Where to go in winter: These holiday destinations are our favourites during the cold season

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Top sun destinations in winter

Winter in Germany tends to be cold and dark. We miss the warmth, the sun, the light. That's why we're only too happy to pack our sustainable suitcases and hit the road. So the question is: Where to go in winter? We'll tell you here.

When planning our travels, we naturally let our hearts guide us. We dream of going to the sea, to the mountains, to pretty cafés in European cities. But there is one factor we never forget: sustainability. We want to enjoy our holidays - without putting too much strain on the environment. For us, relaxation goes hand in hand with a clear conscience.

Sure, we would love to escape the cold and soak up some sun far away. However, air travel to the sea is not the IMPACKT we want to have on our environment. The CO2 emissions are too high here.

So the more concrete question is: Where to travel in winter if the holiday is to be as climate-friendly as possible? Is it perhaps possible to travel to warm countries in a more environmentally friendly way?We'll answer this question in advance: yes, we can minimise our flight emissions. Sun and beach are feasible under certain circumstances. We'll tell you what those are later. For now, we'll dream our way to breathtaking holiday destinations and give you tips for your next trip in the cold season.

Where is it warm in winter? Our top sun destinations for the winter months

We once learned in geography class that it's always summer somewhere. This is because our earth is slightly "tilted" and one part of our planet is always closer to the sun. In our summer months this is the northern hemisphere, in our winter months it is the southern hemisphere. That's why summer in Australia, for example, is between December and February and reaches up to 37 degrees in some regions, while we freeze at 5 degrees in Germany.So let's start right here, in Australia. And then travel to five other destinations where it is warm in winter.

1. Australien

Those who have a little more time for a trip should consider Australia as a holiday destination. The flight to the distant continent often takes more than 24 hours, but a trip is always worthwhile. Whether it's the Opera House in Sydney or the Great Barrier Reef off the north-east coast - Australia convinces with a mixture of modern metropolises and unique nature.

Our IMPACKT sustainability check:

To protect the unique coral reefs off the coast of Australia, every visitor to the Great Barrier Reef pays an environmental fee. Try not to touch or damage the corals on your exploration of the UNESCO World Heritage Site.

If you want to make your Australian trip truly sustainable, we recommend that you go completely easy on the coral reefs and use alternatives instead. Our favourite: Bondi Beach. The beach very close to Sydney was named Australia's most sustainable beach in 2016. Here, an entire community takes care of keeping nature clean and ensuring more biodiversity in the water. You can even join in directly: Every Sunday, the "Responsible Runners" meet to collect plastic waste for 30 minutes while jogging and walking. They actively fight ocean plastic - one of the biggest environmental problems of our time. Did you know that 10 million tonnes of plastic end up in our oceans every year?

Another tip: In the south of Australia, you can discover how tourism and environmental protection work together in the Arkaba Conservancy with its private nature reserve and hotel. For those interested in culture, there are projects that preserve the cultural heritage of the Aborigines.

2. Canary Islands

A second answer to the question "Where to go in winter?" is: Off to the Canary Islands. Whether Gran Canaria, Fuerteventura or Tenerife - on the islands off the northwest coast of Africa it is at least 20 degrees all year round. The fresh sea breeze ensures a pleasant climate on hot days. In addition, it rarely rains and you are almost guaranteed good weather. If you don't want to spend your winter trip completely on the beach, you can explore the beauty of the Canary Islands on a hike through the varied landscapes.

Our IMPACKT Sustainability Check:

The Canary Island of Tenerife in particular is a good destination for environmentally conscious holidaymakers. For example, whale watching is offered on the island, which is subject to strict regulations so that the whales are not disturbed in their habitat. In addition, a visit to the numerous farms with organic production can support the local sustainable economy.

Another advantage of a winter trip to the Canary Islands: The flight time is only 4 to 5 hours, so that less paraffin is emitted during a flight - compared to Australia and Co.

3. Thailand

If you want it to be really warm, travel to Thailand. Temperatures here are usually between 20 and 30 degrees - unless you're going to the north of the country. Thailand is a captivating destination with fantastic beaches and turquoise water. The country's diverse landscape and culture promise a holiday that will be remembered for a long time, even far from the beaches.

Our IMPACKT sustainability check:

By visiting the markets of local vendors, you will discover the culture in a special way and support the local economy at the same time. If you want to help preserve the local biodiversity on your trip to Thailand, a visit to one of the elephant sanctuaries is worthwhile. Here, the proceeds benefit the animals.

