Twelve starters, eighteen main courses and a whole separate page for the children’s menu? What used to seem like a generous selection now feels outdated. Read on to find out why menus are getting smaller. PHOTO: Left and right: dishes from the five-course menu at…

Trends that contribute to climate change? Unfortunately, there are many. Here are some of the worst that are actually being promoted. PHOTO: Pexels

Mindfulness, conscious consumption, and treating one’s environment with respect are part of the lifestyle for many yogis. There are many aspects to this, and we’ll look at some of them here. IMAGE: Pexels

Are you someone who always thinks of things you need to squeeze into your suitcase just before you leave? Or are you perfectly organized and want your things to stay that way when you travel? Here you will find the right transport box for you.…

“Slow Stay” has become a buzzword for more mindful travel: people prefer to stay longer in one place rather than move on after just one or two nights. But is that really the better choice? IMAGE: Pexels

In late 2025, a news story from Turkey made headlines. Hotel buffets were set to disappear the following year. The reason was the enormous amount of food waste in the country. The Turkish Presidential Council for Agricultural and Food Policy was exploring possible measures to…

The new EU Packaging Regulation (PPWR) has been in effect since August 12, 2026. And suddenly, they’re back in the spotlight: the small shampoo, shower gel, and body lotion bottles in hotel bathrooms. However, they don’t have to disappear right away. The ban won’t take…

Currently, there is no field in which attempts are not being made to integrate AI in one way or another. In many cases, the significant energy and water consumption required for data centers is not offset by clear benefits. But what about AI-assisted waste sorting?…

Whether it’s a city trip or a dream destination: In today’s world, travel is often associated with overplanning. But is that really necessary? Doesn’t it take away from the charm of exploring a new place? I think so. That’s why I’ve compiled a list of…

Once again, a heat wave has broken another record, and extreme weather has swept across the country. People are discussing climate change (rightfully so) in break rooms and family chat groups. But there’s always that one person who dismisses the issue. IMAGE: Pexels The person…

Whether it’s a train ticket, boarding pass, hotel reservation, or museum admission ticket, If you have your smartphone with you, the digital version is the more resource-efficient choice in most cases. BILD:

Anyone trying to bake baguettes, ciabatta or naan bread with Type 405 flour is bound to fail. This is because different countries have different types of flour. Read on to find out how flour types differ around the world. IMAGE: Pexels   Flour classification in…

We’re all familiar with flour designations such as Type 550, 405 and 1050. But what do these numbers actually mean? What is the story behind ancient grains and organic flour? In this Insight, I delve into the surprisingly complex world of flour and offer a…

Changing towels every day isn’t necessary—after many years, even the hotel star rating system has caught up with this reality. IMAGE: Pexels   But how often should a towel be washed? Dermatologists confirm that changing a shower towel after just one use is completely unnecessary.…

Are you planning a camping trip or a festival this summer? Or would you like to relax with a cold drink in your backyard? Either way, you’ve come to the right place! While preparing for my own camping trip, I researched ways to keep food…

Whether you’re having a picnic in a clearing, hiking with a group, or swimming at a lake—few of us have never listened to music in the woods. But have you ever wondered if that’s allowed? And what impact noise has on wildlife? IMAGE: Pixabay  …

Roses are red, violets are blue and hotel sheets are… white. An almost indisputable fact. But have you ever wondered why they are almost always white? And whether this might have a negative environmental impact?  IMAGE: ©SANDnature (A hotel on the Baltic Sea featuring beds…

When did you last try something new? Something that challenged you? Unfortunately, our daily lives often revolve around familiar routines — we do what’s comfortable. However, too much comfort is not good for us. IMAGE: Pixabay   Stepping outside your comfort zone has many positive…

From Monstera to Calathea to Alocasia, houseplants have been booming in popularity in recent years, adding a final biophilic touch to homes. Tropical plants are also becoming more common in European gardens. But how sustainable are exotic plants, really? IMAGE: Pixabay (Flowering Gum)   The…

Whether it’s a beach vacation, a trip to a lake, or a hike alongside a river—water holds a powerful allure for us. BILD: OCEANO Health Spa Hotel, Teneriffa   During the summer or on vacation, hardly any of us need much encouragement to cool off…

It’s a small sign of progress and a reminder of how sensitive our ecosystems are; the number of nightingales has recently increased in parts of southeastern England. The bird is especially well-known for its melodious song. BILD: Pixabay   According to a recent Guardian report,…

You check into the hotel, receive your room key—and suddenly it feels completely different. More natural. Not plastic, but wood. It looks good and is a renewable resource. But are wooden hotel room keys really more sustainable? IMAGE ©Naturhotel Outside   In the Green Pearls®…

Bananas are among the world’s most popular fruits—but they don’t grow in Europe. The largest growing regions are in tropical areas, including Latin America (Ecuador, Costa Rica, and Colombia), parts of Africa, and Southeast Asia. From there, they travel thousands of kilometers before ending up…

It’s only about the size of a walnut and one of the most extraordinary animals on Earth: the Darwin’s frog. BILD: ⒸZSL   The dad frog “swallows” his offspring and spits out fully formed frogs It lives almost invisibly in the damp, mossy forests of…

When people think of a beach vacation, they usually picture turquoise waters and white, sandy beaches. However, the things that lie beneath this picturesque surface rarely receive the same attention. This is precisely what is becoming an increasing problem. Seagrass beds around the world are…

For many pet owners and their four-legged friends, travelling together is a real highlight. There are new landscapes to explore, long walks to enjoy and plenty of little adventures to be had. But what about dog poo? Many countries impose hefty fines for failing to…

Salt is one of the oldest and most widely used seasonings in human history. Almost every dish contains a pinch of this mineral. And, especially in recent years, the variety of types has increased significantly. Sea salt, rock salt, Himalayan salt, herb salt, chili salt—I’ve…

Many people probably only know this often overlooked vegetable as compote or from their grandmother’s kitchen. However, rhubarb definitely has superfood potential; not only does it taste delicious, but it also offers many health benefits. IMAGE: Pixabay   What exactly makes rhubarb a superfood? First,…

Do you remember our brief foray into the “linguistic confusion” of the EU? Last year, a debate suddenly arose about whether terms such as “burger,” “sausage,” and “schnitzel” should be reserved for animal products only. Such a change would have meant that new terms, such…

There’s nothing better for me than enjoying my parents’ garden over the holidays while drinking my morning coffee and watching the birds flit around. A little freedom, a little lightness—lessons I can definitely learn from. Unfortunately, however, it’s not quite as romantic as I imagine.…

If you cook with fresh ingredients often, then you’re probably familiar with this: After preparing your meal, you’re left with lots of peels and vegetable scraps. Most of the time, these scraps end up in the compost bin or even the trash can. However, they…

You don’t always need to make radical changes to make your journey more sustainable. Micro habits are small, easy-to-implement changes that can be incorporated into your travel with little effort and have a significant long-term impact. IMAGE: ©Anibal Trejo | Stock.Adobe.com (Innsbruck)   What are…

In recent years, one trend that has gained momentum is genealogy, especially DNA-based genealogy. You send a saliva sample to a laboratory and then find out that some of your ancestors came from Italy, for example, or even discover long-lost relatives. But what can you…

I recently read a shocking and thought-provoking article. In India, an extremely rare frog disappeared from its original habitat. The reason? Photographers who wanted to capture its uniqueness. It’s almost ironic or even cynical that this frog can no longer be found there because of…

