Sustainable Travel in the Caribbean
Recently, in reaction to the Caribbean’s increasing vulnerability to climate change – stronger and more frequent tropical storms, coastal areas at risk from rising sea levels – and a mass-tourism model that benefits few locals, a sustainable travel scene has been emerging. From farm visits and dance lessons to community tours and hiking in protected areas, these experiences show a different side of the islands, where your holiday money directly and positively impacts communities, aiding preservation and conservation efforts.
The Farm-to-Fork Feast
Peg Farm, Barbados
A half-hour drive north-east of the nightlife hub of St Lawrence Gap, this 108-acre estate is part of a growing movement on the island to reduce its dependency on imported food and embrace a healthier diet. Experience the farm’s innovative work based on biodynamic principles, free-range animal husbandry, and permaculture to regenerate the soil after centuries of sugar-cane planting, and learn about native Bajan varieties during a stroll through the medicinal-plant garden. Indulge in lunches of plantain bowls and pulled-pork and cassava pancakes served at the café, all set against the backdrop of Barbados’s lush interior.
Address: Peg Farm, Easy Hall Plantation, Easy Hall, Barbados
Website: pegbarbados.com
The Traditional Dance Class
Corporación Piñones Se Integra, Puerto Rico
Just outside of San Juan, the bustling coastal town of Loíza is significant in cultural history as the place where the first enslaved Africans were brought to Puerto Rico. It’s their cultural legacy that this organisation protects and shares with visitors through a half-day traditional bomba dance workshop featuring live drumming. Additionally, you can arrive early to rent a bike or a kayak and explore the mangrove lagoon or beachfront, stopping for seafood fritters at one of the roadside kiosks.
Address: Corporación Piñones Se Integra, Sector Boca de Cangrejos, Campamento Piñones, Puerto Rico
Website: copipr.com
The Community-Run National Park
Wallings Nature Reserve, Antigua
Part of the island’s only remaining forest tract, located on the hilly southwest side, this reserve is managed by women from the nearby village of John Hughes. Explore a range of solo and guided hiking tours that showcase marked local flora and endemic tree species, such as the majestic silk cottons. Keep an eye out for indigenous birds, including black whiskered vireos and West Indian euphonias, while enjoying scenic views over Antigua’s harbors and the neighboring isles Montserrat and Guadeloupe. All entrance and tour fees support the reserve and provide reliable income for this unique area.
Address: Wallings Nature Reserve, John Hughes, St. Mary’s, Antigua and Barbuda
Website: wallingsnaturereserve.org
The Deeply Connected Stay
Sonido del Yaque, Dominican Republic
Locally owned guesthouses are vital for ensuring that travel funds remain within the region rather than benefitting foreign-owned companies, while also providing a more immersive experience. Nestled in the foothills of the Cordillera Central mountain range, a two-and-a-half-hour drive south of Puerto Plata’s sun-kissed beaches, this simple 10-cabin, hydro-powered riverfront property is run by a women’s cooperative in Los Calabazos. Days here are filled with nature hikes, river swims, and delicious meals, perfect for recharging before climbing nearby Pico Duarte, the tallest peak in the Caribbean.
