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On Nature Conservation Day, we spotlight destinations redefining luxury through sustainability.
On Nature Conservation Day, we explore how a new wave of destinations is prioritising sustainable, regenerative tourism, not as a seasonal slogan but a long-term ethos.
In 2025, travel isn’t just about bucket lists and passport stamps. It’s about purpose, preservation, and planet. As climate concerns deepen and travellers grow more conscious, the tourism industry is undergoing a quiet but radical transformation, one that puts nature at the centre of the journey, not just the view from your suite.
On Nature Conservation Day, we explore how a new wave of destinations is prioritising sustainable, regenerative tourism, not as a seasonal slogan but a long-term ethos.
Ras Al Khaimah: The Nature Emirate of the UAE
Tucked between the Hajar mountains, desert dunes, and 68 km of pristine coastline, Ras Al Khaimah is redefining tourism in the Gulf. This emirate isn’t just showcasing its ecological diversity—it’s preserving it.
“Ras Al Khaimah is blessed with mountains, desert, mangroves, and coastline—making nature central to everything we do,” shares Iyad Rasbey, Vice President of Destination Tourism Development at Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA). “Sustainability isn’t just part of our story it is our story.”
The emirate’s Balanced Tourism strategy has already earned it the distinction of being the first destination in the Middle East to achieve EarthCheck’s Silver Certification. Initiatives like Responsible RAK empower local businesses to adopt greener practices, with many on track for Gold Certification.
Experiences here from kayaking through mangroves to hiking ancient mountain trails—are designed to deepen respect for nature. Attractions like the Suwaidi Pearl Farm not only preserve heritage but promote eco-education, offering travellers a glimpse into traditional pearl diving with minimal environmental impact.
Thailand’s Hidden Jewel: Phulay Bay, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve
For the team at Phulay Bay in Krabi, sustainability is second nature. This ultra-luxury resort nestled between the Andaman Sea and Krabi’s limestone cliffs has been plastic-free since 2017 and sources drinking water from natural mountain springs.
“At Phulay Bay, nature isn’t just the backdrop, it’s the soul of our sanctuary,” says Vidya Sagar, General Manager. “We believe in beauty through sustainability.”
From beeswax wraps and bamboo straws to holiday decorations made from coconut shells and driftwood, every detail reflects eco-conscious elegance. Guests can engage with local communities through educational initiatives or visit the Krabi Elephant Sanctuary, where ethical interactions support wildlife rehabilitation.
Their approach, known as the Good Travel philosophy, invites guests to experience Thailand’s culture and biodiversity from mangrove kayaking to longtail boat rides—with mindfulness and intention.
Seychelles: A Blueprint for Island Conservation
If there’s a model for how science, policy, and tradition can work in harmony, it’s Seychelles. This archipelago has woven conservation into the very fabric of its national identity.
From protecting nearly a third of its marine territory to rewilding efforts like reintroducing Aldabra giant tortoises and restoring Wright’s gardenia, Seychelles is proving that small islands can lead big change.
It recently became home to Africa’s first land-based coral aquaculture facility, pioneering climate-resilient reef restoration through micro-fragmentation techniques. This isn’t a temporary campaign; it’s a way of life that secures biodiversity for generations.
A Global Shift in Travel Values
According to Lubaina Sheerazi, CEO and Co-Founder of BRANDit, the industry-wide pivot is not just encouraging it’s transformative. “Destinations and hotels are now assessing success not just on luxury or scale, but on sustainability and stewardship,” she explains. “Nature is at the heart of travel experiences not an afterthought.”
Driven by conscious travellers and forward-thinking operators, today’s tourism champions regenerative principles, community inclusion, and ecological awareness. It’s a far cry from tourism trends of the past and it’s here to stay.
The Future of Travel Is Rooted in Nature
As travellers around the world seek more meaningful, mindful escapes, the message is clear: the planet is the destination. Whether it’s snorkelling off a protected reef, hiking untouched trails, or learning indigenous traditions from local custodians, the most unforgettable journeys are now those that leave the lightest footprint. Because when tourism follows nature’s lead, we don’t just explore the world, we protect it.
Swati Chaturvedi, a seasoned media and journalism aficionado with over 10 years of expertise, is not just a storyteller; she’s a weaver of wit and wisdom in the digital landscape. As a key figure in News18 Engl…Read More
Swati Chaturvedi, a seasoned media and journalism aficionado with over 10 years of expertise, is not just a storyteller; she’s a weaver of wit and wisdom in the digital landscape. As a key figure in News18 Engl… Read More
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