Ever since Covid, individuals have developed the mindset of building back better, and thus, improving upon the conditions of travel and tourism. Responsible and sustainable tourism has come into being in recent times more than ever before. The Sustainable Travel Index 2023 lists some of the most sustainable destinations in the world. It is a set of thorough data reached at and published by the Euromonitor International.
The organisation has several microscopic lenses under which they put countries to test. The lenses include factors such as environmental policies, conservation efforts, social awareness, cultural preservation, risks and demands, transportation and lodgings, and responsible tourism practices. Explore the top 7 countries from the most recent list of sustainable travel destinations released by the European organisation.
Sweden, a country in Europe, boasts numerous coastal islands and inland lakes, vast boreal forests and glaciated mountains. It is dedicated to sustainable practices and has made significant efforts to decrease its carbon footprint in several sectors, including tourism. The nation is recognized for its eco-friendly lodgings, effective public transportation, and initiatives to encourage responsible outdoor activities.
Finland is in Northern Europe and borders Sweden, Norway and Russia. Helsinki, the capital of Finland, brandishes 18th-century sea fortress Suomenlinna, the iconic Design District, and diverse museums. The country is also famous for the Northern Lights. Here, nature conservation and sustainable tourism are highly prioritised. The country is renowned for its ecotourism initiatives, wilderness retreats, and provisions for tourists to engage with nature while reducing their ecological footprint.
Austria is located in Central Europe and is surrounded by the Eastern Alps. The country is famous for its magnificent architectural structures such as castles, palaces, and other buildings. When visiting Austria, tourists should not miss out on seeing places like Festung Hohensalzburg, Burg Hohenwerfen, Castle Liechtenstein, and the Schloss Artstetten. Austria is also well-known for its dedication to promoting sustainability in its tourism industry. The nation encourages the use of public transportation, energy-efficient accommodations, and sustainable food practices.
Estonia is situated in Northern Europe and shares borders with the Gulf of Finland and the Baltic Sea. The country contains more than 1,500 islands with unique terrain, including rocky beaches, old-growth forests, and numerous lakes. The landscape is decorated with castles, churches, and hilltop fortresses. The country has dedicated about one-fifth of its land to nature reserves, ensuring its preservation for future generations. Estonia's commitment to nature has also earned it a reputation as one of the most sustainable countries in the world.
Norway, which is situated in Scandinavia, boasts of its mountainous terrain, glaciers, and extensive coastal fjords. The city of Oslo, the capital of the country, is characterised by verdant spaces and museums. One of the city's famous attractions is the Viking Ship Museum, which showcases 9th-century Viking ships. Norway is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty and is committed to sustainable tourism. The country prioritises eco-friendly transportation, promotes responsible conduct in delicate ecosystems, and backs local communities through sustainable tourism programs.
Slovakia is a Central European nation that boasts a significant geographical location as it shares borders with Poland, Ukraine, Hungary, Austria, and the Czech Republic. The country is renowned for its unique castles, caves, hot springs, folk architecture, the European Dead Sea, a famous Celtic town, European wilderness, and many other attractions. Slovakia is ranked highly in the Sustainable Travel Index, thanks to its commitment to Agenda 2030, which aims to transform it into a completely sustainable society. The country adheres to three main principles to achieve sustainable development, which include sustainable public policies, individual dedication and inter-generational engagement, and partnerships for sustainable solutions.
Slovenia, located in Central Europe, boasts of a picturesque landscape that includes mountains, lakes, and ski resorts. Its capital city, Ljubljana, is a blend of baroque facades and modern architectural designs created by the renowned architect Jože Plečnik. The famous Tromostovje or Triple Bridge that spans over the meandering Ljubljanica River adds to the city's charm. Apart from its scenic beauty, Slovenia has gained recognition for its sustainable initiatives. These initiatives cover a wide range of areas such as resource management, waste management, protection of natural zones, forests, and wood, social inclusion promotion, and more. The country is also a leader in greening the economy through strategic smart specialisation approaches, generating green employment opportunities, reforming eco-friendly financial practices and public procurement, advocating for sustainable urban development and transportation policies, and encouraging ecologically mindful agricultural practices.