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BY  Sibashree Oct 29, 2025

São Tomé and Príncipe is about to take a significant step in developing a sustainable tourism sector. The sustainable tourism sector will be further well-balanced in terms of the economic indicators.  The United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) and the United Nations Resident Coordinator’s Office will support this move. In this context, the country will hold a United Voices for Sustainable Tourism dialogue on 30th October 2025, and there will be a technical validation workshop on 29th October.  It will be the second phase of the Tourism Satellite Account (TSA) Development Project that will give São Tomé and Príncipe a strategic tool to measure the economic contribution of tourism to the nation’s wealth. Thus, it will establish why leveraging tourism is crucial for the sustainable development and economic diversification of the country.  Furthermore, the latest workshop before this dialogue, held on 15th to 18th September 2025, has highlighted the 11% contribution of the country’s tourism sector to the GDP and 10% of the Gross Value Added (GVA).  With the country taking a step forward in sustainable tourism, the São Tomé eco-lodges are also going to play a critical role. With the use of renewable energy, community involvement, local sourcing, and sustainable architecture, these lodges are also helping us to travel green.  In this blog, I will introduce the popular and lesser-known São Tomé eco-lodges, what practices they follow, the hidden gems of São Tomé and Príncipe, and more.  What Makes An Eco-Lodge In São Tomé Truly Sustainable? Before diving into the list, let’s define what sets a true eco-lodge apart: Renewable energy sources (solar, hydro) Local sourcing of food and materials Waste reduction and water conservation Community involvement and fair employment Eco-certifications or transparent sustainability practices Popular São Tomé Eco-Lodges The best eco-lodges in São Tomé and Príncipe for sustainable travel are committed to preserving the community and nature of the islands. Many of these eco-lodges also support conservation efforts and organize nature walks to help the visitors understand the local ecosystem.  Nevertheless, here are the most popular ones.  1. Omali Lodge (São Tomé) View this post on Instagram A post shared by dr. András Peres (@drandrasperes) With policies governed by the Biosphere Responsible Tourism standards, Omali Lodge. It has the Biosphere Responsible Tourism certification. It is a leader of sustainable tourism in São Tomé and Príncipe.  Local artists and craftsmen are involved in the operations of the Omali Lodge, staying true to its commitment to community development. Furthermore, the menu here focuses on national dishes prepared with locally-sourced ingredients.  However, it offers adequate Wi-Fi connectivity. So, if you are not looking for a complete digital detox and want to work remotely, then it is also a good choice.  2. Bom Bom Island Resort (Príncipe) View this post on Instagram A post shared by Maria Helena Vinhas Frade (@mhvf) The Bom Bom Island Resort is the first African hotel to receive the Biosphere certification from the Instituto de Turismo Responsable (ITR).  Currently, the main aim of the hotel is to go completely diesel-free in its daily operations. The hotel has 68 local workers, as Sérgio Duarte has mentioned in a recent conversation with the Sustainability Leaders United.  Furthermore, the hotel procures resources from the local producers. Also, it collects donations from the guests to invest in employee training programs. Thus, it helps in educating and empowering the community.  The experiences it offers are: Turtle watching Maria Correia waterfall trail hiking Birdwatching Parrot Peak trail hiking Roça Infante trail hiking Stand-up paddleboarding Snorkeling It is also a friendly accommodation for digital nomads with Wi-Fi connectivity, included within the accommodation package. Moreover, the main part of the resort is wheelchair-accessible.  So, it is one of the accessible eco-lodges in São Tomé and Príncipe.  3. Praia Inhame Eco Lodge (São Tomé) View this post on Instagram A post shared by PATRÍCIA PINHEIRO (@patrwisha) Claimed to be “Naturally Comfortable,” Praia Inhame Eco Lodge is one of the best eco-lodges with turtle watching in São Tomé. A local NGO, MARAPA, runs the Tatô Program to protect marine turtles in São Tomé.  Praia Inhame Eco Lodge has been working with this NGO since 2012. It has helped the NGO to implement this program on Inhame and Cabana beaches.  