The main destinations of our train adventure were Northern Italy and Western Slovenia. I struggled when my friend suggested changing the itinerary to stay in Italy due to non-stop rain at our chosen destinations in Slovenia. I kept refreshing the weather app, hoping the forecast might change. Even though I knew staying in Italy was the right decision, I went to bed annoyed. However, after sleeping on it, I finally admitted she was right. We ended up exploring parts of Italy I hadn’t considered, and it turned out to be a great decision (with great weather).

We have 24 hours a day: stop rushing.

It took me a few days to fully switch from my work mindset to a vacation one. At first, I felt like I had to hurry to do everything, whether it was catching the first train or ticking off items on our itinerary. But gradually, I realized there was no rush—if we missed one train, another would come. There’s no need to chase time. Instead, I learned to slow down and savor the moments.

People are inherently good.

For the first time, I hitchhiked—something I’d always wanted to try but never quite had the courage for. Both times we stood on the roadside, thumbs out and smiles on our faces, we were picked up by the most incredible people. One time, we even got a ride up the mountain on the back of a quad, which was an unforgettable experience. Each time, we were pleasantly surprised by the enthusiasm and kindness of our drivers, who even shared local tips with us along the way.

You don’t need to travel far to have ‘authentic experiences’.

I don’t need to travel to the other side of the world—there’s plenty of adventure waiting right here within our borders, or not too far from them. While far-away destinations are undoubtedly exciting, I’ve realized that I can find equally enriching and authentic experiences on the continent where I am from, often in places I hadn’t even considered.

Traveling is a privilege.

This trip reminded me of the true depth of that privilege. The ability to explore new places, try new food, make unfortunate choices when abroad, and immerse myself in unfamiliar landscapes is something not everyone has the chance to do. Travel is more than just personal discovery—it’s a chance to engage with the world thoughtfully and sustainably. As more people have access to global travel, we also have a growing responsibility to ensure the destinations we love are cared for, so they can be enjoyed by future generations.

Unfortunately, people still don’t know how to ‘leave no trace’.

Even though there might be good intentions, I’ve realized that not everyone knows how to truly ‘leave no footprint.’ I don’t claim to be perfect either—I’ve had to learn a lot to travel more sustainably, and I’m still learning every day. But honestly, I thought some things were just common sense, like taking your trash with you. It’s shocking how often I still saw things like toilet paper, food scraps, and cigarette butts left behind. Just because something is biodegradable doesn’t mean it belongs in nature. It’s a reminder for me to keep preaching: we all have a responsibility to leave the places we visit as untouched as possible.

Public transport isn’t only expensive in Belgium.

I used to complain about the cost of public transport at home, but this trip gave me some perspective. I’ll try to complain less… I promise!

The post What Slow Traveling taught me appeared first on Simply By Joy.

This proud World Heritage city is best explored on foot so that no detail can escape because there’s nothing better than getting lost in the hidden alleys of Bruges.

History in a (very tiny) nutshell

Bruges’ rise to prominence began with its strategic location. Prone to occasional saltwater floods in the past, the land developed a unique vegetation ideal for sheep farming. This, in turn, fueled a thriving wool industry, laying the foundation for Bruges’ prosperous textile trade.

Further bolstered by its access to the sea, Bruges’ port flourished as a hub of international commerce. The city even hosted the world’s first trade fair, a testament to its enterprising spirit. Over time, Bruges evolved beyond just trade, becoming a renowned center for cultural development. Famed Flemish Primitive artists, like Jan van Eyck and Hans Memling, flourished here, leaving an enduring artistic legacy.

De Vesten

Encircling the charming city of Bruges is a 7-kilometer green haven known as De Vesten, or the city walls. This scenic route is a treasure trove of beauty, dotted with Bruges’ most captivating landmarks.

As you stroll along De Vesten, picturesque scenes unfold before you. The Minnewater, also known as the Lake of Love, offers a tranquil escape. Ancient city gates stand sentinel, whispering tales of Bruges’ rich past. Windmills, once numbering 30 and crucial for bread production, stand as silent reminders of a bygone era. The rise of steam engines sadly eclipsed their role, leaving only three windmills to grace the landscape today. Parks and the vibrant harbor on the Coupure Canal complete this captivating tapestry.

The inner city

De Markt, a must-see in Bruges. Towering over the square is the iconic Belfry, a 13th-century masterpiece that has stood witness to centuries of history. At a staggering 83 meters tall, the Belfry offers a panoramic reward for those willing to conquer its 366 steps. This of course not without a reward! At the highest point, you enjoy a panoramic view overlooking the city and its surroundings. Maybe spot your next stop?

