Finding an Ecolodge

Photo courtesy Ecolodge Rendez-Vous, Saba, Dutch West Indies, Caribbean Composting toilet at the Ecolodge Rendez-Vous

Before making a decision about visiting an ecolodge, do your research. Find out who owns and operates the lodge, what sustainable measures they follow to maintain a low impact on the environment and what activities are provided to determine whether it would be a good fit for you. For instance, if you want to go to the Amazon in Peru, you can stay at an ecolodge built with local community participation and local materials. On your trip, you may spot a giant otter, macaw or eagle. You can also hike a trail with trained local guides who have learned native plant remedies from the village elders.

In the U.S. Virgin Islands, private eco-tents and cottages built with recycled materials offer visitors an environmentally-friendly way to enjoy the Caribbean. Elevated walkways protect the wildlife and visitors can snorkel in protected reefs or watch iguanas from their balcony.

These are just some of the options for your eco-vacation. A good place to start looking for ecolodge information is the Internet. You'll find many helpful links at the end of this article. Other excellent resources for researching your ecotourism options are your local travel agent and the local public library or bookstore, where you can find books about nature tourism, adventure tourism, sustainable tourism and other forms of eco-travel.

And remember, if you want to stay at a true ecolodge, be prepared to investigate beyond the advertisements and buzz words. If you can, e-mail or phone to inquire about the lodge. Unfortunately there are many places that boast of being eco-friendly, but when it boils down to it, they fall incredibly short of their claims.

Responsible Travel Planning your next vacation? Here are a few things to consider: Prepare for your trip by educating yourself on the destination, current area news, local history and local language. Respect local traditions and etiquette Avoid obvious displays of wealth Be flexible in your expectations Conserve resources Practice minimum environmental impact Thoroughly research your tour operator or guide Support local economies by using local inns, restaurants and markets Bridge cultural gaps by participating in friendly cultural exchanges Continue your commitment to environmental conservation in your everyday life Source: Untamed Path