The concept of ecotourism is to run tourism in an eco-friendly manner by providing a fair share of monetary benefits to the local host community and reducing the environmental impacts, thus engage the tourists or visitors with an unforgettable natural experience. The strong connection with the conservation of the natural world distinguishes ecotourism from the general idea of sustainable tourism.
Ecolodges are a type of tourist accommodation that is mostly located in an enhanced natural setting such as exotic islands, forests, and mountains for giving the visitors an opportunity to truly connect with the surrounding wilderness with no harm to the environment. The mission and location of ecolodges make them different from other eco-friendly accommodations. Mostly nature-based remote locations are chosen for the same.
The educational mission of eco-lodges aims at educating travelers on the significance of flora and fauna preservation and also indulging in environment safe activities.
According to The International Ecolodge Guidelines of 1999, given below are a few among the criteria’s, which all the accommodations must meet to consider it as ecolodges :
- Remote natural areas and rural areas in such a way that visitors won’t be affected by noise, traffic, pollution
- Small and less than 30 rooms.
- Pollution-free and environment-friendly systems
- Often employs renewable energy technology and energy-saving tactics.
- Helps to train and employee local people at fair wages.
- Employs guides trained in biology and who has sufficient local knowledge of the habitat.
- Provides posters, pamphlets, signboards, photographs, and brief origin boards to inform the guest of the natural setting of the arena.
In short, it benefits the local economy by proving that ecotourism in a more sustainable long term way to earn income without altering habitats.
Based on the purpose, history, and ecological values, the types of ecolodges are as below :
Agriturismos and Village-based ecolodges: They encourage guest accommodation while operating the farm. These are very simple yet privately owned rural spaces where the staffs are local people who maintain down to earth hospitality. The place offers great wildlife, farm activities, and good photographic options too. In certain countries, agriturismos are repurposed farms turned into accommodation facilities featuring traditionally prepared fresh organic foods.
Model ecolodges: This type is mostly located in pristine natural locations, sites of ecological significance, and areas of conservation programs. The eco-friendly designed lodges accommodate tourists of all backgrounds, who are well treated by the trained guides and staff.
Eco resorts: These are well designed and built structures whose purpose and location slightly differs from model ecolodges. They are mostly ocean-based and provides recreational activities and other personal services such as yoga, spa for relaxation.
Taking breaks and going for vacations will refresh one’s body and mind. In this busy world where we often forget to think of ourselves, this life is all that we have to take care of us and explore around.
Choosing ecolodges for a trip will definitely relax and calm your mind. Also, we can learn, see and experience a lot.
Information credits: worldwideecolodges.com and holiable.com
Image credits: magazine.avocadogreenmattress.com
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