Best Eco Friendly Destinations To Visit: Let these destinations inspire you to tread more consciously, engage more deeply, and celebrate Mother Earth through every journey you take

This Environment Day, select journeys that take you beyond greenwashing. We are talking about celebrating unique destinations and experiences that let you be a part of the change. Embrace eco-friendly journeys, empower local communities, and reconnect with nature—one mindful step at a time.

Ras Al Khaimah

In Ras Al Khaimah—the Nature Emirate—adventure and sustainability go hand in hand. The Responsible RAK initiative, in partnership with EarthCheck, unites over 20 tourism businesses and attractions to measure and reduce their environmental footprint. Even adrenaline-fuelled experiences like the Jais Flight, the world’s longest zipline, and the Jais Sledder have been seamlessly integrated into the mountain ecology, ensuring minimum impact on nature. The Bear Grylls Explorers Camp—the world’s first Bear Grylls-branded accommodation—features 16 recycled cabins, where guests can stay overnight and immerse themselves in nature, trying their hand at mountain biking, hiking, and rock climbing. Resorts like Mövenpick Resort Al Marjan Island are championing zero-waste goals while offering elevated beachfront luxury.

Thailand

If you are seeking a getaway that honours the environment, Thailand—the open-air studio for the upcoming film Jurassic World: Rebirth—invites travellers with its meaningful encounters. At Phulay Bay, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve in Krabi, eco-luxury reaches its peak. Nestled between the rainforest and the Andaman Sea, its 54 villas are designed to blend seamlessly with the landscape, blurring the boundary between indoor and outdoor. The use of locally sourced, seasonal ingredients from the on-site Chef’s Garden, sustainable drinking water from natural spring flowing from the nearby Naga Mountain through regenerative practices, and low-impact Jurassic Paradise excursion make moments mindful. When you are staying here, you are a part of their efforts to minimise carbon footprint and measures to preserve the ecosystem for future generations, such as plastic-free initiatives. Even Christmas decorations are made of natural and reusable materials, such as coconut shells, driftwood, leaves, and recycled glass bottles.

Seychelles

In Seychelles, sustainability is a way of life. This archipelago of 115 islands has long been a leader in marine and terrestrial conservation, offering travellers a chance to experience nature in its purest form. Explore the underwater world of Sainte Anne Marine National Park, one of the Indian Ocean’s first protected marine zones, on a guided snorkeling that also supports reef education and marine stewardship. Across the island, eco-conscious resorts run on solar power, sourced organic produce, and actively support wildlife efforts – from giant tortoise protection to bird habitat restoration. In Seychelles, tropical vacation is about reconnecting with the planet, the ocean, and yourself.

Kenya

In Kenya, sustainability is deeply interwoven into the rhythm of life. Beyond the traditional safari, you will find ways to engage with local communities and nature. At the Namunyak Wildlife Conservancy and Ol Lentille, community-driven models are making waves while rhino conservation efforts are underway in the Borana Conservancy in the Laikipia area. Stay at Sasaab and Sabache Camp in Samburu, where architectural design draws from local knowledge and sustainable practices—from solar power and rainwater harvesting to supporting indigenous tribes.

Sri Lanka

A journey through Sri Lanka is imbued with vibrant ecosystems and community-led sustainability drives. Your stay at restored tea estate bungalows and heritage properties by Teardrop Hotels is more than what meets the eye. You will experience sublime eco-conscious luxury with the Travelife Gold Certificate. The no-plastic policy, locally sourced ingredients, and on-site gardens ensure nearby farmers, fisheries, and local communities benefit directly from tourism. A highlight is Lunuganga in Bentota, the former estate visionary architect Geoffrey Bawa, where tropical modernism meets the jungle in a poetic union of design and ecology.

Israel

This country is known for not just advocating sustainability but also living it. Head to the Arava Desert, where Kibbutz Lotan serves as a beacon of eco-conscious and community living. The ecovillage practices permaculture farming, earth-based architecture, and zero-waste construction, offering immersive workshops. Travel deeper into the Negev Desert to visit solar-powered Kibbutz pioneering sustainable agriculture in one of the world’s harshest climates. Explore olive groves, stay in eco-lodges made of natural materials, or hike among wildflowers, Israel reminds us that green travel can be enriching.

Let these destinations inspire you to tread more consciously, engage more deeply, and celebrate Mother Earth through every journey you take.

