With so much emphasis on protecting the planet, the modern vacationer strives to indulge in responsible travel. This means opting for eco-conscious escapes that minimise your carbon footprint and help preserve the planet for future generations. Here are top tips to ensure you leave behind no carbon footprints and choose eco-conscious escapes that help nurture our planet for future generations.

Image via Anantara Koh Yao Yai Resort & Villas

Whether you like to party all night or explore stunning environs, there are plenty of eco-friendly holiday destinations to choose from. One example is the island of Phuket. It is an all-inclusive experience rolled into one smashing holiday you are not going to forget. The island and its stunning beaches are yours to savour. Dive, snorkel, or swim in the tropical waters, while the interiors are verdant havens for exploring and treating the nature lover in you. Let's not forget that Phuket is also a party central and the beach is a favoured venue for responsible tourists to dance the night away under a canopy of stars. Even better, you can choose a Phuket health resort for accommodation and ensure your body and soul are pampered and looked after with some TLC. Phuket is home to many such health resorts and some, similar to Anatara Koh Yao Yai Resort & Villas, certainly make sure your holiday is one to remember. So bottom line, look for destinations that cater to your needs while being sensitive toward protecting the planet, you will be surprised at how much you enjoy an eco-escape.

Before you set off on your vacation, do a check of your home and make sure any electronic equipment you will not need to be on is unplugged. Even your refrigerator can be unplugged if you are off on a long holiday, clear out the food, wipe it down with white vinegar, and unplug; leaving the door ajar and popping in a tub of baking soda will ensure odours are neutralised. Remember that some electronics will continue to draw on power when plugged in even if the switch is off, so go ahead and unplug everything that's not going to serve a purpose when you are gone.

Yes, this is an actual thing, which goes to show how serious people are about protecting the planet. A simple do-it-yourself carbon calculator you can use when planning your vacation is to check your travel options. If flying to your destination is the only option, then look for a route with the least number of connections. While this may not always be a budget-friendly option, check all your options to ensure you do your part for the planet. Train travel is considered the most eco-friendly mode of transport, and it can be used whenever possible. Join small group tours as these leave less wastage, and opt for exploring your surroundings by bicycle, walking, or other simpler modes of transport. For example, if you are staying at a Phuket resort, ask the hotel staff for recommendations of reputable car hire agencies for renting out low-emission vehicles.

To really make the most of your trip, immerse yourself in the local culture. Whenever possible, explore your vacation spot by walking around, renting a bicycle or scooter, or using public transportation rather than relying on a car; you might find it to be a fascinating experience. Instead of searching for familiar dishes, such as in Phuket, a popular holiday destination known for its variety of local cuisine, embrace the opportunity to eat like a local, try new things, and expand your culinary horizons.

Minimise waste by avoiding buying numerous bottled waters. Consider investing in a high-quality filter bottle that you can refill before leaving your resort. When out exploring, bring along a garbage bag to collect your trash and bring it back to dispose of properly. Try to keep things simple and blend in with your surroundings for a more immersive and eco-friendly holiday experience.