How to Travel Eco-Consciously to Tangalle

The beautiful island of Sri Lanka is a place filled with natural wonder, hospitable people and a number of iconic landmarks. The country was voted as one of the best places to visit in the world in 2024. While it has gone through its fair share of ups and downs, the country welcomes tourists with open arms. One of the most popular areas on the island, especially for visitors looking to party, is the southern coast of the island. Tangalle, in particular, sees many tourists in and out each day. While the tourism industry is ever-growing, it is very important always to adopt sustainable practices to continue to preserve these beautiful places for future generations. This comprehensive guide offers eco-conscious travellers a game plan for how to minimise their environmental footprint while enjoying the luxuries of Tangalle.

Choose Eco-Friendly Accommodation

Choosing the appropriate accommodation is one of the most important aspects to cover on any trip or vacation. This is true for a trip to Tangalle as well. Choosing a sustainable lodging is of utmost importance if you want to be eco-conscious in your selection. Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort, for example, is an eco-luxury resort that integrates environmental stewardship into its daily operations. When choosing a resort, look for ones that follow updated eco-friendly, eco-conscious practices, such as rainwater harvesting, rigorous recycling programmes, and plastic usage minimisation. If the hotel you choose has its own organic gardens, this is an added advantage as it reduces food miles and supports local agriculture.

Image via Anantara Tangalle Peace Haven Resort

Support Local Communities

Engaging with the local community when visiting a place is a sustainable practice, and it’s the same for Tangalle. By engaging with the locals, you not only enrich your own experience but also contribute to the local economy of the region. Opt for family-run eateries, purchase handcrafted souvenirs, and participate in community-led tours. Such interactions not only provide authentic insights into Sri Lankan culture but also ensure that tourism benefits are equitably distributed.

Choosing Sustainable Transportation

Reducing your carbon footprint is very achievable. One of the best ways to do so is to choose eco-friendly modes of transport over fuel-hungry means. Tangalle's compact layout makes it ideal for walking or cycling. Consider using public buses or trains for longer journeys, which offer a more sustainable alternative to private vehicles. Suppose you're staying at a Sri Lanka luxury villa. In that case, your hosts may be able to recommend eco-friendly transportation options and even help arrange them, which will help ensure your travels remain as sustainable as your stay.

Minimise Plastic Usage

An easy way to practice eco-conscious tourism and sustainability is to minimise plastic usage in the area. Plastic pollution poses a significant threat to marine ecosystems. Travellers can mitigate this by carrying reusable water bottles, shopping bags, and utensils. Many accommodations and cafes in Sri Lanka provide refill stations for drinking water, facilitating the reduction of single-use plastics. This will help in the long run.

Use Reef-Safe Sunscreen

Protecting your skin from the sun is essential, but safeguarding marine life is equally important. Traditional sunscreens often contain chemicals harmful to coral reefs and marine organisms. Opt for reef-safe sunscreens free from oxybenzone and octinoxate to ensure your beach activities don't harm the ocean's delicate ecosystems.

Respect Wildlife and Natural Habitats

Sri Lanka's rich biodiversity is one of its main attractions. When exploring natural habitats, maintain a respectful distance from wildlife, avoid feeding animals, and stay on designated trails to prevent habitat disruption. Such practices ensure the preservation of these environments for future generations.

Embrace Slow Travel

Rather than rushing through multiple destinations, consider spending more time in fewer places. This approach allows for a deeper connection with the local culture and environment, reduces transportation emissions, and often leads to more meaningful travel experiences. While this isn't the most ideal plan to do if you already have a strict itinerary, it is suitable for visitors who choose their destinations after they land in the country of their