per day, kid's and teens club. Save 10% when you book 60 days in advance.

Six Senses Laamu is located in the Maldives and an ideal eco friendly hideaway and surfer's haven. Enjoy all inclusive rates, USD100 food and beverage credit, complimentary 50 minute massage, upgrade and more. Stay 7, Pay 6 and save 10% when booking at least 60 days in advance.

Aqua Expeditions offers 8 day cruises on board Aqua Blu to Raja Ampat Indonesia.

All meals are included, laundry, group transfers, all excursions, dives and equipment and non motorised water sports. Highly exclusive with a 1:1 crew to guest ratio for personalised service.

Incredibly high standards in operations to protect the natural environment where they sail.

You can help support the manta ray conservation and research.

Check out Manta Trust and Manta Matcher to learn more about the ongoing research and collaborations and how you can get involved.

Support the conservation work of Oceanic Preservation Society  in partnership with 4Ocean and purchase a recycled glass bead bracelet. Each bracelet helps to remove 1 pound of plastic from our oceans. Use #4MantaRays to show your support on social media Share your thoughts with us on social media The more awareness we raise, the more we can help the conservation and research efforts for Manta Rays To book your own sustainable travel experience, contact us travel@thesustainabletraveller.com

LET'S USE THE POWER OF HUMAN KINDNESS AS A POSITIVE FORCE FOR NATURE

T H E H U B F O R S U S T A I N A B L E T R A V E L N E W S A N D E X P E R I E N C E S

www.thesustainabletraveller.com Photo by Priscilla Du Preez on Unsplash

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Eco Travel Guide

Costa Rica

Photo by Lisa Kessler on Unsplash

PAGE 26 | THE SUSTAINABLE TRAVELLER PAGE 11 | THE SUSTAINABLE TRAVELLER

8 REASONS

Photo supplied by Cayuga Collection

TO VISIT COSTA RICA DURING GREEN SEASON WORDS BY CAYUGA COLLECTION

Tropical Rains are Something

Are you considering a vacation to Costa

Else.

Rica between May and November? We call this time of year “Green Season” and there are some classic myths associated. For one, you might be worried that your trip of a lifetime will be a washout – we assure you otherwise!

And for good measure, here are a few more great reasons to start planning a Green Season getaway.

It Doesn’t Rain All Day, Every Day. There’s no hiding the fact that it does indeed rain during Green Season. However, it’s seldom all day, every day. During this period, mornings are typically glorious and sunny – meaning that there’s plenty of time for tours and activities, while the dark clouds tend to roll in towards the late afternoon and evening, just in time for a postadventure siesta. Keep mornings for the action, and afternoons for relaxing.

The rains in Costa Rica are not like the rains in, let’s say London, New York or Vancouver. They’re “warm” (especially at the beach) and tend to come and go quickly. While it might be instinctive to run for cover when the first drops fall, embracing the jungle showers can be quite an

does it n e h w , e What’s mor for an in e ’r u o y storm, always d n a ic r e h atmosp w. We o h s g in iz r mesme h kids c u m w o h have seen pool or e h t in y a love to pl when it h c a e b e h at t rains. experience.

Photo supplied by Cayuga Collection

The True Rainforest Experience What do you get when you put the rain back into rainforest? You get the true rainforest experience, the jungle at its most lush, green and glorious.

“Green Season” isn’t just marketing lingo – a little rain following months of dry weather sees Costa Rica burst back into bloom. What better time to visit a country famed for its nature than at its most verdant? When was the last time you got muddy, sweaty and wet? And no worries. A warm shower is waiting for you.

Sweet Seasonal Savings

Seasonal Experiences

Green Season is the full Costa Rica experience without the

In Green Season, you’ll be able to enjoy all of the

full price tag. It’s offseason

same bucket list activities as you would in Dry

and all the nation’s resorts run

Season, plus more. There are certain seasonal

seasonal promotions. At the

experiences that you can only have at this time of

Cayuga Collection, our

year such as humpback whale watching and seeing

sustainable luxury hotels and

baby turtles hatch – both are a treat for wildlife lovers. Other quintessentially Costa Rican experiences such as swimming beneath waterfalls and white water rafting are even more memorable following the Green Season rains too.

lodges offer complimentary nights during Green Season.

Airfares are also cheaper and it’s not uncommon to find great deals on activities, rental cars and the likes.

