Sustainability and luxury—two words that, not too long ago, seemed destined to never meet. Today, however, they’re the ultimate travel power couple. With sustainability being one of the hottest topics in travel right now, globetrotters are seeking ways to enjoy indulgent escapes while leaving a lighter footprint on the planet. According to Booking.com’s 2023 report, 76% of travelers say they want to travel more sustainably, but only 51% believe it’s easy to do so. Can luxury travel really go green? I tested that theory on my recent trip to Turks & Caicos to see just how feasible these eco-luxury tips are…

Hotels are swapping disposable plastics for bamboo straws, and private tours are being replaced by small-group experiences that respect local communities. But sustainability is no longer just a feel-good buzzword—it’s a movement.

The Tips: Sustainable Travel Without Skimping on Style!

Stay in Eco-Luxury Accommodations
Choose properties that combine opulence with eco-conscious initiatives. The Strand in Turks and Caicos demonstrates its commitment to sustainability through eco-conscious design, initiatives to protect marine ecosystems, and practices that minimize environmental impact while maintaining luxury.

Fly Smarter, Not Farther
Long-haul flights are unavoidable for island escapes, but you can offset the environmental impact by booking direct routes (fewer emissions per traveler) or contributing to carbon offset programs. Some airlines even partner with sustainable aviation fuel initiatives to reduce their carbon footprint.

KR experience: While I was so committed to traveling as sustainably as possible, this was somehow my first downfall as it was unavoidable! Due to the flight schedules from the UK I was forced to first travel to Barbados and then return through New York. While this couldn’t be helped for this trip, it has reinforced my goal to prioritize direct travel options wherever possible in the future.

Indulge in Farm-to-Table Dining
Local cuisine is a delicious way to embrace sustainability. Did you know that shipping imported foods contributes heavily to carbon emissions? In Turks & Caicos, many high-end restaurants are adopting “dock-to-dish” practices, showcasing the bounty of the sea sustainably.

KR experience: Well, this turned out to be the easiest tip to follow as it was implemented in every restaurant we went to! The DelMar Restaurant & Beach Club showcases the vibrant flavors of the island by incorporating locally sourced ingredients into its thoughtfully crafted dishes, offering an authentic taste of paradise. Special mention also has to go to De Conch Shack and Omar’s – this was the best jerked snapper I’ve ever eaten!

Pack Smart
Sustainable luxury begins before you leave home. Invest in quality over quantity when packing. Think reusable water bottles, eco-friendly toiletries, and ethically made resort wear are your go-to items. Not only do these choices reduce waste, but they’ll also make your suitcase Instagram-worthy!

KR experience: Quality over quantity, check! Reusable water bottle, check! The rest… Well, I’m still looking into whether my toiletries and clothing are eco-friendly and ethically made, but close enough, right?

Support Local Experiences
Skip the cookie-cutter tourist traps and opt for locally guided tours and activities. These not only offer a richer cultural experience but also contribute directly to the local economy.

KR experience: This was probably my favorite tip to follow, as you can see from our foodie tour, we opted to tour the food scene of Grand Turks with our local guide Eddie! He was so knowledgeable, teaching us about how the island had developed over the years, the well known spots and the secret spots that the locals are trying to keep…local.

Traveling sustainably isn’t about sacrificing indulgence; it’s about redefining it. By choosing eco-conscious options, we’re not just taking care of the planet, we’re enriching our travel experiences.
Whether it’s sipping rum cocktails on a solar-powered deck or snorkeling in protected coral reefs, sustainability doesn’t have to feel like a compromise.

So pack your bags (sustainably, of course), and let’s see how 2025 goes!
K