By weaving wellness rituals and active movement into your days naturally, you can easily stay on top of your fitness game while travelling.

Let’s be honest: Keeping fit while travelling isn’t always easy. Between indulgent local food, long flights, and jam-packed itineraries, your regular workout routine can quickly fall by the wayside. But keeping active on the go doesn’t have to mean waking up at 6am to hit the hotel gym. With a few clever tweaks and a little bit of motivation, you can enjoy your holiday and stay in shape — without feeling like you’re punishing yourself. Whether you’re off on a city break, a beach holiday, or a work trip, here are smart, realistic tips for staying fit while travelling — no bootcamp required.

Here Are 7 Essential Tips To Stay Fit While Travelling:

1. Walk Everywhere (Seriously, Everywhere)

The simplest way to stay active while travelling? Ditch the taxis and walk. Not only will it help you clock in thousands of steps a day, it’s also one of the best ways to see a destination up close. According to the NHS, adults should aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity a week — and brisk walking counts. Try skipping the metro and walking between sights, or exploring different neighbourhoods on foot. Apps like Citymapper or Google Maps can help you plan pedestrian-friendly routes, and you’ll often stumble upon great cafes or viewpoints you’d never spot from a car.

2. Build Fitness Into Your Itinerary

This one’s all about mindset. Instead of carving out time for a traditional workout, think about how you can sneak fitness into your actual plans. Going to the beach? Swim laps or take a surfing lesson. Visiting the mountains? Schedule in a hike. Heading to Tokyo or New York? Sign up for a dance class or an active city tour. These types of activities also help you experience a destination in a more local, hands-on way — and they burn a fair number of calories while you’re at it.

3. Use Carry-On-Friendly Fitness Gear

You don’t need a suitcase full of gym equipment to stay in shape on the road. Resistance bands, skipping ropes and collapsible yoga mats all pack light and can transform any hotel room or park into a mini gym. Want something even easier? A pair of good-quality trainers and a set of workout clothes are enough to get started. Download bodyweight workout apps like Nike Training Club or FitOn, which offer short routines that can be done anywhere, anytime — many without needing any equipment at all.

4. Opt For Active Accommodation

Choosing the right place to stay can make staying fit a lot easier. Many hotels now offer free access to gyms, yoga classes, or even on-site bicycles. Airbnb listings often mention nearby parks or walking trails, and hostels frequently organise walking tours or surf meet-ups. If you prefer something more structured, wellness-focussed stays like Six Senses or COMO Hotels come with guided activities such as pilates, paddleboarding, and meditation sessions. Yes, it’s a bit extra — but if fitness is a priority, it’s worth the investment.

5. Use Travel Days For Recovery

Long flights or train rides can be hard on your body — hello, swollen ankles and tight shoulders. Use these days as your rest or active recovery days. Stretch at the airport, do ankle circles during your flight, and once you land, take a gentle walk to get your circulation moving. Pro tip: Compression socks and a reusable water bottle are lifesavers on long-haul flights.

6. Watch What (And When) You Eat

Travel often means indulging in local cuisine — and that’s half the fun. But it’s easy to go overboard with rich meals, snacks on the go, and late-night cocktails. Try sticking to the 80/20 rule: Eat healthily 80% of the time, and enjoy treats guilt-free the other 20%. Eating heavy meals late at night can also affect sleep and energy levels. Where possible, make lunch your main meal and go lighter in the evening. And don’t forget to hydrate — especially on flights or in hot climates. Dehydration can make you feel sluggish and more prone to skipping exercise.

7. Stay Accountable (Without Killing The Vibe)

If you need a bit of motivation, set small, achievable goals for your trip — like doing a 10-minute stretch every morning or walking 10,000 steps a day. Travel with a friend who’s also keen to stay active, or use an app like Strava to track your movement. You can even treat fitness like a souvenir: Take a photo of each new place you work out in, whether it’s a beach in Portugal or a rooftop in Bangkok. It’s a fun way to stay consistent and document your travels at the same time.

Discover 9 of the world’s most spectacular birdwatching destinations—from Peru’s Amazon to Japan’s snow-covered wetlands. Perfect for beginners and pros.

