As ecotourism becomes more popular, it’s important to know that hotels aren’t greenwashing. Use these 6 tips to find and book a sustainable hotel.

Is It Really A Sustainable Hotel?

Use the information below to identify hotels that are taking their environmental commitment seriously. Booking.com also has an option where you can filter to only display hotels that have sustainable certifications.

1. The Hotel’s Public Environmental Commitment

The most important thing when looking for a sustainable hotel is its public environmental commitment. Why? This public commitment shows the business isn’t capitalizing off marketing language and doesn’t view “eco-friendly” as a trend. A commitment shows they are investing in what they are saying. Backing up their claims with information and data also shows that they are true to their word and they are more trustworthy. 

What Does This Look Like?

• Having an environmental policy on the hotel website or some sort of “environmental” page.
• Staff who are willing and able to communicate and provide answers to eco-questions.
• Annual impact or ESG reports/ updates.

2. Verify The Hotel Has Consistent Sustainability Priorities 

It’s important to be consistent when it comes to sustainability. Even if that action and those steps aren’t perfect. What truly makes a difference is the repeated effort and actions versus a one-time “change” or action. 

What Does This Look Like?

• Posts and updates more than once a year for Earth Day, about the hotel’s sustainability.
• Updates and announcements of eco-friendly tours, features, or other components.

3. Accessible To Public Transportation 

Booking a hotel in a central location or nearby public transportation stops will eliminate any excess emissions from driving or taking a car service. However, there are some instances where this may not be accessible for disabled travelers. In that case, see if the hotel offers electric vehicles (EVs) as a rental or transport option.

4. Accommodative Of Dietary Preferences

Many people choose to eat vegetarian or vegan due to the environmental benefits. It’s important to book at a hotel that allows you or other travelers in your group to have this dining option. Even if it’s not your dietary preference.

5. Safety

Prioritizing safety sounds like an obvious factor. But, here are a few bonus tips that could help you when booking your next trip. Especially if you’re traveling alone.

What Do I Look For?

• Booking through a verified and trusted website. 
• Positive reviews especially from solo-female travelers.
• Location in a safe area.
• Hotel security features: security team, surveillance systems, alarms, in-room safe.
• Telephone in the room.
• Multi-level hotel with options other than ground-floor bookings.
• One door or multi-door lock compatible with my traveling safety locks.

6. The Hotel Has Local Environmental Partnerships

While a hotel doesn’t have control over what other businesses in their area do, it is appreciated when they promote partners with shared sustainable values. Often sustainable hotels will provide a pamphlet or suggest those activities and resources to guests.

What This Looks Like:

• Having information or discounts available for local group tours.
• Bus passes or public transportation discounts, maps, and tips.
• Outdoor activities and other nature-based guides.
• Sharing seasonal food stands, cafés, and other food/beverage options.
• Spotlighting charity events and activities.
• Bikes or e-bikes are available on the property or information on nearby rentals.

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