When looking for your next destination, it might be time to finally consider Australia. No matter if you’ve never visited this vast continent before or you live in the country but never actually got around to exploring every little corner of it, the Land Down Under has many wonderful opportunities that you can make the most of. From encountering various animals to trying tasty dishes all the way to enjoying the gorgeous nature, there is so much you can do during your vacation. However, you should also do your best to be as sustainable as possible during your travels. With that in mind, here are the best tips on how you can be eco-conscious while in Australia.
Try various delicacies in local restaurants
One big part of learning more about other cultures is trying the local food. In order to be sustainable, you should look for restaurants that use locally sourced food that is in season. Fortunately, there are many eateries that understand how important using produce that was grown and created in Australia is, which is why your options will abound. For instance, if you’re looking for eco-conscious cafés and restaurants in Sydney, you can consider NOMAD, Biota, and Three Blue Ducks. In case you’re exploring Victoria, Melbourne is home to Mesa Verde, Taxi Kitchen, and Transformer. Perth is another haven for foodies that are trying to take care of the planet so try Young George, Steam Haus, and Antz Inya Pantz. No matter where you go in Australia, rest assured that you will easily get a chance to taste delicious food as well as beer and coffee.
Look for accommodation guided by conservation principles
Where you stay during your travels matters too, which is why you want to look for accommodation options that practice sustainability. Do plenty of research before you book a place to see how they are powered, how they produce their food, how they handle their waste, and generally how big of an impact they’re leaving on the planet. With that in mind, it should not be difficult to find appropriate accommodation no matter if you want to escape to the mountains or go on a tropical getaway. For example, if you’re looking to go to an island, consider Wilson Island in the Southern Great Barrier Reef, as it is 100% powered by solar energy and committed to preserving the local environment and wildlife. In the Blue Mountains, near Sydney, you can find a completely carbon neutral resort that is built on a conservation area. On the other hand, if you’re searching for an Outback adventure, you can look into the Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary in the Flinders Ranges. This accommodation option is available on all sorts of budgets and offers incredible tours.
Interact with animals in their natural habitat
It’s only natural that you want to see some cute animals while in Australia. However, you want to know where to look for them. For example, it’s always recommended to steer clear of places that keep them in captivity. While zoos can be a fun time, especially if you’re going with your kids, perhaps you can also find animals in their natural habitat. So, look into whale-watching tours that will give you a chance to see these majestic giants or go diving at the Great Barrier Reef where you can find countless fish and coral species. Moreover, you can also encounter kangaroos in various spots such as the Cape Hillsborough National Park beach in Queensland or in Western Australia’s Cape Le Grand National Park. Better yet, why not visit Kangaroo Island where you can see not only these marsupials but also koalas, sea lions, and dolphins.
Explore your destinations in sustainable ways
To lower the impact that traveling to Australia might have had on the planet and to keep this continent clean, you want to ensure you’re exploring it in greenways. So, for instance, while you could fly from Sydney to Perth, you can also take the train. This three-day-long journey will show you many of the natural beauties of the region while you can also opt for off-train sightseeing tours. On the other hand, instead of renting a car to get around towns and cities, consider cycling. For example, there are many things you can see with your family, no matter if you’re exploring Brisbane or Melbourne. Just make sure to get them sturdy road bikes that are appropriate for their size and you’ll have so much fun as a family. What is more, if you’re ready to take this activity to the next level, instead of sightseeing, you can also go from town to town and enjoy the landscape. From Victoria’s Goldfields Track to Queensland’s Cabbage Tree Creek Bikeway, there are countless trails to try. Of course, don’t forget to make the most of public transportation either.
Give back by supporting the local culture and artists
You should also learn more about where you are traveling. This continent is home to Aboriginal people whose culture is one of the oldest living in the world. With that in mind, it’s important that you give back to the people whose land you are visiting. Fortunately, there are countless ways you can learn about the culture and give back to the artists. Regardless of where you go, you can find local Indigenous guides and tours, such as those at the Kimberley region of Western Australia or the Northern Territory’s Red Centre.
Find a way to volunteer
Lastly, while you are in Australia, you can also look for a way to give back by volunteering. From helping rescue, care for, and rehabilitate wildlife to planting trees and assisting with conservation, opportunities abound. For instance, in the Blue Mountains, you can take part in assessing habitats and checking the water quality while in Arkaba, South Australia, you can look for vegetation that is essential for the survival of endangered animals.
No matter where you’re traveling, you should do your best to stay sustainable. If you happen to be going to Australia, keep these tips in mind.