Summer is almost here and for most of us that means vacation time. Great news, we can vacation and still maintain our green principles. It's called ecotourism. Ecotourism, according to the World English Dictionary, is traveling to destinations that celebrate nature and vacationing in a way that protects or minimizes our impact on the world around us. You are probably thinking this means camping out. While ecotourism can involve camping out it does not have to mean sacrificing the comforts of indoor plumbing or any other comfort for that matter. Here are some steps you can take to create the green vacation of your dreams.
Make informed decisions
Research is always a great place to start before embarking on any new adventure. Ecotourism has become popular in the last few years, so just about any destination you chose will have eco-friendly options. If you are traveling inside the United States an Internet search for the Department of Environmental Protection in the state you are visiting will list hotels engaged in green activities. There are also plenty of hotels internationally that cater to patrons interested in going green while on the go. Websites such as Greenloons promote destinations around the world that specialize in ecotourism. There are green hotels and travel to fit just about any budget.
Ask Questions
However you chose to travel by plane, train, or automobile earth friendly options may be available. Asking questions can unlock all kinds of previously unknown options. Many car rental agencies offer hybrids. Since they are considered to be specialty cars the price is significantly higher than economy cars but the price range is generally in the middle range of all the cars offered.
Airlines such as Virgin America, Delta, and a few others are praised as being more eco-conscious than most. They go beyond recycling. Like airplanes trains have made many improvements within the last decade. They are cleaner, lighter, and emit less greenhouse gases than they did in the past.
Plan Ahead
Since ecotourism is becoming more popular planning ahead and booking ahead is a great way to get the eco-options that you want. It will help you get first choice options and save money.
Beware of Greenwashing
Beware of greenwashing. Greenwashing is when businesses deceptively promote the idea that the business engages in earth friendly policies. Doing your research and asking questions can help you make the right decisions when it comes to enjoying an earth friendly vacation.
Make informed decisions
Research is always a great place to start before embarking on any new adventure. Ecotourism has become popular in the last few years, so just about any destination you chose will have eco-friendly options. If you are traveling inside the United States an Internet search for the Department of Environmental Protection in the state you are visiting will list hotels engaged in green activities. There are also plenty of hotels internationally that cater to patrons interested in going green while on the go. Websites such as Greenloons promote destinations around the world that specialize in ecotourism. There are green hotels and travel to fit just about any budget.
Ask Questions
However you chose to travel by plane, train, or automobile earth friendly options may be available. Asking questions can unlock all kinds of previously unknown options. Many car rental agencies offer hybrids. Since they are considered to be specialty cars the price is significantly higher than economy cars but the price range is generally in the middle range of all the cars offered.
Airlines such as Virgin America, Delta, and a few others are praised as being more eco-conscious than most. They go beyond recycling. Like airplanes trains have made many improvements within the last decade. They are cleaner, lighter, and emit less greenhouse gases than they did in the past.
Plan Ahead
Since ecotourism is becoming more popular planning ahead and booking ahead is a great way to get the eco-options that you want. It will help you get first choice options and save money.
Beware of Greenwashing
Beware of greenwashing. Greenwashing is when businesses deceptively promote the idea that the business engages in earth friendly policies. Doing your research and asking questions can help you make the right decisions when it comes to enjoying an earth friendly vacation.
Kimberly Winston is a doctoral candidate at Walden University. Her website http://www.greenlivingsavings.com is dedicated to green living and saving green. GreenLivingsSavings.com informs readers on green issues and provides tips for going green.