Did you know that hundreds of thousands of tons of mussel shells are thrown away in Europe alone every year? Worldwide, that number is up to ten million tons. This is because the catering industry considers mussel shells “residual waste” and disposes of them accordingly.…

Even if it’s still gray and cold outside, if you’re itching to get started, you can already begin gardening—even without a greenhouse—right on your windowsill. We’ve selected a few plants that you can start sowing at the end of January to give your vegetable patch…

It is not always a good idea to feed wild animals, but if you decide to do so, it is essential to do it correctly. To help you, we have compiled a few tips on how you can support squirrels in winter. IMAGE: Pixabay  …

Is it a good idea to feed birds in winter? The answer is still not entirely clear in 2026. Here is a brief overview of the ecological impact of feeding birds. IMAGE: ©Linas T | Stock.Adobe.com

Snow-covered meadows, crunching snow underfoot, and a special kind of silence: Gut Sonnenhausen near Munich shows its quietest side in winter. In this video insight, the hosts take you on a tour of the historic estate’s winter landscape—a place where sustainability, architecture, and nature are…

Fish simply tastes good—and has done so for centuries. Here, too, especially in the north, fish consumption is almost a cultural institution. It’s something I’ve become very aware of since moving to Hamburg, where people are always trying to persuade me to eat fish sandwiches!…

In December 2025, Antoine Locorotondo took over the kitchen at the Green PearlsⓇ Hotel Lifestyle Resort Zum Kurfürsten on the Moselle, bringing with him a creative and sustainable vision. IMAGES: ©Lifestyle Resort Zum Kurfürsten   The Italian-born chef draws on Asian influences in line with…

You may encounter the term “Grander water” at some of our Green Pearls© hotels. At Sturm in Mellrichstadt, for example, you can swim in this special water in the natural pond. But what exactly is it? And how scientifically sound is it? Today, we will…

When the days get shorter and the weather gets colder, there’s nothing better than a cosy sweater to keep you nice and warm. But if, like me, you’ve run out of old sweaters — seriously, mine are slowly falling apart — and you’re forced to…

Today’s Insight will focus on a slightly different topic. The term ‘ecocide’ and its significance in the context of environmental protection. First, I will define the term and explain its legal status (sorry!), and then I will discuss why it is important. IMAGE: ©AndriiKoval |…

Candles create a cosy atmosphere, especially during the dark winter months. However, sustainable soy wax candles are often expensive, and conventional paraffin candles are not environmentally friendly at all. The good news is that you can easily make new candles from old ones—they’re creative, personalised…

From Scandinavia to Italy, rose hips shine brightly along roadsides this time of year, boasting rich shades of orange and red. These fruits, which grow on wild rose bushes, are much more than colorful splashes in the autumn landscape, however. They are considered a true…

The European Parliament has ruled that terms such as “sausage,” “steak,” “burger,” and “schnitzel” will only be used for animal products in the future. This means that plant-based alternatives like veggie burgers will require new names that do not include these terms. ©Flower Burger –…

A new regulation has been in force in the EU since the beginning of 2025: used clothes may no longer be disposed of in residual waste. The goal is to promote textil recycling and reduce the enormous amount of waste produced. According to the European…

So, how much microplastic is in your bloodstream right now? I always find that thought slightly uncomfortable. Especially since, as the WWF reports, more and more links are being discovered between serious diseases and microplastics in the body. The smaller the microplastics, the further they…

When Indian summer begins in North America, the forests transform into a colourful sea of red, yellow and orange, while the sky turns an almost unnatural shade of blue. Admittedly, the Moselle is not Canada, and the sky is not always so immaculately blue in…

We need to talk. About a topic that still receives far too little attention, despite affecting at least half of the world’s population: menstruation. Unfortunately, it doesn’t stop just because we’re travelling.   Sustainability at home and while traveling — even during your period Admittedly,…

What does “barefoot luxury” mean? Our Green Pearls® partner, Gili Lankanfushi in the Maldives, has a unique response to this question—which they showcase in a new video. BILD: ©Gili Lankanfushi   It’s about more than luxury; it’s about feeling like every moment was made just…

According to the websites leadersnet.com and expat-news.com, all-inclusive travel is making a comeback and growing in popularity, particularly among Generation Z. Reason enough for us to take a closer look at the sustainability of all-inclusive travel and to introduce you to an offering from one…

Today, we received some insights from the Moselle region: The Lifestyle Resort Zum Kurfürsten created a short video with impressions of the hotel, offering a glimpse of the design concept. BILD: ©Thomas-Haberland Resident manager Tina Meier explains: „We have given a lot of thought to…

E-bikes have long since gone mainstream. No wonder—they are comfortable, make long distances easier to cover, and are environmentally friendly. A great alternative to cars. But have you ever wondered if the convenience of e-bikes might cancel out the healthy sites of cycling? To answer…

Ursula Wagner is not only the hostess at the Naturresort Gerbehof on Lake Constance and a Green Pearls® partner, but also the vice-chairwoman of BIO HOTELS. Together with her family, she lives every day according to what “organic” really means. Her husband Bruno and son…

At the SANDnature Hotel on the Baltic Sea, sustainability is constantly reimagined. IMAGE: © Oliver Franke, Lifestyle Hotel SAND

I recently stumbled across a dessert trend and my first thought was: OK, now the health craze is really taking over. Vegetables in dessert? Seriously? Broccoli pudding? IMAGE: ©Paradiso Pure.Living Vegan Hotel

Ever heard of MeMooners? The term might be new, but many people are familiar with the concept: a conscious break just for you. Inspired by the term “honeymooners,” it’s a new type of solo travel. IMAGE: ©Hotel My Arbor by Benno Prenn

Sounds crazy? The Hotel Luise in Erlangen has done just that. In just a few square meters, the hotel created a microforest. A miniature version of a real forest that is densely planted, rich in species, and surprisingly effective. A small ecosystem has taken the place…

Do you need some time to yourself? If so, the new Me Time Special at the Klosterhof – Alpine Hideaway & Spa is perfect for you! During select weeks in 2025, you can enjoy the fantastic panorama room with mountain views all to yourself —…

Recently, hardly anyone has inspired the vegan gourmet scene as much as she has: Aggeliki Charami. In 2024, the creative chef joined the Paradiso Pure.Living Hotel. Here, she completely transformed the kitchen into a 100% vegan establishment. That same year, she opened the fine-dining restaurant…

When the Bavarian luxury hotel Der Birkenhof***** Spa & Genussresort recently underwent recertification by GreenSign, it achieved an impressive 95% of all sustainability requirements for the seal. This is a score that none of the approximately 900 members has ever achieved before! IMAGE: ©Der Birkenhof*****…

Kaum ist der Urlaub vorbei, da bist du schon wieder gestresst? Da hast du (wissenschaftlich gesehen) etwas falsch gemacht. Eine neue Meta-Studie zeigt, wie lange eine Auszeit dauern muss, damit der Effekt lange anhält! BILD: ©Iryna | Stock.Adobe.com   Für die Studie der American Psychological…

Fresh air, sunshine and fluttering clothes: drying laundry outside is the epitome of an eco-friendly lifestyle. There’s no electricity consumption or heat from the dryer, just the power of the sun. However, as idyllic as this may seem, sunlight is not only a source of…

Since April, Das Rübezahl, located in the Allgäu region, has had a new guest magazine fittingly named BergGeist.BILD: ©Hotel Das Rübezahl

When you’re on vacation and have packed an apple or banana as a snack, you may ask yourself this very question. However, you shouldn’t throw fruit peels into nature. Here’s why: IMAGE: ©Radetdararith| Stock.Adobe.com (AI generated)

A toothbrush with app connectivity, pressure sensors, AI-controlled brushing coaches, and Bluetooth tracking? Honestly, is that really necessary? They’re expensive, consume resources, and, in my opinion, cause more data stress than they’re worth. BILD: ©Viktoriia M | Stock.Adobe.com

It is bright yellow, quite persistent and often underestimated: the dandelion. It grows everywhere in the spring. Many people think of it as just an annoying weed. But is that really true? Or should it be left alone – maybe even harvested?  BILD: ©Peggy Boegner…

May 3 marked the end of the road for Germany – at least in terms of the planet’s annual available resources. That’s what the chart from Global Footprint Network’s Country Overshoot Day 2025 shows.

