At Olala Homes, we believe that travelling can be both exhilarating and sustainable. There are many actions that we can adopt to make our trip more sustainable, and they might even be easier than you think. By making more conscious decisions, we can ensure that future generations will have the opportunity to explore and cherish the beauty of our planet. In today’s blog post, we will go into detail about some simple but impactful strategies, we can ensure that our travel experiences leave a positive mark environmentally, socially and economically.
Below, you will find some practices regarding transportation supporting local communities that will help make your trip more eco-friendly.
Opt for public transportation
Whenever possible, choose public transportation options like trains, buses, or trams. Not only does this reduce greenhouse gas emissions, but it also allows you to immerse yourself in the local culture and interact with fellow travellers. Most of Olala Homes’ accommodations are close to metro or bus stations, so you can stay closely connected to anywhere you’d like to go with public transportation.
Embrace cycling and walking
Explore your destination on foot or by bicycle to minimise your carbon footprint and experience the sights, sounds, and smells up close. Many cities and towns offer bike-sharing programs, making it convenient and enjoyable to pedal your way around.
Choose eco-friendly car rentals
If you need a car during your trip, consider renting a hybrid or electric vehicle. These options significantly reduce emissions compared to traditional gasoline-powered cars. Additionally, be mindful of your driving habits by practising fuel-efficient techniques such as maintaining a steady speed and avoiding unnecessary idling.
Stay in locally-involved accommodations
Choosing accommodations that are managed by locals will not only contribute to curbing energy consumption, but it will also mean that the money you spent will go towards the local economy.
When staying at Olala Homes, we provide you with a guide with local shops and restaurants as well as best practices that you can apply during your stay. Additionally, we’ve put together a manifesto to help you be more sustainable.
Be aware of your energy consumption
Buy from local businesses and artisans
Eat at locally-owned restaurants, purchase souvenirs from local artisans and engage with local sellers and markets. By supporting local businesses, you contribute directly to the economic growth of the community and to help preserve their traditions and cultures.
Hire local tour guides
When looking for activities or tours to book in your destination, check activities that are provided by local guides. Not only will you get a better (and more detailed) understanding of the local culture, but you’ll also be contributing to the local economy. When booking your activities, remember that Civitatis is a company that allows local guides to provide walking-tours and other activities around their city. They also offer bike tours and other eco-friendly ways of enjoying your next destination.
Respect local customs and traditions
Take the time to learn about the local customs and traditions of the places you visit. Respect cultural differences, dress modestly when required, and be mindful of local etiquette. Another important aspect is being conscious of your volume and noise level. Being considerate of the local residents by keeping the noise to a minimum shows a genuine appreciation for their community and helps foster a positive relationship between travellers and the locals. So, remember to enjoy your travel experience while being respectful of those who call your destination home.
Sustainable travel is not just a buzzword; it’s a responsibility we all share. By adopting eco-friendly transportation options, supporting local communities, and respecting cultural heritage, we can contribute to minimising our environmental impact while creating meaningful connections with the places we visit. At Olala Homes, we’re working towards providing a service that’s respectful of the environment, we’re slowly taking action and implementing small but impactful changes. Join us in our commitment to sustainable travel!
