Summer is here and it's the perfect season for taking that vacation you've been dreaming of all winter! Why not make your trip extra special by traveling the eco-conscious way? There are plenty of easy ways to have both a fun and environmentally-conscious experience for the whole family. Not sure where to start? Below are 5 easy rules to becoming an eco-tourist!
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- Consider your method of transportation. Airplanes are a big contributor to the release of carbon dioxide in the air. If you have to fly, use varied modes of transportation once you reach your destination. Rent a bicycle and walk whenever you can. If you're going to drive, consider car like the new Chevy Malibu ECO with eAssist with an EPA estimated 37 MPG on the highway. eAssist is a modern and innovative technology that naturally makes it possible to conserve power when it's not needed.
- Choose your hotel carefully. Many companies are now adopting policies to make their accommodations more environmentally-conscious. Do some research to look for hotels that use wind or solar energy, have recycling facilities, use earth-friendly cleaners, etc.
- Sometimes "green" is in the destination. Spend time in nature, camping and leaving a light carbon footprint. National parks are great for this!
- Choose one destination to explore 100%. Rather than making lots of stops, "go local" in one concentrated area. Opt for the increasingly available bike rentals now offered in many major destinations. You can plan a bike ride or a hike around local areas, go to organic farms or restaurants, go swimming or kayaking, etc. If you need help thinking of ideas, ask your hotel or even the locals for suggestions!
- Eat locally produced food. One big thing that impacts the environment is the transportation of food. Choose to eat locally grown and made when on vacation. Restaurants are increasingly making that information available, so don't be afraid to ask. Besides being better for the planet, local food is often fresher and tastier too!
Have you ever gone on an eco-friendly vacation? Tell us in the comments below!
Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
If you're a family of hikers, then the Grand Canyon is the perfect spot for you. Skip the touristy areas and instead seek out some lesser known spots, like Havasupai Canyon, a Western section that's home to Havasupai Native Americas. You can hike or ride a donkey and camp out with your relatives.
San Francisco
San Francisco is one of the most eco-friendly cities in the US, even banning plastic bags in grocery stores. There are tons of farmers markets to buy and eat organic produce, like the Ferry Plaza Farmers Martket. You can also rent a bike to pedal around the city sights. Another pro? There are plenty of green hotels to choose from.
Costa Rica
Costa Rica is a haven for eco-friendly activities. Filled with rain forests, water falls, wildlife, and organic farms and orchids, it's the perfect destination if you're looking to explore and engage in nature. The jungle pictured is called Tortuguero, a place that where thousands of endangered green sea turtles converge to breed every summer. Your family go on a turtle viewing trip, a kayak ride, or pay a visit to the Carribean Conservation Corporation museum.
Yosemite National Park, California
Yosemite Valley is easy to get around since it offers hybrid-electric buses that produce fewer emissions. Take the buses as a rest in between amazing hikes along spots like the Bridal Veil Falls and the Mist Trail. There affordable lodges nearby or if you're more adventurous, you can pitch a tent and camp out!
Puerto Vallarta, México
Puerto Vallarta is a popular destination for all travelers. But if you're looking to go the eco-friendly route, try staying at the Hotelito Desconocido, a resort that has no phones or TV and only uses alternative power for their ceiling fans. They even have super private huts that are only accessible by rowboat!