The wilderness and outdoor activities offered by this eco lodge are: Marine turtle observation Whale watching Birdwatching Diving Fishing Boat trips Moreover, places such as Hell's Mouth, Saint Sebastian Museum, St. Nicholas Waterfall, St. Thomas Peak, and Jale Beach are some nearby attractions of this eco-lodge.  In addition, it is one of the São Tomé eco-lodges with Wi-Fi connectivity. So, it is also a favorite of digital nomads who can travel and work remotely.  4. Sundy Praia (Príncipe Island) View this post on Instagram A post shared by HBD Príncipe (@hbd_principe) Sundy Praia has a dedicated team for waste management and recycling. Furthermore, it leads community cleaning drives to spread awareness about the impact of litter.  Also, the “screw-in” mechanism of the eco lodge’s architecture ensures a minimal impact on the environment of the island.  Moreover, located inside the beachside rainforest, it is indeed an eco lodge.  The experiences it offers are: Turtle watching Maria Correia waterfall trail hiking Birdwatching Parrot Peak trail hiking Roça Infante trail hiking Stand-up paddleboarding Snorkeling Moreover, you can be a part of the 3-hour Discover Santo António tour. Also, it is a favorite of digital nomads for Wi-Fi connectivity.  In addition, Sundy Praia offers wheelchair accessibility to make the travel experience more inclusive.  5. Roça Sundy (Príncipe) View this post on Instagram A post shared by Nina Scott (@nina.wolfs.scott) As part of the Príncipe Collection, like Sundy Praia and Bom Bom, Roça Sundy also follows that when you visit it, you make a Conservation and Communities Contribution (CCC).  You spend a night here, and they will contribute €25 for the environmental and community development of Príncipe. In addition, nearly 10% of the adults of Príncipe work with them.  Moreover, the experiences it offers are: Turtle watching Maria Correia waterfall trail hiking Birdwatching Parrot Peak trail hiking Roça Infante trail hiking Stand-up paddleboarding Snorkeling 6. Mucumbli Lodge (São Tomé) View this post on Instagram A post shared by Mucumbli Explore (@mucumbli.explore) Mucumbli Lodge overlooks the Atlantic Ocean, and it offers the quintessential eco-lodge experience with wooden chalets.  Furthermore, due to its unique location, it is one of the best remote eco-lodges for digital detox in Africa.  Lesser-Known Accommodations Following The Best Sustainable Practices In São Tomé And Príncipe Island The options for São Tomé eco-lodges are more varied than you can expect. Here are the lesser-known ones or the hidden gems.  1. Jalé Ecolodge (São Tomé) View this post on Instagram A post shared by IATI Seguros PORTUGAL (@iatisegurospt) Jalé Ecolodge offers beautiful sea views from all units. You can enjoy snorkeling nearby and have the best continental breakfast sourced from local ingredients.  2. Roca Monte Forte (São Tomé) It is the first rural tourism place to open in São Tomé. Here, you will be staying inside a cocoa plantation with history, and you will lead the quintessential Santomean farm life.  Furthermore, it offers easy access to nearby beaches in the northern area, such as Governador, Tamarindos, Conchas, and Blue Lagoon.  3. Domus Praia Jalé (São Tomé) View this post on Instagram A post shared by Domus Praia Jalé (@domuspraiajale) Domus Praia Jalé is the best location if you want to have good food and relax in nature. It has an on-site restaurant serving international delicacies made with local ingredients.  Also, they have a private beach where you can relax and listen to the waves.  Seasonal Travel Tips For Staying At The Eco Lodges In São Tomé and Príncipe June to September, or the dry season, is the best time to stay at the eco-lodges in São Tomé and Príncipe for mild weather conditions and wildlife watching.  1. For Whale Watching Bom Bom Island Resort in Príncipe and Mucumbli in São Tomé are some of the best eco-lodges for whale watching. July to October is the whale watching season here.  2. For Sea Turtle Nesting Praia Inhame Eco Lodge in São Tomé and Bom Bom Island Resort in Príncipe are the best eco-lodges for seeing turtle nesting. November to March is the ideal time for this experience.  Budget Breakdown: What Is The Average Cost Per Night At Eco Lodges In São Tomé and Príncipe? Here is a cost comparison between eco-lodges, not budget-friendly options. Find out the budget eco-lodges in the islands.  Name of the Eco-LodgeApproximate Cost Per Night/ Per Person (€)Omali Lodge222Bom Bom Island Resort250Praia Inhame Eco Lodge95Sundy Praia420Roça Sundy150Mucumbli Lodge45Jalé Ecolodge55 5-Day Sustainable Travel Itinerary In São Tomé And Príncipe Here is a quick 5-day sustainable travel itinerary in São Tomé and Príncipe.  