Living Green
Travel Green this Summer
By Jathynia Garcia
It’s the time of year where we plan summer vacations with our family and friends. But have you ever thought of traveling green? It’s a concept which entices being environmentally friendly while even saving a few bucks along the way. I recently bumped into an article on National Geographic that inspired me to write this tidbit. Here are some useful things to consider when planning your next summer getaway.
1- Try planning independently rather than package deals or tours. We live in a world where everything is packaged and bundled, but sometimes with a little time and research you can find your own individual deals for transportation, lodging and tours. This can help you keep more money in your pocket while still enjoying the surroundings.
2- Pack light to avoid adding fuel costs as well as avoiding checked baggage fees. Brainstorm the least amount of clothing and footwear needed for your family and research whether you can buy specialty shoes, hiking boots or basic clothing more cheaply at your destination. Try to fit clothing and shoes in a single rolling carrying case that meets airline specifications for carry-on luggage.
3- Stay at your destination in the most affordable lodging options that meet your comfort requirements. For 
example no-electricity traditional Mayan huts on the beach in the Yucatan or simple but clean rooms with traditional scoop-water showers and bathrooms, affordable small hotels in the Caribbean that aim for the single college student or inter-island worker. All fall well short of traditional Western hotel amenities, certainly, but also have limited environmental demands and may be a tenth or less the price of a four-star hotel. For the local Floridian, you may even try tent camping for a super-cheap and green choice on Peanut Island. www.pbcgov.com/parks/peanutisland/
example no-electricity traditional Mayan huts on the beach in the Yucatan or simple but clean rooms with traditional scoop-water showers and bathrooms, affordable small hotels in the Caribbean that aim for the single college student or inter-island worker. All fall well short of traditional Western hotel amenities, certainly, but also have limited environmental demands and may be a tenth or less the price of a four-star hotel. For the local Floridian, you may even try tent camping for a super-cheap and green choice on Peanut Island. www.pbcgov.com/parks/peanutisland/4- Save a bundle over air transportation by taking ground transportation, such as buses, trains, and ferries between cities. When considering renting a vehicle, there are many economy automobiles that will keep costs down & save on fuel consumption.
5- Avoid motorized transport altogether and save even more. Pedicabs and cycle rickshaws, as well as pony traps can be found in places all over the world. Or find your way around in a canoe or just go for the traditional walking around town. It will serve as a great exercise while still taking in the sights.
While it may take some thought to sacrifice a bit of the ultra luxurious for the traveling green way, it’s a decision you won’t regret while saving green.
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