As I write, Dubai airport is under water as the UAE has received unprecedented levels of rainfall. Dubai is one of the premier luxury destinations which I have visited several times, starting in the late 90’s when the first luxury hotels were just opening, and it hardly EVER rained! Dubai has just kept on growing! Many predicted that the phenomenon could not last, and the bubble would burst one day. Could this be the start, the first hole in the bubble? Also in the news today is the deadly heatwave in West Africa. Scientists are absolutely convinced that these extreme weather conditions are a result of global warming and human-induced climate change.
This week’s article was meant to be about new luxury hotel openings and I am still going to list these below, but first a few tips on how you can help to reduce your carbon footprint when you travel.
Firstly, travel less and stay for longer, thus flying less, if you can. Travel during quieter times, avoiding popular holiday periods, if you can. This also helps hoteliers and caterers, as they still have to stay open, even if they are running almost empty and they would welcome your business off peak. You’ll get some real bargains if you travel out of peak season and the weather is often glorious in Spring and Autumn. Hotel suppliers, who provide food and other goods to the hotels, also have quiet months when they struggle to stay in business. Check the green credentials of the hotels you are interested in. Are they taking climate change seriously and implementing genuine practices to save energy, reduce waste, support local producers?
I was shocked to read an article about “overtourism” this week, with pictures of Las Ramblas in Barcelona looking like Oxford Street on the first day of the sales! The locals are angry about tourism pushing house prices up, as too many buildings are being turned into short term holiday lets. Air quality suffers, there is risk of erosion to ancient buildings and water pollution in the ports is at an all-time high, forcing Barcelona and Venice to ban cruise ships from some ports. Amsterdam has this week imposed a ban on the building of new hotels in an effort to counteract overtourism. Again, the message is to travel during quieter times, use a local guide to take you off the beaten track, and even think of alternatives to overcrowded destinations.
Here are some new hotels that have caught my eye this week:
Six Senses La Sagesse enjoys a pride-of-place setting between the ocean and a protected cove on the island of Grenada. Influenced by the region’s traditional architecture, the design mimics a Caribbean village, bursting with variety along the lagoon promenade and beach, with natural walkways through the gardens maintaining the connection to Grenada’s “Spice Island” heritage. Located in the heart of the resort, the Earth Lab is a centre for engagement and innovation, where you’re warmly invited to join workshops and learn about the natural world first hand. According to the hotel website: “Lighten your footprint and rewild your soul to carry what you’ve learned with you beyond the resort. “
The Waldorf Astoria, Seychelles
50 seafront villas, ranging from one to five bedrooms, complete seclusion and untouched white beaches, and a chance to see endangered hawksbill turtles.
The Raffles Hotel Group
The name speaks for itself and plans openings in Jaipur, India and Sentosa Island, Singapore. There is even one in Dubai now.
Galapagos Explorer
Not a hotel but a luxury expedition ship, with just six cabins, the &Beyond’s Galapagos Explorer is the height of luxury, belonging to &Beyond’s Ocean Without Borders initiative, focusing on marine conservation.
7 nights at Six Senses la Sagesse, Grenada £3,549pp
Includes:
- Return flights
- A lagoon pool suite
- A 7 night B&B stay at Six Senses la Sagesse, Grenada
- And a FREE 5% donation to the charity of your choice!
Please note pricing is correct as of 22nd April 2024. Pricing subject to change. Please enquire for up to date pricing by emailing Lizzi using the link below. Offer valid May through to the end of September 2024.
- Return flights
- A lagoon pool suite
- A 7 night B&B stay at Six Senses la Sagesse, Grenada
- And a FREE 5% donation to the charity of your choice!
Please note pricing is correct as of 22nd April 2024. Pricing subject to change. Please enquire for up to date pricing by emailing Lizzi using the link below. Offer valid May through to the end of September 2024.
All the above have good eco credentials. If you would like to know more about these resorts, please contact me.
by net effect