Keep green travel front of mind

It's easy to lose focus of the little things when the "green" focus is so vast. That's why I'm always up for a handy reminder, especially when it comes from a source other than myself. After all, eco-friendly is still quite the ambiguous term in the travel industry, and certainly open to discussion.

Below, travel website boo.com has provided us with their own guide to earth friendly travel. So why not take a moment to brush up on the basics?


Accommodations
The hotel you choose may be five stars, but that doesn't mean it's environmentally-friendly enough to make the cut. Here are a few things to keep in mind when determining where to stay on your next vacation:

Linens & Towels – Be sure to check if the property offers a linen reuse service for guests who are staying multiple nights.

In-Room Recycling – Rest, relax and recycle! Ask ahead of time if in-room recycling bins are available and if the property has an environmentally friendly waste management program.

Transportation – Not only is free transportation offered by a hotel convenient, it is also a very fuel-efficient way to travel. Services that provide rides to several guests at a time is a great way to cut down on fuel consumption and CO2 emissions that contribute to pollutants in the air.

Food Service – Check to see if the food service facilities serve food that is organic or harvested locally. Some hotels grow a lot of the food they use in gardens planted on the roof of the building. Not only does local produce taste better, it didn't have to be shipped from miles away before arriving on your dinner plate.

Energy – Not all power is created equal, so check to see if the hotel you have in mind offers sources of alternative energy, included solar power.

Water Supply – Ask to see if the property participates in a water conservation or recycling process.

Tips for the Green Traveler
For those looking to travel the world and save it too, here are a few tips to keep in mind while on vacation:

BYOT – Bring Your Own Toiletries. That includes hand soap, shampoo and body wash. Most toiletries offered as a complementary item will be reused if un opened.

Getting Around – Instead of renting a car on your next getaway, save the planet and some money, by renting a bike and seeking options for public transportation.

Lights Out! – You wouldn't leave the lights on at your own house when you leave, so don't leave them on in your hotel room. Treat your hotel room like you would your own home.

Climate Control – Helping control the global climate starts with your own thermostat. When your gone for the day save energy by turning down the AC or heat.

Bag it – Planning on doing some shopping on vacation? Bring a large beach bag or other reusable bag to put your souvenirs in. It will cut down on the amount of plastic bags used and save space in your suitcase.

To see even more tips, straight from Green Globetrotter, check out the following links:

How to Score Better Mileage this Summer
Green Gear that's Made in the USA
Eco Resorts Around the World
A Lesson on Green Travel
Tips for Earth Friendly Travel