Green Globetrotter

Eco Essentials: Fall 2011

2011-10-17T19:08:00.000-04:00

The crisp fall air has gotten to my head. I'm dreaming of cozy knits, moisture-laden lip balms and pretty accent pieces to accompany me on my next trip. From this uber-soft (and eco!) hooded wrap coat by JulesElin ($126), to these juicy vegan lip balms ($3.79 each), organic and available in an array of scrumptious flavors - from chai tea to black cherry.

On the functional side, I'm carrying Lifefactory's glass bottles ($21.99) with a chic and colorful silicon sleeve in this recycled Maltby Eco Tote (well, I wish I were carrying this bag... for now, it's purely lust).

To top it off, every globetrotter wants to ensure karma's on their side. This dainty gold necklace ($74) by Dogeared does just that; a portion of each sale is donated to non-profits educating women globally. Best of all, it's the ideal travel accent, dressing up a simple back shift or adding a bit of sparkle against a white tee.

Which green goodies are you dying for this season?

Clothes that Go: Prancing Leopard Organics

2011-09-15T23:43:00.001-04:00

A glimpse of the Imago Wrap by Prancing Leopard

When traveling, I'm one of those girls that is constantly leaning over flight mates to swipe shut the cool air outlet, (it's freezing up there at cruising altitude!) meaning I'm never one to board a plane in warm-climate clothes. But on a flight, where comfort is key, finding flexible, layer-able options is critical. Only on extremely rare occasions (hello, Montezuma's Revenge) will you find me in a sweatshirt, so I'm adding style to the mix as a complementary component. After all, you never know who you could run into at the airport.

On one of my most recent trips, I pulled a new, knit shrug-slash-cardigan out of my closet - ripe for testing in the friendly skies. Made by Prancing Leopard Organics, it's an eco-travel oddity, a do-everything wardrobe element that can transition from shrug to wrap sweater, to poncho, to mini-blanket. (If exhaustion has gotten the best of you, you could probably style it in 200 ways during your next layover.)

What's especially nice about the easily adaptable top is that it's not only practical on a plane, but on the road as well. From poolside to fireside, it's thin-knit looks chic in a variety of settings and against the backdrop of a bikini or a even a slinky dress. Crafted of low-pilling (love that!) high-performance fabric, the organic cotton is smooth to the touch, which makes for a pricier piece: $143 (one size fits all; available in black, stone, white or red). If it makes the purchase less painful, focus on the fact that Prancing Leopard contributes to their own non-profit foundation, Artisan Women Project, as well as the Snow Leopard Trust.

Note to readers: Prancing Leopard provided sample product for blogger review purposes.

Concocting a Greener Mojito in Puerto Rico

2011-08-03T18:00:00.002-04:00

The rum selection at Casa Don Q, Puerto Rico

Ya gotta give credit where credit is due. And in this case, it's to the makers of "Don Q. Rum" for concocting a cocktail staple in a truly sustainable fashion.

To get an inside peek at the distillery's eco-friendly initiatives, travelers to Puerto Rico can step into Casa Don Q. Don't worry - the museum tour ends with a sample drink. Inside, you'll get the scoop on how rum is crafted (did everyone else realize that rum is made using molasses?), including some surprisingly innovative green tactics. Take for instance, the CO2 released as the diluted molasses ferments, which the distillery captures and makes available to local soft drink producers for fizzier sips. A waste treatment system and energy harvest process are also in place... if you love the geeky side of green like me, you can find out more by visiting: http://donq.com/about/sustainability/.

Touting a heritage that dates back to 1865, Don Q was created by Don Juan Serralles, founder of the town Merceditas, named after his wife Mercedes (collective sigh here), and today, is being led in part by Roberto Serralles, who joined the family business to spearhead sustainability efforts after earning his PhD in Environmental Sciences. An undoubted green leader in the spirits industry, Don Q is revolutionizing green manufacturing in Puerto Rica, and we're all about it.

If you're a lover of rum (and really, who doesn't love an icy mojito?), consider stopping by Casa Don Q, located in Old San Juan's Bayfront area (Ochoa Building, ground floor / Marina Street / Old San Juan). Open every day except Thursday from 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. For more information, call 878.977.1720.

Here, an interesting look at recent eco innovations in alcohol, if the topic suits you.

The Global Guide for Organic Foodies

2011-08-02T20:43:00.001-04:00

Courtesy of www.OrganicJetsetter.com

What happened when Green Globetrotter met Organic Jetsetter?

They were fast friends, natch. Really, need you even ask?

The new site, which launched last month out of Australia, is a go-to guide for foodies seeking organic eats globally. Scan cities by continent to get a sneak peek at the best dining destinations in town. We're talking insider secrets. (I know this because I was asked to contribute a few of the guides myself!) Hungry yet? Head on over and see if your favorites made the cut.

Lodging Among the Lavender Fields

2011-07-19T21:44:00.002-04:00

Courtesy of certified organic Purple Haze Lavender Farm - Sequim, WA

Last weekend, I grabbed a girlfriend and headed outside of town for the Michigan Lavender Festival, where we dealt with the sweltering temps by sipping lavender lemonades and checking out bloom-peddling vendors. We were sold, naturally, by just inhaling the scent that wafted through the sticky summer air, and not surprisingly, we came home with an armful of lavender-infused goodies.