Drinking lemon water is all the rage on social media, where it is associated with all kinds of healing promises, from anti-aging to longevity. But does it really work? IMAGE: ©mykytvoandr | Stock.Adobe.com

The book is on the bedside table, the intention to read is made – and yet after a long day, we often prefer to reach for the remote control or smartphone. In our hectic everyday lives, reading often takes a back seat. If you feel…

Admittedly, it’s a little late for New Year’s resolutions, but before the holiday season really gets going, we’ve compiled a list of travel habits we’d like to leave behind in 2025. Including tips on how to do it. IMAGE: ©Zamrznuti Tonovi | Stock.Adobe.com

Last time, we started our cultivation – with recycled materials, organic seeds, and nutrient-poor potting soil. Now the long waiting and watering has begun. Because light and water are now the two most important things for your cultivation nursery.   Pricking Out and Repotting Tomatoes,…

Whether it’s in the garden, on the balcony, or on the windowsill, the growing season begins with cultivation. Admittedly, I was a little late this year, starting in mid-March, but that’s plenty of time for most plants. I am now in my third season of…

Riding a bike is good for the environment. And when you clean your bike? You release chemicals into the soil. At worst. Learn how to get your bike ready for the season in a sustainable way-without unnecessary waste and with eco-friendly alternatives. BILD: ©torwaiphoto |…

Pregnancy is a special time, both physically and emotionally. Prenatal yoga helps to gently strengthen the body, reduce stress, and develop a deeper connection with the baby. But while yoga for pregnant women is increasingly in demand, there are surprisingly few options. So why is…

Many hotels like to brand themselves with a “green” image. But not everything that’s labeled sustainable is. Some properties rely on clever marketing rather than real action – this is known as greenwashing. So how can you tell if a hotel is truly sustainable or…

Just switch off, put down your phone and immerse yourself in another world – that’s what Hotel Das Rübezahl offers with its islands of books. The concept has a surprising effect. ⒸHotel Das Rübezahl

The food we eat affects not only our health, but also the environment. From packaging waste to environmental degradation to high CO2 emissions, the effects are many. If you are reading this blog, this is probably not news to you, so the more interesting question…

A nesting party is all about helping future parents build their nest. IMAGE: ⒸAngela | Stock.Adobe.com

Running a website or blog consumes electricity and creates CO2 emissions. If you run your own travel blog or website, here are some tips on how to make it sustainable and reduce your digital carbon footprint. BILD: ©IckeT | Stock.Adobe.com   #1 Choose a green…

Neuschwanstein Castle is one of the most famous castles in Germany and perhaps the world. There are several reasons why it is only now becoming a UNESCO World Heritage Site. BILD: ©SCStock | Stock Adobe.com

With sustainable Valentine’s gifts, you show your love not only to your partner, but also to the planet! IMAGE: ©Sahaidachnyl-Roman | Stock.Adobe.com   10 sustainable Valentine’s Day gifts Conventional Valentine’s gifts create significant amounts of waste. From disposable packaging to mass-produced products that don’t last…

The ash tree in this tree disc would have been exactly 300 years old this year. Image ⒸNaturhotel Outside   A tree disc as a decorative object In our series about cool eco-products from sustainable hotels, today we present the tree disc from the lobby…

The minibar is a controversial topic in the sustainable hotel industry. While they are a must for hotel stars, the little mini-fridges are anything but sustainable. That’s why some of our Green PearlsⓇ partners offer their guests an Honesty Bar instead. What do you think…

At Gut Guntrams near Vienna, every garden loft features a granite bathtub. These unique pieces are made by Gerhofer’s master stonemason in Grafenbach. ⒸGut Guntrams

.IlluThe Lifestyle Resort Zum Kurfürsten has been transformed into a Feng Shui place of power with the help of a Feng Shui master from China. The picture shows a room with the element of wood. The sofas have their backs to the wall and the…

„Even though our carpets get stepped on, we still pay a lot of attention to sustainability, design and the concept behind when selecting them.“ This is how Hotel Luise explains its decision to buy carpet tiles made from fishing nets. Like the Lifestylehotel SAND on…

New Year’s Eve is just around the corner, and for many people, fireworks are just part of celebrating the new year. However, it’s no secret that setting off these colorful delights isn’t exactly sustainable. And those looking for greener alternatives have surely come across eco-fireworks.…

The eco-friendly, hand-scooped himalayan soap is vegan and chemical free. This means it helps to conserve water, which is very important to our partner The Pavilions Himalayas – The Farm ⒸThe Bodhi Press   Please do not bring any shower gel to Nepal! We recently…

Of course, hotels offer orange juice in their breakfast buffets – but not everything that is standard is necessarily sustainable. In the DACH region, for example, apple juice would be the more environmentally friendly choice. IMAGE: ©Rido | Stock.Adobe.com   Oranges suffer from climate change…

How beautiful the Tyrolean hay flowers glow on the beds in the new Nature Suites. ⒸHotel Klosterbräu   The nature rooms at Hotel Klosterbräu are made from 95 percent local materials In 2023, Hotel Klosterbräu in Seefeld opened 28 new rooms and wellness suites. Not…

Collecting shells as souvenirs is a popular pastime. I, too, occasionally succumb to the temptation to pick up a nice specimen or two from the beach. But this summer, for the first time, I found myself wondering about the legality and sustainability of a tradition…

The OCÉANO Health Spa Hotel on the island of Tenerife relies on durable designer furniture from the Spanish brand STUA. IMAGE: Calma outdoor armchair ⒸSTUA

Plogging is a sport trend that combines jogging and environmental protection. BILD ©_KUBE_ Stock.Adobe.com

The meadow grass hangers have a lower carbon footprint than those made from conventional plastic. IMAGE: ©SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA

In many countries, groundwater abstraction plays a central role in water supply, both for drinking water and for agricultural irrigation. Increasingly, this precious resource is also being tapped in the domestic sector through the use of private wells. But how sustainable is this? And what…

A 3D-printed vase is pretty modern – but would you have guessed it was made from old coffee? IMAGE: ©Klosterhof – Alpine Hideaway & Spa | Screenshot DruckKraft.eu

“CopenPay was the biggest tourism news story in the world,” summarize the organizers – and hope for many imitators. Picture ©Daniel Rasmussen   Copenhagen – a city rewards sustainable tourism According to the Danish Tourist Board, a full 82 percent of all tourists would like to…

