The tourism industry is all about promoting fabulous vacation destinations. To help preserve those destinations, hotels are making changes to the way they do business. Self-preservation requires that they participate in protecting the very destinations they promote.

Eco friendly hotels are a massive hit with tourists. They like knowing that they are spending their vacation dollars with hotels that recognize the importance of preserving the very sights they come to see. All of these hotels feature the ultimate in luxury and service. Let’s take a look at what many consider the top ten eco-friendly hotels in the world.

1: The Whitepod Eco-Retreat, Switzerland

They are long on amenities but make a small footprint on the environment. The resort combines high tech materials with renewable energy sources to create individual geodesic domes for guest. The domes are heated by wood. The light sources are petrol based. Access is available by dogsleds, show shoes or skies as there are no roads up to the resort.

2: Chumbe Island Coral Park Zanzibar, Tanzania

Nestled on a small previously uninhabited island, the Chumbe Island Coral Park, is dedicated to preserving the coral reef ecosystems of the area. The resort is solar powered. It uses grey water systems, composting and other large-scale preservation techniques. The eco-bungalows are private and practical. There are only seven bungalows ensuring privacy and first class service. The island can only be reached by boat.

3: Gaia Napa Valley Hotel and Spa, USA

This is a great blend of creature comforts and eco-friendly design. The resort has everything a guest would expect. Luxuriously appointed rooms, world class cuisine and unparalleled service make it a resort to remember. The resort uses environmentally sustainable materials and products in its operation. Energy efficiency, recycling, and waste reduction are three of the main principals the hotel uses to stay green.

4: Tiamo Resort,  Bahamas

This small, intimate resort offers eleven individual guest bungalows. The design is so efficient that the entire resort uses the same amount of electricity in a month as an average American household. Privacy and simplicity help bring this resort to the top ten eco-friendly hotels list.

5: Spice Island Resort, Grenada

Located on the lush island of Grenada visitors are immersed in luxury. No detail is left unattended. They also attend to the needs of the environment. The salt water pool eliminates the need for chlorine. Solar powered hot water saves energy and eco-friendly electrical appliances help complete their efforts to save resources.

6: The Q Hotel and Spa, Kansas, USA

The Q is Kansas City’s contribution to the top ten eco-friendly hotels list. Being designed for maximum energy efficiency is just the beginning. They use environmentally friendly cleaning products and even have a hybrid shuttle. All of these efforts pay off in big dividends that the hotel puts into the opulent decor and amazing service.

7: Voyages Longitude 131, Australia

Five star luxury in a tent. Each “tent” is designed to provide the maximum amount of comfort using the minimum amount of resources. Reverse cycle air-conditioning allows guests to achieve their own personal level of comfort. They have all the services of a big resort, yet make a small foot print on this primitive landscape. Water and energy conservation are a must in this environment. You can fly to Uluru although there are more cheap domestic flights to Alice Springs from cities across Australia.

8: Adrere Amellal, Egypt

Located in the desert, this resort blends in almost seamlessly with the surroundings. Made of traditional clay and water, there is no electricity in the resort. Beeswax candles and organic meals create a unique experience. This resort goes all natural. A true pioneer among eco friendly hotels.

9: Devil’s Thumb Ranch, Colorado, USA

This is the perfect resort for those who love the vast outdoors. They ranch prides themselves on offering activities that nature intended. Horseback riding, fishing, canoeing, and more keep spring travelers busy. Winter brings skiers, explorers and the like. The Ranch keeps things natural and uncluttered. They promote energy conservation, composting, recycling and other strategies for staying green.

10: Soneva Fushi Resort, Maldives

The resort sits in on an island surrounded by a fabulous coral lagoon. They are working toward achieving a state of carbon neutrality. Furnishings are made from renewable resources and energy conservation is crucial. They pride themselves on offering intelligent luxury.

All of these eco-friendly hotels are totally committed to saving resources while offering the best in luxury, privacy and service. Stay there would be an active method to minimise your carbon footprint when travelling. World class hotels do not have to encroach on the destinations they promote. These hotels are proof that they can exist peacefully and productively.