TRAVEL

There are not many places left in the world where nature and humans still coexist on nature’s terms. Places without luxury resorts, beach clubs, stores, infinity pools, or concrete high-rises. Places where the only sounds are wind moving through palm trees and waves gently meeting the shore. Places where life has remained largely unchanged for generations. The San Blas Islands are one of those places.

I recently completed a Sustainable Travel course as part of a continuing education program for my work in conservation. I expected to learn practical tips on how to leave less of a footprint, travel lighter, and make more eco-friendly choices along the way. What I didn’t expect was for the course to shake me to my core. When I finished, I told my husband it was one of the most eye-opening and, honestly, depressing classes I’ve ever taken. And I meant it. Long after I received