Words By Sahar Faer

5 MINUTE READ

You’re sipping your morning coffee on a secluded terrace overlooking the Amalfi Coast. The sun kisses your skin, the breeze smells of lemon groves, and everything you touch—from the linens to the ceramics—is crafted by local artisans who pour their heart into their work. Now, imagine that every step of your journey—getting here, staying here, and being here—makes the world better.

This is sustainable luxury travel.

And no, it’s not about trading indulgence for guilt. It’s about elevating your experiences in a way that feels good—for you, for the planet, and for the people you meet along the way.

Let’s dive in.

1. Choose Destinations That Give Back

Not all luxury is created equal. Some places invest deeply in preserving their culture, environment, and local economy. These are your goldmines. Look for destinations and hotels certified by organizations like Green Globe or EarthCheck, or those with a visible commitment to sustainability.

Example:
Swap an overcrowded luxury resort in Bali for a boutique eco-villa in Ubud that supports reforestation projects and employs local artisans to craft its interiors. You’ll still have the infinity pool (and the ‘grammable sunsets) but with a story worth sharing.

2. Pack Light, Pack Right

Your travel footprint starts before you even leave. Packing light means fewer emissions during transport. Packing smart means curating a wardrobe that works hard so you don’t overconsume. Choose versatile pieces, eco-friendly fabrics, and reusable essentials.

FAER TIP

Invest in a chic, sustainable carry-on, like one made from recycled ocean plastic. Bonus points if it’s sleek enough to turn heads at the airport.

3. Travel Smarter, Not Farther

The journey matters as much as the destination. Opt for direct flights (fewer emissions) or embrace the art of slow travel—trains, anyone? And if you’re flying, offset your carbon emissions with programs like Atmosfair or Cool Effect.

A luxury train ride through the Swiss Alps offers a level of indulgence that even first-class flights can’t match. Picture panoramic windows, gourmet dining, and a fraction of the carbon footprint

4. Support Local, Always

Luxury travel isn’t just about where you go—it’s about who you impact along the way. Seek out local guides, dine at farm-to-table restaurants, and shop from artisans instead of chain stores. This way, your money uplifts communities and preserves traditions.

Instead of a mass-produced souvenir, imagine returning home with a handwoven scarf from a Moroccan co-op, knowing the women behind it earned fair wages and continued their craft.

5. Stay in Eco-Luxury

Forget greenwashing; real eco-luxury is transparent and transformative. It doesn’t mean skipping the spa or compromising on comfort. It means your overwater villa recycles water, your massage oil is organic, and the hotel’s power comes from solar panels.

The Brando in French Polynesia is the epitome of sustainable luxury: solar power, seawater air conditioning, and deep respect for local culture. And yes, you’ll feel like royalty while staying there.

6. Embrace Purposeful Indulgence

What if your trips could be more than escapes? What if they could be acts of love—for the planet and its people? Sustainable luxury is your chance to create a ripple effect: nurturing the environment, empowering communities, and redefining the meaning of wealth.

And if this resonated with you (because I know it did), join our community of conscious adventurers. Subscribe to our newsletter for more tips, stories, and insider secrets on living—and traveling—with intention. Together, let’s make every journey unforgettable—for all the right reasons.

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Luxury doesn’t have to cost the Earth.