De Markt offers more than just stunning vistas. The Historium transports you back in time to medieval Bruges, offering a captivating glimpse into the city’s past. Atop the museum lies the Duvelorium, a charming terrace with a view of the market square. Here, you can unwind and savor a refreshing Duvel beer, a perfect way to soak up the atmosphere. (To access the Duvelorium, simply enter through the Historium’s entrance and follow the signs.)

Adjacent to the Historium stands the Provincial Court, a building rich in history. Dating back to the 13th century, it was originally a “Waterhalle,” which loosely translates to a storage warehouse. Over the centuries, it transformed into a monumental housing complex in the 18th century. Unfortunately, a fire ravaged the building in 1878, prompting its conversion into the present-day Provincial Court (Provciaal Hof).

Furthermore, three things will stand out on the market:

It is the departure point of many horse-drawn carriages. From here the coachmen guide curious tourists around the city with a smile.

Jan Breydel and Pieter de Coninck proudly look out over the market. Two celebrities from the Battle of Flanders.

Numerous restaurants & cafes and their colorful buildings.

Although the Markt appears to be the city’s most significant square, the 14th-century town hall is located on the Burg, the square behind the Markt. From here, Bruges has been governed for more than 600 years. The Burg is therefore the oldest core of the city.

The town hall shares the square with the Mansion of the Brugse Vrije, the former civil registry, and the Basilica of the Holy Blood.

With this, we have discovered the heart of the City. Of course, there is much more to see.

The Beguinage (aka the Princely Court Ten Wijngaarde)

Following a tradition seen in many Flemish cities, Bruges boasts its own Beguinage, a tranquil haven known as the Princely Beguinage Ten Wijngaarde. These unique communities were established for beguines, pious laywomen who lived a semi-monastic life devoted to religion and good works. Today, the Bruges Beguinage, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers a glimpse into this fascinating chapter of history.

Jan van Eyckplein

Bruges’ Jan van Eyckplein, named after the famed Flemish painter, is more than just a square. Steeped in history, this area was once the bustling heart of the Hanseatic Quarter. From the 13th to the 15th centuries, it thrummed with activity as international merchants and trading nations converged here. Imagine the scene: a vibrant marketplace filled with exotic goods and the lively chatter of commerce in a multitude of languages. Today, Jan van Eyckplein offers a glimpse into Bruges’ illustrious past, while still serving as a charming spot to relax and soak up the atmosphere.

Tip from a local: order a takeaway pasta (from Bocca) and sit at the water’s edge.

Churches & Museums

The city is rich in museums, which is logical since art, culture, and religion were very present in the past. Some interesting things at a glance:

Onze Lieve Vrouwwekerk: One of the iconic towers of the city. It is 115.5 meters high, making it the second-tallest brick church tower in the world. The showpiece on display in this church is Michelangelo’s Madonna and Child.

Concergebouw circuit: Concergebouw offers a unique experience for families with active children. The venue’s circuit trail provides a fun and educational exploration, combining contemporary art with a child-friendly approach.

Diamond Museum: Did you know? Modern diamond-cutting techniques were pioneered by a native of Bruges in the 15th century. The Diamond Museum delves into this fascinating history and the world of sparkling gems.

Groeningemuseum: Art enthusiasts will find a treasure trove at the Groeningemuseum. Housing a renowned collection of Flemish Primitive paintings, this museum showcases works by masters like Jan van Eyck, Hans Memling, and Gerard David.

Gruuthusemuseum: Housed in the former city palace of Lodewijk van Gruuthuse, the museum’s motto, “Plus est en Vous” (There’s More in You), is reflected in its collection of artifacts that tell captivating stories of Bruges.

Historium: This immersive experience transports you back to the heart of the Middle Ages. Explore exhibits and scenes that bring Bruges’ medieval history to life.

Sint Jans Hospital: One of the oldest preserved hospitals in the region, Sint-Janshospitaal offers a glimpse into the evolution of medical care.

Beer, beer, beer

No Flemish city is complete without its breweries, and Bruges proudly upholds this tradition with at least 3 breweries within its heart. Among these, Halve Maan reigns supreme, the birthplace of the beloved Brugse Zot beer. For beer aficionados, a visit here is a must! But Halve Maan isn’t the only star. Bourgogne des Flandres and Fort Lapin offer their unique brews, enticing you to embark on a delicious exploration.

