This guide features towels made responsibly with all-natural or recycled fibers towels — including many organic beach towels. Those that are not made with organic fibers have met high standards for ethics and are working to preserve traditional crafts at-risk of being lost to mass production and also support the livelihoods of craftspeople.

P.S. If you’re looking for bath towels, check out my guide to Organic Towels here!

Note that this guide includes affiliate links, which means we may earn a commission on select purchases at no additional cost to you.

1. QuiQuattro

Handwoven from 100% Turkish cotton on traditional looms by women in Turkey, QuiQuattro has exceptionally made, authentic Turkish towels. QuiQuattro’s vibrant and uniquely patterned towels are lightweight and absorbent, making them the perfect towels to use as a beach towel or wrap around like a sarong for a swimsuit cover-up.

This small-batch, women-owned brand operates with transparent practices (meet their artisans here!) and gives back, donating 10% of their profits to an educational fund for young girls in Turkey.

Price Range: $15 – $60

Use code CONSCIOUSLIFE15 for 15% off!

Check Out QuiQuattro’s Turkish Towels

2. Delilah Home

Organic home textiles brand Delilah Home has 100% organic cotton sunset beach towels and plush pool towels perfect for packing for your next trip to the the pool or beach. The luxe towels are made from long-staple Turkish cotton and are loomed into two ply, double loops. And with a high thread count and weight of over 400 grams (500 grams for the pool towels), these towels are thick, durable, and absorbent.

Delilah Home’s GOTS-certified organic towels are made responsibly in the brand’s family run factory in Portugal that pays above Fair Trade wages.

Price Range: $79.99

Use code CONSCIOUSSTYLE15 for 15% off!

Check Out Delilah Home’s Beach Towels and Plush Pool Towels

3. Coyuchi

Sustainable bedding and bath brand Coyuchi has oversized towels designed with bright splashy colors. Each towel is made from 100% GOTS-certified organic cotton that’s been grown and woven in Turkey.

Coyuchi’s line of eco-friendly beach towels have been specifically designed to be lightweight while also being ultra-absorbent, making them the ultimate sustainable beach accessory. 

Price Range: $68 – $98

Explore Coyuchi’s Organic Beach Towels

4. Caminito

Founded by a California-based mother and daughter duo with Mexican heritage, Caminito creates blankets designed with Cali-inspired colors and patterns that are woven using traditional Mexican techniques.

All of Caminito’s summery blankets are woven by skilled weavers in Central Mexico using upcycled yarn made from remnants left over by the garment industry. All weavers work in healthy, safe conditions and earn fair wages for their crafts. 

Each Caminito blanket also comes with a vegetable-tanned leather strap for carrying it around to the beach, park, or wherever else your warm-weather adventures take you. 

Price: $86

Explore Caminito on Made Trade

5. AnatoliCo

Woven with care by artisan families in Turkey using traditional techniques, AnatoliCo creates authentic high-quality Turkish towels. AnatoliCo’s all-natural 100% cotton towels (they do use conventional cotton) have designs that will bring in some laid-back Mediterranean vibes to your everyday life. All of AnatoliCo’s pieces are ethically made by master artisans.

AnatoliCo also has kaftans for the pool or beach and robes for lounging around your house — Mediterranean style.

Price: Towels start at $55

Explore AnatoliCo on Made Trade

6. Home & Loft

Another brand with soft, expertly crafted Turkish towels is Home & Loft. All of the brand’s pieces are hand-loomed, handspun, and handwoven by skilled artisan weavers using traditional techniques that have been passed down generation after generation. Home & Loft towels are handcrafted slowly, ethically, and completely electricity-free in small batches in Istanbul, Turkey.

If you love the aesthetic of Home & Loft, they also have kaftans and tunics to wear as swimsuit coverups.

Price: $50

Explore Home & Loft’s Natural Turkish Towels

7. Tartan Blanket Co.

Tartan Blanket Co is a Woman-owned B-Corp Certified label based out of Scotland creating an assortment of beach and picnic blankets made from recycled wool. While they are known for their Scottish tartans, you can also find a range of plain and striped blankets that come with a chic yet functional handheld carrier.

What’s more? You can also find a range of cozy blankets for your furry friends who can also snuggle up in their tartans. Additionally, for an added fee, you can also customize your blankets with embroidered monograms or two lines worth of text up to 15 characters each.

Price Range: $20 – $140

Explore Tartan Blanket Co.’s Woolen Towels (UK)

8. Sand Cloud

Take your next beach excursion to the next level with a little help from Sand Cloud’s printed towels. Made from Turkish organic cotton in the most gorgeous patterns and designs that’ll help you find your spot at the beach in an instant after a quick dip in the water. 

All of their towels are sand-resistant to help you leave the sand where it belongs and avoid bringing it back home. Sand Cloud donates 10% of all profits toward marine conservation causes and saving aquatic life. 

Price Range: $38 – $192 (for sets)

Explore Sand Cloud’s Eco-friendly Beach Towels

9. West Elm

West Elm’s range of organic striped towels are a far cry from the typical run-of-the-mill beach towels you’d usually come across. Available in a medley of color combinations and color-blocked patterns, these striped towels will set you apart from the crowd. 

Their cotton towels are OEKO-TEX® Certified, which means that they’ve been tested negative for harmful chemicals and are completely safe for some fun in the sun. 

Price Range: $5 – $114 (for sets)

Explore West Elm’s Organic Beach Towels 

Pin this post to reference later:

You May Also Want to Check Out:

10 Affordable Ethical and Sustainable Swimwear Brands

15 Brands with Eco and Ethically-Made Sandals

17 Sustainable Brands with Dresses for Any Occasion

The post 9 Eco-Friendly Beach Towels & Picnic Blankets for Sustainable Summer Fun appeared first on Conscious Life & Style.

Secondhand Luggage Options

I always recommend shopping secondhand first to see if you can find something pre-loved. These items have already been produced, and therefore you are reducing the demand for making new items AND keeping things out of landfills!

It’s not always possible to find what you’re looking for via secondhand stores, but it’s worth taking a moment to look. You can check out your local thrift stores, secondhand apps such as OfferUp, Craigslist, Listia, or check out your community’s “Buy Nothing” Facebook group.

Or, you can find some eco-friendly travel bags on one of the online resale marketplaces below.

Note that this guide includes affiliate links and partners. As always we only feature brands that meet strict sustainability criteria that we love (and that we think you’ll love too).

1. Gear Trade

Gear Trade is an online secondhand store full of outdoor gear, sporting goods, and everything you need for your next adventure. You can find carry-ons, duffels, messenger bags, suitcases, camera bags, video gear cases, heavy-duty backpacks and more.

Price Range: $-$$

Check Out Gear Trade

2. The RealReal

Find authentic designer luggage without the designer price tag on The RealReal. You can find pre-loved duffels, weekenders, totes, and suitcases from brands like Louis Vuitton, Gucci, and Kate Spade on the luxury consignment store.

Price Range: $$$+

Eco-Friendly Luggage and Sustainable Travel Bags

You may not always be able to find what you need in the secondhand market, so here are some brands making eco-friendly suitcases and other sustainable travel bags for all sorts of packing needs!

3. Allégorie

Ideal for long weekends or short getaways, Allégorie has sustainable weekender bags and backpacks that are both sleek and spacious. Plus, each bag contains several convenient pockets so you can securely store your essentials, like your laptop.

Sustainability is at the core of everything Allégorie does. The brand’s eco-friendly vegan travel bags are made from discarded apple peels leftover from the juice industry and their team is deeply committed to sourcing from socially responsible suppliers that pay workers fairly.

Price Range: $$

Check out Allégorie

4. Lo & Sons

Lo & Sons has some seriously functional sustainable travel bags! Their Catalina Deluxe Bag (recycled polyester or organic cotton options) is timeless, durable and built to fit all of your essentials with ease. If you’re looking for a spacious backpack, take a look at their Hanover Deluxe 2, or if you just need a compact carry-on, The Catalina Day Tote might be the one you’re looking for.

Price Range: $$

Check Out Lo & Sons

5. Paraval

Receiving numerous “Best of” awards, Paraval is quickly becoming a well-known name in the world of eco-friendly suitcases! The brand’s wheeled luggage is made with a recycled polycarbonate shell, recycled lining, recycled zippers, and a recycled aluminium handle. 

Price Range: $$$

Check out Paraval

6. Patagonia

Sustainable outdoor brand Patagonia is an incredible resource for finding camping and adventure gear — including eco-friendly backpacks and travel bags, from pouches to 55L backpacks! Most of Patagonia’s luggage is made recycled content and some is Fair Trade Certified sewn as well.

Price Range: $$-$$$

Check Out Patagonia

7. Samsonite Recycled Collections

Samsonite actually gifted me one of their eco-friendly suitcases many years ago and it’s definitely my favorite piece of luggage — the suitcase is lightweight, functional, and easy-to-wheel. They’ve expanded their options made from recycled materials quite a bit since then!

Price Range: $$$

Check Out Samsonite’s Recycled Luggage

8. Solgaard

Upcycling ocean waste into useful products, Solgaard is another great brand for finding sustainable luggage. You can find carry-on and check-in wheeled suitcases, a variety of backpacks (large and small), and travel accessories like solarbank chargers and sling packs (or fanny packs).

Price Range: $$-$$$

Check out Solgaard

9. TUMI’s Recycled Luggage

Tumi is a ‘mainstream’ luggage brand that has quite a few styles made from recycled materials. Find backpacks, wheeled suitcases, and packing cases that are durably built and intelligently designed to fit as much stuff as efficiently as possible.

Price Range: $$$+

Check Out Tumi Recycled

10. REI

As an outdoor retailer committed to doing things better, REI has a number of recycled travel bags (though not all bags they sell are recycled). The store’s Good & Used marketplace is also a great place to find gently used gear! 

Price Range: $-$$

Check Out REI

11. OGIO

OGIO has wheeled suitcases, carry-ons, duffel bags, totes, and even golf bags made from recycled plastic. The bags are built to last too, even coming with a lifetime limited warranty.

Price Range: $$$

Check Out OGIO

You May Also Want to Read:

Minimal Packing: How to Pack for Your Conscious Adventures

Eco-Friendly Beach Towels & Picnic Blankets

Affordable Sustainable Swimwear Brands

The post 11 Eco-Friendly Luggage & Travel Bags for Your Next Adventure appeared first on Conscious Life & Style.

When we travel, we often try to do as much as possible, as quickly as possible and forget to slow down and experience a place. This isn’t sustainable (and it’s also exhausting). Slow travel aims to address this. You can use this article as your ultimate slow travel guide. 

Below, we’ll cover what slow travel is, why it’s important and how to slow travel sustainably and responsibly. 

What is Slow Travel? 

