🌿 What does it look like for you?

Sustainable travel

Author

Kevin Joseph
August 20, 2025 • Estimated Reading Time: 4 minutes

Hi viatgers,

One buzzword that you hear a lot is “sustainable”.

And when it comes to tourism… well, that can mean a lot of different things.

Because as I’m writing this, I’m sitting on the beach watching hundreds of cars try to park in a very small beach town. And all those cars are from people who flew to Alacant, rented a car, and drove to the beach.

All to be out in nature 🌴 

So sometimes I think that “sustainable” travel is a bit of an oxymoron.

That said — I believe small steps are better than no steps.

So here are some small things you can do to make your vacation more sustainable.

🏷️ Shop Local

  • Go to the town market and purchase fresh fruits, veggies, and snacks.

  • Buy your clothes from artesanal or second-hand shops.

  • Eat at small restaurants, not McDonalds

Anything you can do to make sure your money goes directly into the hands of local hospitality workers can make a big difference.

🏨 Choose a Hotel

  • Pick a hotel rather than an Airbnb

  • If you can — check their sustainability score (ESG)

  • Choose hotels within the city (so you don’t have to drive anywhere!)

Although Airbnbs can seem like a great way to support local families — it’s typically the exact opposite.

The majority of Airbnbs in Valencia are owned by foreign investors who often use fake profile pictures to make you think they’re a local.

Which means your money is going to some random landlord from another country, not to a Valencian! There are also an estimated 50k unlicensed short term rentals in Valencia. Meaning they’re not paying their taxes, either.

So when you choose a hotel, at least you know they are employing locals (and paying local taxes)!

🚿 Be Careful with Water Usage

I know you’re on vacation and you want to take that extra-long shower and hop into the jacuzzi tub.

But please remember that Valencia is one of the driest places in Europe.

So while you’re enjoying your lovely sunny vacation, remember that farmers are often struggling to make every single drop of water count.

🩹 Get Travel Insurance

Of course, I hope you don’t need it!

But in case something does happen, it’s better to have paid for a travel medical insurance like SafetyWing.

Because while Spain has one of the best healthcare systems in the world, it’s not really “free” to locals. It’s paid for by their taxes.

So if you have a travel medical insurance, you can make sure your unexpected visit is paid for by the insurance, not by the locals.

💬 Learn Some Travel Phrases

Because sustainability doesn’t only refer to the environment.

It also means sustaining the local culture, traditions, and people.

So if you come to Valencia, learn a few simple Valencian travel phrases.

You don’t need to master the language, but memorizing a few sentences shows the locals that you respect their language and culture.

Any other ideas?

Do you have some other tips to help people travel more sustainably?

Send me a message and let me know!

Bon viatge,
Kevin

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