It got me thinking. My first experience with lavender was when I plucked a bud from a plant in Wales on a high school trip to Europe. I recall pulling it from my sweater pocket weeks after I'd returned home, only to drift right back to that same moment in time. The scent was heavenly. The taste, on the other hand, as I found out last summer in Germany, is not something I'm suited to. Lavender cake looks delicious... but it leaves me feeling like I'm chewing on potpourri.

Culinary uses aside, the lavender flower is known for its calming properties, and remains a staple of travel products near and far. Over the years, I've accumulated a few favorites within the all-natural category, including Indigo Wild's Zum Glow lavender travel candle ($15), Pharmacopia's organic lavender travel set ($20), and more recently, Kiss My Face's travel-sized castile peace soap in lavender mandarin ($3). Sniffing these scented wonders is nearly magical, but to get a true sense of the flower power, you really need to hit the fields.

I adore the volunteer concept at the Daybreak Lavender Farm in Streetsboro, Ohio, where visitors can harvest the 14-acre farm in four-hour increments for a $50 gift certificate at the farm's boutique. Or, if you'd like to lounge for a longer period, scope out options like the field-side vacation rental at Cedarbrook Lavender & Herb Farm in Sequim, Washington. In the same city, the certified organic Purple Haze Farm offers a similar farmhouse rental that can accommodate eight guests starting at $260 per night.

The opportunities to loose yourself in fields of soft, purplish hues abound. To find a farm near you, reference this comprehensive state-by-state lavender farm listing, where you'll find farmers from southern Texas to northern Maine.

Lavender cake and vanilla bean ice cream at Weleda Gardens in Germany
Copyright: Jessica Blair Howell / Green Globetrotter

Green, Clean and Now, Travel-Friendly

2011-07-06T21:02:00.002-04:00

"Minty Green" castile soap / Copyright: Jessica Blair Howell

Is it peculiar that the older I get, the more enticing words like "multi-functional" become? That reasoning, in part, is behind this post, in which I tout the do-everythingness of Kiss My Face's new Peace Soap, now perfectly packaged in 3.4 oz. travel sizes.

In addition to it's eco-friendly cred (paraben- and phthalate-free and bottled in 50 percent recycled plastic) and biodegradable nature, 10 percent of its profits go to the youth leadership organization Seeds of Peace. That scores major points in my book - as does the $2.99 price tag. And the heavenly scents.

With moisturizing organic jojoba oils, cleansing coconut oils, plus olive, orange, lavender, lemongrass and clary sage oils (that's a heckuva lot of oils, right?), the suds can clean anything from people to pets to pots without doing damage to whichever dirty destination you've fallen into... case in point, northern Michigan, evidenced in the above photo. On our lake, you either get dirty or go inside.

You can find the 100 percent natural, all-purpose soap @ Whole Foods or KissMyFace.

The Simple Life Courtesy of... the Amish

2011-06-28T20:35:00.004-04:00

I have to admit that before bending the binding of Lorilee Craker's new book, Money Secrets of the Amish (Thomas Nelson, 2011), I hadn't thought much about the "Plain" lifestyle. In fact, it took a few weeks for me to get past the kinda-corny title and into the depths of the book, which turned out to be a personal finance resource that really hit home. After all, the subhead - finding true abundance in simplicity, sharing and saving - is not much unlike my own philosophy on life and the core concept here at Green Globetrotter. Live simply. Keep it natural. Take care of the planet and its people.

Woven throughout the book were stories of hardworking Amish families that had emerged from America's recent (and somewhat ongoing) economic slump unscathed. At the heart of their money mentality wasn't greed or materialism, but a quiet pride in doing the right thing... paying creditors on time, building savings for a home, and the ever-present mantra: use it up, wear it out, make it do, or do without.

The realization that families and communities such as this exist - and are thriving(!) - was enough to make me curious. I don't live near Amish country, but I've seen a buggy or two in my time. What better way to escape the everyday tug of consumerism than with a weekend out of town? I mean really out of town. Think: farm.

If you're yearning to escape the urban jungle for a quick simplicity fix, look no further. The below resources will point you in the direction of the nearest Amish community, many of them major tourist attractions in their own right. Whether you want to poke around antique and quilt shops or get dirty on a working farm, options abound.

Illinois: Amish Country
Indiana: Amish Country
Michigan: River Country Amish Meander
Minnesota: Mississippi Bluffs Amish Culture
Ohio: Amish Country
Pennsylvania: Lancaster County (Agrotourism itinerary ideas)
Wisconsin: Amish Communities

And, most importantly, Amish Etiquette Dos and Don'ts.

Interestingly, the essay "The Amish and Tourism: Understanding the Dangers" discusses the culture's religious views on travel with the following:

In the Amish view, all tourism feeds off of the "worldly" values and therefore is corrupt, but their disapproval grows with their own involvement. They dislike being made the main attraction because the tourism industry often treats them as curiosities and commodities, and they grow especially concerned when they become willing participants because they are supporting a corrupt activity, tying themselves to the "world" and possibly elevating their customs above their faith.