Birdwatching isn’t just a hobby—it’s a front-row seat to the theatre of nature. From snow-kissed Japanese wetlands to steamy Central American jungles, these global hotspots offer unforgettable encounters with some of the world’s rarest and most spectacular birds. Whether you’re a seasoned birder or just starting out, these destinations deserve a place on your travel wishlist.

1. Manu National Park, Peru

Deep in the Peruvian Amazon lies Manu—a living, breathing symphony of biodiversity. With over 1,000 recorded bird species, from rainbow-colored macaws to the elusive cock-of-the-rock, it’s one of Earth’s richest birding grounds.

2. The Gambia, West Africa

Tiny in size, vast in biodiversity—The Gambia is a birdwatching treasure trove. Glide along the River Gambia’s mangroves and woodlands to spot sunbirds, hornbills, and hundreds of migratory species in full plumage.

3. Florida Everglades, USA

The Everglades is more than just swampland—it’s a vibrant haven for herons, roseate spoonbills, and the iconic bald eagle. Paddle through cypress groves and mangroves to catch the birds of North America in action.

4. Papua New Guinea

For the serious birder, Papua New Guinea is the stuff of legend. Hidden within its remote rainforests are flamboyant birds-of-paradise performing mating rituals like nowhere else on Earth.

5. Bale Mountains, Ethiopia

High-altitude birding doesn’t get more dramatic. Ethiopia’s Bale Mountains are home to rare endemic species like the Abyssinian owl and blue-winged goose, set against an epic backdrop of alpine moorlands.

6. Broome Bird Observatory, Australia

At the edge of the Indian Ocean, Broome is a migratory magnet for thousands of waders. Flocks of sandpipers and godwits turn Roebuck Bay into a feathered frenzy during migration seasons.

7. Thattekad Bird Sanctuary, India

Kerala’s best-kept secret, Thattekad is a dense green pocket teeming with endemic wonders like the Malabar trogon and Sri Lanka frogmouth. It’s a dream for tropical bird lovers.

8. Hokkaido, Japan

For a birding experience straight out of a fairytale, head to Hokkaido in winter. Watch red-crowned cranes dance through snowy fields and see mighty Steller’s sea eagles swoop across icy waters.

9. Costa Rica

This Central American jewel is a birdwatcher’s utopia. With over 900 species, including resplendent quetzals and iridescent hummingbirds, every hike or canopy walk feels like a natural treasure hunt.

Birdwatching is more than ticking names off a list—it’s about immersion, patience, and wonder. From icy landscapes to lush rainforests, these destinations offer a rare chance to connect with nature on its most colorful terms. Ready to pack your binoculars?

From a desert monument in Oman with a soaring spike to a colourful waterside pavilion in Japan to a grand museum in Egypt featuring 100,000 pharaonic artefacts, each of these buildings deserves to be on your must-visit list.

Announced annually at UNESCO in Paris and celebrating its 10^th anniversary this year, the Prix Versailles honours architectural excellence in a variety of cultural venues. Including World’s Most Beautiful Museums — its recently unveiled list includes seven new, or newly reopened, institutions around the world. All are visually outstanding, and reflect their local heritage in unique, innovative ways. They are competing for three prizes, with the winners to be revealed in November: the Prix Versailles itself, and awards for the best interior and exterior. Here’s a rundown of the contenders – which ones get your vote?

7 of the most Beautiful Museums in the World

A4 Art Museum, Chengdu, China

You might do a double-take when you first see the A4 Art Museum. Chengdu is one of China’s most populated cities, but the museum’s location, the suburban district of Luxetown, was modelled on a hillside town in Tuscany, complete with a church and country club. The museum building, which sits on one side of a Florentine-style piazza, has been remodelled by Tektonn Architects (founded in Paris, but now based in Chengdu) in ingenious fashion: from the outside, it maintains its quasi-medieval proportions, but is subtly updated with a geometric corner façade and tall, thin windows. Inside, it’s even more surprising. Three floors above ground are open, welcoming spaces in keeping with the adjacent piazza, while two below house beautifully minimalist exhibition galleries. The perfect fusion of old and new, easily making it onto the list of the world’s most beautiful museums.