If you’re asking: what is slow tourism? it’s essentially traveling slower by choosing to stay in one place for a longer period. The primary slow travel definition means staying in a particular destination for three weeks or more.

Some slow tourism examples would include visiting a city and engaging in more local activities instead of hitting all the touristy spots in a few days. 

Slow travel has become increasingly popular with remote workers or retirees, but traveling for longer periods isn’t always possible for everyone. The principles of slow travel, however, can be embraced by all to travel more responsibly. 

What Are The Benefits of Slow Travel? 

There’s a reason the slow travel movement has caught on. Slow travel benefits us personally as well as the destinations we visit. When done responsibly, slow travel can be a great way to travel more sustainably. 

Slow travel can help support the tourism industry in a more sustainable way, by providing consistent demand. This helps combat the pitfalls of off-season, when businesses may have to shut down, and peak season, when destinations become overcrowded. 

Slow travel allows travelers to truly get to know the places they visit as well as helps travelers to connect with locals. Slow travel can also give us the space and time to engage in more ecotourism and educational activities.

Lastly, slow travel often saves money since you’re spacing out activities over time and choosing to do more local, everyday activities. A slower pace also helps lower stress.

What Are The Potential Downsides of Slow Tourism? 

While slow travel can help combat the consumptive and extractive nature of travel today, that doesn’t mean there aren’t consequences of slow travel. There are a few things that long-term travelers should still be aware of such as gentrification and overtourism. 

As remote work becomes more common, popular destinations for slow travelers and digital nomads are now being negatively impacted. 

Popular places for digital nomads, such as Bali, Mexico City, Medellin, and Lisbon, experienced an influx of travelers that are often making considerably more money than the average local community, due to their currency. 

[Check out our guides to sustainable travel in Mexico and ecotourism in Portugal.]

When these travelers choose to stay for longer periods, some cities experience rising rents, higher costs of living, and overcrowding with less housing and resources available for locals.

If we aren’t mindful of our actions when we slow travel, spending more time in one city can end up negatively impacting the place we’re visiting.

How To Slow Travel Sustainably: 

There are a few principles to be mindful of when we slow travel to ensure we’re traveling sustainably and responsibly.

Thoroughly Research The Destination Beforehand

Reading the local news can help us get an idea of current events and any particular points of tension or difficulties that the place may be experiencing. 

It’s also a great idea to understand the history of the destination we’re visiting. This way we can better understand the culture as well as get an idea of activities we may want to do while visiting. 

Make an Effort to Speak the Local Language 

In today’s global and technological world, it’s no longer essential to fluently speak the language of the places we’re visiting. That doesn’t mean we shouldn’t try though, especially when we’re slow traveling!

We can memorize greetings, how to say thank you, and any common questions or phrases you’ll be using daily (such as how to order food). When we’re the ones visiting, it’s important not to assume everyone speaks our language and to make the effort to speak theirs.

Slow Travel Tip: If you don’t speak the local language, download Google translate. You can use this app, even without the internet, to help you communicate wherever you go. 

Know The Cost of Living and Tipping Expectations

Before visiting a new place, it’s important that we take the time to look up what the tipping expectations are, as well as how much things tend to cost. This will give us a good idea of what to expect when ordering a taxi or eating out. 

This is especially important when we’re visiting a country that doesn’t have as strong of a currency as our country. People often drastically overtip because they think things are “cheap” without understanding how that can impact the place, and even potentially be disrespectful. 

While we should always pay a fair price and be generous with a tip when we can afford to be, it’s key to still be mindful of how we spend our money while traveling, and follow the local expectations. 

Be Mindful of Privileges We May Have 

When traveling from a country that has a very strong currency and/or passport and visiting a country that doesn’t, responsible slow travel involves remaining conscious of those privileges. 

While something may seem cheap to us as a traveler, that doesn’t mean it’s cheap to the people who live there and who may now hear if you loudly exclaim how cheap your drink is. 

The same goes for the privilege we may experience as tourists. We might not face any of the safety concerns, discrimination, or economic hardships that some locals may experience. 

What we’re experiencing as a tourist may or may not reflect what it’s like to live somewhere. 

For remote workers able to travel freely, remain mindful that in certain countries, the majority may not be able to do the same. For some people, travel is not possible at all.

If we’re able to slow travel, we have a degree of privilege. Part of responsible slow travel is remaining mindful of this as we visit places outside of our home country.

Learn and Follow the Local Laws and Customs

Every country has different laws and customs. As a responsible slow traveler, it’s important to understand what the local laws are beforehand and of course, follow them. 

Slow Travel Tip: Do some research on the local customs. 

For example, do people greet each other on the street and how do they greet — a kiss, a hug, a hello? 

Are there certain days of the week when things are closed, like Sundays? Are prices negotiable or fixed when shopping for markets or hailing taxis?

Knowing the local customs ahead of time will make it much easier to navigate a new place respectfully!

Choose to Support Local Businesses and the Local Economy

How we spend our money while traveling can make a big difference. Support local, sustainable businesses and artisans and avoid international chains or corporate establishments whenever possible.

Prioritize local drivers, tour guides, restaurants, markets, and shops. This way we’re directly supporting the local economy while traveling. 

Do As The Locals Do

Researching the place we’re traveling to (what to do, where to go, and how to conduct ourselves) is part of making a conscious effort to follow the local norms.

Things like… eating when the locals eat, not working from cafes or restaurants if that’s not common, dressing respectfully, hanging out where the locals hang out, doing local activities along with touristy ones, and making an effort to meet some local friends.

Prioritize Locally Run Accommodation

When it comes to accommodations, a wonderful way to slow travel sustainably is to choose locally run accommodation. Consider local, eco-friendly accommodation, like a sustainably run boutique hotel. When choosing to stay in an Airbnb, we can try to choose listings from a local host instead of a property management company.

When renting a long-term apartment, research the typical monthly rent to understand what’s realistic for the area. Keeping these things in mind can help us support the local economy and prevent rising prices in the neighborhood. 

Stay in Neighborhoods Where Expats Commonly Stay

The best way to prevent further gentrification or displace locals is to stay in a neighborhood where expats and tourists commonly stay. These neighborhoods have often long-been occupied by fellow tourists, so our continued presence likely won’t alter the neighborhood or displace people. 

Visit Popular Places Responsibly

Last but not least, when visiting popular tourist destinations or slow traveler hotspots, it’s important to be especially mindful of our actions. Popular destinations are popular for a reason, and we can still visit places experiencing overtourism responsibly. 

Prioritize visiting crowded destinations during the off-season when you can (it’s also usually more affordable), and try to follow the above tips to visit mindfully!

Choosing to slow travel means we’re choosing to slow down to consciously experience and learn about the places we’re visiting. When we’re open, mindful, and curious about the places we’re lucky enough to visit, it’ll be no problem embracing slow travel sustainably. 

About The Author:

Alicia Briggs is a writer & editor specializing in slow travel & sustainable living. She’s worked in journalism since 2016 and currently writes for a variety of publications such as Sustainably Chic and Hidden Lemur. She has been a full-time traveler since 2018 and runs her own blog, Learning the Local Way, where she covers responsible travel & living tips.

Save this post to reference later:

The post Your Slow Travel Guide: What is Slow Tourism and Why It’s Important appeared first on Conscious Life & Style.

When it comes to glamping, there are numerous different types of glamping accommodations to choose from. Below, we’ll break down the different glamping types and some of our favorite eco-friendly examples of each. 

What is Glamping?

If you’re new to glamping, glamping stands for “glamorous camping.” Glamping accommodations will be in remote areas, just like camping, but they’ll have more amenities. Sustainable glamping often includes a bathroom, some electricity, and running water, as well as a bed and some furniture to enjoy. 

To ensure you’re glamping sustainably, look for accommodations that are built from eco-friendly materials, conserve natural resources, protect the surroundings, are energy efficient, and are locally run. 

The 7 Types of Glamping Accommodations:

There are seven primary types of glamping accommodations to choose from. Each type provides different levels of comfort and is constructed from varying natural materials. When deciding between the different types of glamping, it can be helpful to know what is commonly found in the destination you’re visiting, and what best suits your preferences. 

Note that this guide includes affiliate links and partners. As always, all featured brands meet strict standards for sustainability and our places we love — and that we think you’ll love too!

Pods and Tiny Homes:

Glamping pods are small circular or A-frame-shaped structures typically made from wood. They originated in the UK and are most commonly found throughout Europe and North America. If you’re having trouble finding pods, look for tiny homes. These are also small wooden structures, often in an A-frame style, that provide the same level of comfort and size that glamping pods do, but are more common throughout the world.  

Below are some examples of our favorite sustainable glamping pods and tiny homes:

Sustainable Scandinavian Cabin in the UK: The Bird Box

Location: Liskeard, Cornwall

If you’re looking for a rustic yet picturesque glamping cabin, this handcrafted stay from Unique hideaways is the place for you. It’s off-grid, with a wood-burning stove, no wifi, a fire pit, and an outdoor bathtub to relax in. To give you more space in the cabin, there’s a separate outhouse with a compost toilet and shower.

Eco Tiny Home in Australia: Bruny Island Hideaway

Location: Alonnah, Tasmania

This gorgeous, sleek, remote tiny home is made from local wood and locally run. It provides a surprising amount of space thanks to a lofted bedroom and strategically placed window walls. Located in a conservation forest, the pod is entirely off-grid with limited water and power. 

Cabins and Cottages:

Glamping cabins and cottages are typically smaller and more rustic than your average cabin home. Additional glamping accommodation terms found under this category include treehouses or chalets.

Glamping cabins will be handcrafted, ideally from locally sourced wood, and will conserve natural resources. You can find glamping cabins or cottages easily worldwide, either on their own or as a part of a campground, like Getaway House. 

Sustainable Glamping Cottages in South Africa: Suidster

Location: Montagu, Western Cape

Suidster is an off-the-grid, locally-run farm with two self-sustaining cottages on site. Each handcrafted cottage has everything you need to stay short or long-term. The cottages come with a wood-burning hot tub and equipped kitchen. You’ll be surrounded by natural wildlife and hiking trails. 

Eco-friendly Glamping Cabins in Belize: Tobacco Caye

Location: Tobacco Caye, Stann Creek District

If you’re interested in staying in the middle of Belize’s barrier reef, you’ll want to check out these colorful off-the-grid cabins. The property is Gold Standard Certified and entirely secluded, with no stores or restaurants on the islet. They get all their electricity from solar panels and the water from recycled rainwater. 

Camper Vans and Horseboxes:

Camper Vans (otherwise known as RVs or Airstreams) are a great sustainable glamping option. This is a wonderful way to upcycle former vehicles, or if the vehicle is still operational, camp while traveling. 

