After a hard time with corona, it is clear that we are ready to explore the world again. For example, in 2022 more than 11 million turists visited Mallorca.* The same year our annual spend per turist on the island was 158 €.*
This adds up to huge amounts, but ironically, this money rarely benefits the local communities. Much of the money we spend ends up with foreign airlines, travel agencies, hotel chains and even souvenirs are rarely locally produced.
At the same time, mass tourism leads to significant environmental problems. Islands such as Mallorca, Gran Canaria and Crete are struggling with waste and water shortages, and the local population has had enough. In Tenerife, thousands are protesting in the streets, and in Mallorca the government has reduced the number of overnight stays in the high season to quell the growing discontent.
But do you have travel bug like me? But is it also important to you to leave a lighter footprint on the planet for your little ones and that your money goes to the locals? Because the locals need us and they want us, make no mistake about that.
Let's explore how we can make our family holiday more environmentally friendly and beneficial to the locals.
Because the good news is that it IS possible to travel more responsibly with the little ones, and it can even be a lot of fun. Here are eight tips from one parent to another:
1. Choose eco-friendly accommodation
2. Embrace slow travel
3. Support local restaurants, shops, and activities
4. Opt for eco-friendly transportation (when possible)
5. Teach by example
6. Enjoy nature
7. Educate and inspire
8. Pack light and smart
1. Choose eco-friendly accommodations
When planning your trip, look for accommodations that prioritise environmentally responsible practices. Whether it's a green hotel, or a cozy summerhouse or Airbnb with eco-friendly practices, opting for places that care about the environment sets a positive example for your kiddos. I recommend using the hotel booking platform ecohotels.com. They have done all the research for you and only work with the most eco-friendly hotels.
2. Embrace slow travel
Instead of rushing from one destination to the next, slow down and savor the journey. Not only does this reduce your carbon footprint by cutting down on transportation emissions, but it also allows your family to truly immerse yourselves in the local culture and environment. And trust me, your kids are happy just being away and spending time with you.
3. Support local restaurants, shops, and activities
One of the best parts of traveling is experiencing different cultures and communities. Show your support by buying locally-made souvenirs, instead of the mass-produced stuff, you find everywhere, which is bad for the environment and doesn't support the locals. Dine at family-owned restaurants, that use local and organic ingredients, and have great vegetarian dishes. Not only does this help the local economy thrive, but it also fosters meaningful connections with the places you visit.
4. Opt for eco-friendly transportation
When possible, choose eco-friendly modes of transportation such as trains, buses, or bicycles. Not only are they more sustainable than flying or driving, but they also provide a unique and memorable way to see the world through your kids' eyes. And when you do fly, which sometimes is just necessary, try to pack as light as possible. I know it's difficult, but the more weight you pack, the more fuel the plane uses. More on this in point 8.
5. Teach by example
This is maybe the hardest one;-) Kids learn by watching, so lead by example. Whether it's picking up litter on the beach, conserving water in the hotel room, or choosing vegetarian options at mealtime, show your kiddos that every little action counts when it comes to protecting our planet. You might think that your small actions doesn't help in the big picture. But the sum of all of our our small actions, makes a huge difference.
6. Enjoy nature
Nature is the ultimate playground, so take advantage of it! Plan outdoor activities like hiking, camping, or wildlife spotting to instill a love and appreciation for the natural world in your children. Plus, spending time in nature is not only good for the environment but also great for your family's physical and mental well-being. Just remember point 5. above and pick up your trash;-)
7. Educate and inspire
Use your travels as an opportunity to educate your kids about the importance of environmental conservation. Visit local conservation centers, take guided nature walks, or simply have conversations about the impact of our actions on the planet. By empowering them with knowledge, you're setting them up to be the stewards of tomorrow. And after all, it's all about their future.
8. Pack light and smart
I know, packing light with kids sounds like a contradiction. But hear me out! Bringing fewer items means less weight, which in turn means less fuel consumption during your travels. Plus, opt for reusable items like water bottles, snack containers, and reusable swim diapers, to reduce waste along the way. Tip: The Cleanwave Foundation has put up water stations all over Mallorca, where you can refill your water bottle, instead of buying a new plastic bottle. Simply download the app “Cleanwave” and you’ll get a map of all of their stations on the island. And when it comes to not bringing extra gear from home, we can of course help. See our selection here.
Remember, traveling more responsible with kids is all about making conscious choices. So pack your bags, grab your little adventurers, and get ready to explore the world in a way that's as kind to the Earth as it is enriching for your souls.
I hope this guide will help a big. Safe travels!
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