Can ecotourism and luxury travel exist in the same space? Belize thinks so.

Are travelers’ priorities shifting towards sustainability? Travel motives gravitate towards an abundance of culture, cuisine, and adventure. People willing to pay for luxury experiences may or may not be aware of the environmental and socio-economic impacts on the chosen vacation destination. But what if both ethical and luxury travel could coexist? Is that a possibility and what would the world look like in a shift towards ecotourism?

Typical ecotourism attractions include wildlife and cultural heritage. A classic example is the Galapagos Islands. Visitors are appointed to mandated naturalists to take them through the national park areas of each island. The biodiversity, pristine landscapes, and unique history of the islands are the main attraction rather than 5-star amenities, shopping, and restaurants. Where do the two realms cross over?

A new era of ‘luxury ecotourism’ promotes indulgence and amenities while preserving land, environment, and heritage integrity. Think glamping, treehouses, eco-resorts, and sustainable villas. Adventurous excursion interests may present opportunities for creativity and lessons in citizen science, land management, and indigenous knowledge. Travelers exploring the tropics may opt for a scuba excursion surveying coral reef disease or restoration efforts. Fragile systems, including coral reefs, are not built to withstand the demands of large-scale commercial tourism in combination with the already-present threats and impacts of climate change. However, local economies also depend on the tourism sector.  Shifting tourism to accommodate the thresholds of the environment and communities of such places may be the answer to sustaining a significant industry and those that make the destination so special.

The Belize Tourism Board is a leader in regenerative travel. Boasting attractions such as the barrier reefs, jaguar reserve, and vast cayes, the country has much to offer in terms of natural beauty and wildlife. Responsible tourism is feasible because over 50% of the country is protected in hopes to preserve its natural resources. Major focuses include local purchasing, farm to table cuisine, and the continuation of indigenous practices. Tourists can experience coral restoration, Mayan ruins, and authentic practices, such as making chocolate, and world class angler fishing, to name a few.

Belize offers a range of newer luxury stays. Six Senses Belize and Itz’ana Resort and Residences provide luxury accommodations while also promoting ecotourism. What are the goals of your next trip? Adventure? Experience? Natural beauty? Extravagance? Try aiming for the intersectionality of it all during the planning process and become a more responsible global traveler.

Thank you to Deborah Gilharry of the Belize Tourism Board