We have all witnessed the news reports, the dramatic photographs and the scientists spouting shocking statistics. We are all aware that humans are damaging the planet's environment at a rapid pace with talk of global warming, extinct animals and the decline of local communities. And understandably we all feel a little guilty about it; washing out our jam jars to recycle them and opting to travel to work by bus. But isn't it time that giving something back to the environment became a little more glamorous?
No, it's not a selfish notion; it's where eco-tourism comes in. Once eco-tourism was either about sleeping in a hut or facing the depressing notion of staying on our own shores for summer. But a new wave of luxury eco-resorts are paving the way for environment conservation in style, while rightfully putting its care in the hands of the true experts: the local communities. This is exactly what is happening in safari lodges in Kenya and boutique hotels in Kenya and across the world.
Eco-tourism's foundations lie in raising awareness for environments and cultures, minimising the harmful effect of tourism and providing funding for the care of environments and communities. It is easy to imagine the best way for an eco-friendly holiday is to avoid a plane journey. But millions of people across the globe rely upon income from tourism, be it for the care of land, animals or communities.
Some safari lodges in Kenya often offer a class of luxury second-to-none. Such destinations are sustainable in an unobvious way. These Kenya lodges are often based in stunning designated conservation areas, and come with personal staff who know the local area better than anybody and are more than happy to share their knowledge. There is surely no better way to learn about the world we live in than by talking to the skilled locals who have helped transform the land.
And all of this while experiencing an awe-inspiring unspoilt view of Kenya, safe in the knowledge that you are helping it to remain unspoilt. Some safari lodges have features such as spas, libraries, wi-fi and a whole host of entertainment on hand such as camel riding, quad biking, mountain biking, rock climbing and game drives and walks. If a relaxing holiday suits you better lie back next to your own infinity pool while being served by your personal butler and chef.
Learning about the local culture is a key part of most people's African holidays. The staff in Kenyan lodges are often members of the Maasai or other tribes, and can show you a privileged insight into the real Kenya: their villages, schools and communities. With designated livestock quotas, rotational grazing areas and separate settlement areas to repair previous over-grazing and erosion, paradise takes a lot to maintain.
The Kenyan conservancies are often home to a diverse range of animals, including leopards, zebra and buffalo , who are only there because of their expert care, financed by tourism. Of course if you cannot stretch to afford a holiday in a luxury you could give a gift to one of the lodges in Kenya help pay for skilled herdsmen, and you can even adopt-an-acre of some conservation areas. But if you describe yourself as fortunate enough for such an extravagant holiday, why not take an eco-holiday in Kenya, for a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience.
No, it's not a selfish notion; it's where eco-tourism comes in. Once eco-tourism was either about sleeping in a hut or facing the depressing notion of staying on our own shores for summer. But a new wave of luxury eco-resorts are paving the way for environment conservation in style, while rightfully putting its care in the hands of the true experts: the local communities. This is exactly what is happening in safari lodges in Kenya and boutique hotels in Kenya and across the world.
Eco-tourism's foundations lie in raising awareness for environments and cultures, minimising the harmful effect of tourism and providing funding for the care of environments and communities. It is easy to imagine the best way for an eco-friendly holiday is to avoid a plane journey. But millions of people across the globe rely upon income from tourism, be it for the care of land, animals or communities.
Some safari lodges in Kenya often offer a class of luxury second-to-none. Such destinations are sustainable in an unobvious way. These Kenya lodges are often based in stunning designated conservation areas, and come with personal staff who know the local area better than anybody and are more than happy to share their knowledge. There is surely no better way to learn about the world we live in than by talking to the skilled locals who have helped transform the land.
And all of this while experiencing an awe-inspiring unspoilt view of Kenya, safe in the knowledge that you are helping it to remain unspoilt. Some safari lodges have features such as spas, libraries, wi-fi and a whole host of entertainment on hand such as camel riding, quad biking, mountain biking, rock climbing and game drives and walks. If a relaxing holiday suits you better lie back next to your own infinity pool while being served by your personal butler and chef.
Learning about the local culture is a key part of most people's African holidays. The staff in Kenyan lodges are often members of the Maasai or other tribes, and can show you a privileged insight into the real Kenya: their villages, schools and communities. With designated livestock quotas, rotational grazing areas and separate settlement areas to repair previous over-grazing and erosion, paradise takes a lot to maintain.
The Kenyan conservancies are often home to a diverse range of animals, including leopards, zebra and buffalo , who are only there because of their expert care, financed by tourism. Of course if you cannot stretch to afford a holiday in a luxury you could give a gift to one of the lodges in Kenya help pay for skilled herdsmen, and you can even adopt-an-acre of some conservation areas. But if you describe yourself as fortunate enough for such an extravagant holiday, why not take an eco-holiday in Kenya, for a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience.