To really enjoy travelling the world it is important to also be a
responsible traveller and try to minimise any environmental footprints
you might leave at your destination. Amsterdam is one of the most
eco-friendly places to travel, and the Dutch people are passionate about
preserving the environmental integrity of their surroundings.
Transportation, accommodation and even restaurants are generally very
environmentally friendly in Amsterdam. Hostels, with their
sustainability efforts and convenient central locations, make walking
and biking holidays a fun and easy option that leave minimal
environmental impact.
Step One: Location
The best Amsterdam hostels are located near major tourist areas and transportation that can easily serve visitors. With just a little research it is also possible to choose one that promotes sustainability and eco-friendly living efforts - make sure the one you choose comes with recognised sustainability labels assigned by the EU. This means that the facility participates in initiatives such as renewable energy sources and energy saving lights and appliances. It may seem like a small step but it makes a big difference in the long run.
Step Two: Getting Out and About
The next step any environmentally responsible traveller can make is to ensure that everywhere they want to go is accessible via public transportation, walking or biking - and this is where the city excels. Amsterdam hostel staff can offer travellers a wealth of information on local bus and train routes as well as walking maps of the city. The favoured way to really experience the beauty of the city is of course by bicycle, for it is extremely well equipped. Bicycles are inexpensive to rent and the flat terrain of the city makes it a pleasure to navigate on two wheels. By renting a bike you may also encounter the opportunity for a guided cycling tour of the city or the sights just beyond it. Rolling through the stunning tulips fields on your own two wheels is the epitome of the Dutch experience, and the one many visitors come specifically for.
There are also some more novel ways to experience the sights and scenes of this delightful capital. The signature canals that criss-cross the city should not be missed and there are many canal boat tours on offer. However, it is also possible to explore the city's canals at your own speed in a very eco-friendly pedal-boat. Pedal-boats are easily obtained from any of the quays of Leidseplein and this is a fun and unique way to enjoy the city's waterways.
Leave the City as Beautiful as You Found It
By making every effort to minimize your own personal environmental impact you are helping to ensure the preservation of a beautiful city for future generations to come. Staying in an Amsterdam hostel, eco-friendly transportation and fun activities make environmentally friendly travelling a breeze.
Step One: Location
The best Amsterdam hostels are located near major tourist areas and transportation that can easily serve visitors. With just a little research it is also possible to choose one that promotes sustainability and eco-friendly living efforts - make sure the one you choose comes with recognised sustainability labels assigned by the EU. This means that the facility participates in initiatives such as renewable energy sources and energy saving lights and appliances. It may seem like a small step but it makes a big difference in the long run.
Step Two: Getting Out and About
The next step any environmentally responsible traveller can make is to ensure that everywhere they want to go is accessible via public transportation, walking or biking - and this is where the city excels. Amsterdam hostel staff can offer travellers a wealth of information on local bus and train routes as well as walking maps of the city. The favoured way to really experience the beauty of the city is of course by bicycle, for it is extremely well equipped. Bicycles are inexpensive to rent and the flat terrain of the city makes it a pleasure to navigate on two wheels. By renting a bike you may also encounter the opportunity for a guided cycling tour of the city or the sights just beyond it. Rolling through the stunning tulips fields on your own two wheels is the epitome of the Dutch experience, and the one many visitors come specifically for.
There are also some more novel ways to experience the sights and scenes of this delightful capital. The signature canals that criss-cross the city should not be missed and there are many canal boat tours on offer. However, it is also possible to explore the city's canals at your own speed in a very eco-friendly pedal-boat. Pedal-boats are easily obtained from any of the quays of Leidseplein and this is a fun and unique way to enjoy the city's waterways.
Leave the City as Beautiful as You Found It
By making every effort to minimize your own personal environmental impact you are helping to ensure the preservation of a beautiful city for future generations to come. Staying in an Amsterdam hostel, eco-friendly transportation and fun activities make environmentally friendly travelling a breeze.
Looking for your dream travelling experience? Jason H. Cunningham
works for Hostelling International, a company with more than 4,000
hostels worldwide in fantastic locations. For the best Amsterdam hostel,
or anywhere else, join our global community and say hi to the world.
From quality, affordable accommodation and backpacker tips, to
meaningful volunteer opportunities and enriching our eco footprint, we
are the world's local hostelling hub.