If you want to delve deeper into the world of Belgian beers, the Bruges Beer Experience museum, conveniently located on the market square, awaits. This interactive museum offers a fascinating journey through the history and brewing process of these iconic beverages.

Shop till you drop

Bruges is a real shopping city. The largest shopping streets are Steenstraat, Geldmuntstraat, and Noordzandstraat. There is something for everyone: it ranges from souvenir shops to large chains to designer shops.

Tip: No time during the week? Every first Sunday of the month, the streets become car-free and the shops open.

Refuel: Coffee

Exploring Bruges can be exhilarating, but it can also be tiring. Thankfully, the city boasts a wealth of charming cafes where you can refuel and reenergize. Here are a few of my personal favorites:

 Olivier’s Chocolate (coffee & artisanal chocolate): Indulge in a perfect pairing – a fresh cup of coffee and handcrafted artisanal chocolate – while soaking up the sunshine on their terrace. Be aware, seating on the terrace is limited, so a bit of luck might be needed! Location: Sint-Amandsstraat 14

 We Are Coffee Makers (specialty coffee roaster): This haven for coffee lovers welcomes you with a smile. Be sure to try their own roasted beans – the aroma and flavor are simply unforgettable! Location: Academiestraat 8

Cherry Picker (record store & coffee): maybe it’s not obvious to look for coffee in a record store, but you’ll find this great combo here! Location: Langestraat 74

Refuel: Drinks

La casita (cocktail bar with snacks): Good vibes en delicious cocktails guaranteed. Location: Sint-Salvatorskerkhof 5

Groot Vlaenderen (cocktail bar): are you looking for a fancy environment? Not a problem! Groot Vlaenderen is known for its appetizing cocktails. Location: Vlamingstraat 94

Basement cafés (bar): the name speaks for itself. In Bruges, you may encounter cafés that are located in a cellar. It sometimes takes some searching to find the entrance, so keep your eyes open. Two examples of cellar cafes are ‘t Poatersgat and Le Trappiste.

De Garre: This hidden gem, tucked away in Bruges’ city center, is a must-visit for beer enthusiasts. Make sure to try their signature brew, “de Garre Tripel,”. Be warned, the locals say three is the limit! Location: De Garre 1

Refuel: Food

That’s toast: all-day breakfast. But no bokes with chocolate, this is about delicious and creative dishes. Please note: it is usually a queue for a table. Location: Dweersstraat 4

Sanseveria: A vintage interior and top bagels. Location: Predikherenstraat 11

Hap: Great place for a quick and filling bite. Location: Zilverpand 16

De Republiek: This bar/restaurant is part of the city’s cultural center. Enjoy a dish on their terrace before or after a visit to the city cinema in the same building. Location: Sint-Jakobsstraat 36

Annual events

Bruges is vibrant. Every year there are unmissable (musical or not) experiences. Here are some summarized:

Enjoy!

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Fondry Des Chiens

Fondry des Chiens, also known as the “Grand Canyon of Belgium,” is a natural wonder formed by millions of years of water erosion. Travel tip: combine your visit with a hike around.

Abbaye de Villers (Villers‑la‑Ville)

Standing tall for centuries, the 12th-century Abbaye de Villers (Villers-la-Ville) isn’t your typical abbey – it’s a captivating ruin! While the abbey itself is a wonder to behold, most visitors miss the beauty that surrounds it. Read this article for hiking inspiration near the abbey.

Durbuy

Thrill-seekers and relaxation enthusiasts alike will find something to love in Durbuy. This charming town, known as the “smallest city in the world,” offers a variety of activities. Explore the town’s shops and cafes, or venture out for hiking, kayaking, biking, or an exciting adventure park experience.

Trail du Hérou

For the adventurous ones: the nature site ‘Le Hérou’ offers challenging hikes, beautiful views, and peaceful surroundings. Don’t skip hiking up the Rocher de Hérou for a view over the Ourthe

Kasteel van Walzin

Imagine a castle perched dramatically on a cliff edge, overlooking the winding Lesse River and the picturesque valley below. Impressive, right? Kasteel van Walzin offers a sight to behold. Kayak along the Lesse for a unique perspective of the castle, or reach it by car or hike for a closer look.

Enjoy! Kind reminder: always stay respectful towards nature & heritage sites. Keep your dog on the leash, don’t litter, and stay on the path.

 Cheers!

The post Favorite places in the South of Belgium appeared first on Simply By Joy.