Did you know? Snow insulates your raised bed and can be left on the ground. IMAGE: Ⓒdima_pics | Stock.Adobe.com

With ice cream in a cone, you can eat the wrapper. ©nataliaderiabina | Stock.Adobe.com   Litter and single-use plastics are always a big problem when traveling and one of the main reasons for being unpopular as a tourist. Recently, tourists in the Alps were in…

Greenhouse gas emissions contribute to climate change, while forests can play an important role in climate protection and biodiversity – but can emissions and compensation measures really be directly compared? New EU rules are expected to tighten requirements for climate-related claims. That is why the…

“Bring your water bottle to refill. As an eco-traveler, you probably already internalized this advice. But be careful – tap water is not safe to drink everywhere. ©Jeriko | Stock.Adobe.com

Bringing plants back from vacation and planting it in your garden or giving it away is not a good idea. ⒸMichael Piepgras/Wirestock | Stock.Adobe.com

Everyone loves pizza! But there are a few problems when it comes to sustainability: cheese, salami, packaging… Find out about the climate impact of pizza and how you can enjoy it in a sustainable way. (e.g. vegan, vegetarian like here) @M4rtine for Pixabay

Cycling is an environmentally friendly way of getting around and keeps you physically fit. But did you know that cycling can also improve your mental health? IMAGE: ©vilma3000 | Stock.Adobe.com

Water touring is like hiking – except instead of walking, you’re on a boat. Lakes and rivers are ideal. In this Insight, we take a closer look at this trend. ©Helmut Schmidt | Stock.Adobe.com

An international study from 2024 shows: Incorrect composting causes methane – a greenhouse gas that is even more harmful to the climate than CO2. © rh2010 | Stock.Adobe.com

Our digital consumption is responsible for around 10 percent of global electricity consumption. Interesting fact: Using green electricity significantly improves the CO2 balance. IMAGE: ©Elshad Karimov | Stock.Adobe.com

It’s true: Organic food is healthier. But according to science, the reasons are different than you think! IMAGE: ©SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA

Scientists from Toronto have published a bee study that evaluates the nutritional composition of different plants – here are four common flowers that are particularly useful for bees. IMAGE: Webenwickler | Pixabay

Almost everyone interested in sustainability has heard of the Slow Food movement, but did you know that there is also a Slow Flower movement? Probably not, because sustainability is often not a priority when it comes to cut flowers. In this Insight, we explain why…

Tiny houses have become increasingly popular in recent years. They seem to be a solution to many problems in today’s real estate market. Not only are they said to save space, materials and money, but also to be sustainable and promote a more conscious (minimalist)…

Did you know that not only are we surrounded by plastic, but we inhale, eat, and drink it as tiny particles? Microplastics are so small you can’t see them with the naked eye. But how dangerous are they for humans and animals? And most importantly,…

There are so many edible flowers! And I think it’s great that more and more people are becoming aware of this and are incorporating dandelions, daisies, nasturtiums, and the like into their diets. Gastronomy is also following (or leading by example) and adding an exciting…

Summer sun, a white beach, the sound of the ocean in the background and, of course, a good book – that’s how many people imagine the perfect summer vacation. But like every year, you are faced with the (difficult) question of the right travel reading.…

Lets face it, most of us are tempted every now and then to take something “tangible” as a souvenir of a wonderful trip instead of just pictures. Ignoring the fact that these souvenirs often end up as dust catchers in some corner of the house…

Darmstadt is definitely worth a visit, whether it’s to see the UNESCO World Heritage Site Mathildenhöhe, stroll along the Rosenhöhe, or visit the Hessian State Museum. And of course, no city trip is complete without a good meal or at the very least a good…

Only 37 items in the closet – this is the Capsule Wardrobe. Advocates of sustainability and minimalism use it to organize their wardrobes. And I’m one of them. Here I’ll tell you how it works – and – how you can cheat a little 🙂…

 The Mathildenhöhe, or more precisely the Darmstadt Artists’ Colony, is a World Heritage Site since 2021 and is one of the most beautiful places the Rhine-Main region has to offer. (Although I might be a bit biased, as I grew up in Darmstadt :D) Consisting…

Sustainable travel means not only respecting the environment, but also the people we meet along the way, who show us hospitality and allow us to share in their culture. Not looking the other way and taking responsibility as a tourist. Especially for vulnerable groups like…

You love each other, you hate each other: having siblings is not always easy. My brother and I have had our fair share of fights. But you still like them. Don’t you? But to go on a whole journey with them? A siblings-only trip? What…

Milk is a staple in almost every household. Be it our morning cappuccino, cornflakes or the many other dairy products like butter, cheese and the like that we eat or drink throughout the day. But like so many other products, milk production contributes to rising…

Porridge is not only delicious, but also healthy and, if you pay attention to a few things, sustainable. Reason enough for us to be the last to jump on the bandwagon and write a little about breakfast (or whatever time of day you like 🙂…

The Amazon Rainforest covers seven million square kilometers across nine South American countries and is home to an incredible diversity of habitats and species. It contains more than 40,000 plant and about ten percent of the world’s animal species. In addition, it plays a crucial…

Traveling light is becoming increasingly popular for both practical and environmental reasons. No wonder, as there are (almost) only benefits and it is a convenient way to travel a little more sustainably. Here we explain why and give you some tips on what to consider…

With the first rays of spring sunshine, Germany’s early bloomers emerge from their winter hibernation. But snowdrops, daisies, tulips and the like are not only pretty to look at, they also play an important role in the ecological structure. So, just in time for the…

I love to harvest my own vegetables. For me, thinking about how food is produced and, if possible, growing it myself is part of a sustainable lifestyle. So it’s even nicer to finally have the opportunity to do it here. I’m going to take you…

After the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, there are the Seven Wonders of the Modern World and now also the Seven Wonders of the World of 2024 – as determined by BBC travel journalist Rob Crossan. They include an underground network of lava tubes…

Ginger probably originated in Sri Lanka and is mainly grown in China and India. But you don’t have to buy ginger from overseas – the rhizomes grow right here, and growing your own ginger is easy. © Laura Farag

Where should you go to make your trip as environmentally friendly as possible? The Swedish renewable energy company, Hemsol, has examined various environmental aspects in a study and selected the 10 greenest destinations in Europe for your vacation. ⒸBirgit Reitz-Hofmann | Stock.Adobe.com

It’s that time of year again: the biggest sporting and, yes, even cultural event in the US. The Super Bowl. The final game of the National Football League. For those who just want to watch the halftime show, it is a big party with a…

Merino sheep produce fantastic merino wool, but the overbred breed in Australia suffers from Mulesing – an animal cruelty procedure. Learn why this happens and how to identify merino wool without Mulesing. © Adobe Stock | 169169

Dogs love to chew and play – but does it have to (or should it) be on plastic? A laboratory-test from the German consumer magazine Ökotest shows that plastic dog toys can contain harmful substances – but even if they don’t, there are better alternatives.…

It eats and uses the excrement of herbivorous animals and is a first-class tunnel builder. The bull beetle has been named “Insect of the Year 2024” by NABU, the German Society for Nature Conservation because it also plays an important role in our ecosystem. IMAGE:…