DaysActivitiesDay 1• Staying at Omali Lodge• Visiting São Tomé city center and local marketsDay 2• Transfer to Mucumbli Lodge• Guided hiking and cacao farm visitDay 3• Moving to Praia Inhame Eco Lodge• Evening turtle tourDay 4• Flight to Príncipe• Staying at Sundy Praia• Exploring a biosphere reserveDay 5• Visiting Roça Sundy• Cultural tour and local lunch Hidden Gems In São Tomé And Príncipe If you want a deeper, more authentic connection to the islands’ nature, culture, and history, you must explore these hidden gems. 1. Malanza Mangrove Canoe Tour: Ideal For Nature Lovers And Photographers View this post on Instagram A post shared by Santo Tomé y Príncipe ESP (@santotomeyprincip) Take a canoe ride through the mangrove forests of southern São Tomé. It is a delightful eco-tour through waterways blessed by lush greenery, endemic flora, and a vibrant birdlife.  2. Pico Cão Grande: Enjoy The Best View From The Obo National Park Trails Pico Cão Grande is the most dramatic natural view you will enjoy here. This volcanic plug, with a height of 663 meters, is almost surreal.  3. Ilhéu Das Rolas And The Equator Marker: Best For Beach Lovers And Geography Buffs View this post on Instagram A post shared by Viagem a São Tomé (@viagem.a.saotome) Ilhéu Das Rolas is a small island off the south of São Tomé. You can take a boat ride here to stand on the equator line.  Also, you can explore the pristine beaches here and have a delightful snorkeling experience.  4. Roça São João Dos Angolares: Great For Cultural Immersion And Sustainable Tourism Roça São João Dos Angolares is an eco lodge that was formerly a plantation. It is also a cultural center. It offers cooking classes, storytelling events with local artists, and art exhibitions.  5. Boca Do Inferno (Hell’s Mouth): Visit During High Tide For Full Effect This dramatic blowhole on the southern coast of São Tomé is the perfect example of juxtaposition. Here, the waves kiss the volcanic cliffs with the water jets reaching the sky.  6. Praia Jalé Turtle Nesting Site Find the sea turtles nesting here during the November to March season. Praia Inhame Eco Lodge in São Tomé and Bom Bom Island Resort in Príncipe are the best places for watching turtle nesting.  7. Nova Estrela Viewpoint (Príncipe Island): Ideal For Sunrise Hikes And Drone Photography View this post on Instagram A post shared by HBD Príncipe (@hbd_principe) It is a beautiful viewpoint offering panoramic vistas of the rainforest and coastline of Príncipe.  8. Roça Água Izé: Offers Insight Into The Island’s Colonial Past View this post on Instagram A post shared by Francisco Almada Lobo (@almadalobo) It is an abandoned cacao plantation and is almost haunted. It stands out with its overgrown gardens and colonial architecture.  9. Whale Watching Off Príncipe: Best Enjoyed With Snorkeling And Diving Trips Humpback whales migrate to Príncipe through the waterways from July to September. Be a part of eco tours for respectful and sustainable viewing opportunities.  10. Rainforest Retreats At Sundy Praia: Perfect For Eco-Travelers Seeking Tranquility View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ramosdafrica (@ramosdafrica) Sundy Praia is a luxury tented villa in the rainforest of Príncipe. Enjoy yoga, guided nature walks, and conservation education. São Tomé And Príncipe Travel Planning Checklist Here is a list of things to do and things to avoid while planning a trip to São Tomé Eco-Lodges. Things to DoThings to Avoid• Checking visa requirements with the São Tomé embassy or consulate based on your nationality• Checking the availability of the co-lodges and booking them in advance• Plan your visit between June and October for wildlife watching.• Pack breathable clothing, reef-safe sunscreen, insect repellent, and rain gear• Bring malaria prophylaxis, basic meds, and travel insurance.• Check the requirements for a yellow fever vaccination.• Consider the limited availability of domestic flights to Príncipe and book early.• Not all eco-lodges offer transfers. You may have to take shared minibuses and taxis. • Carry some Dobra (STN) for transactions in rural areas. • Portuguese is the official language.• Kafuka or community gatherings are special here.• Avoid single-use plastics and respect wildlife viewing guidelines.• Support community-led tours, conservation projects, and local artisans• Save maps, lodge contacts, and embassy info offline before arrival, as some places will have limited network connectivity.• Not all “eco-lodges” are truly sustainable.• Not looking for transparency in energy use, waste management, and community impact.• Not carrying Dobra (STN) or Euros in cash, as ATMs are limited and not all facilities accept cards.