9 Southeast Asia Destinations Leading the Way in Sustainability

Travel to Bali

When it comes to travel and holidays many people today focus on sustainability. This has become a new norm for travellers who care about the planet and want to make sure that they can reduce their carbon footprint. Various countries today are equally committed to this cause and want to provide travellers with better sustainable options.

Southeast Asia offers a wide range of beautiful landscapes, vibrant cultures, and unparalleled hospitality. However, many countries have risen to the occasion blending eco-conscious practices with luxury and charm. Today you will find a variety of destinations in Southeast Asia that offer eco-resorts and other sustainable practices for eco-conscious travelers. 

With Experience Travel Group you can tour some of the leading destinations in Southeast Asia that follow sustainability practices and offer you the best eco-friendly accommodations. 

Bali, Indonesia

One of the top destinations leading sustainability practices in Southeast Asia is Bali, Indonesia. Hence, if you are an eco-conscious traveller you would want to look out for the best eco-resorts in Bali that can offer you amazing holiday experiences. 

Bali’s natural beauty and spiritual culture ensure that you can make the most of the moments even when you are staying in these eco-friendly accommodations. Various luxury and affordable hotels and resorts in Bali make use of renewable materials and support local artisans to thrive in the local economy. 

Also, travellers can look out for a range of outdoor activities like trekking Mount Agung in Bali which ensures you can focus on environment-friendly activities. Bali is also committed to banning single-use plastics and has introduced concepts like zero-waste restaurants that help keep the environment clean.

Chiang Mai, Thailand

Chiang Mai is the ultimate place to relax at this four seasons

When you are thinking of holidays in Southeast Asia, Thailand is one of the top choices known for its pristine beaches and sumptuous cuisine. However, Thailand’s Chiang Mai has now become a hub for sustainable tourism. 

This small town known for its serene temples and vibrant markets has attracted travellers from around the world for its sustainability practices. There are plenty of things to do in Chiang Mai that would keep you busy and offer the best experiences. 

The city heavily promotes eco-friendly initiatives that also prioritize animal welfare. With a lot of focus on organic cafes, diners and support for local artisans, Chiang Mai is one of the leading cities in Thailand that is making genuine efforts to reduce its environmental footprint. 

Luang Prabang, Laos

Over the years, Laos has become one of the popular destinations in Southeast Asia for those who want to relax and unwind. With its laidback vibe and serene temples, Luang Prabang has become one of the top spots for sustainable tourism in Southeast Asia. 

Nestled between lush mountains and the Mekong River, Luang Prabang is a UNESCO World Heritage site attracting travellers from all over the world. However, the city has made further strides by introducing more eco-friendly lodges that make use of renewable and natural materials. 

This blends perfectly with the natural landscape the city has to offer. Visitors can enjoy various walking tours, bicycle tours and even sustainable river cruises that allow them to explore the natural landscape of the city. The city has also been striving to promote local artisans through vibrant night markets.

Singapore

If you are looking for a luxurious urban escape, Singapore is a great choice, especially in the Southeast Asia region. The city-state is known for its cutting-edge architecture that blends itself into the lush green landscape. 

Although Singapore is a bustling metropolis it is also a model for sustainable urban living and has green spaces like Gardens by the Bay and Marina Barrage that are made with the environment in mind. Apart from these, various must-see attractions in Singapore run on solar energy. 

While you are in Singapore you can choose to stay at various eco-certified hotels, you can enjoy dining experiences that prioritize locally sourced ingredients and allow you to enjoy all the luxuries without harming Mother Nature. 

Hoi An, Vietnam

Vietnam has quickly become one of the popular destinations in Southeast Asia. While the charming lantern-lit streets of Hoi An offer a sustainable touch to this place, there are many ways in which Hoi An promotes eco-tourism attracting more tourists from all over the world. 

As more environment-conscious travellers travel to Hoi An, the popularity of this place has been increasing. To promote sustainable tourism, Hoi An is pushing initiatives like organic farming tours, bicycle tours, and walking tours. 

Various hotels and resorts today make use of renewable and natural materials that attract eco-friendly travellers. Also, these resorts promote workshops on traditional crafts that support local livelihoods.

Ubud, Indonesia

Known as Bali’s cultural heart, Ubud is ideal for those who love lush greenery and a quiet environment. Overlooking the rice fields, visitors can stay in bamboo villas and resorts that replicate nature’s designs. 

Visitors can also interact with local artisans at sustainable markets and indulge in organic meals made from locally sourced ingredients. The town is also known for its eco-friendly cafes where travellers can unwind and make the most of their time. With plenty of nature and sustainable practices, Ubud is a holistic destination in Southeast Asia.

Phnom Penh, Cambodia

With its rich history and plenty of ancient sites to discover, Cambodia is a hot favourite with history buffs and those who prefer eco-friendly destinations in Southeast Asia. With plenty of eco-friendly lodges in Phnom Penh, travellers can make the most of their holidays in Cambodia. 

The city has also been promoting local workshops and activities that support local communities. Visitors can also enjoy cultural tours that focus on Khmer traditions, dine at restaurants that train underprivileged youth and shop at various markets that support local sustainable products. Travelers can also explore various parts of the city with walking and bicycle tours. 

Koh Samui, Thailand

Kala Beach on Koh Samui

While Koh Samui is known as a luxury destination in Thailand it also attracts travelers who prefer sustainable tourism. The island has been promoting green initiatives like the use of renewable energy and materials in various resorts and hotels. 

This attracts people from various corners of the globe who prefer eco-friendly tourism. Travelers can participate in various coral restoration projects, and ethical diving practices and enjoy locally-sourced cuisine. 

With a growing demand for sustainable tourism and destinations, Koh Samui has become one of the top choices in Southeast Asia.

Siargao, Philippines

If you are a surfing enthusiast, Siargao in the Philippines is a haven for eco-tourism. The island has been promoting sustainable tourism via various green initiatives like waste reduction and the protection of natural resources. 

The island has also been promoting hotels and resorts that make use of renewable energy and materials. Various projects include mangrove reforestation and farm-to-table meals for travelers making it one of the destinations in Southeast Asia for sustainable tourism.

 

Bhok Thompson
Bhok Thompsonhttp://www.greenprophet.com
Bhok Thompson is an “eco-tinkerer” who thrives at the intersection of sustainability, business, and cutting-edge technology. With a background in mechanical engineering and a deep fascination with renewable energy, Bhok has dedicated his career to developing innovative solutions that bridge environmental consciousness with profitability. A frequent contributor to Green Prophet, Bhok writes about futuristic green tech, urban sustainability, and the latest trends in eco-friendly startups. His passion for engineering meets his love for business as he mentors young entrepreneurs looking to create scalable, impact-driven companies. Beyond his work, Bhok is an avid collector of vintage mechanical watches, believing they represent an era of precision and craftsmanship that modern technology often overlooks. Reach out: [email protected]

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