Clean & Green: Sudsing Up at Michigan State Parks

Earlier this season, Michigan's Grand Haven State Park unveiled its first eco-friendly suds-up station (including showers and toilets for campers) - the first of its kind in the state.

With plans to replace all 97 of the state's similar facilities, this green restroom serves as the official test unit. Water- and energy-efficient, it features natural daytime lighting, night lighting that's triggered by occupancy sensors, time-controlled showers with on-demand water heaters and reduced-flow shower heads, as well as low-flow toilets. The roof gleams with solar panels, used to power the building's ventilation system.

In addition to the new, non-traditional toilets, visitors that visit the park are privy to several outdoor activities, including fishing, swimming, hiking and cross-country skiing. A beach and lighthouse anchor the park, too, making it the perfect point for a picnic spread.

Michigan, however, is not the first to jump aboard the green bathroom boom. Massachusetts, Arizona and New York are just a few others that have dug roots for their own version of the eco restroom.

Above image courtesy of AP: Designers Ryan Brouwer and Randy Pease pose in front of the building they designed for Integrated Architecture in Michigan at Grand Haven State Park.

Top 10 Green Road Trippers

Summer is slowly winding down, but that doesn't mean that you're too late for a classic road trip taken behind a non-traditional set of wheels. Plan a cross-state jaunt, a long weekend or a drive to the coast - whichever is closest. Just make sure that you're covered as green by renting - or buying - one of these eco beauties, saluted just today as the inaugural "Top 10" green cars by Kelly Blue Book (KBB).

- 2008 Toyota Prius

- 2008 Honda Civic Hybrid

- 2008 smart fortwo

- 2008 Nissan Altima Hybrid

- 2008 MINI Cooper

- 2008 Ford Escape Hybrid

- 2008 Honda Fit

- 2008 Mercedes-Benz E320 BLUETEC

- 2008 Toyota Highlander Hybrid

- 2008 Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid

Get the low-down on all of the above vehicles, as well as KBB reviews, by clicking here.

The Ambrose marks first LEED-EB hotel in the US

Sure, you've heard of LEED certification, so what the bleep does LEEDEB cert stand for? That "EB" tagged onto the end is a designation for "existing buildings." Know what that means? The Ambrose Hotel in Santa Monica, Cali. went green before the term had even been established. Doesn't get much cooler than that.

The first-ever hotel in the United States to earn the certification, The Ambrose is home to 77 luxe guestrooms and a Feng Shui atmosphere... koi pond included. A member of the Green Hotels ASsociation and the U.S. Green Building Council, the hotel has garnered such awards as the Google Green Drummer award.

What makes it greener than green? How about a biodiesel-fueled taxi service, hybrid limo service, non-toxic cleaning supplies, Energy Star-rated applicances, low-flow toilets, zero VOC, all-natural amenities, limestone countertops, organic linens and water-based paints? There's an organic breakfast spread, natch.

Rates start at $239. More info at http://www.ambrosehotel.com/.

Cool DIY bags made of recycled rubber

If you're digging the DIY fad then you're sure to love these looky-loo bags made from recycled tire tubes by Modulab.

They'll arrive on your doorstep ready-to-assemble as a flat, rubber sheet, which saves not only packaging for shipping, but energy that would have been sucked up in manufacturing. Don't worry; directions are included.

Choose from a messenger bag (pictured), envelope purse or hefty (and we mean hefty) handbag, ideal as a carry-on for the intrepid traveler.

Source: Treehugger

On the road with an eco-friendly camper

Recently named the "2008 Green RV of the Year" by Roaming Times, the Livin' Lite Quicksilver Automotive Camper is just the ticket for families craving wide, open spaces - both inside and out.

Built without the use of formaldehyde--or wood--this clever camper is towable by car (no gas-guzzlin' SUV needed, thank you) and sleeps up to six energy-conscious travelers within its all-aluminum body. (Interior shown left.)

Starting at $4,500 and available at prices up to $6,300, the Quicksilver provides more bang for the buck, especially when considering its long life. Inspired by original pop-up tent campers (ah, the memories of bygone family vacations), the Livin' Lite is an upgraded, lighter and lesser cost camper.

Available in several colors, it's got me thinking: Where are the s'mores?

