The world’s most ethical destinations

Every year, Ethical Traveler reviews the policies and practices of hundreds of nations in the developing world. It then selects ten that are doing the most impressive job of promoting human rights, preserving environment, and upholding civil society while creating a sustainable, community-based tourism industry. By visiting these countries, Ethical Traveler asserts, we can use our economic power to support best practices.

Each country selected as a Best Ethical Destination offers the opportunity to experience unspoiled natural beauty, and to interact with local people and cultures in a meaningful, mutually enriching way. The countries on this list are actively improving the state of their people, government and environment. They are the destinations most worth your money and your leisure time.

Ethical Traveler is an all-volunteer, non-profit organization, and a project of the Earth Island Institute. No money or donations of any kind are solicited or accepted from any nations, governments, travel bureaus or individuals in the creation of its annual list.

And which countries made the 2013 list? Take a guess – and prepare to be pleasantly surprised!

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7. Mauritius

Significant improvements in property rights, monetary freedom, and management of government spending have elevated Mauritius to a high rank on the Heritage Foundation’s Economic Freedom Index 2012. Mauritius is also foremost among the island states that are taking proactive steps in environmental policies. For the casual traveler, Mauritius offers charming beaches and activities such as scuba diving and snorkeling, deep-sea fishing. ... more
7. Mauritius

Significant improvements in property rights, monetary freedom, and management of government spending have elevated Mauritius to a high rank on the Heritage Foundation’s Economic Freedom Index 2012. Mauritius is also foremost among the island states that are taking proactive steps in environmental policies. For the casual traveler, Mauritius offers charming beaches and activities such as scuba diving and snorkeling, deep-sea fishing. Foodies will love the Creole, Chinese, Indian or Muslim fare. Indians will connect easily with the multiplicity of familiar festivals such as Holi, Ougadi and Cavadi celebrated by Mauritians of Indian descent.

In India, Mauritius has a High Commission in New Delhi (Address: EP-41 Jesus & Mary Marg, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi 110021. Phone: 91-11-24102161) and a Consulate in Mumbai (Address: Office No 1105, 11th Floor, Regent Chambers, Jamnalal Bajaj Marg, 208, Nariman Point, Mumbai – 400021. Phone: 91-22-22841410)

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