Bali is one of the most popular travel destinations in the world. The #island is flooded by millions of tourists every year. Every day new accommodation and restaurants spring up to accommodate the masses of travellers. #bali is a very fragile eco-system that is severely threatened by the tourist boom, lack of governmental protection measures and a not yet developed ecological awareness. 

A rethinking in terms of #sustainability, use of resources, #environmental protection and social compatibility is becoming increasingly important. Whoever comes to the island as a guest and traveller can do a lot within his or her possibilities to travel as gently as possible. You can positively influence your "touristic #climate footprint" through your hotel decision alone. Sustainability does not necessarily mean spending your holiday on your balcony at home, but rather taking a responsible holiday.

If possible do not book in the high season

Our first tip concerns the ideal travel time. Bali is actually an island that can be visited all year round. 

Traditionally, the dry season in July, August and September is popular with many travellers, but that's also when the prices are highest. Moreover, one cannot rely on stable weather for a long time, as even in the dry season it can happen meanwhile that there are unexpectedly heavy and long rainfalls. The climate change is also noticeable in Bali in this respect. So it makes sense to travel counter-cyclically and avoid the main season. Ideal are e.g. May/June, when the rainy season is over and the big rush has not yet started.

Catering

Even though there is a huge selection of great, rather western-oriented restaurants and cafés, try to eat once a day, if possible, in the simple, #local warungs (restaurants). Most of the times, all dishes are ready in a glass showcase and one can have the plate loaded as desired. Be careful with the sauces: In this case "spicy" usually means really hot. 

Buy local products

You should be especially careful with exotic souvenirs if they come from potentially endangered animals or plants. On the other hand, there are great local products you can take home with you, such as great natural cosmetics, handmade soaps, delicious homemade specialties, etc. 

Support local associations, NGO's & environmental organisations

There are always people who want to do things differently somehow and who are working for a better situation in Bali. You will surely find an organisation there that you would like to support. For example, green-books.org helps with education and provides suitable teaching material to sensitize children and young people for nature and environmental protection. The Friends of the National Parks take care of #nature and #wildlife, support reforestation projects and also integrate the local population in their conservation measures.

Small effort - big effect!

- Avoid plastic bags (glorifying for marine mammals, fish and birds, microplastics)

- Avoid plastic packaging at your holiday destination, as it is often not disposed of in an #environmentally friendly manner. Replace plastic bottles in particular. Beverages, for example, can be filled in reusable bottles that you bring with you.

- Use public transport where possible. Maybe even a bike?! When travelling by plane, think about the CO2 compensation, for example at atmosfair.de.