More green on the Worldwide Web

The Ambrose - First US Hotel with LEED-EB Certification (Hotel Interactive)

World’s Largest Biz Travel Association Event Goes Green (Sustainable Travel)

2008 Green RV of the Year (Roaming Times)

What to Look for in a Green Travel Company (Blog)

Denali Buses Gear Up to Go Green (Jaunted)

How to Make Your Travel Greener (The Street)

Green Tax May be Imposed on Luggage (eBookers)

Walkability surges again: Google Maps

Well, it took a while but Google Maps has finally caught on - there are folks traveling to urban cities who yearn for directions by foot. It's true. Traditionally, Google Maps in all of it's user-friendly glory, has only spit out driving directions when systematically questioned. Now, what may have been mapped as a two-mile drive is also viewable for pedestrians (or bike riders). A quick click of button reveals - what was two miles by car may be a mere five minute jaunt when you stroll.

It's still in beta, but you can check it out here. Simply choose "walking" directions under search results.

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

Upgrade that sand castle - Weymouth Beach

Now, here's a hotel that's green. The world's first sand hotel, pictured above, was finished yesterday on Weymouth Beach in England. Offering both twin and double guestrooms, bookings occur on-site - on a first come, first served basis. Costing a scant 10 pounds per night (cash only, natch), the hotel is a stellar deal for those folks not interested in privacy. After all, it is roofless.

Created in eight days using 1,000 tons of sand, we wonder: how long will this grand sand castle last?

Want to Wysi?

Here's an idea: On your next long flight or camping trip (when you'd give almost anything for a damp cloth to wipe your hands or refresh your face), why not pull out a WysiWipe?

Yes, they're called WysiWipes - and because the name doesn't exactly uncover their purpose, I will. Compressed towelettes, they're tiny, pre-packaged cotton tablets that grow into a full size wipe when dampened, whether with water, cleanser, rubbing alcohol... whatever you require.

Most importantly, they're 100 percent natural. No chemicals. No artificial scents. Reusable. And completely biodegradable, making them 100 percent Green Globetrotter approved. (In fact, they made the perfect complement to last weekend's motorcycle tour - gotta keep that bike shiny - along Michigan's coast... and fit perfectly into my pocket on the go.)

Confused? Watch the demo video here. Then place an order at canawipe.com. You'll find a 100 piece bag for $12.

Deal Alert: 50% Off Eco LeSportsac

It's true, the 2008 Spring/Summer collection of LeSportsac by Stella McCartney is a whopping 50 percent off when shoppers use the discount code "STELLA50" upon checkout.

The limited edition line of backpacks, travel bags, totes and wallets, crafted in vibrant colors with fabrics made of 100 percent reycled materials, are durable enough for travel but also undeniably feminine in design. Quite simply, they're sweet buys especially when mated with such a hefty price drop.

Find out more about Stella's line here.

Walkability: Factoring Foot Traffic in the US

There's a new site making waves on the web - one that measures the "walkability," if you will, of cities all across the nation. For those of us striving to go green, it's a big step in the right direction, one that is raising awareness of the importance of non-fueled mobility. I mean, we do have legs for a reason, ya know.

Just last week, WalkScore.com listed the "most walkable neighborhoods" in the U.S., including the following:

1. San Francisco, CA
2. New York, NY
3. Boston, MA
4. Chicago, IL
5. Philadelphia, PA
6. Seattle, WA
7. Washington D.C.
8. Long Beach, CA
9. Los Angeles, CA
10. Portland, OR

[Tourism sites linked]

You can check out the top 40 here. By visiting the site, you can see color-coded graphs like the one above, which outline the most pedestrian-friendly areas and even highlight restaurants, parks, etc. through Google technology.

Do share. What are some of your favorite walking neighborhoods? I really enjoy Seattle, and the Windy City ranks as a no-brainer to a Midwesterner like myself.

Spotlight: Brentwood Bay Lodge & Spa

What's going on at Brentwood Bay - Victoria's only five-star oceanside resort and spa? Well, lots of things... including the current Ocean Villas project that will result in the first Canadian "LEED for Homes" certification of a multi-unit property.