Noteworthy Newsreel

2011-06-17T18:39:00.000-04:00

Chile approves a $7 billion dam project that will wipe out wilderness

The New York Times dives into agritourism with this feature on how small, U.S. farms are making an extra buck with innovative travel ties. In 2007, 23,000 farms offered agritourism activities, according to the USDA.
Hotel Skyler in Syracuse is the third in the states to seek LEED Platinum status. This video tour takes a peek inside the 58-room boutique lodging.
Lonely Planet is offering up 15 *free* mini-guide PDFs detailing how to fill your summer weekends. My fave is weekend one: Spend a Weekend at the Great Lakes. I know, I'm bias.
Dealaholics rejoice! Groupon and Expedia plan to team up later this month to launch Groupon Getaways!
Chile approves a $7 billion initiative to dam two of the world's wildest rivers for electricity generation, tarnishing one of the country's last truly isolate areas.

A Leafy Lobby Hits Chicago's Lakefront

2011-06-13T20:33:00.003-04:00

In Chicago, this living wall lights up an Embassy Suites lobby
Photo courtesy of: Ambius, interior landscaping solutions

I dream of vertical gardens. There's something so serene about the fresh leafiness of a giant, living wall and the one that's taunted me as of late is the curvaceous herb wall in Atlanta Botanical Gardens' "Edible Garden."

A bit closer, however, is Chicago's newest and largest indoor green wall at the Embassy Suites Chicago Downtown Lakefront. Next to its proximity to Navy Pier, the hotel now boasts another stunning differentiator - the 720-square-foot living wall, which serves as a lovely soft spot for your eye to rest upon, as well as a testament to the hotel chain's sustainability efforts.

Seventy feet long and peppered with more than 3,840 plants representing six species, the green wall provides as much clean oxygen to guests as 16 trees that were each 14-foot-tall would, while also helping to muffle noise pollution in the cavernous lobby. While investments (in both time and money) like LEED certification mean a tremendous amount to me, it's just plain fun to see such a cool visual smack dab in the middle of a lovely, urban hotel.

Green from the Ground Up in Wine Country

2011-06-13T18:17:00.004-04:00

This post was updated on June 13, 2011 to reflect it's new LEED status. Originally published on July 25, 2010.

I've never heard of Healdsburg, Calif, but when someone mentions Sonoma Wine Country, I typically snap to attention quickly. Wine, did you say? Yes, I don't mind if I do. Red, rose, white, whatever. I'm in. In fact, the only thing that excites me more than the idea of a stroll through wine country is sleeping off the resulting buzz at a sustainably chic hotel. And that's just what's in order at the new h2hotel.

Designed by architect David Baker as a greener complement to sister property, Hotel Healdsburg, h2hotel is a 36-guest room boutique hotel, draped with eco-conscious sensibilities. The newly constructed building, which is blanketed by a living roof awash in succulents, is now officially the first LEED Gold Certified hotel in Sonoma County. The hotel itself is constructed of locally sourced, renewable building materials, while the river-side pool is heated using solar energy. Perks include 100 percent organic Coyuchi linens, towels and robes, organic herb cocktails at the watering hole, Spoonbar, as well as free bike use during your stay.

While I haven't visited the hotel myself, I'd love to hear from someone who has. California wine lovers? Do dish.

If you're planning a trip to wine country, you'll also want to check out:
LEED Platinum and Posh on the West Coast
Sustainability in Sonoma Valley: Boon Hotel
Golden Gate Dreams at New Cavallo Point

Snapshot: Lazy Day at Lake Lanier

2011-06-06T19:21:00.000-04:00

Copyright: Jessica Blair Howell / Green Globetrotter

It was a typical Georgian scorcher last Sunday, when we mosied out to Lake Lanier, a mammoth, man-made lake roughly half an hour north of Atlanta. When I look at this photo, I almost feel the hazy heat and the cold, hard rock that we perched atop of to swig cool beers and watch the boats pass us by.

Price Point: Luxe, Vegan Travel Gear

2011-06-02T20:13:00.003-04:00

I adore Gunas' line of lovely, eco chic duffels and travel bags

Is it completely—completely—out of my price range? Why, yes. It is. But my, it’s one good-looking line of bags that are not only perfect for travel, but crafted entirely of vegan materials here in the U.S., in Manahttan’s Fashion District, to be exact. By Gunas, these lightweight, unisex bags blend function, fashion and a heavy dose of luxury, featuring custom hardware and Italian zippers but never any plasticizers like PVC that pose a threat to the environment.

Take a peek at the beauties pictured above, Paris duffel: $675; Frunkfurt: $450; and Amsterdam: $725. You can get the full scoop on each by visiting gunasthebrand.com.

An Unconventional Farm in France

2011-05-26T01:59:00.001-04:00

In France, it appears that the solar sector is quickly heating up. Solar development company Enfinity has chosen the country for its two most recent installations--stunning solar "farms" cleanly patterning 89 acres of ground.

Annually, the panel stations will generate enough electricity to power 9,000 homes. And better yet, they'll be recycled at the end of their 20-year life cycle, leaving the ground underneath suited for a more conventional form of agriculture.

It might sound corny (okay, it undoubtedly sounds corny) but I'd love to see a view like this, slightly reminiscent of the staggered vineyard vines, when peering over my balcony at a quaint, French Riviera bed and breakfast. I wonder if there are any nearby?

For promotional pencils and personalized pens, visit AmsterdamPrinting.com.