If you want butterflies in your garden, you need to think about the caterpillars too! Here are some tips on which nectar plants are best for butterflies and how to deal with caterpillars in your garden in an animal-friendly way. © Dietmar Borbe (caterpillar) Schwoaze…

From January 5 to 7, you can take part in the nationwide “Stunde der Wintervögel” (Hour of Winter Birds) and help protect the species. Crested tits are easily recognized by their cheeky “hairstyle”. IMAGE: Erik_Karits | Pixabay

We’re already in the middle of the Europa League, so admittedly it’s a little late, but staying true to the motto – it’s never too late to become more sustainable! Here are a few tips on how to make the Europa League 23/24, and of…

On December 21, Phileas Fogg, the protagonist of Jules Verne’s classic “Around the World in 80 Days “, won his 20,000 pounds sterling bet and managed to circumnavigate the globe in the time allotted. A day that fans of the book celebrate as “Phileas Fogg…

The Christmas season is almost over, and like every year, it’s time to part with your Christmas tree. However, simply throwing away your beloved tree is really too much of a shame and not very sustainable either. That’s why we’ve come up with a few…

The temptation to bring home a little sand as a travel souvenir from your favorite beach as a vacation souvenir is great. After all, it’s cheaper, more personal, and supposedly more environmentally friendly than a souvenir from the store. But here are a few reasons…

Climate emergency: Three municipalities in the Netherlands decided to ban meat advertising from public spaces. IMAGE: Pixabay   No advertising for climate-damaging products Three municipalities in the Netherlands have banned meat advertising. After the municipality of Haarlem led the way in 2022, Utrecht and Bloemendaal…

Sustainable candles make a great gift for lovers of sustainable living and eco-conscious coziness! Here you can find out which candle wax is environmentally friendly. The Eco-Hotel SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA also offers upcycled candleholders made from used bottles. ©SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA   Advent is just around the…

When we were children, we were told that we shouldn’t eat apple cores because it would make an apple tree grow in our stomachs – which, of course, is nonsense. But how true is it that apple cores are poisonous? IMAGE: Pixabay

According to health experts, a cold bath is particularly useful at the first signs of a cold and alleviates symptoms. Essential oils from the forest, such as those used in the signature treatments in the spa area at ADLER Lodge RITTEN, are suitable additives. ⒸADLER…

Feeding pigeons or chasing them away? One expert says: City pigeons are pets – so municipalities should take care of them instead of imposing feeding bans and putting up spikes. IMAGE: D_Fenix249 for Pixabay   5 interesting facts about the urban pigeon   1. city…

The Planetary Health Diet looked at how to feed a world population of ten billion people in 2050 while protecting our planet. IMAGE: Sadheesh92 for Pixabay   Planetary Health Diet: 14 grams of meat per day allowed While a vegan diet has become mainstream, there…

Stinging nettle has many healthy properties. The best time to harvest nettle seeds is through November. They contain iron, calcium, potassium, vitamins A, B, C, E, and protein. IMAGE: AlteWaldhexe for Pixabay

It’s not pretty: the forest in the Harz Mountains is currently a dead spruce forest. A ranger guides tourists in September 2023 and explains: “The forest will change now.” © Dietrich Cornelius   The forest in the Harz should develop on its own The ranger…

At the sustainable Naturresort Gerbehof on the German side of Lake Constance, you vacation among apple trees. In the fall, the apples are harvested. Here are tips on how to pick and store apples properly. © Günter Standl   Do apples post-ripen? Apples do ripen,…

Not only forests store CO2 – also aquatic plants do so. Seagrass beds store 10 percent of the oceans’ total carbon dioxide as blue carbon. IMAGE: WIKIMEDIA COMMONS (The fish is a jackfish.)   That’s how important blue carbon is If you’re curious about the…

September 21st is Zero Emissions Day. On this day, you should try to leave no carbon footprint. It will not be easy. The best thing you can do is to do – nothing! ©Balazs | Adobe Stock   What would a day WITHOUT carbon emissions…

A charging station is waiting for your electric car at the Creativhotel Lusie in Erlangen, Germany. But when will you be able to afford it? At the International Motor Show (IAA) in Munich, it was announced that “affordable electric cars are coming”. IMAGE ©Creativhotel Luise…

For garden biodiversity, the sustainable hotel SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA provides food and shelter for insects and small animals. © SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA   Measures for the protection of species in the garden A beautiful garden creates an attractive environment and supports biodiversity. The hotel SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA in…

August 25th is “Secondhand Wardrobe Day” – a perfect day to hit the flea market! IMAGE: Viarami for Pixabay   A flea market conserves resources Buying used pants made of synthetics is more sustainable than buying new pants made of Tencel. That’s because buying used…

At LA VIMEA, the first vegan hotel in Italy, they are consistent in their veganism. But in my opinion, a little bit also helps. Ⓒ LA VIMEA   Here’s how to support veganism without going to extremes Are you one of those people who are…

The hay horse in the picture is a common grasshopper. It likes to eat aphids, which makes every gardener happy. IMAGE: Walter46 for Pixabay   Are grasshoppers eating the plants in your garden? Don’t worry: a few crickets in the flower bed won’t make an…

Growing your own greens is even more sustainable than buying organic vegetables. If you want to plant in August, lettuce is an especially good choice. IMAGE: Pixabay   Plant quick-growing vegetables to plant in August By August, you’ve probably harvested many vegetables, such as cucumbers,…

Railway stations are among the architectural landmarks of a city. Especially in the second half of the 19th century, these transportation hubs represented the economic boom. The best architects were hired to design the most beautiful stations in the world. Next time you’re planning an…

Lavandula Angustifolia blooms in July and August – here are some ideas on how to use lavender at home. © Gut Guntrams   Lavandula loves dry soil and warmth – making it the perfect plant for your summer garden! You don’t have to go to…

Don’t throw it away! It’s edible and there are a lot of Watermelon skin benefits. The white of the fruit is one of the best sources of amino acids and tastes great in a salad. IMAGE: Laura   Use watermelon skin Watermelon is a fruit…

No boiler, no coffee machine: Cold Brew requires zero energy to prepare and is now wonderfully refreshing in the summer. IMAGE: Pixabay   Cold brew coffee has benefits Cold brew coffee has been a trendy drink for a few years now. In the summer, it’s…

Did you know that Red clover flowers are edible? You can find them between May and September in meadows and along roadsides from Europe to Asia. Here’s some inspiration for eating red clover and using it creatively. IMAGE: Pixabay   Red clover is said to…

Our Green PearlsⓇ partner Inkaterra Reserva Amazónica is located in the Amazon Rainforest in Peru and has shared some interesting facts you should know before your trip. IMAGE ⒸInkaterra Reserva Amazónica   Insider Information about the Amazon Rainforest Every year, on July 22nd, the world…

In May 2023, the environmental organization Greenpeace published ten points on how each one of us can get involved in species conservation in our everyday lives. For your garden, you can promote biodiversity through flowers, insect hotels and earwig houses. IMAGE Ⓒ SCHWARZWALD PANORAMA  …

Tip #1: Run in the evening or early morning – this is one of the golden rules of summer running. Shown here on the beach of Tenerife ⒸOCÉANO Health Spa Hotel.   Heat rules for runners Honestly, being extreme is a part of being a…

Homemade baby food is healthier and less expensive than store-bought processed foods. IMAGE: MapleHorizons/ Pixabay   3 Top Baby Food Tips I never bought jarred baby food for either of my children. Three things helped me a lot: #1 Thermomix: I know this tip is…