Working with EnerVision green consulting in Calgary, the top-rated resort in British Columbia (according to Expedia voters) is crafting the 1,850 square feet unites that will each feature two bedrooms, a media room, and great room with a groumet kitchen and double-sided fireplace. The main draw, of course, are the sweeping views that stretch across the Saanich Inlet, Canada's most southern fjord.

Some of the green features in the construction of the OceanVillas include the use of natural stone quarried from Vancouver Island and "FSC" certified hardwood floors, private garages with a "green" roof, HVAC systems that reduce energy consumption, healthy indoor air and drought tolerant gardens.

"Innovative residential projects like OceanVillas are setting the standard for achieving superior energy efficiency and environmental performance in a luxury setting," says Alex Joseph, EnerVision’s Executive Director. "We are pleased to be part of such a worthy undertaking and tip our hat to the project developer Dan Behune."

Want to grab your piece of the green Ocean Villa pie? Find out more here.

More green on the Worldwide Web

Seattle Hosts Adventure in Travel Expo this September (Terracurve)

How to Scuba Dive the Green Way (Going Green Travel)

Best Spots for a Sustainable Vacation (The Street)

7 Great, Green US Destinations (EcoFlip)

Stockholm Plans Major Eco Meetings Venue (The Green Meeting)

Eat, Pray, Love - Travel Book Review (Go Green Travel Green)

Two Green Girls on the Road Blog (The Green Guide)

Pink Key West taxis go green

According to USA Today, Key West, Florida's iconic, hot pink taxis are going green.

Five Sixes Taxi, the cab service that has serviced the Key West area for over 40 years, announced this week the addition of 10 hybrid vehicles to their regular line up (don't worry, they're still painted pink).

Says Jan Doleman, company president, of the hybrids: They'll "reduce our emissions factor by 80 percent." The new SUV taxis (which look like Ford Escape Hybrids to me) should garner about 38 miles per gallon in the city, versus the traditional 12 to 13 miles granted by previous models.

Plans to replace the other 13 pink sedans are in place, with hopes to be completed by March 2009.

Image courtesy of AP

Deal Alert: Natural Buys @ Drugstore.com

This morning, my inbox gifted me a sale notice for one of my favorite and easy-to-order-from sites, Drugstore.com. The e-mail revealed some great deals, which I've linked to below in case any of you are stocking up on natural travel accessories (think skincare sets and snacks)...



Kiss My Face Obsessively Organic Daily Use Facial Kit for Normal to Dry Skin - $10.49
Kiss My Face Obsessively Organic Daily Use Facial Kit For Normal to Oilly Skin - $10.49
Burt's Bees Natural Skin Care For Men, Dopp Kit Essentials - $19.99
Burt's Bees Outdoor Essential Giftset - $15.99
Tom's of Maine Natural Anticavity Fluoride Toothpaste, Spearmint Travel Size - $1.12
Airborne Effervescent Health Formula, Tablets, Adult Formula - $6.19
No-Jet-Lag Homeopathic Remedy Tablets, for Jet Lag - $9.29
Nature's Gate Suncare Products - 20% off
Larabars - $5 off a box

Visit Drugstore.com's "Green & Natural" department here.

Spotlight: Element Hotel in Lexington

If you haven't heard, this month was the official unveiling of Starwood Hotel's new eco-line dubbed element hotel. The first in a chain of soon-to-be-opened properties was Lexington, Massachusetts - a short drive away from the historically-seeped east coast town, Boston.

Besides chic decor and Heavenly beds, element hotels feature such green features as: in-room recycling bins, eco-friendly dispensers for amenities (no freebies here!), Energy Star approved appliances, and fluorescent light bulbs. Of course, there's priority parking for hybrid drivers too.

There are less obvious touches too, like recycled carpeting, the use of green cleaning supplies and water filtration systems. Perhaps most importantly, however, is the brand-wide commitment made by element to pursue LEED certification for each hotel - 21 of which have looming open dates for North America.

You can virtually "experience" element rooms by visiting this site.

When I checked reservations yesterday, rates started at $159, not including taxes.

Eco on the go - Sakar's green line

I'm rarely found in an airport without my iPod to keep me company. So, when I caught wind of these iPod accessories by Eco Trends, a division of Sakar International, I had to check them out. In my mailbox arrived a "sync & charging kit" and "portable mini speaker," both for my nano, but compatible with almost all iPods.