On-the-Go, Eco Snack Options

2011-05-24T22:40:00.001-04:00

Barney's Almond Butter, an apple and Mini Babybel cheese

This Friday, I'm boarding a plane (finally!) and heading south to ATL. It's been so long (really, soo long) since I've traveled that I'm almost worried I've forgotten how to waltz through TSA, shmooze a stewardess into a better seat, or bat my eyelashes just enough to get a muscular male to lift my carry-on into the overhead bin. Oh wait, I haven't forgotten how to do any of that. But I am rather low on frequent flyer miles. To combat the paid-for luggage fees I even had to sign up for a Delta American Express. Probably not the best option for my finances, considering its somewhat surprising limit, but I'm not complaining.

Needless to say, after six months of life GROUNDING me--literally--I will be en-route once again. And to make sure that I've got enough stamina to muster my first mass transit commute via Atlanta's MARTA upon my arrival, I'll be packing heat. By heat, I mean nutritious and organic snacks, naturally.

Just in case you're curious about my go-to travel eats (there are many given my unsatiable appetite), I'm bulleting them out below. Do you have any other suggestions? Drop me a line at jessica@greenglobetrotter to dish and I'll leave your faves in my next post...

Thin-sliced apples and Barney Butter's all-natural Almond Butter in uber convenient single serving packs. It's easy, gluten-free and the ideal hotel breakfast solution.
Nature's Valley Oats 'N Honey granola bars. I know, they're so old school, but they're good and they're wholesome! And they're an afternoon savior, as long as you've mastered the calculated crumbless eating process.
Target's Archer Farms brand makes organic Wild Berry fruit strips that are easily devourable in a plane, train or automobile. Best of all, they're only 45 calories a pop. Trader Joe's makes a similar option that's just as affordable and tasty.
Homemade trail mix takes the cake for go-anywhere edibility. Shake up a bag of raw, unsalted almonds, yogurt-covered pretzels, raisins and either dried cherries or cranberries. It's no diet food, that's for sure, but it will keep you going on a day full of sight-seeing or hiking.
Mini Babybel "Light" cheese rounds, draped in red wax, always seem to be within my reach whether I'm at home or vacationing. They need to be refridgerated, yes, but if you've got a room that's equipped, this is the perfect 50-calorie, natural snack that's filling and a little bit fun to eat.
To drink, I opt for Yogi teas (Green Tea Kombucha is my most-loved variety) or a powder mix. I admit that I'm a sucker for caffinated Crystal Light, but I absolutely hate that I'm ingesting aspartame for the short-term energy boost. Instead, I'm trying to convert myself to ReVyte's fizzing vitamin supplement tablets, which are a far healthier option.

Snapshot: Calendula Harvest, Germany

2011-05-03T19:12:00.001-04:00

Copyright: Jessica Blair Howell / Green Globetrotter

The fields of Calendula had been just harvested in the early morning sun, when I snapped this photo near Schwabish Gmund, Germany. Imagine a sweetness hanging in the air on a summer afternoon, surrounded by rolling hills, a million miles from home.

Dutch Traditions Go Mod

2011-05-01T11:43:00.002-04:00

Delft Blue pottery is a Dutch tradition. You've surely seen the blue-and-white ceramic pieces, intricately designed in the Netherlands. Not only are they lovely little works of art, they're a historic craft that's passed on from one generation to the next. Today, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines is offering up the chance to feature a Delft Blue portrait of you (yes, you!) on one of their jet planes.

Their new Facebook page via TileYouself.com allows you to convert your profile picture to a historically Hollandesque blue and white version, complete with an inspirational saying of your own. Submit it online and your face just might be one of many to make it to the paneling of a KLM plane. And really, who wouldn't want that kind of celebrity status?

This post is sponsored by TileYourself.

Noteworthy Newsreel

2011-04-19T19:20:00.003-04:00

Bardessono Hotel in Calif. now offers eco-minded EV and hybrid options

LEED Platinum and luxe hotel Bardessono in Calif., now offers plug-in-ability for EV drivers and hybrid shuttle options. The property has teamed up with Tesla and Lexus to transport guests in ultra chic fashion.
Slated to open in 2012, Dallas' brand, spankin' new Omni Hotel is aiming for LEED Silver certification and is using recycled and regionally sourced materials during the current construction process. Also in the works is farm-to-table dining via planned restaurant Texas Spice.
Going green is "more feminine than masculine," according to participants in Ogilvy Earth's new study. That's why you're more likely to see ladies toting reusable grocery bags and bottles, says the study, citing 82% of respondent's views.
Costa Rica's Parador Resort & Spa, a destination situated within 12 acres of tropical rainforest, is offering its Eco-Friendly Package through December of this year. It includes horseback riding, a mangrove boat excursion and walking tour of Manuel Antonio National Park, plus six nights' accommodations, starting at $283 per night.

Pittsburgh Suds Up with Homemade Soap

2011-04-13T02:40:00.002-04:00

I just love when people do something unexpectedly innovative. Especially when it comes out of a large corporation, rather than an expected innovation-pumping start-up. That's why Fairmont Pittsburgh's most recent kitchen experimentation has caught my eye...

