EVEN BEFORE WE SLIPPED our wet-suited bodies into the 72-degree waters of spring-fed Crystal River on Florida’s west coast, a curious West Indian manatee revealed its snout when it approached the platform of our pontoon boat to see what was happening. Our group squealed in delight, and we knew it was going to be a good morning of snorkeling with the manatees that gather in the natural springs in Florida to keep warm during the winter months.
According to the Save the Manatee Club, federal law protects West Indian manatees in the United States under the Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972 as well as the Endangered Species Act of 1973 and the Florida Manatee Sanctuary Act of 1978. In essence, it is illegal to harass, hunt, capture or kill any marine mammal, including manatees.
How, then, could we snorkel with the manatees in Crystal River? The Federal Government allows passive, in-water observation between manatees and people in Kings Bay, within Crystal River; this is the only area throughout Florida where it is legal to have face-toface interaction with manatees. Prior to boarding the pontoon boat, our tour with the Plantation Adventure Center at the Plantation on Crystal River began with a short lesson and video on how to practice passive observation, with a set of rules to follow once we were in the water. In addition to providing incredible experiences for their guests, the staff at Plantation Adventure Center is just as intent on protecting the manatees and their habitats.
Plantation Adventure Center is not alone in its conservation efforts. This July, Boulder, Colorado-based Natural Habitat Adventures will debut the world’s first zero-waste adventure during its Safari America: Yellowstone Country. The goal of this adventure is to divert 99 percent or more of all on-trip waste; at the end of the trip, the eco-conscious travelers should be able to fit all waste produced into a single small container.
What inspired Court Whelan, Ph.D. — director of sustainability and conservation travel programs, Natural Habitat Adventures — to create the world’s first zero-waste adventure? “There is the long-time company culture at Natural Habitat of innovation, sustainability and creativity when it comes to conservation,” he says. “Simply put, this is in our DNA, and we’re constantly challenging ourselves and the industry to raise the bar on conservation.

Rescued grizzly bear siblings Albert and Cherry © LIONS TIGERS & BEARS
“I know saving the world may seem a bit of a hyperbole, but I truly think through our actions and inspiration, that’s exactly what we’re doing. And we’re in a unique position in the industry and world to have disproportionate impact for good.”
Biosphere Expeditions, a nonprofit wildlife conservation organization with offices in Australia, France, Germany, Ireland, the U.K. and the United States, leads trips around the world through which citizen scientists participate in wildlife research alongside scientists. Options range from studying whales, dolphins and sea turtles in the Azores to Arabian oryx and Gordon’s wildcats in the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, from observing elephants in Thailand to snow leopards in Kyrgyzstan. With many more expeditions from which to choose, there are myriad ways to participate, regardless of age and background. And according to Biosphere Expeditions, two-thirds of contributions benefit the projects directly.
When it comes to Biosphere Expeditions’ impact on conservation, Dr. Matthias Hammer, executive director, says, “‘What pays, stays’ is a phrase frequently used at the interface of wildlife conservation and tourism. There are examples the world over where tourism has kept poachers, chainsaws and other destructive influences at bay. … Our citizen science expeditions are no exception, and some of our best staff are converted poachers now turned into linchpin conservationists.”

A behind-the-scenes tour © LIONS TIGERS & BEARS
Closer to home, Lions Tigers & Bears in San Diego houses animals that have been rescued from the exotic animal trade, the source of tremendous animal neglect and abuse in the United States and globally. While no direct human contact is allowed for the safety of people as well as the animals at Lions Tigers & Bears, visitors have the opportunity to participate in the Feed a Wild One experience, wherein they feed the animal of their choice, and behind-the-scenes visits incorporate opportunities to learn about and feed a number of animals. For a more immersive experience, guests can reserve the on-site luxury two-bedroom suite with private patio overlooking a three-acre lion habitat.
“Education is the key to helping animals,” says Bobbi Brink, founder and executive director, Lions Tigers & Bears. “There is not enough sanctuary space in the world to save all the exotic animals in need. Ultimately, our ability to improve the welfare of captive exotics relies on raising public awareness.”
In addition to providing rescue and life-long care to rescued animals, Lions Tigers & Bears is working on legislation and advocacy to help protect animals and end private ownership of apex predators.
Germany-based Green Pearls’ mission is to make eco-friendly destinations and accommodations, as well as authentic experiences, more visible worldwide. The organization works with hotels that have initiatives to support the welfare of animals on land, in the air and in the oceans. In Thailand, Keemala Resort & Spa maintains a strict policy against the exploitation of animals and encourages guests to avoid activities that exploit animals for tourists’ entertainment.
“Nature plays such an important role in every aspect of Keemala, from the surrounding forest to the waterfalls and rescued animals that call Keemala home, that for us it was only natural to extend this sense of responsibility outward in [the] form of our commitment to environmental sustainability and ethical tourism as well,” says Samornpun Somnam, executive director.