• Medical facilities are basic. So, not having travel insurance with medical coverage or not carrying a medical care box can be a big mistake. • Missing out on the local cooking classes or visiting the villages is a mistake. • Using single-use water bottles and leaving litter everywhere São Tomé Eco-Lodges Are More Than Just Places To Stay Supporting local communities Supporting environmental development Protecting biodiversity Experiencing the authentic charm of the islands These are the benefits of staying in the best São Tomé eco lodges. Furthermore, these lodges are diverse and they offer luxury, simplicity, or cultural immersion in the most responsible way.  So, get ready for the most immersive experience at the best São Tomé eco lodges! 

BY  Arnab Jun 20, 2023

Few experiences compare to traveling or living abroad. The thrill of immersing yourself in a vibrant new culture or experiencing the lifestyle of a different country is unrivaled. But despite the sheer joy of these adventures, many travelers and ex-pats will miss certain home comforts from time to time. Whether it’s your favorite snack or a specific brand of skincare you’ve always used, there are always things we miss when we’re abroad. But getting your hands on your favorite products when you’re abroad can be a challenge. Local international shops have limited options, and international fees can quickly get expensive. The good news is there’s a simple solution — parcel forwarding services. If you’re an ex-pat or a globetrotter looking to buy products from home, you’re in the right place. We’ve put together everything you need to know about parcel forwarding in one place. Understanding Parcel Forwarding At its core, parcel forwarding is a pretty straightforward concept- pretty much like what Canada shipping companies do. It’s a service designed to make international shopping easier and give access to a wider range of products. We’ll dig into the specific steps of how it works later, but here’s roughly how it works: Go to your favorite eCommerce store and shop as you usually would When it comes to ordering the products, you use a local delivery address that your parcel forwarding service has provided. The parcel forwarding service receives your order, usually at a warehouse where it will be processed. The company will ship your parcel to you wherever you are in the world. Essentially, the parcel forwarding service gives you a local address and then takes care of getting your parcel to you. Plus, they often offer parcel consolidation, so you can order from multiple places and just pay one shipping fee. The Benefits Of Parcel Forwarding Obviously, the biggest benefit of parcel forwarding is you can order from anywhere in the world without having to worry about shipping restrictions. But the benefits go well beyond that: Consolidation Of Multiple Purchases One of the significant benefits of parcel forwarding services is the ability to consolidate multiple purchases into a single shipment. This not only simplifies the tracking process but can also save substantially on international shipping costs. Reduced Shipping Rates Parcel forwarding companies have contracts with leading courier companies, which allow them to negotiate lower shipping rates. These reduced rates are passed on to customers, making international shipping more affordable. Reliable And Secure Parcel forwarding services are known for their reliability and security. They ensure your packages are safely stored and securely shipped to your destination. In many cases, insurance is also available for added protection. Flexible Delivery Options Whether you need express delivery, standard shipping, or other specialized shipping methods, you can select the best option for your situation. Efficient And Time-Saving Parcel forwarding takes the hassle out of international shipping. They manage all aspects, including customs documentation, which can save customers a significant amount of time. Your Step-By-Step Guide To Parcel Forwarding Now you understand what parcel forwarding is and why it's a fantastic tool for international shoppers, let's dive into how to make the most of it: Step 1: Choose Your Parcel Forwarding Service Start by selecting a parcel forwarding service provider aligned with your needs. Look for a company with a good reputation, transparent pricing, excellent customer service, and flexible shipping options. Step 2: Setting Up Your Account Once you've selected a service, the next step is to set up an account. During this process, you'll provide essential details such as your contact information, shipping address, and payment details. Step 3: Time To Shop! Now comes the fun part — shopping! When