Turns out the classically French-trained Executive Chef Andrew Morrison whips up more than just fine dining for the LEED-Gold luxury hotel. He's also a master of soap. Yes, the kind you use when washing your body. Available in scents like lavender chamomile, rosemary mint, lemon grass and pear ginger, the homemade suds will sell in the health club and spa in the near future and are crafted using reclaimed, all-natural ingredients like coconut oil and lye, from the hotel's kitchen. (The tallow, or beef fat used to make the soap, actually comes from the weekly half-cow that Morrison purchases at the Burns Angus local farm. Now, every part of the cow is being used to minimize waste.)

The soap-making process, which takes two weeks, is started and completed in the Fairmont kitchen using reclaimed, all-natural ingredients from the hotel's restaurant, Habitat.

Fairmont Pittsburgh's Habitat Restaurant

San Francisco Aims for LEED with Greener Skies

2011-04-12T06:44:00.001-04:00

San Francisco International Airport's new Terminal 2 (Courtesy SFIA)

San Fran is aiming high when it comes to its newest airport terminal, slated to be the first LEED-Gold terminal in the states. The 640,000-square-foot terminal will be home to American Airlines and Virgin America (yep, even the Virgin Galactic space flights) at San Francisco International Airport, and will begin welcoming flights this week.

Featuring paperless ticketing, special hybrid and electric car parking and more fresh, local food vendors that offer organic and sustainable options, the terminal is designed for optimum indoor air quality with less energy consumption. Efficiency regulations will also be put into place, mandating the recycling of 90 percent of solid waste by 2020, requiring food vendors to use biodegradable tableware and composting.

I just love the greening of airports, especially the recent LEED Gold certification of India's mammoth Indira Gandhi International, designed to transport a whopping 34 million travelers per year (details here).

Gotta love the "hydration station," pictured above

Great Escape: Hotel Chocolat, St. Lucia

2011-04-11T18:16:00.004-04:00

Hotel Chocolat, St. Lucia (Courtesy of Hotel Chocolat)

When comes to sweet escapes, there's not much more inviting--or alluring--than the ethically minded Hotel Chocolat in Saint Lucia. The brand, which was launched as a retail catalog, has since morphed into a website, complemented by the launch of several US and UK-based storefronts, and now, a West Indian cocoa plantation turned luxe hideaway.

The estate, which dates back to 1745, nods nostalgically to its rich past with the restoration of its original historical house, surrounded by rehabilitated cocoa groves, harvesting once again. (St. Lucia cocoa farming has been declining for nearly 20 years, but with Hotel Chocolat's commitment to purchase local fruit, 100 local farming jobs have already been created.)

Peak harvest season runs from November to February, and grants the loveliest views of the pale pink blossoms, but guests can visit the estate throughout the entire year.

For those chocolate connoisseurs overcome by the temptation, a "Total Cacao Immersion" package exists that offers accommodation in a cocoa cottage, full cacao body massages for two, fresh cacao bellinis and a complete "Tree to Bar" chocolate experience that includes harvesting, fermenting, drying, roasting and making your own batch of chocolate truffles. (Three-night stay rates start at $2,150, based on double occupancy.)

Is anyone else salivating?

The infinity pool (above) and sun deck at Hotel Chocolat

Snapshot: Crabby for Spring

2011-03-28T20:46:00.002-04:00

Copyright: Jessica Blair Howell / Green Globetrotter

This little guy made my day, scampering atop the tide outside of Riviera Maya, Mexico. Somehow, in the midst of all that gorgeous, sandy scenery... his petite profile caught my eye.

Top Six (Eco-Minded) Travel Essentials

2011-03-25T18:40:00.004-04:00

When it comes to travel staples, I've got it nailed. You can bet that every time I board a plane, I'm toting these green-minded essentials in my carry-all. So, when people ask about my favorite travel products of all time, the easiest ones to toss into a bag, or the one thing I always grab for - this is it.

Want a run-down? Here are my go-to picks (clockwise) when you're on-the-go:

Apple iPad: As much as I love the smell of fresh paper, I've settled for the convenience of the iPad when I'm hitting the pavement. It's lightweight, home to hundreds of books, and now that Wi-Fi is available in the skies, I can even kick back and read my favorite blogs. (Here, starting @ $500)

Weleda Skin Food: Super-rich (and, okay, a little bit greasy), this nutrient-packed lotion goes a long way. It's the perfect antidote to hydration-sucking airplanes. (Here, $18 for 2.5 oz.)

Vapur Roll-Up Water Bottles: Dubbed the "anti-bottle," this BPA-free squeeze bottle takes up practically no room when it's tucked into a carry-on. Once you fill it, it stands upright. (Here, $10)

Indigo Wild Zum Kiss Lip Balm: Made using shea butter, these sweet-smelling balms glide on smoothly and last for hours. (Here, $3.75)

Nature's Valley Granola Bar in Oats 'N Honey: This is a total classic, no? It's inexpensive, sold everywhere and made with whole grains and real sugar instead of any of that diet-y stuff. (Here, $3.50 for six)

Kaia Bamboo Facial Cleansing Cloths: These cool, fresh cloths are disposable and biodegradable, made of fast-growing bamboo, and provide the perfect dose of cleansing power using ingredients like essential oils and organic honey. Swiping one across my face always induces that "ahhhhh...." feeling. (Here, $18 for 30 cloths)

The Happiest Place in the US: San Luis Obispo?

2011-03-14T20:07:00.001-04:00

Sycamore Mineral Springs Spa in San Luis Obispo, Calif.