Photo supplied by Cayuga Collection

It's Cooler.

It Coincides with Summer.

Temperatures during Dry Season

If you’re traveling with the kids, there

in Costa Rica can seriously soar. While

may only be a few precious months a

the sunshine is always welcome, you

year when you can all get away

might not love the hot stickiness that

together. Equally, if you’re getting

comes hand in hand. In Green Season,

married in the summer, you’ll be

temperatures are a few degrees cooler and just that little bit more agreeable, especially along the Pacific Coast.

You’ll be thankful for the light breeze when you’re hiking uphill through the rainforest or perfecting your tan on the beach.

looking for an exotic, honeymoon destination. While June, July, and August tend to be high season in most North American and European hotspots, Costa Rica, by contrast, is blissfully free from touristy crowds and overpriced resorts. Traveling offseason makes for a more intimate and affordable experience.

Fewer Tourists – a lot fewer It’s easy enough to avoid the crowds in Costa Rica, especially at our more remote Cayuga Collection properties. In Green Season though, even the most popular destinations are quieter. As a result, don’t be surprised if your hotel room is upgraded, or if you find yourself on a nearly private rainforest tour – it’s all part of the Green Season experience!

way, the e h t y b And Costa r o f e u r t same is hbouring Rica’s neig and a m a n a P

s countrie Nicaragua.

You can see more on our website www.thesustainabletraveller.com /costarica

PAGE 29 | THE SUSTAINABLE TRAVELLER

TRAVEL BRAND STORY Getting to know your sustainable travel providers

For over 20 years, The Cayuga Collection has been at the forefront of sustainable tourism with a collection of award winning luxury hotels and lodges in Costa Rica, Panama and Nicaragua.

'The sustainable operations of our hotels and lodges have a positive impact on nature and wildlife conservation, local school and environmental education and community development. We deeply care about our

Choose to stay at one or a few hotels and all the transfer arrangements are easily taken care.

Making it a fantastic option for family gatherings, weddings, honeymoons, retreats & wellness experiences.

staff, exclusively employing locals and helping them excel professionally through education, training and career paths'. Cayuga There are 10 properties in total, all uniquely designed to reflect, preserve and protect the areas and communities around them. No two are the same, making it an ideal adventure and perfect to experience local ways.

'The Ultimate Symbiosis of Sustainability and Luxury' You can see more on our website www.thesustainabletraveller.com /cayugacollection

PAGE 30 | THE SUSTAINABLE TRAVELLER

SUSTAINABLE TRAVEL PACKING Your monthly guide in what's new

Consider some of these items to pack on your next trip away.

KATHMANDU clothing company is officially B Corp Certified. This is great news for the ethical consumer but also for the sustainable traveller.

The brand offers outdoor, adventure and travel clothes and equipment with stores in Australia and New

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC have

Zealand. The company has recycled 9.3 million plastic

launched a luggage range made

bottles into jackets for the last 20 years. With a goal to

from recycled iPET, essentially

source 100% sustainable cotton by 2020, responsible

post consumer recycled plastic

wool and down, committed to protecting the rights

bottles. Up to 144 bottles is used

and wellbeing of their workers and carbon offset for

for every large bag.

the environment.

https://www.nationalgeographi c.com.au/store/

You can view the company's commitment to 'sustainability and inclusive economy' via their B

LARQ a self cleaning water

Impact Report online. This measures the company's

purification bottle that looks

performance in 'Governance, Workers, Customers,

stylish too. Pure water in 60

Communities and the Environment.

seconds at a touch of a button,

www.kathmandu.com.au/kathmandu-b-corp

anywhere, anytime. Carry one of

Join our weekly mailing list for regular travel updates www.thesustainabletraveller.com

these next time you travel to avoid purchasing single use plastic water bottles. https://www.livelarq.com

LE B A N AI T S U THE S ER™ L L E TRAV

Thank You We hope you enjoyed our first magazine edition for all things Sustainable Travel and Eco Tourism We welcome your feedback, so please reach out and let us know what you would like to see included

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The Sustainable Traveller™ Eco Travel Company, magazine and licensed agency (independant affiliate of Savenio, member of Virtuoso). We are dedicated to 100% sustainable travel and eco tourism experiences. We are members of 1% For The Planet and plant a tree with every made with GreenFleet Australia. We stand for the planet, people, nature and animals.