ECO Lifestyle + Lodge, Barbados

ECO Lodge (ECO stands for East Coast Origin) is the realized dream of New York natives Maryam and Kyle, who sought to combine the natural beauty and slower pace of Barbados with the chic taste and mindfulness practices of home. Their stated goal is to balance good everyday living with an appreciation for its impact on the environment.

Rooms here are simply yet beautifully designed in a modern bohemian style, with upcycled wood walls, soft linens and balconies with ocean views. Each day starts with an illuminating sunrise and ends with a sunset drenched in color—with the surface of the ocean almost prismatic. The cascading salt-water pools that dot the property’s oceanfront terrace are perfect for relaxing with an ECO cocktail or elixir. The acclaimed ECO Restaurant & Pantry means you don’t have to stray for great eats. The whole property is designed for kicking back.

ECO is Green Globe Certified with an established recycling and composting program in place. Sustainable practices are apparent throughout the property: drinks are served with bamboo straws harvested in the garden, all water is solar-heated and only organic cleaning products are used. Guests are supplied with artisanal organic toiletries. In the rooms are pottery and crafts made by local artisans, who's work you'll also find in the cute ECO Shop. Here, too, is one of the only true farm-to-table organic restaurants on the island, which is working toward zero waste goals. Even the menu itself is made from local palm leaves and printed on recycled paper.