History

The abbey was birthed in 1146 when a small group of 17 monks initiated the establishment. As it grew in both size and wealth, but the French revolution let to its downfall. The abbey experienced all styles: from Gothic to Neoclassical… to destruction. Of course, as we can all agree, the ruins of the abbey along with nature and the hills behind it form a romantic scenery. Well, that’s what Victor Hugo thought as well!

Anyway, enough about the past – let’s jump into the now. 

The abbey today

The abbey is easily reachable, both by car (free parking!) and by public transportation (encouraged). Read more here. Tip: take your picnic along and eat it within the walls of the Villers Abbey – Picnic places are provided! 

Dogs are allowed too, as long as you keep them on the leash.

Hiking around the Abbey

This area does not only offer you to see the majestical ruins, but also nature. There are tons of walking routes around the abbey and I tested one of them: a 9,5-kilometer hike in the forest that surrounds the Villers Abbey. My friend found hiking inspiration through the Cirkwi app: not most user-friendly but it has amazing routes available.

Kind reminder: always stay respectful towards nature & heritage sites. Keep your dog on the leash, don’t liter and stay on the path.

Cheers!

More inspiration for the South of Belgium.

The post Villers Abbey – A perfect day trip in Belgium appeared first on Simply By Joy.

Disclaimer: Katrien and Kobe made it to Turkey when the COVID-19 situation started getting out of hand. They decided to fly back to Belgium and stop their trip for now.

My very first question to you: how did you get the idea of long-term traveling by bicycle?

The idea of ‘long-term traveling’ after graduation has always been on our minds. We just needed to figure out what/where/how. One day we ended up at a travel convention, not having an idea of what our trip would look like. The only certainty about our trip was: heading east and wanting to avoid flying as much as possible. Speaking to several travelers did confirm our intention of traveling and finally, we ended up talking to a man who had traveled by bike … that specific conversation warmed our hearts and we started dreaming. We decided to do a ‘try-out trip’: a 10 days departing from our hometown and ending in France. Together we decided to take the challenge and bike to go as far East as possible overland: China.

How do you prepare yourself for a trip as such? Concerning visa, planning routes, accommodation, etc.

The way you prepare yourself is completely up to you. Some people do not need a lot of preparation, some people do. Both works! Creating our personal itinerary started off by summarizing the countries we’ve always wanted to visit. For example, we were always curious to see the ‘STAN’ countries (Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, etc.). China became our ‘destination’ point as it is -from where we departed- the furthest point. However, our trip wouldn’t just end there. We’d bike back through Russia combined with a train ride on the Trans Siberian express.

Other great ways to prepare you is by reading blogs, watching vlogs, asking questions to former and current travelers, and to do a ‘try-out’ trip of a few days. Regarding visas, we can recommend you one website: the Caravanistan website. This site summarizes the visa requirements for the countries that are located on the Silk Road. They also offer a forum where people can write their latest update of their visa-experience in a certain country. This is the perfect platform for those who travel overland (for example bikers, hikers, or road trippers).

I think traveling by bike is an awesome and brave idea. I imagine that, besides all the positive comments, you also got some negative judgment when announcing your trip to family and friends?

No one was really that surprised about us coming up with such an idea. But of course, many questions were raised by our close friends and family, such as “will you find food everywhere?”, “are the countries you’ll visit safe?” and “what about wild animals when sleeping in a tent?”. We ended up making a PowerPoint presentation for our parents that included the pros/cons and potential risks. This detailed presentation, along with our preparation, helped them understand that we thought everything through.

I can’t help but asking THE most asked question… What is the distance (on average) you traveled per day?

We started our trip rather calmly, especially because we weren’t yet used to biking long distances. The elevation profile of our route affected this as well: on flat areas, we’d end up biking about 80 kilometers (50 miles) per day and on not-so-flat areas, we’d bike about 60 kilometers (37 miles). Of course, this varied as every day was different. The wind could also be holding us back and we also found ourselves limited by the amount of daylight throughout the winter. You have to keep in mind that this kind of trip is more than only the ‘sportive challenge’. It’s exploring, setting up and breaking down the tent or finding alternative stays, arranging food, getting to know local people who randomly invite you, etc.

The kilometers per day is not what mattered to us; it’s the overall experience. And in the end, the distance you travel depends on yourself and your mood. It’s not a race.

What did you think of the biking-infrastructure in other countries?

The more east we went, the bike infrastructure became less of a thing. In Belgium, Luxemburg, Germany, and Austria everything was very well arranged and we almost never cycled on the main roads. Only in Luxemburg, we encountered some issues with getting to grocery stores, that all seemed to be located along highways. Ever since Croatia, however, cycling paths were nonexistent and building routes was more of a challenge. From time to time we were even forced to travel on highways. In some countries, like Albania and Turkey, cyclists are not an unusual sight and there was no problem in sharing the road with a few cars. Contrary to Croatia where many people drove like fast and dangerous, obviously not knowing how to act around bicycles

Which country was physically most challenging, considering you biked from Belgium to Turkey?

Every country has its own challenges, but physically we’d definitely say Montenegro. We were only there for a few days, but we conquered quite a lot of hills! There, we followed a route along the Bay of Kotor, crossing over the mountains and then down to Lake Skadar. Up till today, we still think it was one of the most beautiful parts of our trip, so all the sweat was definitely worth it! 

Is there a certain (online or offline) community for this niche group of travelers?

There is much out there. For example ‘long-distance cyclists’ and ‘Bicycle touring Bike packing’, which are great groups if you are seeking some general advice. But unfortunately, just as in every big Facebook group there are also some irrelevant posts/comments. To us, Instagram gave us more the community feeling, as we got connected with other cyclers and used the app to communicate with them. Also Warmshowers is a great way to meet like-minded people. It serves as a platform for connecting host-families with cyclists. We are still in touch with those who hosted us during the trip. Of course, this community is not only online…Sometimes we met other travelers along the way and when we were lucky enough to be heading the same way we ended up biking together for a little while.

COVID-19: let’s talk about the crisis and getting home.

We made it to Turkey when the Corona-situation started getting out of hand. We did the right thing by flying back home, and there was also no alternative for us. As we got to know through a WhatsApp group with other travelers, countries were slowly closing borders and even denying foreigners. Continuing out travel was a no-go. We are, however, planning on resuming our long-distance travel one day!

My last question goes out to Katrien: I saw on your Instagram profile that you shaved your hair! What made you decide that?  (Super badass by the way!)

It was the most logical thing to do. It always got stuck between the clipper of my helmet and my hair was always somewhere where it shouldn’t be. Further, I’ve always been curious about the look so… I went for it ?

Any last thoughts you want to share?

On this trip, we realized that our life in Belgium is very privileged. We also learned that there are genuinely kind-hearted people in this world, no matter how little money or belongings they have.

Also:
1. Don’t hesitate and try it out!
2. It’s not as hard as it sounds.
3. You don’t have to be super-sporty to start this kind of a journey.

Want to get to know more about sustainable travel? Check out Sustainable travel – who/what/how. Got inspired to start your own cycle-trip? Read here the tips provided by Katrien and Kobe.

The post Longterm biking: Katrien and Kobe on adventure appeared first on Simply By Joy.

Basic sentences in the local language

Not all cultures are used to the idea of omitting meat or dairy products. For example, ‘no meat (sin carne)’ in many South American countries means no meat except for chicken and fish. Meaning you might have to face the struggle to clearly mention not to consume ANY meat. You have to accept that not all cultures understand ‘vegetarianism’ or ‘veganism’ and you can not blame them nor get angry. Explain kindly why you prefer to not consume certain foods and I am sure they will try their best to understand. Keep in mind that not everyone has the luxury to ‘choose’ what they eat. (See the end of the article for some basic sentences in foreign languages.)

Research before traveling: find suitable places online

Google is your best friend! ? Go online and find some recommended vegetarian-friendly places near you. Another option is to surf to the Happy Cow website or app which finds suitable places for you nearby. You could also join certain Facebook groups or find suitable places through hashtags and geo-tags on Instagram. 

Choose vegan/vegetarian-friendly locations

Many places are very welcoming to us! Think of India, Indonesia, Isreal, and many European countries.

Be flexible

In certain situations, you could consider being more flexible. I know this is not always the easiest decision to make. Last year I traveled to the jungle for a few days where the host did his best to give me food to my liking. In order to show my respect, I tried his freshly caught and cooked fish. In the end, how strict you stick to your diet is completely up to you.

Cook your own meal

Many hostels offer a kitchen where you are free to cook whatever you like. If you use initiatives such as Couchsurfing I’m sure you can – through kind communication – make some arrangements.

Bring food in containers

If you are planning a multi-day hike, or trip you could always take along some pre-made dishes which are made to your wishes, that way you don’t risk getting hungry on your travel!

Food Tour

Living as a vegetarian/vegan is become more ‘popular’ (yay!). Businesses know that, and in order for a business to survive, they have to adapt to the ongoing trends of their customers. Many food tours have the option to join as a non-meat-eater or even have specialized tours.

Get social: Follow fellow vegetarians/vegans travelers on Instagram

Instagram can serve as a source of inspiration. My favorite profiles are:
Justin from Lotusarticoke
Amelie from Mostlyamelie
Caro from Veggiewayfarer
and… My profile of course

Basic sentences for you!

Mandarin:
I am vegetarian – 我是素食者 (wǒ shì sùshí zhě) 
I don’t eat meat – 我不吃肉 (wǒ bù chī ròu)
Spanish:
I am vegetarian – soy vegetariano(/a)
I don’t eat meat – No como carne
Dutch:
I am vegetarian – Ik ben vegetarisch
I don’t eat meat – Ik eet geen vlees
French:
I am vegetarian – Je suis végétarien(+ne)
I don’t eat meat – Je ne mange pas de viande
Lithuanian:
I am vegetarian – As (Ash) esu Vegetare
I don’t eat meant- As (Ash) nevalgau mesos

The post Traveling as a vegetarian appeared first on Simply By Joy.

Because, hey, we all like to travel from time to time. Look at the following steps as a helping hand for your next travels, or maybe just as useful tips to keep in mind during planning.

Minimize flying

Aviation is, unfortunately, the fastest-growing source of Green House Gas emission. We all know that not flying would be impossible but…

… (try to) choose direct flights

Most carbon emission comes from the act of ascending and descending airplanes. A big step would be avoiding connecting flights. A perfect example would be: flying from Brussels (Belgium) to Chengdu (China) with KLM Airlines. This track usually includes a connection in Amsterdam (the Netherlands). A solution could be: Take the high-speed train from Belgium (Brussels or Antwerp) to the airport in Amsterdam and then continue your flying journey. Think of alternatives such as coach travel, carpooling, or making use of high-speed trains.

Pay and ‘compensate’ your carbon emission

Initiatives such as Greentipper.com give you the opportunity to calculate your CO2-emission and pay for compensation. The money goes to climate projects that benefit nature/the environment. Conduct wise research or check if the airline you’re flying with provides the option when checking out.

Avoid business class

‘Why‘ you ask? People who fly business class leave a larger carbon footprint because they take up more floor space. I know what you’re thinking “but the business class-area is already provided. It isn’t going to change anything if I don’t fly in that class.” There is not much that I can say or do but give you the information and mention ‘change only starts with you.’

Say no to cruises!

Yes, I know how magical and extraordinary a cruise trip could be… But the impact of the cruise industry is SO DAMN BAD. I am sorry, but this is the hard reality. Cruise ships produce an incredible amount of solid and hazardous waste, which is dumped into the ocean and sea. Aside from the waste, there is also an enormous consumption of portable water, which -after consuming for several purposes- gets contaminated. Guess what happens with that? Yes, correct. It (also) gets dumped into the ocean and/or sea.

Further, regarding the social-economic impact, it’s important to know that tourists who arrive ashore usually do not contribute to the local economy as they have food and drinks on board. Mass tourism origination from cruises indirectly contributes to higher taxes and inflation for the locals.

Certifications for travel organizers

Many travel organizers are certified by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council, which means that they conform with a set of criteria in their management, social-economic -, cultural -, and environmental impact. You can find these companies on the website of GSTC.

Animal Welfare – be critical

A photograph of you holding a tiger cub? Riding an elephant? Holding a snake? Cage-diving with sharks? Yes, it is all amazing and adventurous. But I am sure you and your moral compass know better than that. Obviously, there ARE sustainable wildlife tourism companies. But there are many that only seem to be. Please consider which company you invest your time and money in. Not all companies care much about the lives of an animal. Keep in mind that every interaction with animals, either in their natural habitat or not, will affect their well-being and their physiology.

Support local economies

In many countries, tourism causes the exclusion of local enterprises because of international intervention. Think of big hotel chains such as Hilton, The Marriott group, …. Try to find alternatives by staying at local hotels/residencies and making use of local tourism services. Further, I advise you to buy your souvenirs which are made by the natives. I mean… who travels to Poland, only to buy a souvenir that is actually made in a completely different country?

The tips mentioned above are rather a small portion of possible measures we can take to fight unsustainable practices within the tourism industry. Let’s stand together and help our beautiful world a hand. I (and many others) will be grateful! Thanks for reading.

More tips on traveling? Catch your (solo) travel bugs here. Looking for an alternative & sustainable way of traveling? Find inspiration by reading the story of Katrien and Kobe!

Peace and love!

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