Renovated trailers are a particularly popular glamping type in the United States but in Europe, it’s more common to find Horseboxes. These are former horse trailers that have been turned into glamping accommodations. 

Vintage Airstream Glamping in the US: Tin Can Airstream 

Location: Stone Mountain, Georgia

This photo-worthy vintage trailer is set in the woods on private property. It’s equipped with a fire pit, hammock, and a small kitchen. The owners renovated the airstream to include all the comforts you need while still being sustainable, with a composting toilet and limited hot water.  

Eco Horsebox Glamping in the UK: Polly the Lorry

Location: South Molton, Devon

A Unique hideaways property, this eco-friendly horsebox was renovated using upcycled materials. The quirky and cozy space is nestled in the countryside with a wood-burning stove, a fire pit, no wifi, and solar lighting. There’s an additional smaller horsebox that was converted into a shower and bathroom. The owners also have an onsite vegetable garden and provide an ice box to store any produce you want.

Yurts and Domes: 

Yurts are the original tent — a semi-permanent, easily assembled structure that originated from Central Asia. Yurts are circular domes, often made from wooden poles with a canvas tent attached for covering and insulation. 

Today, domes have become an increasingly popular option similar to a yurt. They are often made using steel frames and fiberglass coverings so you can stargaze from the bed. 

Solar Yurts in California: Borrego Yurt

Location: Borrego Springs, California

This cute, solar-powered yurt is perfect for a weekend getaway in the desert. You’ll have limited propane heating, no running water, an outdoor solar shower, and a composting toilet. Located on a private, remote property, you can enjoy the sweeping views or stargaze from your patio. 

Eco Domes in Argentina: El Nido

Location: Las Heras, Mendoza

This remote dome complex is situated along the Potrerillos Dam. The owners offer breakfast, propane heating, wifi, and ample shared common spaces including a fire pit, mud oven, and grill. Electricity is generated from solar panels and there is limited running water. Each pod is beautifully decorated and has stunning views of the surroundings. 

Glamping Tents: 

Glamping tents are the closest you’ll get to traditional camping, but with more comfort. Glamping tents are semi-permanent tents, typically made from durable canvas. They will generally be more spacious than your tent at home and will have a bed or some modest furnishings inside. 

Eco-Friendly Tent Glamping in Canada: Crater Basin Campsite

Location: Faraday, Ontario

If you’re eager to have a secluded tent glamping experience, then this is the place for you. This canvas bell tent is located on a raised deck, constructed from upcycled local wood. 

You’ll be on top of a private pond, surrounded by hiking trails, with a fire pit and outdoor kitchen. The tent has a double bed and wood-burning stove inside, while the outdoor bathroom has biodegradable toiletries, an incinerating toilet, and a seasonal shower. 

Bell Tents in France: La Prairie Étoilée Glamping

Location: Crozon-sur-Vauvre, Centre-Val de Loire

This bell tent is the perfect choice to have your own sustainable tent glamping retreat. Here you get to stay in a private meadow, with a clear roof so that you can stargaze from the comfort of your bed. 

The property uses sustainable linens and solar lighting with a separate private bathroom. There’s a shared bamboo kitchen, an unheated plunge pool, and a fire pit. The owners offer meal baskets made from local and organic ingredients, as well as the option to rent bikes.

Shepherd’s Huts

Another type of glamping that originated in the UK is shepherd’s huts. These are tiny huts that look similar to wagons. They were meant to provide a warm place for farmers to sleep while watching over their flock. Now, they are often refurbished and used as popular glamping accommodations or tiny homes. 

Sustainable Shepherd’s Hut in Scotland: Birkenshaw

Location: Highland Council, Scotland 

Tucked away in the Scottish Highlands, this off-the-grid shepherd’s hut has everything you need while glamping. It’s filled with vintage and upcycled decor, organic bedding, a fire pit, and a separate bathroom with a compostable toilet. You’ll have access to running water, a kitchen, and an organic vegetable garden at the local family’s main house. 

Eco-friendly Shepherd’s Hut in the UK: Jasmine

Location: Falmouth, Cornwall

If you’re interested in staying in a luxurious and cozy shepherd’s hut, this property from Unique hideaways is a great choice. The hand-built, bright hut is equipped with wifi, a kitchen, a wood-burning stove, and a separate shower house. The property has electric car chargers, a shared indoor pool, and a gym, and is considered a zero-emissions eco property.

Final Notes On Eco-Friendly Glamping Accommodations

Overall, different types of glamping provide a variety of options to suit most styles, needs, and interests. It’s easy to have a sustainable getaway with so much to choose from but it’s important to remember that glamping isn’t automatically sustainable. 

When choosing an eco-friendly glamping accommodation, look for properties that clearly state what eco measures they are taking, like the ones above. 

About The Author:

Alicia Briggs is a writer & editor specializing in slow travel & sustainable living. She’s worked in journalism since 2016 and currently writes for a variety of publications such as Sustainably Chic and Hidden Lemur. She has been a full-time traveler since 2018 and runs her own blog, Learning the Local Way, where she covers responsible travel & living tips.

Pin this post for later:

The post These Are The 7 Types of Glamping to Try for Sustainable Outdoor Getaways appeared first on Conscious Life & Style.

The UK is the perfect place for glamping, filled with gorgeous, green nature and rugged coastlines to be explored. There’s so much to see, it can be hard to know where to start. 

Below, we cover ten glamping sites in the UK broken down by region. Each unique glamping site has everything you need to enjoy nature sustainably and in style. 

Note: this article was sponsored by our partner Unique hideaways. 

What is Glamping? 

Glamping is short for glamorous camping. 

It’s an easy way to enjoy the great outdoors without sacrificing comfort. Unlike tent camping, glamping usually involves running water, a bathroom, a mattress, and maybe even a kitchen. 

Not only is glamping more comfortable, but it’s also a more accessible way to camp for many. Since you have many of the amenities from home, better sleeping arrangements, and car access, glamping can be enjoyed by most. 

There is a wide range of glamping. It could look like a few more comforts up from tent camping or it might look like staying in a luxurious houseboat, cozy cabin, or idyllic yurt that feature all the comforts of home — with a view.

What Makes Glamping Sustainable? 

Like camping, glamping isn’t necessarily sustainable simply because it’s outdoors. For glamping to be sustainable, there are a few things that need to be taken into account. 

Eco-friendly glamping should be built in a way that respects and protects the natural environment. For example, many of Unique hideaways’ sites use natural and locally sourced building materials, and build in a way that doesn’t impact the surroundings. 

Sustainable glamping should take waste, electricity, and water into consideration and find ways to conserve natural resources. This might mean using energy-efficient lighting and sourcing cleaner sources of energy such as solar or battery-operated lights. It could look like using wood-burning stoves and heating and providing composting and recycling. 

Overall, it’s best to look for family-run and locally-owned properties that prioritize conservation and living in harmony with the natural environment.  

How to Find Sustainable Glamping in the UK: 

If you’re looking for sustainable glamping sites in the UK, look no further than our partner Unique hideaways.

Unique hideaways is the perfect place to find one-of-a-kind glamping accommodations. They are a local booking platform that offers handpicked and handcrafted glamping sites throughout the UK. Each hideaway has been built to work with its natural surroundings and to be enjoyed year-round. 

Unique hideaways has glamping options for everyone including safari tents, yurts, treehouses, airstreams, tiny cabins, or huts. You can also find hideaways with a hot tub, dog-friendly hideaways, or stays big enough for the whole family.

Unique hideaways’ accommodations feature aesthetically-forward interiors, fully-equipped kitchens, en suites, wood burners, and more.

10 Glamping Sites in the UK for Finding an Eco Accommodation

Below you’ll find our ten favorite glamping sites throughout the UK. If you don’t find one that suits what you’re looking for below, check out their full list of UK glamping sites. 

Glamping Sites in Cornwall:

Foxglove

Location: Lamorna Cova, Cornwall

Price: £618 – £1405 per week

Highlights: Dog-friendly, Wood-Fired Hot Tub, Equipped Kitchen, Car-Free Property

If you’re looking for a safari tent in the countryside, look no further than Foxglove. This is the perfect stay for bigger groups (up to six) with two bedrooms and three beds. It comes with a full deck, outdoor grill, and fire pit. 

Here you can enjoy the surrounding landscape in comfort by lying on the hammock, deck chairs, or in the hot tub. Cook dinner using the wood-fired stove while the kids play in the shared playground or take a long walk to explore the scenery. 

Barefoot Woody

Location: Mullion, Cornwall

Price: £882 per week

Highlights: Upcycled Furnishings, Wood-fired Stove & Heating, Herb Garden

This two-bedroom safari tent offers a countryside retreat near the coast. You can enjoy long nature walks or head down to the beach for surfing lessons. Enjoy the shared firepit at night or cozy up indoors in front of the wood-burning range. 

There’s also an onsite “Honesty Shop” where you can purchase all the local produce and goods you need to cook meals at home. 

Glamping Sites in Devon: 

Whittlers

Location: Clovelly, Devon

Price: £442 per week

Highlights: Dog-friendly, Wood-burning Stove & Firepit, Vintage furnishings

This truly unique 1-bed yurt provides a glamping experience like no other. Furnished immaculately with funky, vintage decor, your retreat will be both photogenic and relaxing. It has an enclosed yard, sheltered deck, and hot tub to enjoy the surroundings no matter the weather. 

The sustainable outhouse and shower room give you more space within the yurt for lounging or cooking. Thanks to the position of the yurts’ window, you’ll get natural sunlight throughout the day. You can also enjoy a swim in the lake on sight or walk to the nearby town. 

Rosewood

Location: Bude, Devon

Price: £550- £1250 

Highlights: Wood-fired Hot Tub & Burner, Handcrafted

Just twenty minutes from the ocean, Rosewood yurt has two adjoining yurts and sleeps up to five comfortably. You’ll find yourself secluded in the middle of a gorgeous meadow, with an outdoor grill and deck. You can even stargaze while still inside, thanks to the transparent dome top. 

You can spend your days hiking throughout the property as well as kayaking at the nearby lakes or swimming in the ocean. The site includes access to Wifi and a laundry machine perfect for longer stays. 

Glamping Sites in Dorset:

Toby’s Hut

Location: Lyme Regis, Dorset

Price: £590-£880 per week 

Highlights: Wood-burning Stove & Fire, Artist-owned, Dog-Friendly

For solo travelers or couples, Toby’s hut is the perfect place for glamping in Dorset. This super colorful and cute hut has a hot tub and outdoor grill to enjoy the secluded meadow. Designed and owned by a local artist, the grounds include a sculpture garden to admire and trails to hike. 

The one-bedroom hut is close to the coast, the woods, and nearby historic sights to explore. With wifi included and a fully equipped kitchen, you’ll have everything you need for a short or long stay. 

