During Earth Month, hotels around the world are showcasing their green initiatives, from bringing the outdoors in to promoting sustainable organic farming practices and even adding whale-watching suites.
Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp, Belgium
Hidden behind ancient walls within Antwerp’s Botanic Gardens, the Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp—a former 13th-century monastery—is now a spectacular 108-room hotel emerging from a meticulous, methodical 4-year restoration, completed with the debut of The Botanic Suite.
Home to five impeccable restaurants, three of which boast Michelin stars, a stylish bar, a state-of-the-art spa, an apothecary, a 15th-century chapel, 18 conference rooms, a screening theater and The Unprecedented, hidden in the Botanic Sanctuary’s ancient vaulted cellar and serving single malt scotch whiskies so rare that they’re no longer available anywhere else in the world.
Tradition and modern craftsmanship combine in elements ranging from centuries-old wooden beams and original brickwork to modern art and contemporary glass conservatories. Where possible, the original function of rooms have been preserved—the two monastery kitchens now serve as elegantly tiled dining rooms, and the monastery’s 19th-century pharmacy has been brought back into use as a modern-day apothecary.
Within five acres of leafy grounds, a trio of gardens create a leafy oasis with an abundance of lush plants as well as the hotel’s greenhouse of flowers, herbs, and tomatoes. Among the dining experiences here, the 3-hour omakase experience showcases the produce grown in the greenhouse and garden. botanicantwerp.be
Colibri Boutique Hotels, Tulum & Little Corn Island
Colibri Boutique Hotels has announced the launch of a pilot project in the town of Tihosuco, Mexico aimed at promoting sustainable organic farming practices and preserving Mayan traditions. The project focuses on a revived method of growing organic corn, which is both respectful to the land and honors the legacy of the farmers who have cultivated it for generations. Grown with a modest and thoughtful footprint, the corn is currently being used in Hotel La Zebra‘s kitchen, ensuring guests can enjoy the freshest, farm-to-hotel produce.
“Corn is a staple in Mexican cuisine, and this initiative allows us to celebrate and share the benefits of this corn harvest with everyone, from our farmers to our chefs to our guests,” says CBH Executive Chef Eleazar Bonilla.
In addition, CBH has a vibrant ESG practice called, We Care. This program works to improve the quality of life of coworkers, enhance social conditions in the community, and promote environmental conservation and corporate ethics. colibriboutiquehotels.com
Colibri Boutique Hotels are members of Small Luxury Hotels of the World and have been named an Ocean Champion. With multiple nature-focused properties in Tulum, there is only one off the coast of Nicaragua—Yemaya Reefs on Little Corn Island, which is just under two miles long but home to a palm rainforest while being surrounded by an interconnected reef system that protects life on land and in the ocean. yemayalittlecorn.com
Manasota Key Resort, Florida
Manasota Key Resort offers a haven for those seeking to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Southwest Florida’s Gulf Coast. Situated along the pristine shores of Manasota Key—a barrier island set between Lemon Bay and the Gulf of Mexico—the resort is a slice of Old Florida within a natural sanctuary where wildlife thrives, including sea turtles, dolphins, manatees, bald eagles, herons, pelicans and osprey.
Manasota Key Resort offers easy access to to the region’s vibrant marine life. From complimentary kayaks and SUPs ideal for dolphin watching and manatee sightings to bicycles perfect for exploring the trails of Stump Pass State Park, you’ll experience unforgettable encounters with nature here. Depending on when you visit, you may even notice turtle nests and baby hatchlings heading to the water.
Whether seeking a peaceful retreat to unplug and unwind or an exhilarating family adventure, Manasota Key Resort perfectly blends an indulgent getaway with the tranquility of nature. manasotakeyresort.com
Octant Ponta Delgada, The Azores
Nestled in the heart of the Azores on São Miguel Island, Octant Ponta Delgada introduced five new room categories this spring, including a Whale Watching Suite. Following the completion of an extensive renovation project, the hotel has added the guest experience by seamlessly integrating the verdant landscapes of São Miguel and Atlantic Ocean into the interiors.
Offering 123 rooms, Octant Ponta Delgada boasts a stunning coastal location with sweeping views of the surrounding landscape. Among the five newly renovated suite categories, the spotlight shines on whale watching within a sanctuary where guests can observe majestic blue whales with an in-room telescope and private balcony. With panoramic ocean views and thoughtful amenities, including exercise and yoga equipment and a minibar with local products, the new room promises an unparalleled connection with the surrounding nature of the islands. pontadelgada.octanthotels.com/quartos-suites
What Does a Sustainable-Backed Vacation Look Like?
In a world where 76 perfect of travelers are yearning to embrace sustainability*, it’s time to redefine what it truly means to be a conscious tourist. Sustainable tourism is more than just a checklist of eco-friendly practices; it’s about leaving a positive impact on the destinations we visit.
Imagine a trip where you:
- Engage in responsible wildlife tourism that prioritizes the animals’ welfare, supports conservation efforts and educates travelers about the importance of preserving biodiversity.
- Immerse yourself in local cultures with genuine curiosity and respect, seeking to learn from the traditions, stories and wisdom of the communities you visit while fostering cross-cultural understanding.
- Boost the local economy by indulging in authentic, locally sourced cuisine, shopping for handcrafted souvenirs directly from artisans and participating in excursions that support small businesses and entrepreneurs.
- Make a tangible difference by volunteering your time and skills to support local charities and causes, or by donating to organizations that are working to address social and environmental challenges in the destination.
- Choose eco-certified accommodations that prioritize sustainability practices, such as renewable energy, water conservation, waste reduction and community engagement, setting a new standard for the tourism industry.
* Information from weforum.org and sustainable traveler and travel expert, Alex Sharpe, president and CEO of Signature Travel Network, a cooperative of over 200 independently owned travel agencies.