Do you know when summer starts for me? When the elderberry starts to bloom and it hums and buzzes and smells everywhere. My mom used to make the white elderflowers into syrup. Recently, however, I learned about another way to bring the pretty cones to…

The natural swimming pond at Gut Guntrams near Vienna features garden furniture by Filipino star designer Kenneth Cobonpue. (Apart from Gut Guntrams, the former couple Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt and Queen Rania of Jordan have also bought rattan furniture from Cobonpue).   Why is…

The warm rays of the sun are beckoning and the little plants you grew yourself are waiting on the windowsill to finally be allowed outside. Is it the same for you? Then you should, just like me, still be a little patient with the planting!…

The Traubel family at the HUBERTUS Mountain Refugio Allgäu likes to wear long-lasting traditional clothing, and they also dress the hotel staff in them. Picture: HUBERTUS Mountain Refugio Allgäu   Fast fashion violates human rights and destroys the environment Exactly ten years ago, in April…

Well, have you had enough of all the wild garlic pictures on Instagram? No? Very good! Because neither have I! And that’s why I was as happy as a child when I also discovered wild garlic meadows in our forest. And not just one, but…

Pantone Color 2023 is designed to “invoke the forces of nature” within us. The color chosen by the world’s most important color institute reflects the current mood of society.   Viva magenta: Nature as the antithesis of technology A quick look back to 2021: the…

Isn’t it nice that the sun can be seen here with us more often again? After we had so much snow in March, the spring may now start please 😀 As a rather pale person, the time begins when I have to remember to take…

I read an article the other day about how certain landmarks will disappear and how we have little time left to look at them. The reasons are many, but they all have to do with man-made climate change: a raised sea level, glaciers melting, and…

Raven, pigeon, sparrow… you know them. But what kind of bird is this one? Especially when you’re traveling, it’s often fascinating to know what birds are there. In the smartphone age, there are wonderful ways to find out with an app. Who’s beeping? After testing…

Freshly made beds, everything is spotlessly clean, refreshments are ready… Here we present a few little tricks and ideas on hosting guests like in a hotel. Do you have guests coming to spend the night? These tips are meant to be suggestions on how you…

Who hasn’t experienced it? You come back from a trip and you’re packed with memories and thoughts. The travel feeling is still thick and you’re not quite ready to let it go. Believe me, I know this too well! And to make the feeling last…

The most important thing on a hike? Well, of course, it’s the snacks! However, muesli and energy bars have the stupid attribute that they are usually individually wrapped in plastic. At the end of a hike, especially if it goes over several days, there is…

From nine to five it’s work, and from five to nine it’s time for adventure. Get inspired by these simple micro adventure ideas! Alastair Humphrey’s idea to bring micro adventures to your doorstep went viral and inspired many followers around the world. With a micro…

Eat citrus fruits with the peel? That is possible? Of course! The citrus fruits from your own garden, like here in Palestine, are safe to eat with the peel on. How and why I show you now.   Full of valuable phytonutrients (secondary plant compounds)…

During my studies, I formulated supplements to CVs of trans people who wanted to change their name and gender under the absolutely outdated Transsexuals Act for an evaluator. The work has sensitized me and I have also personally become more concerned with how I myself…

When it’s really nasty and cold outside, there’s hardly anything better than snuggling up on the sofa or in bed with a cup of hot tea, reading or watching a series. At work, too, tea must absolutely not be missing with me. Especially herbal tea…

Even if it doesn’t look like that right now, at least not for me: It’s winter. And even if there’s no snow, wild birds in our cities have fewer and fewer opportunities to find their food naturally. That’s where low waste birdseed cookies come in.…

There are images of a richly set table with raclette, champagne glasses and glowing fireworks that come to my mind when I think about New Year’s Eve. Thinking further back, my childhood memories are mainly of such scenes: my father, excited as a child himself,…

Welcome to the magical time between the years. The Rauhnächte are a time when natural forces are said to be suspended and the gates to the spiritual world are wide open. But even if you are not spiritually or esoterically inclined, the Rauhnächte might be…

Surely you’re in the midst of Christmas preparations if you celebrate this holiday. Maybe you’ve also been wondering how to make your decorations as sustainable as possible this year. Sure, the most sustainable thing to do is to keep using your old decorations, but sometimes…

Cookie cutters with Christmas designs, floury fingers, lots of icing and edible glitter decorations. Cookie baking during Advent is a must in most households. Turning up your favorite Christmas music and drinking a hot mulled wine or punch makes the pre-Christmas atmosphere perfect. Sure, you…

Part of living sustainably is looking at how to waste and throw away as little food as possible. You can do that, for example, by looking at how you store them. Chicory is in season now in December, and I’ll tell you how to store…

The term minimalism and the slogan “less is more” is on everyone’s lips. But while for one person minimalism in everyday life is synonymous with “extremely little”, for another it simply means having less ballast.   Space for the essentials When you think of minimalism…

Living plastic-free is a real challenge. Every day anew. I actually find that it’s still easiest in the bathroom. Solid shampoo, bars of soap, etc. That’s no problem at all. But toothpaste? The tubes are just plastic. Sometime in the last few years, toothpaste tabs…

Pretty name, seductive sun-yellow appearance and spicy taste. In addition, all the power of nature is hidden in the originally traditional Indian healing drink Golden Milk, which can support your immune system in the cold season.

Almost two weeks ago the European Outdoor Film Tour stopped in my hometown and as an outdoor fan it was clear that I was there. Last year it didn’t work out due to scheduling reasons, so I was looking forward to it even more. And…

In most kitchens I enter, there it is: a basil plant. And I can also say, every now and then I like to buy such a little pot. Why? I love to freshly pluck the aromatic leaves of the spice plant to flavor pasta sauces…

How do you preserve your travel experiences? With photos? Sure! But beyond that? For example, have you ever thought about writing a travel journal?

If you are one of those people who put almost everything in the dishwasher, you probably have the following item in the kitchen. When it comes to cleaning the bathroom, you will at least need a sponge or rag.   Foam sponges provide the perfect…

Do you know that World Tourism Day exists? The World Tourism Day was founded back in 1980 by the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), which annually nominates a host country and gives the day a new focus with a changing theme each year. This year, with…

Did you know that today is the European Car Free Day? A good moment to think about how we can organize our everyday life without or at least with less car use. I myself work from home, so I can definitely do without the wheeled…

Autumn really comes up with a lot of fruit right now. Plums are hanging on the trees everywhere. Or are they damsons? What’s the difference?   Plum or damson, whatever the rose is! Yes, you read correctly: Plums belong to the rose family. And since…

Water is a limited resource and saving it should be part of all our lives. Tips to save water are becoming more and more important! Why? Counter question: Have you ever heard of hunger stones? I certainly hadn’t until this summer. No wonder: they only…

For the last few weeks, the temperatures climbed repeatedly to over thirty degrees. No weather for heavy food … But just salad? That doesn’t make you happy either. Light and tasty (and no salad) and as refreshing as possible: it can’t be that hard to…

As a child, the greatest thing for me in the summer was to roam the forest and pick the black fruits from the bushes. Each berry was a surprise package: was it sweet or tart or still sour and unripe, so that my face involuntarily…

Right now it’s pleasantly cool at my desk in the well-insulated apartment. But outside the temperatures are already climbing towards 30 again. Too warm for me and especially for my dog. Well as a husky he suffers even more from the current temperatures, but also…

Each of us throws nearly 78 kilograms of food into the garbage each year. In view of the general food shortage, this is even more alarming. Especially since a lot of it doesn’t even end up in the organic waste garbage or the compost, but…

A windless, balmy night in summer is the ideal time to discover the little glowing bugs: fireflies enchant the night like little fairy lights.