They're not solar powered - except for the battery charger to the left (sold at Circuit City) - but that's the idea Sakar is betting on. For now, they're primarily iPod, computer and digital camera products made with recycled plastic, reduced-paper packaging, and printed with eco-friendly inks and dyes. In addition, the company has partnered with the Save the Earth Foundation, who is endorsing the line of products.

It may not be a ground-breaking technology discovery, but it's a step in the right direction. Have you seen Eco Trends products in stores? Tried any out? I've only had my samples, sent by Sakar, for a few days, but they both seem to be handy music options that raise the bar a notch or two.

Spotlight: The Lodge at Sun Ranch

Long-known as Papoose Creek Lodge, this 16-guest property sits among the countryside of southwest Montana and has long been hailed as a go-to in natural travel. A self-proclaimed eco-lodge that exudes both intimacy and luxury in a setting more akin to ruggedness, Sun Ranch is in essence, a 26,000-acre sustainable ranching operation beside the Madison River.

Features of the lodge include such green iniatives as sourcing from local producers and artisans; utlizing reusable and recyclable materials, as well as organic and fair trade products; green building techniques; farm-to-table culinary program that uses local, natural and free-range foods; guest education; and a Traveler's Philanthropy program, which allows guests to contribute to local causes.

Built in 1998 as the "American West's premiere eco-lodge," The Lodge at Sun Ranch offers one additional--and major draw--factor: It's less than an hour drive from Yellowstone.

Packages for lodge accommodations (there are two log cottages as well) start at $900 per person, based on double occupancy, for a three-night stay that includes all meals.

Kimpton Hotels pamper organically

I admit, I have a soft spot for Kimpton Hotels. I was, after all, staying at a Kimpton property (the San Diego Solamar, to be exact) when I witnessed my first in-room recycling bin. So ecstatic, I snapped a photo right then and there. Ahh, the thrill of green advancement.

Now, in connection with the brand's well-known EarthCare program, most of Kimpton's 42 North American properties are featuring natural, organic and paraben-free products for their in-room spa treatments. (Nobody said the place wasn't posh.) Meaning, guests can guiltlessly indulge in such soothing experiences as the Mother-to-be Harmony Organic Massage and Gentlemen’s Facial.

The new spa products being used in the hotel's Mind.Body.Spa. program are by Kerstin Forian. Wild-crafted, they're eco-friendly and will also be up for grabs on the Kimpton Style website, along with plenty of other green goods that often offer donated profits.

If you're visiting a Kimpton hotel this month, book an in-room treatment. During the month of July, $5 will be donated to The Trust for Public Land for every spa treatment that occurs.

Images courtesy of Kimpton Hotel Solamar and Kerstin Forian

Winners of Green Giveaway - Pharmacopia

Thanks to everyone who shared their fab green advice for traveling in our first ever Green Giveaway! We received loads of excellent suggestions from all across the nation and are very happy to announce this month's three winners of the Pharmacopia Aromatherapy Travel Set... (drum roll, please)...

- Peggy Gorman, Connecticut

- Linda Pinto, California

- Bridget Boyle, Maine

Check back soon and keep an eye out for our next giveaway!

2008 Green Spaces Travel awards

Know of an eco nirvana that deserves a bit of recognition?

The Times Online, a UK-based news website, is reveling in the success of their Green Spaces Travel awards, which have garnered loads of interest from eager, green fans. Entering is easy, and you can do it until September 1, 2008. Simply nominate your favorite "place to stay" or "open place" in one of three categories: Britain, Europe or Worldwide, and you may win a rail holiday to Venice. (You're on your own for airfare, however, if you live across the pond like me.)

Check out May and June nominations here or explore specific British properties via video like the Lincolnshire Eco Lodge and Titanic Spa in Yorkshire.

If the auto industry can, why can't the travel industry?

Recently, Automotive News reported that as soon as August, global warming ratings could pop up on all 2009 model cars that roll onto California dealerships. The ratings, based on a scale of 1-10, will be mandatory in the state beginning January 1, 2009, says the industry magazine and will measure emissions related to both the production and operation of a vehicle (think Prius = 10, Hummer = 1).

