Top 10 Eco-Friendly Asian Resorts

International eco-travel continues to grow every year as travelers across the world become more environmentally conscious when making vacation plans.

According to a recent study by the International Ecotourism Society, approximately 70 percent of travelers today prefer to pay a premium rate for hotels that are eco-friendly. As travelers the world over realize their responsibilty to protect the environment, the demand for greener travel options is increasing. Now travelers can visit more eco-friendly locations worldwide, including in Asia.

If trekking through Asia sounds like a your vacation dream, you can do so in a more eco-conscious way by staying at the continent's top green resorts. The online reservation website Agoda.com recently complied a list of the top 10 resorts in Asia for the greenest of travelers.

Top 10 Green Hotels in Asia

1.Banyan Tree Phuket, ThailandOnce described by the United Nations as a toxic wasteland, the abandoned tin mine of Banyan Tree Phuket was recently transformed into the environmental showcase it is today. Now a wildlife sanctuary, the complex resort serves as a popular green resort where guest fees go to support important conservation and community projects.

2. La Residence d' Angkor, Siem Reap, CambodiaDesigned to blend harmoniously with the environment, La Residence also possesses a strong commitment to sustainable tourism. Beyond its environmentally sound practices, the hotel also regularly donates to charities and encourages its guests to do the same. The resort supports the Angkor Hospital for Children through the weekly video screening of a video where guests can contribute second-hand items or donate money for the cause.

3. Evason Hua Hin Resort & Six Senses Spa, ThailandThe iconic thatched huts of the Evason Hua Hin Resort are eco-friendly in nature. Drawing on biodegradable products and adopting practices that conserve energy and minimize waste, the resort supports several local initiatives including the Mangrove Forest Conservation and the Kervorkian Foundation (dedicated to assisting HIV+ babies and children).

4. Nihiwatu, Sumba Island, IndonesiaThere is no place on earth like Sumba Island. Here, the indigenous traditions and animist culture of the Sumbanese people remain completely in tact. Located on 438 acres of tropical forest and rice terraces, Nihiwatu is surrounded by some of the world's most pristine beaches. The resort is strongly committed to conserving its native surrounds and improving the quality of life of the Sumbanese people.

5. Anantara Resort & Spa Golden Triangle, ThailandNestled in the tropical jungle of Thailand’s most Northern province, Anantara’s Golden Triangle resort plays a significant role in elephant conservation. Part of the Royal Thai Government’s Thai Elephant Conservation Centre (TECC), the resort helps protect the elephants, keeping them in an environment similar to their traditional surroundings. With programs for guests that include elephant trekking and forest living skills, the conservation experience is an interactive one.

6. Amar Vilas Agra, IndiaAs part of the esteemed Oberoi Resorts and Hotels, this luxury resort is within 600 meters of the majestic Taj Mahal. Besides its unique architectural and landscape design, the Amar Vilas also upholds a commitment to philanthropic activities including conserving the local environment and cultural heritage.

7. Popa Mountain Resort, Bagan, MyanmarLocated in the forest woodlands of Popa Mountain, this resort was designed to suit its surroundings. Guests are enclosed in the vibrant, yet peaceful terrain, with ample opportunities for hiking the breathtaking Mt. Popa shrine. Using biodegradable products and adopting their own recycling practices to avoid environmental damage, this small resort brings you back to nature.

8. Suneva Fushi Resort & Six Senses Spa, MaldivesJust like all Six Senses properties, this resort has a comprehensive policy on its environmental and social responsibilities. Suneva Fushi supports a myriad of Maldivian community initiatives including tree planting on Eydafushi Island and camps where citizens can get free medical treatment.

9. Tanjung Sanctuary Hotel, Langkawi, MalaysiaTrue to its name, this resort is a sanctuary for those who have a passion for nature. The Tanjung Sanctuary Hotel's design and practices uphold the ideals of sustainable tourism. Importantly, they provide a unique insight into the local flora and fauna with specially designed educational tours for guests.

10. Alila Ubud and Manggis Resorts, Bali, IndonesiaThese two resorts are in close proximity to each other and both recently achieved Green Globe certified status. Alila Ubud was awarded for recycling 80 percent of its water consumption. Alila Manggis excelled in the reduction of water and electricity consumption.

As travelers the world over realize that the responsibility to protect the environment is a shared one, they’re adopting greener lifestyles and scrutinizing the hotels and destinations they choose to stay in.

For more information on environment sustainability and green travel initiatives, visit International Tourism Partnership.

Source — Agoda