Caribbean Ecotourism Vacations
Many environmentally conscious travelers are ditching the traditional mass tourism spots for ecotourism vacations. Ecotourism vacations feature three main elements: a focus on the natural environment (such as a rainforest), learning about the specific area as the main outcome, and adhering to sustainability. While not all ecotourism vacations feature all three elements, the eco vacation is usually quite different from the classic leisure based vacation. The Caribbean, with its white beaches and natural resources, features many ideal eco vacation spots.
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Dominica
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The small Caribbean island of Dominica is one of only two nations that have achieved the "benchmark" set by the Green Globe NGO, which sets stringent ecotourism standards. As of early 2011, there are already several small eco-friendly and sustainable hotels on the island such as the 3 Rivers Eco Lodge and the Jungle Bay Resort & Spa. The island's tourism industry is still rather small and offers an out-of-the-way ecotourism experience away from the crowds. Among the island's draws include lush tropical forests, rivers and mountains that are mostly untouched -- the island's environmental laws are strict.
Puerto Rico
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There are several ecotourism vacations available in Puerto Rico. While many parts of the island have succumbed to development and mass tourism, there are still several areas on the island where nature prevails. The island boasts El Yunque, the only rainforest administered by the U.S. Forest Service. Puerto Rico features a total of 15 forests that offer various eco activities such as camping, hiking, biking, and eco tours. Puerto Rico also offers numerous islands and keys where ecotourists can experience fishing, beaches, snorkeling, scuba diving and other water activities while surrounded by natural environment and local wildlife. There are several hotels located around El Yunque, some of which are eco friendly.
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Dominican Republic
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While not always at the forefront of preserving its environment, the Dominican Republic is slowly making progress in this area. The island nation boasts 16 national parks and 67 protected areas within its borders (as of 2010). There are several eco-friendly hotels close to or in the parks and reserves. GreenGo! and Tody Tours are two eco operators that offer wildlife and eco tours for tourists. While many areas of the country are plagued by over development and tourism, and the Dominican Republic has lost some of its luster as a vacation destination due to problems plaguing neighboring Haiti, it is still possible to take an ecovacation in the country.
Cayman Islands
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Another locale with strict environmental laws and good preservation of natural resources are the Cayman Islands. While not as stunning as others, the Cayman Islands offer excellent opportunities for water activities, scuba diving and snorkeling and its reefs are strictly protected. Green eco tours are offered by several providers and feature activities such as hiking and biking through nature. The Cayman chain is composed of three islands: Grand Cayman, Little Cayman and Cayman Brac.
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References
- Photo Credit Misty rain forest image by Adam Tan from Fotolia.com