A great step forward for the Golden State, one that many others will hopefully follow, driven by the California Air Resources Board. In fact, it got me thinking, if the auto industry is now offering state designated ratings, perhaps the travel industry won't be far behind.

Can you imagine the day when you walk through a resort lobby and see not only a Mobile Award and AAA Diamond plaque, but a government mandated "green" rating?

So now, when you buy a car in Cali, this is the the sticker you'll see on the side of the car:



Think it's worth a push in your own state? Drop your congressman an e-mail and share your thoughts.

Repurposed B&Bs make old new again

There is a certain rush that accompanies an evening spent in a place not meant for sleep... whether it's a children's lock-in at the local museum, a tent alongside a raging river, or a former prison turned chic B&B. Seriously.

Jailer's Inn B&B in Bardstown, Kentucky, is just that. A prison that dates back to 1819, complete with 30 inch thick stone walls and iron bars. If you're even more adventurous, the innkeeper Paul McCoy will let you sleep on the original bunks for a true taste of criminal punishment 19th century style. What's that? Not so interested? Don't disdain, there are plenty of eco-friendly inn options that have been repurposed following their first lives.

Take, for instance, Butler Greenwood Plantation, which offers the former slave quarters as rentable "cottages." History revisited indeed. In Globe, Arizona, travelers can play ultimate hooky by spending the night at school thanks to Noftsger Hill Inn B&B. Built in 1907, the former elementary school has been transformed into a collection of spacious guest suites.

Other recycled properties take up residence in old hospitals, train cars, lighthouses, banks (like the Landmark Inn of Oberlin, Kanas, pictured above) and more. BedandBreakfast.com has compiled a great list that you can check out here.

Ultimate eco resort set for Mosquito Island

My, oh my, what hasn't Sir Richard Branson dipped his hand into yet? The tycoon entrepreneur that founded Virgin Records has made a life of relaxation on his famed, private Necker Island, widely known among celebrity jetsetters as the hottest of invitations. And now, he's announced the purchase of nearby Mosquito Island, situated in the blue sky Caribbean, by vacation company Virgin Holidays.

According to a report by The Associated Press, Branson says island properties in this Brisish chain, with their access to sun, wind and waves, will lead the world in alternative, green resources.

Currently uninhabited, Branson plans on building 20 villas and a beach side restaurant on Mosquito Island. Of course, these would be powered entirely by wind turbines and solar power, one of many aspects that will hopefully make Mosquito Island the most environmentally-friendly resort on Earth.

True to form, the tycoon has rounded up a slew of alternative energy consultants to aid in the rise of the resort. Stay tuned; we'll pass on updates as they come in...

Image above, Necker Island, courtesy of NeckerIsland.com

A new place to book eco travel: iStayGreen

Most travelers are familiar with booking and review sites such as Orbitz, Expedia and TripAdvisor. Now, greener folks have a place of their own to go at iStayGreen.org. Created with social media capabilities in mind, this site blends the perks of other popular travel sites (such as booking technology, user reviews and photos) with green ratings, carbon offset options (coming soon) and the ability to speak directly to hotel management.

Currently, iStayGreen lists more than 95,000 properties that span the globe. About 3,000 feature Green Leaf Ratings, a designation completed via self-audits of eco initiatives.

Any globetrotters using this site? If so, share your thoughts!

Happy Independence Day!

Today, travelers all over the United States will gather in their respected destinations and communities this evening to enjoy spectacular displays of fireworks.

While I'm not too keen on the environmental impact caused by these heart-pounding shows that light the skies, I've never been one to turn a back on patriotism. Wherever you happen to be, I hope you have a lovely time in celebration with friends, family or fellow travelers.

Take a moment, if you will, to stop and think about all of the wonderful things this country offers, not the least of which is freedom. As worldly travelers, we are offered the opportunity to witness and explore cultures that many Americans cannot begin to imagine. often creating a renewed appreciation of the U.S. Today, share your experiences, thoughts and feelings with those around you. Talk about your favorite U.S. destinations, go-to attractions, products that are made here at home, and places that feed the soul.