The Chalet on the Beach

Location: Lyme Regis, Dorset

Price: £476-£914 per week

Highlights: Protected Area, Equipped Kitchen 

This seaside chalet is located on Monmouth Beach, a UNESCO World Heritage sight. The one-bedroom cabin is right on the beach with ocean views from the lofted bedroom skylight. You also can sit on the front porch and admire the waves while enjoying some dinner. 

With several other cabins next door and a town nearby, this is the perfect choice for those who want a lowkey ocean getaway that’s not too secluded. 

Glamping sites in Pembrokeshire:

Y Berllan Hideaway

Location: Fishguard, Pembrokeshire

Price: £538-£1213 per week

Highlights: Dog-friendly, Wood-burning Heating, Natural Building Materials

Y Berllan Hideaway is a three-bedroom tiny cabin in the middle of the woods. You can enjoy an outdoor fire pit or hang out indoors in front of the wood-burning fireplace. The log cabin boasts a spacious front porch with a nearby marsh and expansive grounds to explore.

It’s a short distance driving from the coast and town in case you feel like getting outside of your retreat space. 

Glamping sites in Somerset:

Lambs Tale Shepherd’s Hut

Location: Bridgwater, Somerset

Price: £384-£723 per week

Highlights: Wood-burning Stove & Heater, Dog-friendly, Equipped Kitchen 

This cozy hut is ideal for a two-person getaway. It has a hot tub with a privacy screen, a barbeque, and a front area with lounge chairs to enjoy while you soak up the surroundings. The tiny studio has cozy furnishings and lots of natural light. It’s located on a farmstead and the owners are eager to give you recommendations to explore the area. 

The hut was designed with pet owners in mind. You’ll find a built-in kennel onsite where you can easily dry off your dog before bringing them inside. 

Lady’s Well

Location: Weston-super-mare

Price: £590-£880 per week

Highlights: Located on a Farmstead, Wood-Burning Stove & Heating, Car-Free

This beautiful one-bed oasis is right in front of a private pond and surrounded by lush meadows. The hut is located on a protected car-free farmstead. The owners will meet you at the entrance and help you transport your luggage to your hut via a golf cart. 

The fully equipped kitchen makes it easy to stay long term and with a hot tub and outdoor grill, why wouldn’t you want to? 

The Crook

Location: Ilminster, Somerset

Price: £610 per week

Highlights: Wood-fired Hot Tub, Equipped Kitchen, Handcrafted

The Crook is a sleek and stylish one-bed cabin perfect for those looking for a luxurious retreat. With a hot tub, outdoor patio, kitchen, and shower, you have every amenity you could want. You can enjoy gorgeous views outside, explore the farm, or go into the nearby town. 

The owners offer the option to purchase pizza dough and provisions if you need them, and there’s Wifi, so you don’t have to leave the hut for anything. 

Looking for more eco-friendly UK glamping sites?

If you’re looking for the perfect spot to go glamping in the UK, you can easily find a sustainable option to fit your style and preferences at Unique hideaways’ eco-friendly places to stay. 

About The Author:

Alicia Briggs is a writer & editor specializing in slow travel & sustainable living. She’s worked in journalism since 2016 and currently writes for a variety of publications such as Sustainably Chic and Hidden Lemur. She has been a full-time traveler since 2018 and runs her own blog, Learning the Local Way, where she covers responsible travel & living tips.

Pin this post for later:

The post 10 Glamping Sites in the UK for a Sustainable Yet Luxurious Hideaway appeared first on Conscious Life & Style.

Guess what? You can also do this sustainably. In this article, we’ll cover what eco cabins are, where to find them, and ten unique eco cabins you’ll love to stay in. 

What Are Eco Cabins? 

Eco cabins (and cottages) are cabins that are built and maintained in an eco-friendly way. This often means that they are built using sustainable, natural, and local materials such as reclaimed wood. 

Since eco cabins are typically in remote areas, protecting the natural environment is important. Eco cabins will implement eco-friendly measures to continue to conserve the surroundings like reusing rainwater to reduce water waste or composting to maintain an organic garden. 

Eco friendly cabins will often be “off the grid” meaning they don’t get their power from traditional sources. Most eco cabins will have solar panels or use other renewable ways of getting electricity. Eco cabins will get heating from natural sources, like wood-burning fireplaces. Some won’t have any electricity or running water. 

Overall, eco-friendly cottages and cabins have a lower carbon footprint than traditional cabins and homes. Not only is this better for the environment, but building eco cabins is often more cost-effective as well. 

Where to Find Eco Cabins and Cottages

If you’re trying to book an eco cottage or cabin, there are two things to know. You’ll first need to know what terms to look for to determine if a cabin is eco-friendly and then you’ll need to know reputable places to find eco cabins. We’ve got you covered on both below. 

What to Look for in an Eco-Friendly Cabin

Many remote, off-the-grid cabins, are already eco-friendly but the following things should be addressed if a cabin is eco friendly: 

• Electricity: Eco cabins should rely on renewable energy sources like solar panels to get power. 
• Heating: Look for cabins that rely on wood stoves or fireplaces for heat versus central electric heating (as tempting as that is). If it’s summertime, its best if a cabin is opting for lower impact cooling methods like fans. 
• Waste: Eco cabins will most likely compost and they’ll definitely have recycling. 
• Water: Look for cabins that state how they limit or reuse water consumption. 
• Building Materials: Eco cabins are typically made from upcycled, recycled, reclaimed, or natural materials. Ideally the materials are locally sourced. 
• Locally Owned: Make sure that whatever accommodation you’re booking is locally owned. Try to avoid booking from major property companies unless they are sustainably run. 

Lastly, many eco cabins may have other sustainable elements like a local garden or vintage & upcycled furniture. Whatever cabin you choose, it should be clear what sustainable measures are being taken to ensure this is an eco-friendly eco-friendly accommodation option. 

Where to Book Eco friendly Cabins

There are several great places to find eco cabins or cottages worldwide. Below are some fantastic trusted sustainable platforms.

Note that this guide includes affiliate links, meaning we may earn a commission if you choose to book through these links. As always, featured accommodations are places that meet high sustainability standards and are places we love — and that we think you’ll love too!

• Unique Hideaways
• Airbnb
• Nature House
• Green Getaways
• Ecolodges Anywhere
• Ecobnb 
• Green Pearls
• Glamping Hub

1. The Potting Shed: Unique Hideaways

Location: Staffordshire, UK

Price: $122-$158 per night

Sustainable Highlights: Onsight Garden & Farm, Wood-burning Stove, Solar Panels, Reuses Water

This quaint and picturesque cabin is the perfect place for those looking for a relaxing getaway without being too off grid. Here you’ll find three separate cabins on a small farm in the English countryside. 

It’s the ideal backdrop for a sustainable retreat and exactly what I picture an English cottage to look like. This one-bedroom cabin has an outdoor tub, patio, outdoor grill, and bikes available. 

2. “La Cabañita” Earthen Home in Andalucía : Airbnb

Location: Nijar, Spain

Price: $92 per night

Sustainable Highlights: Wood-burning Fireplace, Solar Powered Energy & Heating, Energy-efficient Appliances

This stunning cabin is a beach lover’s dream, as it’s just a few minutes from some of the most beautiful beaches in Cabo de Gata Natural Park. You have complete privacy here, nestled inside the park while still being a short drive to nearby villages and beaches. 

This luxe one-bedroom cabin boasts panoramic windows, a patio, an outdoor shower, wifi, and unforgettable mountain views.

3. Casa Hobbitt Ecoresidential Landscape: Airbnb

Location: Puebla, Mexico

Price: $65 per night

Sustainable Highlights: Natural Building Materials, Solar Heating, Reuses Water, Organic Garden, Biofiltration

Casa Hobbitt provides an incredibly unique and secluded getaway in the countryside of Puebla. This two-bedroom cabin is fully built from natural materials and it’s as sustainable as it is quirky. 

You can cook dinner with ingredients fresh from the garden and then cozy up at the outdoor fire pit and enjoy the views. This is the perfect place to stay if you want to experience a unique cabin and explore the gorgeous nature nearby. 

4. Wee Tiny Cabin: Airbnb

Location: Austinville, Australia

Price: $286 per night

Sustainable Highlights: Antique Furnishings, Reclaimed Building Materials, Composting Toilet, Solar Powered, Wifi-Free

If you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind, Pinterest perfect eco cabin, then this is it. Located on a farm just outside of Springbrook National Park, this cabin provides the ideal sustainable Australian getaway. 

The waterfront, one-bedroom cabin is creekside with an outdoor eco-friendly wood fired hot tub made from cedar wood. There’s also an outdoor kitchen and fire so you can cozy up on the porch while you cook dinner. 

5. Waterfront Off The Grid Cabin: Airbnb

Location: Hastings, Canada

Price: $206 per night

Sustainable Highlights: Fully Off-Grid, Battery Powered Lanterns, Sustainable Outhouse, Wood-Heating

This beautiful, waterfront two-bedroom cabin in Ontario is surrounded by hiking trails to enjoy during the summer or snowshoe around in during the winter. The cabin even comes with its own dock and canoe so you can swim in the lake during your stay. 

Soak up the stars while using the outdoor fire pit or cook dinner on the deck with the outdoor kitchen. On cold nights, you can snuggle up indoors and make use of the wood-burning fireplace. 

6. Treehouse in the Woods: Airbnb

Location: Hardwick, Vermont, USA

Price: $248 per night

Sustainable Highlights: Recycled & Local Building Materials, Upcycled Furnishings, Composting Toilet, Solar Electricity, Composting

The Treehouse in the Woods is an incredibly stylish and unique treehouse cabin where you can disconnect from the city and reconnect with the woods. The loft cabin has two beds, a hammock, and a fire pit.

You can sit on the deck and watch the passing stream or lounge on the couch with a book in front of the wood-burning fireplace. The owners live on the property in a nearby house with wifi and a hot shower if you want it, but you still have complete privacy. 

7. Thimble Lodge: Holiday Cottages

Location: Cornwall, UK

Price: $586- $1046 per week

Sustainable Highlights: Natural Building Materials, Wood-burning Heating, Natural Furnishings

If you’re looking for a dreamy eco log house, then look no further than the Thimble Lodge in Cornwall. Handcrafted, and featuring incredible valley views, this is one of the most picturesque eco-friendly log cabins you’ll find. The cabin is located on a 36-acre property perfect for exploring. 

The one-bedroom cabin has a spacious outdoor patio with a dining area where you can enjoy a glass of wine with a view. Inside the cabin you have a wood-burning indoor fireplace and bathroom, with a separate cabin for the shower and kitchen. 