Rescued buffalo at Keemala Resort & Spa in Thailand © KEEMALA RESORT & SPA
“We choose to offer a variety of culturally enriching and holistic lifestyle activities that give insight into the local way of life. Guests who still wish to interact with wildlife are recommended alternative, meaningful experiences such as visiting a sanctuary where they can better appreciate the wildlife that we have in this region without further harming the welfare of these precious animals, particularly endangered ones whose lives are already so precarious,” Somnam adds.
Fashionable, eco-conscious travelers can show their support of endangered animals with pieces found in the Tiffany Save the Wild Collection from Tiffany & Co. Launched in September 2017, the collection features elephant, rhinoceros and lion designs, with 100 percent of the profits donated to the Wildlife Conservation Network. Tiffany & Co. has made a total commitment of $4 million by December 2019.
“The Tiffany Save the Wild Collection’s success so far truly underscores the increasing demand for luxury that makes an impact,” says Anisa Kamadoli Costa, chief sustainability officer, Tiffany & Co. “For over 180 years, Tiffany & Co. has been inspired by the beauty of the natural world. For this reason, we believe we have a moral imperative to protect it — and our customers are validating this belief with each purchase.”
Stefany Seipp, founder and CEO, Green Pearls, summarizes the philosophy behind conservation travel perfectly: “We owe this world to future generations. We need to act now; there is no ‘Planet B.’ Without the oceans there is no life, no blue, no green. It is our common responsibility to protect and conserve the planet.”
Read This Next
Beauty and Adventure in Patagonia
April 2019
Apr 1, 2019All Reads on This Topic
Read Them All

Introducing
FX Excursions
FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.
#globility
Insta FeedHotels
May 18, 2025Aman Announces Global Aman Club Expansion
Aman Club continues its global expansion with the introduction of Aman Club at Aman Nai Lert Bangkok. This invitation-only club offers a lifetime of privileged access across Aman’s hotels and resorts as well as Aman’s future 10 properties currently in development in the Americas, Europe and the Middle East.
Sponsored Content
Seoul: Your Next MICE Destination
Seoul has rapidly become a leading global MICE hub, known for its rich culture, advanced technology and strong economy. As the capital of South Korea, it offers a strategic location in East Asia and a booming cultural influence through K-pop, K-movies, Korean cuisine and K-dramas. With its vibrant atmosphere and business-friendly environment, Seoul is increasingly the top choice for MICE organizers and corporate travelers seeking connection and collaboration.
Cruises
May 17, 2025Viking Takes Delivery of Newest River Ship in Europe
Officially delivered March 18, Viking’s newest Longship Viking Nerthus was presented at Meyer’s Neptun Werft shipyard in Rostock Warneműnde, Germany. Accommodating up to 168 guests, Viking Nerthus spans 84 staterooms, all featuring Viking’s signature Scandinavian design.
Daily
May 16, 2025New Kosovo Philharmonic Opera, Ballet and Theatre Hall to Open This Year
A new opera and ballet theater in Kosovo will house four performance halls and a new public plaza in the capital city of Prishtina. As the first opera house in the Republic of Kosovo, the theater symbolizes the country’s rich and diverse cultural heritage while reflecting a new identity for Prishtina, rooted in creativity and a commitment to the country’s artistic growth.
Sponsored Content
Explore Europe with the Best River Cruise Line this November
Experience Europe from a fresh perspective with AmaWaterways, just awarded Best River Cruise Line by Global Traveler for the third consecutive year. Step aboard, unpack once and embark on a cruise through iconic capital cities and awe-inspiring landscapes. AmaWaterways' ships, which accommodate an average of just 156 guests, offer a spacious yet intimate setting. Throughout your journey, you'll enjoy exquisite farm-to-table dining; unparalleled service; and a variety of included excursions, from city tours for gentle walkers to thrilling bike rides along the rivers.
Daily
May 16, 2025Inkaterra Hotels Make a Peru Trip Unforgettable
Looking to plan the ultimate trip to Peru, but not sure where to start? Inkaterra is here to help. With properties in multiple cities throughout the country and various immersive itineraries, Inkaterra makes it easy for your dream trip to Peru to come to life.
Culture Runs Deep in the Old Town of Corfu
May 2025
May 15, 2025Daily
May 14, 20256 Unforgettable Dining Experiences Around the World
Hungry for adventure? These destinations offer unique dining experiences worth the trip.
Sponsored Content
Sail Unique with Explora Journeys
SAIL UNIQUE: A New Chapter in Luxury Ocean Travel Imagine a place where modern European elegance meets the rhythm of the sea — where time slows down, and every detail is crafted to inspire connection and quiet indulgence. This is Explora Journeys, the luxury lifestyle ocean brand from MSC Group created to redefine how we explore the world.
eFlyer Reviews
May 14, 2025Hotel Van Zandt Review
One step onto Austin’s Rainey Street and you’ll feel like you’ve joined the cool kids at the best playground in the city. Just behind the cottage bars, pint-sized skyscrapers soar. One of them, Hotel Van Zandt, the Rainey district's pièce de resistance, beckons with a song-like spirit —apropos because the independently owned property, rife with music motifs, was named after beloved singer-songwriter Townes Van Zandt. Sixteen stories high, the hotel embodies Austin’s lust for music, manifesting with a vinyl corner; trumpet chandeliers; myriad musical references; replica vintage posters in frames; and its own live music venue, which doubles as its acclaimed restaurant, Geraldine’s. Don’t miss the mesmerizing installation of colorful origami-like birds composed from vinyl records that flitter from an old phonograph.
ShareThis