As we look ahead to transition to a post Covid-19 world, many people are questioning the “business as usual” model, particularly when it comes to travel.

We now want something better.

 Photo: Byron on Byron

It has certainly been a traumatic start to 2020 in Australia with our nightmare bushfire season and the coronavirus pandemic. 

There is no doubt that COVID-19 has challenged us to think about our way of life. This includes the type of consumption that underpins the outdated and unsustainable ways seen in much of the travel and tourism industries. Many travellers are now realizing that the best accommodation needs to be sustainable and aware of its ecological footprint on the local and international environment.

While all of us will remain cautious, the fact is that Australians will soon be encouraged to make plans to travel domestically — particularly to bushfire-affected regions and towns — as soon as it deemed safe to do so by the Federal and State Governments.

So while you are waiting for the official announcement, here are some great ideas to get the travel juices flowing again…. and enjoy the best of Northern NSW accommodation. 

Byron on Byron

Byron on Byron has said no to plastic water bottles and instead offer compostable and biodegradable Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) paperboard containers along with reusable glass bottles. Straws, disposable bags and takeaway containers are plastic-free, made from corn, sugar cane and related environmentally friendly and fully degradable materials.

Byron on Byron is just a few minutes from Byron Bay itself, yet is nestled in 45 acres of magical subtropical rainforest, and is a celebration of nature, responsible luxury and the local environment. Guests can walk amid the rainforest and discover the resident flora and fauna, as well as indulge in a few of life’s little luxuries with a blissful signature spa treatment in your private haven.

Read more: Byron on Byron accommodation in Northern NSW

Out of a crisis comes a realization that we need to protect what is really important.

Uralba Eco Cottages

Uralba Eco Cottages promises peace and relaxation in an ecologically sustainable natural environment. The property is run by a couple who are passionate in their care for the environment. They have spent the last 25 years not just minimising their impact on the environment, but actively improving it. Wake up to the sound of bird song and delight in the fact that you are nestled in 38 acres of sub tropical rainforest.

Stay in the newly constructed self contained Kookaburra Cottage which is entirely off-grid and set in lush sub-tropical gardens.

Uralba Eco Cottages have Advanced Ecotourism Certification and have achieved Land for Wildlife status.

Read more: Uralba Eco Cottages accommodation in Northern NSW

Silk Pavilions

Looking for glamping accommodation near Byron Bay?

Silk Pavilions offers breathtaking views of Mount Warning and The Border Ranges. Your glamping tent is surrounded by 100 acres of lush virtually unexplored, untouched forest filled with a huge variety of birdlife and native animals.

The glamping tents are a wonderful experience for those wanting to camp in nature without having to bring all the gear and spend hours setting up. The tents include some very special touches, sure to please.

Silk Pavilions have their own creek and two spring fed dams, filled with lily pads, wood ducks and frogs. There is plenty of room to walk around and explore, taking in all the fresh air and natural beauty of Silk Pavilions. They feed the resident Wallabies every day at around 4:30pm.

Read more: Silk Pavilions accommodation in Northern NSW