So, are you looking for an easy recipe for the summer kitchen that still looks impressive? Then you’ve come to the right place! The Naturhotel Outside has told us its recipe for the original East Tyrolean Schlipfkrapfen. They have similarities to Maultaschen or Tortellini. But…

Now that most of the mess of moving is gone, I’m finally finding time to look into the design of the rooftop patio. Huge 18 square meters want to be filled with seating, decoration and most importantly plants. My goal is to create a wonderful…

Summer, sun, festival time! After the two-year-break, many festivals are finally waiting in the wings or have already started. There is hardly anything better than spending the days and nights with friends, dancing, partying and discovering new bands. Quite often, I came back home with…

Is there anything better than ice cream in these summer temperatures? Since I have been lactose intolerant for a few years now, my ice cream consumption has suffered quite a bit for a while. After all, there wasn’t always this great and wide range of…

Do you use cow’s milk or do you prefer to use an alternative? Since I do not tolerate lactose, I have been dealing with the issue for some time and almost only use dairy alternatives. The offer keeps getting bigger, but you can get soy…

Do you know an absolute classic of Hessian cuisine? Frankfurt green sauce. Since the 19th century, Frankfurter Grie Soß has been a culinary specialty of the region – and thus also of our home region. Classically, it is prepared from seven herbs, namely: boretsch, chervil,…

You probably know chia seeds and cress, right? But did you know that you can also grow plants from chia seeds? So-called microgreens are even counted by some experts as superfoods and can be grown from many different seeds. Microgreens are plants that have sprouted…

How much coffee do you drink a day? Worldwide, more than 1.4 billion cups of the black hot beverage are consumed every day. But what do you do with the coffee grounds afterwards? Personally, I tend to drink other herbal pick-me-ups such as cocoa with caffeine.…

Living sustainably often means reducing, especially in fashion and today’s fast-fashion world. Nevertheless, sometimes you need new clothes. Be it because your style changes, they no longer fit or because your clothes are unraveling. I try to avoid supporting the excessive water consumption that is…

The weather is getting warmer, the weeds are being pulled, the soil is being loosened, and the garden in general is being prepared for spring. I have been familiar with this scenario for two decades. Equally familiar to me is this situation: the seedlings that…

Imagine the following situation: You are drinking a juice, accidentally knock over the glass and the juice spills out. What do you use to wipe up the puddle of juice? Often, the first thing you do is use paper towels. But that’s not very sustainable.…

Are you aware of the origin of your fruit and vegetables? Usually bananas, apples, tomatoes and other products have so many stops in between until they end up on our plates that it is difficult to keep track of them. We, therefore, buy from our…

On her travel blog Itchy Feet, Sarah Waltinger strives to bring a little tingle to her readers’ feet. Her stories from her travels will take you on virtual journeys round the world and inspire you to new adventures. Moreover, in her blog posts, you can…

Easter is just around the corner, with it one of the favorite traditions of many children: coloring Easter eggs. The usual colors from the supermarket are not necessarily sustainable, though. However, you can also dye the eggs with natural dyes instead.  The following ingredients are…

Do you also have a pet at home? Or maybe in the stable? We have a dog, and currently it’s obvious she’s shedding. But where to put all the hair? In the garbage? Somehow that seems to be the wrong decision for us. So, I took…

The seeds are sown, and the first sprouts are already coming out of the ground. Especially at this time, plants are difficult to identify. There is only one solution: plant labels are needed! Boring and environmentally harmful signs made of plastic should not be in…

Have you ever wondered what happens to that delicious cake that wasn’t sold by the end of the day at the bakery? Often there are discount promotions in the last hours. Some bakers also offer their goods at reduced prices on the app “Too Good…

Every EU citizen produces an average of around 24 kilograms of plastic waste per year. That’s a staggering amount if you think about it in terms of your life. Therefore, it only makes sense to reduce this amount wherever possible. Were you aware that a…

Seasoning salt, Italian herbs and other ready-made mixtures often make cooking that much easier. After all, it’s handy to be able to cover five spices in one go, isn’t it? Some brands are so successful with their spice blends that it’s hard to imagine today’s supermarket…

You still need a colorful highlight on your balcony or in the garden? Then look around for an unused pallet. Planted with flowers, these are great eye-catchers! And vertical gardening is very trendy at the moment! However, there is a bit of work to be…

Slowly days are getting longer and, in the morning, birds are already singing. Now it is time to hang up new nesting boxes. If you follow these three tips, a young tit or other bird will soon move in with you: the nest boxes should…

The balancing act between cleanliness and environmental friendliness. Sounds familiar? We’ve done a little testing to see what we can do best at home. Our wonder weapon is called vinegar essence. It can be used to dissolve limescale residue, it gets rid of other stains…

Half a carrot, two to three potatoes and a few beans and leftover sausage? Do you also have such leftovers all the time?  We like to make a stew out of such leftovers. Depending on the ingredients, we always adjust the recipe, but basically we…

You want to reduce waste but don’t have a food store near you that offers unpacked goods? Then see if you can find bulk packs of the food you use most. This won’t get rid of all the waste, but one large package requires less…

Why should we struggle to lug heavy bottles of cleaning products from the grocery store and clutter up the recycling bin with empty plastic packages when we can easily make our own cleaning products? Do-it-yourself cleaning products save waste, we know what’s in them, and…

It’s wet, cold or the weather is constantly fluctuating? Then it’s also the typical time for colds! I grew up quite rural and in our family, herbal medicines and home remedies were always a big part. Here are a few of my favorite tips. The…

A vegetable is left over or a bowl needs to be covered briefly. In such cases, people often resort to cling film or aluminum foil.  Unfortunately, this causes a lot of waste. So another solution is needed. The simplest alternative is often to put it…

Christmas is getting closer and closer and the second Advent is just around the corner. The best time to bake cookies to get even more in the mood for Christmas! Delicious cookies that you can just pop in your mouth when you feel like a…

Need some last-minute inspiration for your advent calendar? We have an idea for you. With a few toilet paper rolls and cardboard, you can make a totally chic advent calendar — and even design it yourself. You can cut the back in the shape of…

Sometimes good things are so close, or rather in the neighborhood: the birthplace of the cuddly sheep pillows. Handmade from personally selected fabrics according to Oeko-Tex Standard 100.  The Bobelis are not only cute, but also incredibly practical, as they fit under the arm, in…

We don’t use fabric softener at home. One reason is to protect the environment, and the other is that my boyfriend just doesn’t care for the way it feels.  But especially with towels or cozy sweatshirts, I miss the coziness of the extra soft fabric…

A short week and total relaxation — is that possible? Yes, it is possible at the OCÉANO Health Spa Hotel in Tenerife. After a thick cold and a stressful flight because every seat was taken, we arrived at the OCÉANO in early October. Just the…

Halloween: probably the spookiest day of the year. And one of the most litter-rich days as well. Besides the candy wrappers and costumes, some of which are only worn once, decorations are also to blame. Instead of buying decorations that you can only use for…