Grand Egyptian Museum, Giza, Egypt

Having the three Great Pyramids of Giza next door to your museum must be intimidating for any architect, so it’s no surprise that it took Dublin studio Heneghan Peng Architects 20 years to complete the Grand Egyptian Museum, which is scheduled to open later this year and will house over 100,000 pharaonic artefacts from Ancient Egypt. The architects’ design riffs on the austere geometry of the pyramids, with its sharply intersecting limestone planes and triangular gardens; inside, the colossal entrance atrium wows visitors, perforations in its walls and ceiling allowing sunlight to illuminate a huge statue of Ramses II (himself one of Ancient Egypt’s most ambitious builders). Ascend the grand staircase and you’ll be treated to peerless views of the Giza Plateau and the pyramids beyond.

Smritivan Earthquake Museum, Bhuj, India

The Smritivan Earthquake Museum serves as a memorial to the 2001 earthquake that killed 12,932 people in Smritivan, Gujarat. Architect Rajeev Kathpalia of Vastu Shilpa Sangath has brought the devastated site back to life with a terraced structure in sand-coloured stone. Its galleries climb up a steep incline and are connected by a winding path, their circular forms echoing the architecture of a ruined fortress overlooking the site. Kathpalia has also planted 12,932 trees, which surround the museum with a lush forest; they are watered by 50 reservoirs on which the names of the victims are engraved. Inside, the museum is divided into seven blocks named Rebirth, Rediscover, Restore, Rebuild, Rethink, Relive and Renew; each represents a different aspect of what the museum symbolises. Artefacts, art and virtual-reality displays explore Gujarat’s topography and its vulnerability to natural disasters, as well as the story of recovery.

Simose Art Museum, Hiroshima, Japan

There’s a poetic beauty to Japan’s Simose Art Museum that’s hard to beat. Designed by celebrated architect Shigeru Ban, the museum takes the form of eight mobile galleries in multicoloured glass. These sit atop a reflective pool and form an arresting contrast to the surrounding landscape, which borders the Seto Inland Sea. At night, the museum is lit to a luminous effect; by day, it presents a vibrant scene with its contemporary garden of seasonal plants and flowers. Many of the latter were favourite motifs for the French Art Nouveau glass artist Emil Gallé, whose work makes up a significant portion of the museum’s collection (it also displays works by Matisse and Chagall, and a collection of Japanese dolls). From the rooftop, there’s a wonderful view of the Setouchi Islands, which partly inspired the arrangement of galleries on water.

Paleis Het Loo, Apeldoorn, The Netherlands

The new extension to the Paleis Het Loo, housed in a 17^th-century former royal palace near Apeldoorn and one of The Netherlands’ most popular museums, is the Dutch answer to the Louvre Pyramid. Rotterdam firm KAAN Architecten had the ingenious idea of using the hydraulic systems employed in the palace gardens as a creative springboard for an underground extension. Visible at ground level as a serene oval pool and fountain in the palace courtyard, it incorporates glass skylights that illuminate a series of white marble galleries beneath. Reflecting the symmetry of the baroque palace but at the same time utterly modern, the extension houses a museum for children and a permanent exhibition on the Dutch royal family.

Oman Across Ages Museum, Manah, Oman

Oman’s breathtaking new national museum, designed by Australian firm Cox Architecture, is inspired by the landscape that surrounds it: situated on a flat desert plain with the Al Hajar Mountains in the distance, its gleaming white exterior is dominated by a towering spike, which rises next to an expansive canopied plaza. The Oman Across Ages Museum is, as its name suggests, a celebration of the country’s rich history, and is located in Manah, near to the ancient capital city of Nizwa. This region has many archaeological sites and is known for its numerous historic forts. The museum is intended to inspire young Omanis to connect to their past, and has been many years in the making – it was the vision of Oman’s late ruler, His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said al Said.

Polish History Museum, Warsaw, Poland

The Polish History Museum forms part of one of the biggest museum complexes in the world, occupying a site in the Warsaw Citadel next to the Polish Army Museum and the Katyn Museum. Its monolithic marble façade forms a dramatic contrast with the surrounding parkland, as well as referencing the layout of the barracks that formerly stood on the site. Local architecture firm WXCA has clad the new building in grey marble slabs arranged in contrasting horizontal strips, resulting in remarkable tonal and textural variations. As if to underscore this layered effect, relief patterns that represent an “archaeological cross-section” of Polish history are etched into the stone: they borrow from the design of bas-relief doors in Gniezno Cathedral, the decorations of St Sigismund’s Chapel in Krakow, and the Modernist Spodek arena complex in Katowice, among other buildings.