I just love this. In Thrive: Finding Happiness the Blue Zones Way, author Dan Buettner names San Luis Obispo, Calif., the happiest city in America. It's a DUH-type of statement, really. With its can-barely-believe-it's-so-pleasant weather, sandy beaches and vineyards, the town is akin to Pleasantville, but in a good sort of way.

Buettner, a world explorer and longtime National Geographic writer, backs up his claim with some pretty compelling evidence. Imagine this... the city has NO drive-thru restaurants. Seriously, they've been banned. City ordinances prohibit the quintessentially American "fast food" convenience, relying instead on the easy availability of a farmer's market to build community and civic engagement.

And even though non-dairy milkshakes aren't readily accessible via your driverside window, the folks of San Luis Obispo are more likely to smile and experience joy than the average U.S. resident. They're also less likely to be depressed, volunteer more, are simply more driven to the pursuit of happiness, according to Buettner.

Eleven state parks dot the scenery of the county, open public spaces abound and fine arts are healthily supported. Sounds like the idyllic weekend getaway, no? Well, if you're so inclined to devour a slice of happiness Americana-style, this is apparently your place. Destinations like the plush Sycamore Mineral Springs Resort, with a 100+ year history, offer guests relaxing hillside soaks thanks to a water-conserving mineral spring system. Hostel Obispo and Carriage Vineyards B&B, just outside of town, also offer greener stays for vino-minded happiness-seekers.

Seriously eco travelers will want to stop into the Green Goods showroom for a peek at eco-friendly building and design products, sample delectables at the Sweet Earth Chocolates shop, and then pop into Luna Red tapas and wine diner for farm-fresh goat cheese flan and prawns adobo. (YUM.)

Really, aren't you just a little bit happier already?

Resource Guide:
San Luis Obispo Visitor's Site
San Luis Obispo Green Lodging
Sycamore Mineral Springs Resort
Hostel Obispo
Carriage Vineyards B&B

Wine region of San Luis Obispo, Calif.

2011-03-02T17:45:00.000-05:00

Right on my nightstand. That's where this glossy text has found its home. In it, National Geographic has compiled a slew of drool-worthy photographs to accompany their recommendations on when--and where--you should pick-and-up-and-go in 2011. I'm thinking Bulgaria. Wanna go?

In "100 Countries, 5,000 Ideas: Where to Go, When to Go, What to See, What to Do," (National Geographic Books, 2011) the global trekking experts provide an alphabetized round-up of top touristy destinations and the "dos and don'ts" associated with each. Wondering when to turn up in Turkey? What qualifies as peak season in Patagonia?

Resourceful without being overwhelming, this 400-page book is at minimum, lovely to look at. At best, it's a thrifty way to get the intel of a tried-and-true travel agent without a visit to your local agency, or the time spent digging around sketchy travel websites. ($26)

Double-Decker Dreams

2011-02-09T18:50:00.003-05:00

Copyright: DoubleDeckerDays.com

What snappier way to beat afternoon doldrums than by stumbling across this clever blog? Aussie Crystal Thomas, self-confessed interiors addict, recently launched this new site, and massive undertaking (ahem, DIY project), to chronicle her efforts renovating a 1970s Leyland Double Decker Bus.

All of those cohabitating with eBay addicts, beware.

Thomas’ double-decked initiative has begun and the end goal is to create a “divine little weekender/holiday home for two.” Two short people. I mean, the ceilings in a bus are rather low. Thomas envisions an “eclectic and quirky [interior design] but not crafty or bitsy,” according to her recent interview with Ready Made. (Love this magazine, by the way.)

Not entirely unlike the Rotel—tour + bus + hotel—this project will offer a bed on wheels, but boasts a far greener take on lodging-to-go thanks to its renovated roots. There’s no doubt I’ll be keeping tabs on Thomas’ blog to watch the project progress.

Brought to you by Become.com, where you can search for and purchase aluminum wallets, animal print luggage, and hard-to-find items like a bolero jacket.

A sweet deal: $50 off your stay

2011-01-20T17:30:00.000-05:00

Oooh, the deal is back for the next day, this time on a new site! Check out SavvySugar to buy your half-price gift card now!

One thing that I never deny is my ability to bargain shop. In my life, it's considered sport, so you better believe I've been holiday hunting for a while now. Today, I noticed a sale through ideeli, which offers would-be travelers a $100 Travelocity hotel gift card for $50. Steal!

To choose a room that's as green as it is a good deal, visit Travelocity's Green Directory, where you'll get the scoop on the certifications they adhere to, as well as the identifying mark on approved lodging.

Before you get too excited, there is some fine print, so be sure to take a look (varies by website offer).

Monterey Bay Hotel Boasts LEED Silver

2011-01-12T21:10:00.001-05:00

In California, the Portola Hotel and Spa, from a bird's eye view, consists of a several buildings tidily arranged alongside Monterey Bay. What it doesn't look like, on first glance, is a stuffy resort touting green initiatives with a nose in the air. It appears modest, affordable and authentic. These are all really good things, especially for a traveler who's in town on business or visiting family.

The hotel and spa, which recently announced LEED Silver certification for an existing building, is one very few independent hotels to take such great strides without the backing of a larger, corporate brand. That's an impressive feat, because as any hotel management will tell you, LEED certification is a thorough - and often pricey - investment that takes a while to pay for itself in energy savings.

