Sustainability expert and travel writer based in London.
All in Condé Nast Traveller
The beauty of a biodiverse natural world is enriching for us as travellers – and also key to tackling the climate emergency. Holly Tuppen and Juliet Kinsman explore how we help look after the health of our planet by travelling better, and in a way that supports conservation and in turn, brings down carbon emissions
With the collapse of biodiversity in the UK, progressive conservationists are now regenerating entire landscapes rather than single species. For a reconnecting rural break, here are our native-habitat heroes.
Holidaying on home turf, albeit a little forced upon us recently, has never seemed so appealing. Nor – largely as a result of the pandemic – has it been so sought after; watching a growing wave of interest sweep across the UK’s best cities and beautiful landscapes, the travel industry is racing to curate exceptional staycation experiences.
Holidaying on home turf, albeit a little forced upon us recently, has never seemed so appealing. Nor – largely as a result of the pandemic – has it been so sought after; watching a growing wave of interest sweep across the UK’s best cities and beautiful landscapes, the travel industry is racing to curate exceptional staycation experiences.
It’s not hard to see why. From the intricate islets of western Scotland to the creative Mecca of St Ives, there is so much to see, smell, taste and feel on our impossibly varied little island, it could easily fill a lifetime of adventures.
Thankfully, for those seeking natural beauty and solitude within our shores, showing support can be an inspiring mission. Here are 10 places to stay that will not only ensure a calming experience but contribute to critical conservation projects.
From plummeting carbon emissions to animals taking over cities, the lockdown has given us a tantalising glimpse of a more environmentally harmonious world. As scientists relish the opportunity to capture data in quieter oceans and traffic-reduced cities, the media is awash with talk of green shoots.
Unfortunately, this hiatus for the natural world has followed a devastating loss of livelihoods, and lives. As the tourism industry reels amid a grounded planet, those who rely on it the most are struggling to put food on the table. There’s an uneasiness in the conservation world, too. For every chunk of wilderness thriving with less human intrusion, numerous ecosystems are devastatingly at risk.
Throwing sweets at children, cooing at orphans and interrupting school lessons; thankfully, these days, savvier socially minded travellers are ditching unethical and token volunteering experiences in favour of a new breed of impact travel. When planning a volunteering trip abroad, here's what you need to look out for to ensure the experience is ethical and will actually have a positive impact.