8. Strawbale Cottage: Airbnb

Location: White Salmon, Washington

Price: $145 per night

Sustainable Highlights: Solar Power, Composting Toilet, Gives Back, Built With Natural Materials, Sustainable Furnishings

This beautiful handcrafted eco cottage is on a family-run property in the idyllic Columbia River Gorge. There are three lofted two-bedroom cottages throughout the property, which can all be rented. 

Each cottage is made from straw bale and insulated with sheep’s wool. They come with private patios where you can enjoy sweeping views of Mount Hood, as well as a shared fire pit and outdoor kitchen. You can cook with the well water and locally-grown produce. 

 9. Tiny House at Cotopaxi National Park: Airbnb

Location: Machachi, Ecuador

Price: $150 per night

Sustainable Highlights: ​​Conserves Natural Environment, Pollinator Garden, Solar Powered, Composting Toilet

Nestled outside of Cotopaxi National Park you’ll find a gorgeous tiny lofted cabin to enjoy for an ideal peaceful getaway. The cabin is completely isolated on a 22 acre reserve close to mountains and volcanoes to explore. 

This eco cabin comes with panoramic windows and a large front deck. You can soak up the mountain views during the day and the stars at night. Enjoy the wood-burning outdoor fire pit or indoor fireplace on cold nights. 

10. Getaway House

Location: 20+ locations across the USA

Price: Depends on location (Take 25% off with code CONSCIOUSLIFE) 

Sustainable Highlights: Sustainable Amenities, Limited Water, Gives Back, Wifi-Free, Energy Efficient Lighting 

If you’re located in the US and thinking, ‘where can I find eco cabins near me,’ then Getaway House is the best option for you. They have 20+ outposts throughout the United States which makes it easy to find an eco cabin nearby. 

All of their secluded tiny eco cabins are fully equipped with a gorgeous panoramic window, outdoor fire pit, and picnic table. Nestled in the woods, Getaway’s cabins make it easy to fully disconnect and go offline. 

More Guides Like This:

5 Unique Eco Accommodations in the U.S. for a Sustainable Getaway

4 Best Places for Ecotourism in Mexico

Ecotourism in Portugal: 10 Sustainable Things To Do

About The Author:

Alicia Briggs is a writer & editor specializing in slow travel & sustainable living. She’s worked in journalism since 2016 and currently writes for a variety of publications such as Sustainably Chic and Hidden Lemur. She has been a full-time traveler since 2018 and runs her own blog, Learning the Local Way, where she covers responsible travel & living tips.

Pin this post for later:

The post These 10 Unique Eco Cabins Around the World Are Perfect For a Cozy Weekend Trip appeared first on Conscious Life & Style.

The amount of things to do outdoors and the country’s focus on sustainability makes Portugal a dream destination for ecotourism. Below, I’ll cover what ecotourism in Portugal looks like, including ten sustainable things to do. 

You can use this guide to make your next trip to Portugal more eco-friendly!

What Is Ecotourism?

Before we dive in, it’s important to understand what ecotourism is. Ecotourism is responsible travel that focuses on engaging in intentional, educational activities that conserve the natural environment and/or support the local people. 

This could look like hiking throughout a protected area and learning about the natural habitat from a local guide, or taking a tour of a sustainable farm. As long as the activity involves conserving or supporting the natural environment, and is locally led, it could be considered ecotourism. 

What Does Ecotourism in Portugal Look Like? 

Due to Portugal’s popularity, it has experienced negative consequences of tourism over the years. Pollution, overcrowding, rising prices, and locals being pushed out are issues that most of the cities in Portugal have dealt with. 

When this happens, both the Portuguese culture and the natural environment are impacted. This is why it’s so important to practice ecotourism when visiting Portugal. 

Thankfully, it’s not hard, thanks to the diverse range of eco-friendly activities available throughout the country. 

One easy way to experience Portugal’s ecotourism is by exploring the natural environment. Portugal is home to several protected areas, both coastal and mountainous, that are readily accessible by public and private transit. Because these regions are protected, there are numerous tour guides that offer eco-tours and great opportunities to learn about the natural habitat. 

You don’t need to be outdoorsy to explore ecotourism in Portugal, though. This country has a rich culture and history. You can choose activities that help support and conserve historic sights, traditional culture, and the local people during your trip to Portugal. 

This could look like staying at a family-run sustainable winery, learning about traditional Portuguese cuisine from a locally-run restaurant, or enjoying a sustainable retreat on the coast. 

While the sustainable options are virtually endless, below you’ll find the top ten things to do to experience ecotourism in Portugal:

10 Ecotourism Activities in Portugal 

1. Join a Beach Clean Up With Brigada Do Mar 

An awesome organization in Lisbon to support is Brigada Do Mar. They are a local NGO that has worked to remove 901 tonnes of trash from the beaches in Portugal over the last few years. They lead beach clean-ups, lectures, and workshops. 

If you’re in Lisbon, definitely reach out to them to join a beach clean-up or attend a workshop. You’ll learn a lot about the trash pollution in the area, primarily from commercial fishing boats, and how to combat it. 

2. Hike Peneda-Geres National Park

Peneda-Geres is the only national park in Portugal. This protected area is located in Northwestern Portugal and offers fantastic opportunities to explore the natural environment. You can bike, hike, and rock climb through the park. 

Since it is somewhat remote, I’d recommend booking a hike or tour with a local ecotourism operator like Go 2 Nature. They can help you explore the different mountain ranges sustainably and learn about the natural habitat. 

3. Enjoy a Sustainable Water Adventure in the Algarve

The Algarve is a beautiful coastal region in the South of Portugal. There are several cute towns, and gorgeous beaches to explore throughout. The Algarve is more laid back and home to the best seafood in the country. 

A wonderful ecotourism activity in the Algarve is to explore the ocean sustainably. You can go whale watching, enjoy water sports, or take a solar boat ride. If you’re looking for fun eco tours, check out Coastline Algarve. 

4. Island Hop Through The Azores

The Azores is a string of volcanic islands in Portugal known for its sustainability initiatives. The island is part of the EarthCheck Sustainable Destination Program, so it’s not hard to find ecotourism activities here. The Azores is largely protected from development and is home to four UNESCO Biosphere Reserves. You’ll find incredible natural wonders throughout the islands like hot springs, biodiverse reefs, volcanoes, and waterfalls. 

Exploring the Azores is simply beautiful! Go hiking or whale watching with a local tour company or take cultural tours to experience traditional food and learn about the villages on the islands. 

5. Explore the Nature of Madeira 

If you’re interested in seeing more islands in Portugal, then a trip to Madeira is a must. This volcanic island region offers numerous ecotourism activities for nature lovers. You can go on guided hikes or tours or learn about conservation projects 

Explore Nature is a fantastic local tour company that will lead you on incredible treks throughout Madeira. 

6. Stay at an Eco Retreat

While there are numerous sustainable accommodation options in Portugal, staying at one wouldn’t necessarily be considered an ecotourism activity. Staying at an eco-retreat, however, is. 

One fantastic option is Monte Velho Eco Retreat in the Algarve. This beautiful coastal area makes a great backdrop for a sustainable retreat. 

Monte Velho started as a reforestation project on 30 hectares of land. Now, it’s a self-sustaining retreat center that offers yoga and women’s retreats throughout the year. 

Monte Velho grows its own food and uses solar and wind to power the retreat center. It’s the perfect place to learn about the facility and environment as well as recharge. 

7. Visit a Sustainable Winery

Yes, ecotourism in Portugal most definitely involves wine! 

Portugal produces a lot of wine and is famous for its vinho verde and port. One wine region that’s a must-visit is the Douro Valley, located outside of Porto. It’s even a UNESCO World Heritage site.

You can book tastings at sustainable wineries in the region such as Symington Family Estates. Alternatively, you can take a locally led wine tour if you’d like to visit a few wineries. 

If you’re staying in Lisbon, consider a trip to the nearby Alentejo wine region. They created the Wines of Alentejo Sustainability Program to promote sustainable wine practices in the area. It’s also a great resource to find sustainable wineries to support. 

8. Take a Local Cooking Class 

Eating is one of the best parts of traveling, especially when you can do it sustainably. One of my favorite ecotourism activities in Portugal is to take a locally led cooking class. Choose one that involves shopping at local markets beforehand so you can support the farmers and learn about the industry. 

Afterward, you’ll be able to cook and eat traditional Portuguese dishes with the help of a local chef. It’s a tasty and easy way to learn about Portuguese culture while having a unique dining experience. 

9. Take a Tuk Tuk Tour

You’ll quickly notice the little yellow Tuk Tuks in Lisbon zooming past you in traffic. While taking a ride in a Tuk Tuk is touristy, it can also be an ecotourism activity. Many companies now offer electric Tuk Tuks. This is the perfect way to navigate the super steep Lisbon hills, cut down on traffic and pollution, and learn about the city. 

I’d recommend booking a tour with Eco Tuk Tours. They offer several great options to see different parts of the city and have fantastic local guides. 

10. Take a Locally Led Street Art & Tile Tour 

You’ll notice two things throughout Lisbon: street art and tiles. Portugal is famous for its Azulejo tiled buildings. Most of the buildings were covered in tiles when Lisbon was reconstructed after a devastating fire in the 16th century. Unfortunately, these tiles have become so iconic that they started getting stolen and resold to tourists. 

Instead of buying a tile souvenir, try taking a locally-led tile tour. This is a fun way to learn about the historic significance of the tiles, support the local culture and leave your trip with beautiful photos.

Alternatively, the street art you’ll see throughout Lisbon and Porto also has historical and political significance. Graffiti used to be illegal, so it was done as an act of political resistance. Now, it’s somewhat of an attraction. You can take an artist-led street tour and learn about the political commentary they often represent. 

***

Final Notes on Ecotourism in Portugal

Whatever you choose to do during your trip to Portugal, if you’re trying to practice ecotourism, look for activities that are locally led and conserve or support the natural environment.

If your activities take into account these two things, you can trust that it’s most likely a sustainable thing to do. 

More Guides Like This:

Your Go-To Portugal Packing List for Any Season

4 Places for Ecotourism in Mexico

What is Responsible Tourism — and Why Does It Matter?

About The Author:

Alicia Briggs is a writer & editor specializing in slow travel & sustainable living. She’s worked in journalism since 2016 and currently writes for a variety of publications such as Sustainably Chic and Hidden Lemur. She has been a full-time traveler since 2018 and runs her own blog, Learning the Local Way, where she covers responsible travel & living tips.

Pin this post for later:

The post Ecotourism in Portugal: The 10 Best Sustainable Things To Do appeared first on Conscious Life & Style.

If you’re planning a trip to Portugal, you’re probably wondering what to pack. I’ve put together a sustainable Portugal packing list so you can be prepared for a great vacation!