What I like most about Portola are some of the softer eco touches they've applied here, including "Green from Natura" bath amenities in biodegradable packaging, earth-friendly mattresses from local Monterey Mattress Co., and a cleaning process that uses H203 ionized water to go above and beyond the effectiveness of bleach - minus the harsh chemicals. And those efforts extend beyond the hotel walls, too. Portola takes part in community eco initiatives like the Monterey Bay Aquarium's Seafood Watch program, and for 17 years in a row has been honored by local waste management for its innovative and proactive recycling initiatives, which work toward diverting 70 percent of all waste from landfills.

The hotel offers guests the opportunity to negate their stay with the purchase of Renewable Energy Credits, and they've walked the walk by already offsetting two year's worth of their own carbon emissions. (That level of emissions equates to driving roughly 9 million miles in a car... um, yeah. That's a lot.)

So, why stay at Portola? A quick hike from Cannery Row and the aquarium (check out the a-d-o-r-a-b-l-e newly hatched penguin chick), Portola is near Fisherman's Wharf and the Marina, and a short drive from popular Carmel and Pebble Beaches. Really, need I say more?

If you're a foodie at heart, visit some of these stellar farmer's markets during your stay in Monterey.

Ethical Destinations Ranked for 2011

2011-01-05T18:47:00.001-05:00

The folks over at Ethical Traveler do a great job of pulling together a list of top developing nations to visit annually, and this year is no exception. The compilation, spanning the global gamut, takes into account several factors critical to the continued economic viability and growth of these countries and includes environmental protection, social welfare and human rights.

If their prediction rings true, ethically minded globetrotters will be traversing Costa Rica once again in 2011 (I'm curious about this. While I've actually never stepped foot on Costa Rica, I feel like it's overrun with greenwash, despite its deep roots in ecotourism), and also popping up on the tropical islands of Barbados, Dominica and Palau, each of which are committed to serious eco efforts.

Are any of these destinations on your list of wanna/gotta/need-to-go for 2011? I have to admit, some of these locales don't fall anywhere near the top of my list (hello, Latvia), but I'd happily traipse through most.

A New Year of Experiences Awaiting

2011-01-03T20:57:00.000-05:00

For me, 2010 was an enlightening year. I didn't do even half of the globetrotting that I would have liked to, but I did indulge in some pretty stellar escapes, and along the way, I stumbled on the reaffirmation of a concept I don't touch on nearly enough.

It all came reeling back toward me when I was breezing through a magazine this past weekend, spending the New Year weekend in northern Michigan, tucked snugly into a blanketed ball on the couch at our family cottage. Flicking through pages, I came across this compilation of world marvels, that left me equally ravenous for a visit to Croatia's Dinaric Mountains or Scotland's siren-esque Isle of Eigg. The article, short in length but mated with stunning visuals, highlighted the intense ability some of Earth's spaces have to instantly humble us as humans. Fill us, consume us, with awe.

It's a rarity, really. The kind of out-of-body experience that is so grand it takes your breath away and causes you to contemplate the smallness of your being. This past July, I experienced it; not for the first time, but in a way that stands out in my mind. It was late at night, and me and my companions were strolling the deserted streets of a small village in Germany, Schwabisch Gmund, after the bar had closed. The air was warm, and we had no reason to rush back to our hotel, a few blocks away. In the city's center, a few of us stopped with our off-duty, unofficial tour guide to stare wide-eyed at the massive cathedral that anchored the marketplace, which would surely be abuzz come dawn.

There was something about seeing that large, looming church in the moonlight, pressing my hand against the solid stone walls, and peering through the stained glass windows, dimly lit from inside. What I would have paid to have someone unlock the doors in that moment. I learned, that night, that the church, the Holy Cross Cathedral, was financed--and built--by the village residents in the 14th Century. Here, now, there is no way that I can attach to these words the emotion that I felt that evening. But that's the best part. That moment in time will never be recreated, but it will forever be holed up inside that part of me that houses the simple, but life-changing, experiences that shape the person I am.

Travel changes us. That's all there is to it. And so, in 2011, I wish you the most awe-inducing experiences that life can throw at you. Soak it up. Relish in it. And then, try your best to share it with the people you love.

Lake Tahoe's Ritz Achieves LEED

2010-12-19T20:53:00.001-05:00

What better Christmas treat than the official greening of a wintry lodge that's both luxe and lakeside?

This month, the "puttin' on the Ritz" croon took on a whole new meaning when Ritz-Carlton announced its first LEED certified property at Lake Tahoe. The mid-mountain ski resort, which opened up just one year ago, was built with LEED accreditation in mind. A staggering 88 percent of construction waste during the build was recycled or re-used, nearly one-third of the materials used were manufactured locally (nearly two-thirds were sourced locally), and existing on-site perks like boulders were worked into plans.

Inside, many traditional green processes can be found (green cleaning program, ability to recycle, yada, yada), but left me yearning for a bit more innovative investment. What I can say is that the space is striking. I can also add that I've never stepped into a Ritz-Carlton hotel and not been in awe... so, if you're looking for an environmentally friendly option without having to go rugged, you're in the right place.

If skiing isn't your passion, there's no need to protest. The hotel's restaurant, Manzanita, serves up seasonal "French-inspired California" cuisine, while the Highlands Spa soothes and pampers (check out "The Organics" package), and access to golf courses abounds.