We've got a whole year to travel. Today, let's enjoy the U.S.A.

Green travel gear that's "Made in the USA"

Day four of Roam @ Home Week, in honor of Independence Day...

Let me begin with this: Finding must-have, green travel buys that are "Made in the USA" is not as easy as one might imagine. Funny; it only seems natural that the eco-friendly way to manufacture environmentally considerate products would be to do so right here at home, instead of an ocean away...

That said, here are a few great finds that are made in the U.S. and ideal for your next green getaway or adventurous "staycation."

Ibex: This clothing maker offers loads of travel-friendly options, including this warm pullover made of ultrafine merino wool, the "Escape Long Sleeve Zip" ($95) and denser "Shak Zip" jacket for men. ($145)

Timbuk2: This retailer still crafts some of its heavy-duty carry-alls right in San Francisco. Choose this Classic Messenger Bag, made of eco-friendly hemp and PET fabric ($110-$150)

Nalgene: All of Nalgene's well-known hydration equipment in made in America; pick up this set-in-bottle, dubbed "Preparedness." ($25)

Skin by Monica: A perfectly packable, all-natural skin care set for jetsetters needing to fly through TSA check points. ($35) Available for women, men and baby.

More green on the Worldwide Web...

Going for Green: Eco-Friendly Family Vacations (The Green Guide)

What is ecotourism? (CNN)

Fewer expected to drive, fly for fourth of July (USA Today)

The Mad Experiment: Dubai (Newsweek)

Driving for business, rental fleets go green (BusinessWeek)

Ecotourism in Belize damages eco sensitive sites (Science Daily)

Making tourism greener in the Green Mtn. State (The Gazette)

Sunscreen Buying Guide (The Green Guide)

Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort - Fiji Island (Going Green Travel)

Tourist tries green traveling in city (Mt. Airy News)

The greenest museum ever built

Day three of Roam @ Home Week, in honor of Independence Day...

This fall, visitors to San Francisco's Golden Gate Park will be able to experience a museum that is certifiably unlike any other in existance. Designed by world-famous architect Renzo Piano, the eight-year project will come to its end, having swallowed nearly half a billion dollars during its construction. It's the new California Academy of Sciences, a consortium of aquarium, planetarium and natural history museum, all housed under a 2.5 acre "living roof."

Among the top wishes of the CAS is to be the largest LEED Platinum certified building in the world when its doors open on September 27, 2008. The first guests to enter will bear witness to a tropical rainforest - enclosed within a glass dome - one of the many aspects of the museum that bring the outside in, or vice versa, depending on how you look at it.

Since the environmental savings are too numerous to list, I'll simply direct you the website. Take a glance and you'll learn of the 1.7 million plants that will be used to blanket the living roof alone, aquariums featuring saltwater pumped in directly from the Pacific, and a solar canopy that will contribute to the museum's energy expenditures.

Dying to visit? Me too. You can get the details here.

Explore nearby national parks

Day two of Roam @ Home Week, in honor of Independence Day...


If you're one of the millions planning a summer "staycation," you're likely looking into some close-to-home and previously unexplored activities. While theme parks are certainly entertaining, why not venture out and get dirty at a nearby national park? Chances are that you're not too far from one - and all it'll cost ya is a day pass and picnic.

To get started, take a few moments to research your options. The National Park Service operates a useful website at http://www.nps.gov/ where visitors can search their state for details (hours, fees, directions) on parks.

If you're looking for more details, check out GORP's National Parks Guide, which outlines the must-see spots in many of our nation's parks.

Lastly, courtesy of one of my favorite publications, Body + Soul, comes a list of green gear for campers that wish to "Rough It in Eco-style." According to the magazine's experts, every happy camper will want the following goods:

• ReSource Series React Daypack by Osprey Packs, which includes recycled polyester from old soda bottles ($74)


• EcoPro Sleeping Bag by Marmot, made of reclaimed plastic bottles fabric ($165)


• Solar Lantern from Gaiam that provides 3 1/2 hours of light when charged ($59)


• Jason's Quit Bugging Me! spray, which uses plant oils to deter mosquitoes ($9)


• Dr. Bronner's Pure Castile Soap that works as cleanser, shampoo and toothpaste ($2.50)