What to Wear in Portugal: 

What to wear in Portugal will vary depending on when and where you’re visiting, i.e. the cities versus the beach towns. In general, the Portuguese are very stylish people. Like countless places in Europe, you won’t notice many locals wearing casual attire, like athletic wear, regularly. That being said, you don’t need to be fully dressed up everywhere you go either. 

When visiting Portugal, opt for timeless, classic styles that you can dress up or dress down. A capsule wardrobe is perfect for a trip to Portugal. If you’re visiting the main cities, like Lisbon and Porto, you’ll notice a range of unique yet understated and fashionable choices. In beach towns, you’ll find more laid-back attire with an equally laid-back vibe. Picture nice t-shirts, shorts, and long skirts. 

It’s important to note that Portugal is not super conservative, but it still has Catholic roots. When visiting religious sights, try to cover your shoulders and legs to be respectful. Throughout the cities in Portugal, there’s a large young population, so you don’t have to dress too modestly. Though, it’s best to leave your skimpiest outfits at home and save beach attire for the beach. 

Overall, you’ll see a lot of trousers, denim, boots, long dresses or skirts, well-fitting t-shirts, and silky camisoles or blouses in Portugal. Depending on the season, you’ll find classic jacket choices like leather or denim jackets. Portugal is my favorite place for finding vintage denim, so keep that in mind when shopping locally. 

Why It’s Important to Pack Sustainably in Portugal:

Portugal, especially Lisbon, has not been immune to overtourism. Rising prices, locals being pushed out, intense traffic, and overcrowding of popular areas are some of the negative ways tourism has affected Portugal. Choosing to travel responsibly throughout Portugal is important, and that includes what we bring with us. 

Portugal is home to many of the oldest standing buildings in Europe. Its gorgeous architecture and historic sights attract thousands of tourists every year. Additionally, the majority of the tourist destinations in Portugal are along the coast and rivers. Choosing to bring items that will limit the negative environmental impact on these precious surroundings is a great way to keep this country beautiful. 

Portugal Packing List: What Sustainable Items to Bring

What to pack for Portugal will vary depending on the season and region, but there are a few essential items you’ll typically need when visiting Portugal. 

A sustainable packing list for Portugal includes: 

• A plug adaptor, if you’re not from Europe.  
• A reusable water bottle to limit your plastic consumption. (Did you know you can drink tap water throughout Portugal?)
• Sunglasses, as Portugal has year-round sun. For sustainable options, check out this list. 
• Sunscreen. Choose a plastic free, biodegradable one here. 
• An easy-to-carry bag that fully closes so your things are protected while sightseeing. 
• A tote bag or any type of reusable bag that can be used for grocery shopping (if you’re staying long enough to shop). You won’t find plastic bags at the grocery stores in Portugal. 
• Comfortable shoes that you can walk in all day and on slippery, cobblestone streets. 
• Biodegradable toiletries. Since most popular destinations in Portugal are built along the water, it’s crucial to bring sustainable, plastic-free toiletries when possible. 

What to Pack for Portugal in Spring

A great time to visit Portugal is during the spring. April, in particular, is a lovely month with average temperatures ranging between 60-75 F. During April, you’ll have sunnier, mild days with cooler nights and some showers, depending on the region. 

This is also a wonderful time to travel sustainably to Portugal since it’s off-season!

An ideal packing list for Portugal in April will include the following items: 

• Light, waterproof jacket. 
• Sandals for warmer days.
• Closed-toed shoes for wet days and cool nights.
• Versatile layers that can be dressed up and dressed down. 
• Eco-friendly activewear for hiking or outdoor adventures. 

What to Pack for Portugal in Summer

Portugal is stunning in the summer. If you want to enjoy the beaches or layout along the riverfront, sipping drinks at sidewalk cafes, then summertime is perfect for you. That being said, it’s hot with high daily temperatures. It’s also peak season, so you’ll pay peak prices and experience large crowds. If you want to visit Portugal in the summer, try to travel responsibly to offset the consequences of overtourism. 

To be prepared, a great packing list for Portugal in summer should include: 

• Light, breathable clothing (like linen garments!) that can be dressed up or down. 
• Sandals that can be worn during the day or out dancing at night. 
• Sustainable swimsuit. Even if you’re not visiting the beach towns, the major cities in Portugal have popular sunbathing areas as well as public pools. 
• Eco-friendly, plastic-free deodorant – be prepared for some sweaty days. (Here’s a review of some non-toxic options.)
• Hair ties if you have long hair. We love these eco-friendly scrunchies.
• A hat to shade your head from the sun. 
• Comfy, lightweight shoes, like these sustainable sneakers, to sightsee in. 

What to Pack for Portugal in Fall

One of the most beautiful times to visit Portugal is in the fall. You’ll get to experience the lingering heat of the summer during the day with cool fall nights. There’s no better month to visit Portugal than September in my opinion. The summer crowds will be gone, but you can still enjoy the nice weather. 

Figuring out a packing list for Portugal in September can be tricky as you need to plan for warm days, cool nights, and potential rain. Later on in the fall, days may still be sunny, but temperatures will drop. You’ll notice that the Portuguese tend to bundle up, even if you don’t think the weather calls for it. 

• A warm, heavy jacket like a denim or leather jacket.
• A waterproof windbreaker, especially if you’re visiting the coast. 
• Good quality lip balm for windy or dry days. 
• Cute boots that are also walkable. 
• Versatile pants that can be dressed up or down, like dark jeans or trousers. 
• Tops that are easy to layer. 

Hopefully this Portugal packing list will help you prepare for your upcoming trip to the country with ease, no matter which season you’re traveling.

More Guides Like This:

What is Responsible Tourism and Why Does It Matter?

Ecotourism in Portugal (coming soon!)

The Ultimate Packing List For Mexico

About The Author:

Alicia Briggs is a writer & editor specializing in slow travel & sustainable living. She’s worked in journalism since 2016 and currently writes for a variety of publications such as Sustainably Chic and Hidden Lemur. She has been a full-time traveler since 2018 and runs her own blog, Learning the Local Way, where she covers responsible travel & living tips.

Pin this post to reference later:

The post The Essential Portugal Packing List: What To Bring For Each Season appeared first on Conscious Life & Style.

What is Ecotourism? 

If you don’t know what ecotourism is, you’ve come to the right place! Ecotourism is defined as responsible travel, typically to natural areas, and includes the following three pillars: 

1. Conserves or protects the natural environment,
2. Supports or benefits the local people,
3. Involves hands-on education and increased awareness.

Ecotourism is similar to sustainable travel, but it isn’t the same thing. Ecotourism is often more hands-on, and educational with a greater focus on supporting the natural environment. 

For example, ecotourism could look like spending a weekend at a local organic farm and learning how they cultivate their crops. You may even participate. At the end of your weekend, you’ll have spent your money supporting a local initiative that helps conserve and protect the natural environment. Plus, you’ll have learned about organic farming and possibly a new skill. 

What to Look For From Ecotourism Providers: 

If you’re trying to figure out if a tour or activity fits under the umbrella of ecotourism, there are a few things you should ask before booking:

1. Is your guide truly qualified to be leading this tour? For example, if you want to learn about Indigenous weaving, you’d want to make sure the organization or guide you’re learning from is Indigenous. If you’re going to spend a weekend at an organic farm, are they locally owned or do they primarily employ and support local people? Do they distribute their food locally? 
2. Does the tour or activity fit the three pillars of ecotourism above? 
3. Who owns the company? Who works there? Where does the money go? Most ecotours will be locally owned and/or employ primarily local people. They’ll also give back to the community in some way. 
4. Can you verify that what you’re doing on the tour doesn’t harm the natural or local environment? For example, you can take numerous tours to protected areas, like cenotes, biospheres, and mountains, but that doesn’t mean your tour guide is operating in a sustainable way or knowledgeable about the environment. Always do your research to check that your activity isn’t causing more harm than good. Don’t be afraid to ask your guide either – if they are truly qualified, they should know! 

What Does Ecotourism in Mexico Look Like?

Mexico is one of the most wonderful places to go as an ecotourist. Mexico is an incredibly diverse country, with every type of natural environment you could think of. Mexico is also home to diverse cultures and Indigenous communities.

There are endless possibilities for ecotourism activities in Mexico, whether it’s through established organizations or done independently. 

Ecotourism in Mexico may look like visiting an Indigenous women’s weaving collective, spending a day at a local mezcal distillery, or visiting a protected biosphere with a sustainable guide to learn about the natural environment. 

The 4 Best Places for Ecotourism in Mexico 

While you can find plenty of ecotourism activities in Mexico, some places have more options than others. What eco-activities you do will depend on what’s available in the region you visit. 

Below are four of the best places for ecotourism in Mexico and some awesome eco-activities to add to your bucket list. 

Ecotourism in Mexico City

What to Do: 

Mexico City may not be the first place to come to mind when you hear the term ecotourism, but it should be! Mexico City is rich in culture, surrounded by archaeological wonders and diverse natural landscapes to explore. One popular ecotourism activity is to take a boat ride through Xochimilco, an ancient Aztec waterway and protected area. 

You’ll also have plenty of opportunities to take tours or experiences led by local guides and learn about different Mexican cultures, communities, and history. Immerse yourself in local markets, sustainable shops, and locally-led workshops. 

Our Pick for Eco Tours in Mexico City: Eat Like a Local Food Tour

If you know anyone who’s been to Mexico City, the first thing you’ve probably heard is that the food is amazing. This massive metropolis is known for its cuisine, so it’s not unreasonable to plan an entire trip around the food alone. As such, a perfect ecotourism activity in Mexico City is to do a locally-led food tour. 

I highly recommend booking one with Eat Like a Local, a sustainable, local women-owned and run company. They offer fantastic experiences, like street food and mezcal tours. They truly give you the local, foodie experience paired and offer important history about Mexico City.

Eat Like a Local also gives back to support local women from disadvantaged neighborhoods and chooses all local vendors to promote. Booking a tour with them supports the community on several levels. 

Ecotourism in Oaxaca

What to Do:

There are several ecotourism activities available in Oaxaca. This region is known for its biodiversity and is the primary grower of essential native crops like corn, chocolate, and mezcal. 

Oaxaca also has the highest Indigenous population in Mexico, so supporting and learning from the Indigenous community should be at the heart of any activity you choose. Some ecotourism activities in Oaxaca could be taking a locally-led hike, visiting a locally-run Mezcal distillery, learning how corn is grown, or taking a traditional Oaxacan cooking class from Indigenous communities. 

Our Pick for Eco Tours in Oaxaca: Vida Nueva Women’s Cooperative

One of the highlights of my time in Oaxaca was visiting Vida Nueva, a Zapotec women’s weaving collective outside Oaxaca City in Teotitlan del Valle. Vida Nueva was founded in 1996 by several local women to provide economic opportunities for fellow single Zapotec women. 