In addition to sustainable activities, you will also find environmentally friendly accommodation in Thailand.The following hotels are known for their environmental projects or are certified with eco-labels:

Soneva Kiri
The Pavilions Anana Krabi
Eco-Logic Thailand

When looking for accommodation, we pay attention to three factors in particular: size, certificates and regionality. It is important to us that our holiday supports locals and smaller accommodation that offers regional food and saves resources and energy.

4. Egypt

Who hasn't dreamed of marvelling at the famous pyramids or crossing the Nile? From November to February you can do this in Egypt with pleasant daytime temperatures of around 20 degrees. Only at night does it cool down a little.

What's special about the country in North Africa? You can really relax and enjoy idyllic landscapes. One highlight: riding a camel through the desert and enjoying regional specialities in a traditional Bedouin village at sunset.

Our IMPACKT sustainability check:

In Egypt, you can recognise sustainable hotels by the green stars. They make it easier for you to pay attention to the eco-balance when choosing accommodation. The origin of the so-called Green Star Hotel Initiative is the growing tourism in Egypt and the resulting enormous increase in resource consumption. The project promotes sustainable energy supply and better water and waste management.

Accommodations with a green star are:

Balina Paradise Abu Soma Hotel
Shams Prestige
Taba Hotel & Nelson Villagee
Steigenberger Coraya Beach

5. South Africa

A fact that surprises us every time we talk about South Africa: Even though the flight takes about 10 hours, there is no time difference. Germany and South Africa are in the same time zone. Exciting, isn't it?

If you want to travel around South Africa, the best place to start is Cape Town. The metropolis of millions is a city like no other. Situated at the foot of the famous Table Mountain, it combines breathtaking nature with multicultural flair. It mixes modern urbanity and a relaxed atmosphere. A climb up Table Mountain crowns your stay in the so-called "Mother City" (Cape Town is the oldest city in South Africa). From the summit you have a breathtaking view over the city and the ocean. In addition, more plant species grow here than in England.

There are also great landscapes to discover outside Cape Town. We love the mountain scenery - especially the Drakensberg. During the hikes we can really take a deep breath and enjoy the beauty of our earth.

The only way to experience even more nature is on safari. Here, however, it is important to find out about animal welfare before you go. Avoid programmes where you can pet lions and feed baby giraffes. This is just stress for the animals.

Our IMPACKT sustainability check:

There are now private reserves recognised by Fair Trade, which you can find via Fair Trade Safaris. These support conservation projects and philanthropic programmes with their income.If you join a group instead of driving yourself, you'll also be helping the environment.

Speaking of transport and joining a group: South Africa's hotspots are usually a bit far apart. To get from A to B as sustainably as possible, we recommend the Baz Bus. This is a small hop-on hop-off bus that travels even long distances and through a whole 40 cities in South Africa. If you get on this bus, you will not only save money and CO2, but you will also meet many people who also pay attention to their IMPACTS and certainly have more tips on how to travel through South Africa in an environmentally conscious way.

6. Mexico

Many European holidaymakers don't think of Mexico first when considering "where to go in winter". But there are many reasons why you should have a trip to the Central American country on your bucket list. Besides beautiful Caribbean beaches and colourful cities, the country offers great cultural diversity. Especially the temples inspire holidaymakers from all over the world. The climate varies depending on the region. The best time to travel is from December to May with temperatures around 30 degrees.

Our IMPACKT sustainability check:

If you want to make a contribution to the protection of the sea in Mexico, then the Nakawe project on the Pacific coast of Mexico is just the right destination for you. Here you can book expeditions guided by marine biologists, the proceeds of which go towards the preservation of biodiversity.

Wildlife is a big issue in Mexico in general. The country is the fourth most biodiverse nation in the world. Once we leave the sea, where we see turtles, dolphins, rays and whales, we either enter the jungle with monkeys, sloths, pumas and toucans or the desert and encounter wolves, coyotes, black bears, lynxes and tapirs. Seeing these fascinating creatures in their natural environment is a highlight of a trip through Mexico. There is only one thing better: protecting this biodiversity and supporting various projects on site.

Sustainable air travel - is that even possible?

Earlier, we promised to go into more detail on the topic of "flight and sustainability" and announced that it is possible to minimise flight emissions. Of course, the easiest - and most environmentally friendly - way is not to get on a plane in the first place. But sometimes our wanderlust or the need for a little more sunshine is so great that we toy with the idea of travelling by plane. So how can we still make a less negative IMPACT? Is it possible to "fly more sustainably"?

If you want to fly on holiday with a better conscience, you have the option of offsetting a flight. In a CO2 offset, the emissions caused are compensated. How does this work? You can enter your departure and destination airports with a provider.Depending on the distance flown, an amount to be paid is calculated. You pay this amount to the provider as compensation. They in turn use the money paid to support climate protection projects.

