These places demonstrate what future-proof hospitality looks like.

Sustainable retreats with a strong hospitality vision

Sustainability is becoming increasingly prevalent in the travel industry. More and more places are demonstrating that comfort and responsibility can go hand in hand. Reisplaatje.nl visited unique accommodations around the world that are not only beautifully located, but also give something back to their surroundings. From a lodge in the middle of the rainforest to a sustainable retreat on the Vinkeveense Plassen, these three retreats show what future-proof hospitality looks like.

La Tigra Rainforest Lodge (La Fortuna, Costa Rica)

La Tigra Rainforest Lodge is located in the green heart of Costa Rica, where rain falls on the leaves almost every day. It is a sustainable accommodation in Costa Rica where you can spend the night in wooden bungalows. Here, you can sleep surrounded by greenery, hear monkeys in the distance, and literally feel how closely nature and hospitality can come together.

The lodge was built with minimal impact on the environment and runs largely on sustainable energy. As a guest, you walk along wooden boardwalks where, after dark, you can see colourful frogs sitting on the leaves around you. In addition, nature conservation and restoration are central. It is much more than just a place to stay. How did we notice this? We were actively involved in planting trees and saw with our own eyes how this contributes to the environment. This concept makes sustainability tangible for guests and enhances the experience. Those who leave here take not only memories with them, but also a piece of awareness that things can be done differently.

Papua Paradise Eco Resort (Birie, Raja Ampat, Indonesia) 

Far away from the mainland, in one of the most remote places in Indonesia, lies Papua Paradise Eco Resort. The resort's wooden bungalows stand on stilts above a turquoise sea full of coral and colourful fish. Upon arrival, the luxury is evident, but it is all without harming nature. 

On Birie Island, where Papua Paradise Eco Resort is located, water is not scarce. Clear rainwater and groundwater are abundant here, which is why the resort does not use energy-intensive purification systems that often do more harm than good. Everything here revolves around simplicity and respect for nature.

From day one, a conscious decision was made to work together with the local community. The bungalows, jetties and wooden walkways were not only built by local hands, but also designed with local knowledge. That collaboration is still visible today. The employees come from the surrounding villages and receive fair wages. The result is a warm place where luxury and local culture reinforce each other. At the same time, the resort supports nature conservation projects in Raja Ampat, so that guests can not only enjoy the reef, but also contribute to its preservation. For example, we were given a presentation by someone about coral and how it is now being planted.  

Papua Paradise proves that exclusivity and sustainability can go hand in hand. It is a fine example of how luxury in a remote location such as Raja Ampat can be future-proof, precisely by investing in nature and the people who live there.

Zwier (Vinkeveen, Netherlands)

We don't have to travel to the other side of the world to find sustainable initiatives. On the edge of the Randstad, with the Vinkeveense Plassen lakes as its backyard, lies Vrijhaven Zwier. This is a place where city dwellers can take a breather. Here, everything revolves around slowing down, connecting and living consciously. We often try out new accommodations, but we keep coming back to Vrijhaven Zwier.

At Zwier, you get a moment to recharge. Nature and the surroundings offer exactly what you need. You don't have to worry about food here, as everything is taken care of. The chefs at Zwier cook organic vegetarian meals. These are made with ingredients from local suppliers, but many also come straight from their own vegetable garden. During the day, you can entertain yourself by reading a book, and anyone who wants to can use the electric boats free of charge or take part in a breathing session. In the evening, you sleep in atmospheric tents or circular harbour houses made from sustainable European wood.

What makes this place so special is that it shows that sustainability does not have to be complicated. Using the right materials, cooking organic meals and sailing in electric whisper boats. By offering space for rest and nature experiences, Zwier creates a new kind of luxury. Close by, accessible and surprisingly innovative. You are guaranteed to return home feeling rested and with a clear head!

Sustainability can sometimes feel big and complicated, but in places like La Tigra, Papua Paradise and Zwier, you realise how simple it can actually be. Planting a tree, eating an organic meal and giving something back to the place where you are. Perhaps that is the most beautiful way to discover the world. Leaving behind something that lasts longer than your footprint in the sand.