Traditionally, the men here are the breadwinners which left single women few opportunities for survival. They were met with a lot of prejudice and resistance when they started the weaving collective, but they persisted. 

You can book a workshop with them to hear their story and learn about their heritage and traditional Zapotec weaving techniques. Everything they make is handmade using natural dyes. They also support their local community through various projects. 

Ecotourism in Puerto Vallarta

What to Do: 

This beautiful beachside metropolis is home to some of the most diverse marine life in the country. Puerto Vallarta, and neighboring Nuevo Vallarta, have great ecotourism activities for outdoor enthusiasts and water lovers. 

You can go snorkeling, diving, whale watching, hiking, or visit a variety of biodiverse beaches, islands, and estuaries. Check out El Salado Estuary, Vallarta Botanical Gardens, or other protected areas like Los Arcos Marine Park. 

Our Pick for Eco Tours in Vallarta: Snorkeling at Isla Marietas

If you’re looking for unique eco-tours in Vallarta, a great choice is this snorkeling tour that takes you to Isla Marietas and a hidden beach. You’ll get to spend the day swimming and snorkeling with your guide, a biologist, as they educate you on the rich natural habitat, marine life, and coral reef. 

This tour only takes small groups and implements eco-friendly measures such as no sunscreen or oils and no plastic bottles. It’s a great way to responsibly explore this remote national park while supporting a local company. It’s led by Eco Tours Vallarta, a local and recognized ecotourism organization, that gives back to various conservation projects and groups. 

Ecotourism in the Yucatan Peninsula

What to Do: 

The Yucatan Peninsula is one of my favorite places in Mexico. This peninsula is a dream for ecotourists due to the gorgeous natural environment. Here you can explore family-run cenotes, snorkel with turtles, and learn from and about Indigenous Mayan communities. I would also recommend visiting the protected Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve with a local guide. 

One important thing to note is that due to the region’s extreme popularity with tourists, many of these natural wonders are not being respected, negatively impacting the environment. 

Additionally, large corporations have taken over the profitable tourism industry here, which doesn’t help the local people. Please make sure you’re booking tours with local guides and that you’re taking the necessary precautions to respect the precious environment. 

Our Pick for Eco Tours in Yucatan: Locally Led Cenote Tour 

Tulum is one of the best places in the Yucatan Peninsula for ecotourism, due to its proximity to many of the most beautiful sights in the region. However, ecotourism in Tulum often involves greenwashing, with numerous eco-resorts not doing what they advertise and chain tour operators not taking environmental precautions. As such, it’s important to book experiences with local, expert guides. 

One of the best ecotourism activities in Tulum is to visit different cenotes. There are thousands in the region, and many are owned by local families. I’ve found some of my favorite locally-led experiences on Airbnb. 

One tour I loved was with Kaeru Private Tours. This small, local company focuses on sustainable tourism. During this experience, you’ll see off-the-beaten-path cenotes, learn about the environment and Mayan culture, and enjoy traditional Mayan food. Plus, you’ll be supporting female guides and the local people. 

***

What to Keep in Mind for Ecotourism in Mexico

Ecotourism is much easier to participate in than you think. If you’re learning from and supporting locally-led activities that respect or even benefit the natural environment, you’re practicing ecotourism. 

More Guides Like This:

The Ultimate Sustainable Packing List for Mexico

12 Eco-Friendly Luggage & Travel Bags for Your Next Adventure

Eco-Friendly Beach Towels & Picnic Blankets for Sustainable Summer Fun

About The Author:

Alicia Briggs is a writer & editor specializing in slow travel & sustainable living. She’s worked in journalism since 2016 and currently writes for a variety of publications such as Sustainably Chic and Hidden Lemur. She has been a full-time traveler since 2018 and runs her own blog, Learning the Local Way, where she covers responsible travel & living tips.

Pin this post to reference later:

The post The 4 Best Places for Ecotourism in Mexico: What To Do In Each Region appeared first on Conscious Life & Style.

In this roundup, you’ll find plenty of plant-based and vegan-friendly restaurants, ethical fashion stores, lower impact modes of transportation, and environmentally conscious things to do in and nearby the Windy City.

After living in three different Chicago neighborhoods and living nearby *not to be dramatic* since I was born, I’ve slowly but surely expanded my collection of favorite conscious Chicago spots I love. And now I’m sharing those all with you!

And there certainly is no shortage of things to do in Chicago! But before we get to those, I want to share about a glamping-style nature retreat just outside of the city. Because: sometimes you just want to disconnect and do less.

Getaway House: A Sustainable Chicago Escape

Whether you live in Chicago and want to plan a weekend escape, or you’re visiting the city and want to add on an extra leg to your trip, Getaway’s outpost in Michigan will be just what you’re looking for.

What is Getaway? It’s likely you’ve seen their internet famous cabins on Instagram, but perhaps you’re still curious what Getaway is all about.

Getaway House offers modern, tiny cabins surrounded in nature. To date, there are 20 different outposts (i.e. locations) that Getaway offers, all about two hours away from major cities in the United States. Each outpost has several 1-bed and 2-bed cabins.

My husband and I visited the Chicago Outpost in Grand Junction, Michigan in May of 2022. This location is also known as Getaway Barber Creek. It was about 2 hours 15 min away and a 15-20 minute ride outside of the beachside city of South Haven.

The location was ideal for enjoying the great outdoors without totally being in the middle of nowhere. We had been to South Haven before, but our experience at Getaway was completely different! South Haven can get quite crowded while Getaway’s tiny cabins are a quiet escape into nature.

Here’s an overview of the key things to know about Getaway and their Chicago Outpost!

The Getaway Cabins

Getaway’s sleek cabins are a glamping style accommodation — you have everything you need and nothing you don’t.

Inside the cabin, you can expect to find all your basics: bed, small table and chair, equipped kitchen, and private bathroom.

The queen-sized bed (or beds if you get a 2-bed cabin by the wide window overlooking nature is certainly the main attraction! Truly the view is even more impressive in person — especially if you get nice weather on your trip.

The kitchen is stocked with all your cooking essentials from cookware and utensils to dinnerware and silverware. There are also a few cooking ingredients like salt, pepper, and olive oil. There’s also a mini-fridge and electric stove top with a kettle. Plus you have dish soap, a sponge, and cloth towels to clean your dishes as well!

Also on each cabin’s kitchen counter, there are a few provisions available for purchase. You can find responsibly-sourced coffee, tea, and my personal highlight: a perfectly portioned s’mores pack with ingredients to make 4 s’mores. Roasting marshmallows over the campfire totally transported me back to my favorite summers in childhood!

And the bathroom has everything you need as well: a toilet, shower (with body wash, shampoo, and conditioner inside), and bath towels.

Outside of the Cabins

Since this is glamping, what’s outside of the cabins is just as — if not more — important!

Similar to what you’d find at a campground, you have your own outdoor space to relax and soak up the great outdoors. But you’ll have far more space than a typical RV or camping lot, which is quite nice. Getaway also strategically places the cabins so that you probably won’t even see your neighbors. (Socially distant by design, as they say!)

Next to each cabin at the Getaway Chicago Outpost, you’ll have: space to park, a picnic bench, Adirondack chairs, a fire pit, and bundles of logs for purchase.

On our Getaway trip, we cooked and ate all of our meals outside using both the fire pit and our camping stove. (If you don’t have a camping stove, don’t worry! You could also use the indoor electric stove inside the cabins.)

More Near the Cabins

At Getaway Barber Creek, there was a small lake nearby with a little enclave exclusive to Getaway guests, so you could pack your swimwear to take a dip or bring / rent a canoe. 

There were also several trails within a 20 minute drive and a couple of large public beaches along Lake Michigan. So bring your hiking gear and maybe even your bike if you’d like to get active on your getaway!

Finally, as I mentioned in the beginning, South Haven is just 20 minutes away from the Getaway grounds and it’s a super cute beach town along Lake Michigan.

For more ideas on what to do on your Getaway trip plus a packing list, check out my full Getaway Review.

You can book a Getaway cabin here

Use code CONSCIOUSLIFE for $25 off your booking

Ethical Fashion and Eco-Friendly Shops in Chicago

Thrift Shops

Want to shop sustainably in Chicago? There are a LOT of secondhand shops around the city. Here are a few to check out:

Buffalo Exchange

Neighborhood: Wicker Park

This fun and eclectic secondhand shop is full of unique pieces. And it’s located in one of the go-to spots for preloved finds in the city: Wicker Park.

Monarch Thrift Shop

Neighborhood: Avondale

This social enterprise secondhand store sells preloved goods in an effort to raise money for their 3 core missions: break cycles of youth homelessness, rebuild lives, and reduce recidivism.

Knee Deep Vintage

Neighborhood: Pilsen

Opened in 2008, Knee Deep Vintage is on a mission to curate the best unique and fashion-forward vintage clothing from around the world. Their staff has decades of experience and is committed to helping their customers find exactly what they’re looking for.

Mr. and Mrs. DIGZ

Neighborhood: Lakeview

Dedicated to being Chicago’s premiere designer consignment boutique, Mr. & Mrs. DIGZ carefully curates preloved designer items from labels like Prada, Eileen Fisher, Michael Kors, and Alice + Olivia to give them a new life. Mr. & Mrs. DIGZ also offers services like styling, personal shopping, and estate buy-outs.

Ethical Fashion & Decor Shops:

There are also many small boutiques where you can find sustainably-sourced and ethically-made goods!

Andersonville Galleria

Neighborhood: Andersonville

Andersonville Galleria hosts over 100 independent artisans in their space. This is a great spot to support locally-made goods in a convenient spot. The galleria is open 7 days a week.

Dearborn Denim

Neighborhood: Andersonville

Dearborn Denim & Apparel creates high-quality denim jeans in classic styles that were designed, cut, and sewn in the United States. They also sell other apparel, belts, and accessories at their North Clark Street location.

The Shudio

Neighborhood: Pilsen

The Shudio is a boutique in Pilsen with eco-conscious jewelry handcrafted locally in Chicago from vintage and recycled materials, unique, handmade cards, and natural, gender-neutral fragrances made with essential oils.

Milk Handmade

Neighborhood: Andersonville

Milk Handmade is a small boutique with handcrafted goods and pieces from many local and independent designers.

Neighborly

Neighborhoods: Lincoln Square and Wicker Park

This Chicago-based shop curates handmade, ethically-sourced, locally-made, and earth-friendly goods. Expect to find home and lifestyle products, from kitchenwares to artwork.

Sustainable Chicago Eats: Organic, Plant-Based, Farm-to-Table, and Mission-Driven Restaurants in Chicago

While known for our deep dish pizza and Chicago style hot dogs, there are also a growing number of vegan, vegetarian, farm-to-table, and mission-driven locally-owned restaurants in the city.