By the way, your emissions are better off if you stay longer at your destination. Especially if you fly further, the long journey is all the more worthwhile for you.

Picturesque destinations for the winter: Off to the snow - but please be sustainable

If CO2 offsetting is not enough for you and your IMPACKT to travel with a clear conscience, you can spend your winter holiday in places closer to home that can be reached by car or, at best, by train.

As an alternative to the often rather rainy Germany, a winter holiday in Austria, for example, is worthwhile. The country is particularly popular for a skiing holiday, but hiking through the picturesque winter landscapes is also worthwhile here. Tyrol or Switzerland are also popular destinations in winter, attracting visitors with picturesque snow-covered landscapes.

For those who prefer to stay directly in Germany, closer destinations such as Bavaria or Saxon Switzerland are ideal. The region around the Zugspitze is suitable for both skiing and snow hiking.

However, there is one thing you should be aware of on a skiing holiday: Ski slopes are often accompanied by an encroachment on nature. Forests may have to give way to hotels, slopes or lifts. Not to mention the high energy input required to operate the ski slopes. Since many of them are operated with artificial snow, huge amounts of electricity and water are necessary.

So are we being led up the garden path on our skiing holidays? Not necessarily: the ever louder criticism of the high resource consumption of ski resorts has already inspired sustainable innovations. More and more ski resorts are switching to a renewable energy supply. The ski region in Brixen, for example, already relies on sustainable snow cannons and has a solar-powered ski lift. Other ski resorts already offer e-car rental services. This way you can travel comfortably and sustainably by public transport and still be mobile on site.

Where to go in winter: Winter city breaks

We conclude our winter travel guide with probably our most sustainable favourite: Train trips to European cities. Especially in the pre-Christmas season, city trips are highly recommended. Decorated shop windows here, small Christmas markets there and glittering lights everywhere - cities like Paris, Antwerp, Brussels, Amsterdam or Nuremberg enchant with a unique atmosphere in December. Another advantage: travelling by train is not only comfortable and saves emissions, it is also cheaper and often an experience in itself.

Since September 2022, for example, there is a night train from Hamburg to Stockholm. You board your compartment in the evening and arrive rested in the Swedish capital the next morning. You'll land overnight in a winter wonderland with a unique Scandinavian old-town flair. Your first stop in Stockholm should be at the bakery. Order a Kanelbulle - Sweden's popular cinnamon bun - and let the spicy Christmas aroma melt in your mouth. Then explore the city by bus and metro.

Where to go in winter if you want a sustainable holiday?

Let's summarise how sustainable travel can work in winter. Our IMPACKT list should inspire you to make more conscious decisions when planning your next holiday.

What can I look for when choosing a destination in winter?

The further away the destination, the worse the eco-balance is likely to be.
Travelling by train is more climate-friendly than by car or plane.
Instead of going on a skiing holiday, snow hiking could be a sustainable alternative.
If you are planning a skiing holiday, you should find out beforehand how sustainably the slopes are managed and whether you can travel without your own car.
Sustainability labels help you choose climate-friendly accommodation.
You can pay to offset the CO2 emissions of your flights.

Good to know: It's not just your destination that affects the carbon footprint of your holiday. With sustainable suitcases, you can also be environmentally conscious when choosing your luggage. Discover the high-quality suitcases made from recycled materials now and make an IMPACKT for the environment.

Sources:

https://www.australia.com/de-de/places/cairns-and-surrounds/sustainable-holiday-great-barrier-reef.html
https://www.australia.com/de-de/things-to-do/luxury/sustainable-travel-experiences-in-australia.html
https://www.urlaubsguru.de/reisemagazin/nachhaltiger-tourismus-teneriffa/
https://www.urlaubsguru.de/reisemagazin/nachhaltiger-tourismus-thailand/
https://de.qantara.de/inhalt/nachhaltiger-tourismus-in-agypten-die-grunen-sterne-von-el-gouna
https://www.ageg-tourism.de/projekte-referenzen.html?id=28
https://fairtradesafaris.com
https://bazbus.com
https://www.daserste.de/information/politik-weltgeschehen/weltspiegel/mexiko-216.html
https://utopia.de/ratgeber/fliegen-co2-kompensation-ausgleich/
https://www.atmosfair.de/de/kompensieren/flug/
https://reisevergnuegen.com/nachhaltiger-skiurlaub-slow-mountain/
https://utopia.de/nachhaltiger-winterurlaub-118451/

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