With the summer holidays fast approaching, savvy travellers looking for sustainable vacation options in Latin America and the Caribbean can find them by visiting SustainableTrip.org, an online search tool launched by the Rainforest Alliance, an international conservation organization. 

SustainableTrip.org is a database of hotels, tour operators, and other businesses (such as restaurants) in Latin America and the Caribbean that have been certified by a sustainable tourism certification program, verified by the Rainforest Alliance, or recommended as being sustainable by a reputable organization.

“SustainableTrip.org is a valuable, unique resource in that it provides travellers, tour operators and travel agents with a credible, comprehensive listing of sustainable tourism options from a trusted conservation NGO,” said Ronald Sanabria, vice president of tourism for the Rainforest Alliance. “The sustainability claim of each business is verified before it is listed on the site so travellers can feel secure knowing that all of the businesses listed on the site are taking concrete actions to conserve natural resources and improve livelihoods in their local communities.”

SustainableTrip.org features a robust search tool and an in-depth profile for each business that includes information about amenities and rates, a description of the area and activities, a Google map of the business’ location, photos and videos, and actions that the business is taking to demonstrate sustainability. Interested parties can subscribe to a monthly email newsletter that will include links to new or updated hotel profiles, and other features. The site also features “News for the Savvy Traveller” and detailed information about sustainable tourism.

SustainableTrip.org was launched this year to coincide with the 10-year anniversary of the Rainforest Alliance’s sustainable tourism program, which helps tourism professionals improve the sustainability of their businesses based on the principles of the Global Sustainable Tourism Criteria. Initiatives include adopting ecosystem and water conservation measures, reducing energy use, supporting local economies, hiring from within the community and reducing costs.