For a long list of restaurants that source farm fresh, local ingredients check out Chicago Farm & Table.

Belli’s

Neighborhood: Pilsen

Belli’s is an independently-owned and woman-owned healthy local market and cold pressed juice bar The plant-based store offers made-to-order smoothies, fresh salads, vegan food, health lattes, and cold-pressed juices.

Blue Door Kitchen & Garden

Neighborhood: Gold Coast

This farm-to-table spot is focused on seasonal, sustainably-sourced ingredients. Blue Door Kitchen & Garden serves lunch and dinner, plus weekend brunch. If you’re in Chicago during the warmer weather months, definitely request to sit outside — they have a gorgeous garden seating area!

Chicago Diner

Neighborhoods: Lakeview and Logan Square

Since 1983, Chicago Diner has been serving meat-free cuisine at it’s traditional-style diner. They serve brunch, lunch, and dinner, plus some pretty incredible desserts, including their (rightfully) award-winning vegan milkshakes.

Chicago Raw

Neighborhood: Gold Coast

Completely vegan and entirely raw, this spot has healthier versions of all of your traditional favorites, like lasagne, burgers, and chocolate. The raw raviolis are really good, and they also have delicious smoothies.

Dill Pickle Food Co-Op

Neighborhood: Logan Square

Stock up on snacks and cooking ingredients at this collectively-owned, community-centered grocery store. Dill Pickle Food Co-Op also has grab and go options like soups, salads, and sandwiches for lunch on the run.

Farmhouse Chicago

Neighborhood: River North (they also have a “Farm Bar” located in Lakeview)

Farmhouse Chicago sources their ingredients sustainably and locally in the Midwest. The brunch, lunch, and dinner spot is much more approachable than a typical farm-to-table style restaurant.

Frontera Grill

Neighborhood: River North

Frontera Grill is an award-winning Mexican restaurant by Top Chef, Rick Bayless. They source many local, seasonal ingredients, they compost, and the building is LEED certified. While there aren’t a lot of meat-free choices on the menu, I did have two vegetarian dishes here that were incredible!

Justice Cream

Neighborhood:

This woman of color-led nondairy creamery is on a mission to drive a solidarity economy through ice cream. The cooperative donates 100% of profits to grassroots movements.

Lula Cafe

Neighborhood: Logan Square

A cute café and “boheme bistro” with many local, fresh ingredients and plenty of vegetarian options. Founded in 1999, they were at the forefront of the farm-to-table movement in Chicago.

North Pond Restaurant

Neighborhood: Lincoln Park

Situated overlooking a pond and the Chicago skyline, this restaurant offers an intimate setting and a menu that features exceptional seasonal ingredients. The small restaurant supports small, local farmers, growers and producers.

Original Soul Vegetarian

Neighborhood: Park Manor

Just as it sounds, this restaurant has your typical Southern soul food in vegetarian form. Their menu of comfort foods include items like meat-free chicken wings and burgers.

The Kitchen

Neighborhood: River North

The Kitchen is a beautiful, chic restaurant using organic, sustainably-sourced and local ingredients in their fresh dishes. If you’re making a stop during a warmer time of year, request a table outside overlooking the river.

Uncommon Ground

Neighborhoods: Lakeview and Edgewater

As the first certified organic rooftop farm in the US and first organic brewery in Chicago, Uncommon Ground is leading the way for sustainable restaurants and bars. They’re open for brunch, lunch, and dinner.

Vaca’s Creamery

Neighborhood: East Wicker Park

This all-vegan ice cream shop offers oat milk soft serve, vegan milkshakes, and vegan sundaes (flavors include s’mores and cosmic cake). Check out more vegan-friendly ice cream shops in Chicago here.

Sustainable Coffee Shops and Cafes in Chicago

Back Of The Yards Coffee

Neighborhood: Back Of The Yards

As one of the only Latinx and woman-owned coffee companies in the US, this coffeehouse has a four-pronged mission they refer to as their SEED: Social Impact, Economic Development, Environmental Responsibility, and Direct Relations. From how they source their coffee to who they hire, everything Back Of The Yards Coffee does is guided by this mission.

Everybody’s Coffee

Neighborhood: Uptown

More than just a coffee shop, Everybody’s Coffee opened their cafe “to be a place of welcome for everybody and to provide a space of connection and creativity.”

Created by a racially diverse group of founders, Everybody’s Coffee is committed to supporting their community, actively fighting racism and inequity, and has partnered with Cornerstone Community Outreach — an organization that helps feed + house families experiencing homelessness in Chicago.

Fairgrounds Cafe

Neighborhoods: Wicker Park, Bucktown, Hyde Park, North Loop, Downtown (Millennium Park), Fulton Market, River North, and Bell Works

Fairgrounds Coffee and Tea is an aesthetically pleasing cafe with a range of espresso, matcha, tea, elixirs, and of course: coffee. A play on words, Fairgrounds is both a reflection of the cafe’s commitment to fair business practices and embracing the youthful adventure of a fairground.

Intelligentsia Coffee Bar

Neighborhoods: Old Town, Wicker Park, Logan Square, South Loop, Lakeview, and Downtown (by Millennium Park)

Intelligentsia is a Chicago-based roaster and coffee shop chain that purchases their coffee beans direct from their growers. (No middlemen means more money in the pockets of the coffee bean farmers.)

Metropolis Coffee Company

Neighborhood: Edgewater 

USDA organic and Fair Trade certified, Metropolis Coffee Company is dedicated to serving ethical, sustainable and high-quality coffee! Their café in Edgewater is super cozy, and often filled with students from nearby Loyola University (my alma mater!). Metropolis also sells their coffee in many other cafés and restaurants around the city that you can find here.

Sawada Coffee

Neighborhood: West Loop

A small coffee shop of the renowned barista and latte art expert Hiroshi Sawada. Order yourself a matcha or an espresso drinks with beautiful latte art. They have plenty of vegan milk options.

Outdoor Things To Do and Places to Go in Chicago

Urban vacations don’t usually correlate with outdoor activities, but with more than 8,300 acres of green space, nearly 600 parks, 70 nature and bird sanctuaries, and 29 beaches, there’s certainly plenty to do outside in Chicago!

Green City Market

Chicago’s year-round farmer’s market Green City Market lifts up Midwestern farmers and growers, promotes ecological stewardship, and offers a bustling market for local and sustainably sourced food in Chicago.

The Nature Museum

Of course we can’t have sustainable travel guide to Chicago without the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum! The family-friendly museum is open all 7 days of the week 10am – 4pm. Check out their events calendar too for plenty of educational activities and workshops.

Green Spaces & Parks

Millennium Park

As one of the top 10 tourist destinations in the United States, you’ve likely heard about and seen photos of this iconic park. But trust me, it’s still worth a visit! I’ve been there upwards of 30-40 times and still find it’s beauty breathtaking. (Just be advised that there will be large crowds on the weekends, so try to plan to check it out Monday – Thursday if possible.)

Grant Park

Just a few steps away from Millennium Park, you’ll find another gorgeous–and slightly less crowded—green space, Grant Park. This is a really lovely spot to explore during the spring and summer when the flowers have bloomed!

The 606/Bloomington Trail

Set along an abandoned rail line, the 606 is newly restored and renovated park with nearly 3 miles of recreational trail and open green space.

Lincoln Park

This area encompasses nearly 7 miles of lakeshore and includes the Lincoln Park Cultural Center and the Lincoln Park Conservatory, which is a beautiful (and completely free) space filled with exotic plants. There are also paths for walking and biking in the area.

Garfield Park Conservatory

This spot includes 2 acres of green space under glass and 10 acres outside. They also host eco-centered events such as a beekeeper demonstration and composting workshop.

Lake Michigan Beaches

Despite being known more for its blizzards than beaches, Chicago is actually a great city for laying on the sand.

There are 29 beaches along Lake Michigan to choose from in the city. Some popular beaches with amenities (like restrooms, kayak rentals, beachside bars, etc.) are Oak Street Beach, North Avenue Beach, Montrose Beach, and Ohio Street Beach. For a more quiet, out of the way spot, Loyola Beach is worth checking out.

Chicago Riverwalk

The Chicago Riverwalk is my favorite place to walk along after work or place to hang out on the weekends. The mile-long path along the Chicago River has restaurants, bars, boat tours and kayak rentals. I highly recommend City Winery for enjoying a glass of wine by the water.

Concerts in the Park

One of the best parts of being in the city during the summer (besides the rooftop bars) is the Grant Park Music Festival – a FREE series of outdoor concerts June through August. And these aren’t just any old concerts, they feature leading classical vocalists and instrumentalists in the city. (Including my Aunt who’s a singer with the Chicago Symphony Chorus!)

Getting Around with Cleaner Transportation in Chicago

Great! So we have all of these fun things to do, stores to shop in, and restaurants to eat at… but how do we get to them? Here are three sustainable ways of getting around in the city.

Public Transit

Chicago has a reliable and affordable public transit system with hundreds of bus routes and numerous L lines. “L” is the nickname for elevated trains—they run on tracks over the city like the photo above. You can buy an unlimited one-day pass for $10 and a one-week pass for $28 through the Ventra vending machines available at the various train stops. (Note: These passes are NOT sold on the buses.)

You can find schedules and transit times here on Chicago Transit Authority’s website. Google Maps also generally has pretty accurate times and navigation for getting around on Chicago buses and trains.

And Chicago is one of the few American cities with a convenient train system from the airports. If you’re getting in from Midway Airport, take the orange line, and if you’re getting in from O’Hare International Airport, take the blue line. It’s only $5 to get anywhere you want to go in the city from the airports, and just $2.50 to get anywhere from the city to the airports.

Biking

With 303 miles of bike lanes in the city, Chicago is also pretty biker-friendly. But no need to haul your bike over, there’s a popular rental system throughout the city, called Divvy. Bike rentals are $3 for a trip or $15 for a day. While you may be a bit nervous to ride through a city you’re unfamiliar with, there are 19 miles of bike path right along Lake Michigan.

Walking

And of course, if it’s nice weather, Chicago is a beautiful city to walk through. I still discover little gems when I decide to take the “long route” and walk instead of riding the train or bus.

Do you have any questions about your trip to Chicago? Any places you’ve been that you think should be added in the list? Let me know in a comment below or DM me on Instagram!

You May Also Want to Check Out:

5 Unique Eco Accommodations in the U.S. for a Sustainable Getaway

What is Responsible Tourism — and Why Does it Matter?

The Conscious Style Guide to NYC

The post Your Sustainable Chicago Guide: Restaurants, Shops, and Things to Do appeared first on Conscious Life & Style.