Unless you live a completely zero waste lifestyle, you’re bound to have some canned goods at home from time to time. Where to put them? Well, just keep them and paint them. This works only with a limited amount of cans, but is still practical…

Paying attention to the right food of you and your four-legged friend is one thing, but what about the treats? Everyone should know by now that there is nothing magical about baking your own dog treats. We have a recipe for you that is personally…

The leaves are beginning to change color on the trees and the first cold and wet days should not be too far off. For this, you are well prepared with a delicious and warming vegetable broth. And homemade tastes even better, of course. Preparation of…

Freshly harvested, mint tastes great in salads, cottage cheese, drinks, or oriental dishes. Mint is also said to have a healing effect on headaches and respiratory infections. If you don’t want to miss the refreshing and soothing taste of your mint even in winter, now…

We like to share with you a special tip for all travelers who love the  Rhön area and those living there. Simone Schleicher and Michael Rohr have opened a new store in Gersfeld with regional products. The shop is situated directly at the town square.…

Sustainability runs through all areas of life. And so, of course, there are also great sustainable alternatives in the household. It is particularly sustainable and also inexpensive if you make your own cleaning products. When I clean my windows, I only use traditional household cleaners.…

© AdobeStock – Florian Weiss There are some vegetables that grow back again and again. You can grow new vegetables from many vegetable leftovers – a great way to reduce your own food waste!   1)  Spring onions A very simple way to grow spring…

  Sustainability runs through all areas of life. And so, of course, there are also great sustainable alternatives in the field of cosmetics. It is particularly sustainable and also affordable if you make your own cosmetics or care products.  I rarely bathe for environmental reasons.…

Right now, we’re all at home a lot, moving less, and snacking from time to time. Are you looking for a healthy snack? We have something for you. Here comes the recipe for energy balls, the healthy candy bar alternative.

The lemon is a real all-rounder. And that’s why I use it not only for cooking, but also as a useful all-purpose cleaner. The cleaner is a great way to utilize the peel of citrus fruits and also comes without chemicals. The cleaner is lime-dissolving…

The beginning of a new year is usually associated with good resolutions. Doing more sports, calling your family more often, or spending less time on your cell phone are just a few examples. Nutrition is also moving back into focus. The non-profit organization Veganuary declared…

In times of Corona, it is more needed than ever: the disinfectant. We have small spray bottles in our handbag, a disinfectant gel in our car and we use the provided products in front of every store. Finding a natural and sustainably produced disinfectant is…

In today’s Insight we show you that sustainable behavior is also possible in Corona times. Mouth and nose cover has become a daily companion that protects us and others. The offer is various and meanwhile, the mask has become a trendy accessory for many people.…

Bread just like from the bakery For a long time, I was afraid to bake my own bread. The complicated preparation of the dough, which I have to take care of for several days, has always kept me from doing it. But the recipe below…

The relationship has lasted for a while, you are happy together and now the next step should be taken. But what do you want for your wedding? Money is of course always a welcome present, but the givers usually prefer to give something real. “Actually…

When staying at the beautiful Albergo Diffuso in Borgomaro you can enjoy the best breakfast of the world and great lunch, but for dinner you usually have to drive a few kilometers to either Imperia at the coast or the authentic small mountain villages. We…

Even though my semester abroad is already five years ago, right now, where we have to stay at home and the shops and cafes are closed, I long for the hustle and bustle of Cluj – or Klausenburg, which is the German name. In the…

Simply make your own deodorant There are many reasons to make your own deodorant. First and foremost for me is the health aspect. Conventional deodorants contain aluminium salts that are suspected of increasing the risk of cancer. DIY-deodorants are also inexpensive, sustainable and long-lasting.  My…

How did you spend New Year’s Eve? As you may know, I traveled to the Valle Maira in Piedmont for a week – and had a wonderfully relaxing time there! Climbing up and down the mountain with snowshoes through deep snow and forests during the…

The organic family hotel Gut Nisdorf is located on the coast of the Grabower Bodden – but what does that actually mean? The Grabower Bodden is formed by the backwaters of the Baltic Sea and is a small lagoon that you can see from your…

It was raining, we were soaked and freezing. We already visited some of the tourist attractions in Aachen like the cathedral, the treasury and the Elisenbrunnen. Now all we wanted was a nice café to warm us up with coffee and cake – preferably vegan.…

On September 20th the global climate strike took place and Green Pearls®, as well as some of our partners, joined the demonstrations. We were happy to see that so many engaged people of all ages were striking for better climate politics! From the Baltic Sea…

I spent almost a year in Peru and had the chance to become familiar with this wonderful country. Among countless tourist attractions, it is often the atmosphere that makes a place special.Arequipa located in the South of the Andean State Peru at a height of…

When the hustle and bustle of the city is too much for you on weekends, a nature excursion is the best remedy. Last week, we explored the renaturated river Wertach close to Ausgburg. Because nature here is so beautiful and divers, the area is sometimes…

From the end of August onwards, tens of thousands of cranes will move from their breeding grounds in Sweden to their winter quarters in northern Spain – taking a break around the family hotel Gut Nisdorf on the Western Pomeranian coast. Every morning and evening,…

It was in 2010 when I first set foot in the vegan and vegetarian restaurant Cornucopia in Dublin. I was an intern at the Goethe Institute and lived in the city for a few weeks. I recently started eating vegan and when I found Cornucopia…

Traveling to Georgia (the country not the US state) was a truly unforgettable experience for me: the open-minded and welcoming people were curious to get to know the travelers, the huge difference in the landscape you will experience while traveling and of course nature itself.…

Hi, my name is Anke and as the latest addition to the Green Pearls® Team I would love to introduce myself. Green is not only one of my favorite colors but also part of my life philosophy – and I’m very happy that my job…

Sometimes called “the little sister of Machu Picchu” the ruins of Choqueqirao in Peru are just as beautiful and great, but there are a lot less tourists visiting. This is due to the fact that it’s only reachable with a rather exhausting 3 to 4…

It is spring and leaves and buds are sprouting, it feels so good to see the garden awaken again. Recently, I have sowed a “butterfly meadow” in my garden and am watching curiously how the young buds fight their way through the soil towards the…

Recently, I started a course to obtain the paragliding A-license. Therefore, I spent 10 days in the Allgäu Alps enjoying  the view of the beautiful landscape from the air. For four days, I was trained to start and steer the paraglider properly (which is harder…

The travel trade show ITB in Berlin starts today and we’re on-site again! We’re looking forward to making new contacts and having inspiring talks with colleagues and our partners. It’s great to hear sustainability and human rights in tourism are addressed on CSR Day at…

If you want to get away from the crowds of winter sports enthusiasts, but still don’t want to do without snow and the mountains, a snowshoe hike is the perfect alternative! Best of all, you hardly ever meet anyone and can enjoy a real secluded…

You can find all kinds of plastics in normal bathrooms: packages, hygiene products, or micro plastics in cosmetic. Though, there are some easy steps to avoid synthetic materials in your bathroom – thus, contributing to environmental protection. Any piece of plastic we avoid is not…

You can produce the most sustainable detergent with chestnuts yourself. Because they are 100% natural, they pollute neither the sewage nor the environment with (chemical) additives. Besides, the local trees with the chestnuts are right in front of my door and in contrary to conventional…