you're ready to checkout, simply use the address provided by your parcel forwarding service. Step 4: Handling Your Parcels Once your items arrive at the forwarding service's warehouse, they'll notify you. At this stage, you can choose to consolidate multiple packages or select your preferred shipping method. Step 5: Forwarding Your Parcels Finally, your items are forwarded to your current location. Choose your preferred shipping method, pay the associated costs, and wait for your package to arrive! Tips And Tricks For Parcel Forwarding Just like any process, there are a few tips and tricks to make parcel forwarding a breeze: Merge your packages — If you're shopping from multiple stores, take advantage of your service's package consolidation feature. This can significantly reduce your overall shipping costs. Check prohibited items — Always check the shipping restrictions of your current country before making a purchase. A good parcel forwarding service should have a comprehensive list of prohibited items for reference. Repackaging options — Look for parcel forwarding services offering repackaging to reduce shipping weight and subsequent costs. As a traveler or ex-pat, parcel forwarding is a fantastic tool for maintaining access to your favorite products without the hassle and high costs of international shipping. So the next time you crave a taste of home or spot a must-have item, don't let shipping restrictions hold you back. Read Also: Why Myrtle Beach Is The Ideal Summer Destination 6 Best Family Holiday Destinations In India A Traveler’s Guide To Lutsen

BY  Abdul Aziz Nov 24, 2023

The Canary Islands, including Tenerife, are genuinely exceptional places on earth. Because of the island's volcanic and windy nature, volcano hikers and daring beach and watersports enthusiasts flock to it. Tenerife, which boasts a varied landscape and a warm winter climate, attracts millions of adventure seekers each year. March to May or September to November are the ideal times to visit Tenerife. Nonetheless, Tenerife is a fantastic destination all year round due to its subtropical climate, providing sunshine all year round. This Tenerife travel guide will walk you through all the hidden gems and unique locations while driving and hiking the island. Additionally, it will provide you with plenty of helpful advice on transportation for the best travel experiences. Here are some of the best things to do in Tenerife. Let’s GO! Overview timeout.com Tenerife is an island that was once part of the Spanish-ruled Canary Islands. It is home to the archipelago's principal economic hub. It is situated 300 kilometers in the Atlantic Ocean off the coast of West Africa. The flight from Dublin or London takes about four hours. Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, Fuerteventura, La Palma, La Gomera, and El Hierro are the seven islands that make up the Canary Islands Archipelago. On the island, there are two international airports: South-Reina Sofia Airport (TFS), Los Rodeos in the North – Aeropuerto de Tenerife Norte-Ciudad de La Laguna (TFN). The island's moderate tropical climate draws tourists all year long. The year-round average temperature is 26–27 centigrade during summers and 19–20 centigrade during winters. Two nearby islands, Lanzarote and Fuerteventura, are thought to be the windiest Canary Islands. However, Tenerife is a haven for surfers and wave lovers due to its relatively windy climate. Tenerife is home to some amazing sights and exhilarating adventures in addition to its vibrant nightlife and gorgeous girls. Here are some activities, sights, and things to do in Tenerife that you should definitely include on your itinerary. Things To Do In Tenerife production.imgix.net Teide National Park: Don't forget to see Mount Teide, Spain's highest mountain. Experience breathtaking panoramic views by riding the cable car to the summit. Masca: Take in the quaint village of Masca, which is surrounded by breathtaking mountain scenery. Take a boat ride from Los Gigantes to see the ravine's beauty from the water, or hike through its picturesque ravine. Watching whales and dolphins in their natural habitat: Take a boat tour to witness these amazing animals. It's a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that will bring some magic to your guys' vacation. Water Sports: Exhilarating water sports such as jet skiing, parasailing, and even scuba diving will make your heart race. The pristine waters of Tenerife are your playground. Quad Biking: Take a daring quad biking adventure through Tenerife's rough terrain to unleash your inner explorer. Explore off the beaten track and unearth hidden treasures. Things To Do In Tenerife: Beaches Like all the Canary Islands, Tenerife is a volcano. Tenerife has a small number of stunning black-sand beaches, one of which you should definitely visit! These three stunning beaches in Tenerife have golden sand: La Tejita Beach is a magical beach that's close to La Tejita town and South-Reina Sofia Airport (TFS) on the southern part of the island. Las Teresitas (on the left photo) is a town on the eastern side of Tenerife, about 12 km from the capital city of Santa Cruz de Tenerife and 20 km from the northern airport. A lovely beach with lots of tourists. Southwest of the island, at Las Vistas Amazing beaches with black sand in Tenerife: The photo on the right depicts Los Gigantes Benijo Playa del Castillo Playa El Bullullo; scroll down to see Restaurante Bollullo Beach! Things To Do In Tenerife: Nightlife pinimg.com Let's talk about the vibrant nightlife and delectable food scene, which are the lifeblood of any lad's vacation. There are plenty of hotspots in Tenerife that can keep the party going and satisfy your palate. Take a look at these dining and entertainment options: Veronicas Strip: For guys looking for a wild night out, this storied party area in Playa de las Americas is a must-visit. It's the place to be for an amazing evening, full of clubs, bars, and gorgeous people. Papagayo Beach Club: One of the finest parties on the island is held at this beachside club, where you can dance the night away. Papagayo is a surefire hit thanks to its amazing ocean views and stellar DJ lineup. Monkey Beach Club: This vibrant location offers a variety of live music events, DJ sets, and themed parties. Drink cool cocktails and socialize with visitors and locals alike. Things To Do In Tenerife: Food tenerifewhattodo.com Taste a range of authentic Spanish tapas dishes at Tapas Alley in La Laguna. Treat yourself to a culinary adventure there. It's a fantastic way to refuel before going out. San Telmo Night Market: Visit Puerto de la Cruz every Tuesday and Sunday to take in the lively San Telmo Night Market. Numerous street food vendors will be present, serving up delectable delicacies from all over the world. Seafood Feast At Los Abrigos: Indulge in a delectable seafood feast at Los Abrigos, a charming fishing village. Savor local specialties like grilled octopus and fresh fish while taking in breathtaking views of the ocean. You'll need a cozy spot to unwind and refuel after an exciting day and evening of partying. There are several lodging options in Tenerife to fit every taste and budget. Look at these recommendations: Things To Do In Tenerife: Luxury Hotels Experience the ultimate in luxury at the Hard Rock Hotel Tenerife, a legendary establishment renowned for its opulent amenities, breathtaking ocean views, and rock 'n' roll atmosphere. Tenerife has good lodging options. This means it won't be difficult for you to enjoy a little luxury while visiting. Situated slightly outside of a popular tourist area, La Casa Nova Hotel & Restaurant is a special location. It costs between $60 and $70 per night, which includes a full breakfast. The hotel had a very lovely pool with baldachin beds; it was a very appealing location. Bahía del Duque: This five-star resort offers a range of opulent amenities and top-notch service, combining elegance and natural beauty. Things To Do In Tenerife: Budget-Friendly Hotels bstatic.com Los Amigos Hotel: Perfect for lads on a budget, this friendly hostel in Playa de las Americas offers affordable accommodation, a sociable atmosphere, and a central location. Tenerife Ving: Situated in Puerto de la Cruz, Tenerife Ving provides comfortable and budget-friendly apartments, ideal for lads looking for a cozy base. Booking.com: Check out Booking.com's extensive selection of apartment rentals. You'll find a wide range of options to fit your needs and budget, from chic city apartments to contemporary beachfront apartments. Wrapping Up Tenerife's breathtaking scenery, exhilarating experiences, exciting nightlife, and delectable cuisine are waiting for you. This sun-drenched paradise has it all, whether you're exploring the island's natural wonders or going out for an incredible night on the town. Gather your friends, prepare your belongings, and get set up for the trip of a lifetime for the guys. Now that you know all the things to do in Tenerife, it's time to pack your bags. If you have thoughts to share or questions to ask, please leave a comment below. We would love to hear from you! Read Also: Brighton Bliss: Crafting Your Perfect Coastal Getaway Itinerary Hidden Gems: Unearthing The Best Things To Do In Nottingham Things To Do In Leeds: Dive Into The Dynamic Heart Of Yorkshire