And now, I can't get Fred Astaire out of my head. Why don't you indulge in his rendition of the song that pays tribute to the ever fashionable Ritz? I smiled through the entire five minute clip...

How to take green photos: Eco-friendly camera gadgets & accessories for travelers

2010-12-15T12:00:00.001-05:00

When you’re out traveling the world, taking amazing photos is an important way to capture your memories, share your experiences with your family and friends, as well as relive them yourself. But how can you be eco-conscious while still having all the kit and caboodle needed to travel with camera in tow? Here are some quirky, new, eco-conscious camera gadgets.

Sony ‘Odo’ Range – Made of recycled plastics, Sony’s Odo digital cameras get their power by manually cranking or spinning the device. The Spin N' Snap still camera is powered by sticking your fingers through two holes and spinning the camera vertically, and the Crank N' Capture video camera is powered by turning the crank on the side for shooting and playback of intentionally choppy videos.
Ritz Camera’s Eco-Friendly Battery – For compact cameras and other gadgets, these batteries are 100% rechargeable and recyclable, and deliver more energy than typical Nickel Cadmium batteries (which release chemical toxins into the air when they are disposed of).
Solar Camera Strap – If you’re all ready to leave on an overseas adventure, booked your flights to London (or Rome; or Madrid; or Athens), packed your bags… but forgotten to charge your camera, designer Weng Jie has developed an idea for those of us who often forget to charge our camera’s batteries before leaving the house. The designer has conceptualized a camera strap which has thin solar films added across the width of the strap, to charge your digital SLR camera’s battery on the go. (Cross your fingers it will be available to purchase someday soon!)
Lowepro Terraclime Eco-Friendly Camera Bags – Made from 95% recycled materials like reused fabrics and recycled PET plastic bottles, these camera bags are reliable, water-resistant, and of course, stylish. The buckles are also made from recycled plastic straps, and if that’s not eco-conscious enough for you, a portion of each sale goes straight to Polar Bears International to help save polar bear habitats from climate change. The bags come in a wide range of sizes to fit your compact camera, SLR, or video camera, as well as any other travel gear you may have.
Cameras with built-in ZINK printers – Minimize your costs and waste, and print your travel photos on the go. Cameras such as Polaroid’s Go-Go camera has a built-in printer with eco-friendly ZINK printing technology, which prints photos without the use of ink cartridges or ribbons.

This post is sponsored by cheap flights - who're considering stocking up on some of these funky camera accessories and gadgets, which won't harm the environment.

Hilton's Newest Brand Goes for Green

2010-12-07T20:14:00.000-05:00

Hilton's newest brand, Home2 Suites is celebrating the groundbreaking of its fifth property by setting some hefty goals. The Lexington Park, Maryland hotel will shoot for LEED Silver certification, an aspiration announced at today's groundbreaking ceremony, where Eastern White pine tree saplings were handed out to attendees... so I hear.

Are you familiar with Home2 Suites? I wasn't until stumbling upon this little tidbit, and I have to say, the budget-conscious hotel, aimed at the "suite" needs of business travelers, seems to hit the mark. The rooms, outfitted with 42" flat-panel TVs, mini kitchen, sleeper sofa and in-room recycling look like they were taken straight from Ty Pennington's Extreme Home Makeover design plans. Simple. Smart. Colorful.

While the Lexington Park Home2 Suites will be the first hotel aiming for LEED, each of the four other properties (all still under construction) support a uniform green initiative that can be seen in bulk bath amenities, recycled content countertops and Energy Star appliances.

With a revamped energy model, the hotel, expected to open to travelers in early 2012, predicts energy savings of 32 percent, among a bevy of additional cost savings associated with energy management. Stay tuned for more on Home2 Suites and what will be the first southern Maryland LEED certified hotel (added to our list just as soon as it's announced!)

Want to check out a Home2 Suites before 2012? In the next few months, the first property is expected to open in Fayetville, North Carolina. I can't wait to get the scoop.

The Traveler's Holiday Shopping Solution

2010-11-23T17:55:00.000-05:00

In one month and one day, it will be Christmas. The holidays (whichever you celebrate), have descended upon us. And if you're anything like me, you're feeling slightly panicky right about now.

If you're in need of some inspiration, check out Green Globetrotter's gift guides for presents that will bring a smile to any traveler's face. (For extra ideas, visit my non-travel green gift roundup over at Alternative Consumer.)

Eco Chic Globetrotter Gift Guide
Solar Travel Gadget Gift Guide
Eco Adventurer Gift Guide
Made-in-the-USA Green Gift Guide
Sustainable Ski and Snowboard Gift Guide
Warmer Climates Travel Gift Guide

Sustainable Gift Guide for Snow Lovers

2010-11-17T18:50:00.002-05:00

Winter is slowly creeping up on us, and in this part of the country, it’s imperative to get a jump-start on the warm duds needed to survive the season. As you delve into Christmas shopping paradise, consider some of these eco products, perfect for ski bunnies and snowboarders alike.

Ultimate Ski Weekend
It doesn’t get better than hitting the powder one-on-one with Olympic Gold Medalist Tommy Moe. He’ll serve as your guide for the day when you book the “EPIC with Tommy Moe” package at the ultra-eco Hotel Terra in Jackson Hole, the area’s only LEED certified property. Prices start at $1,850 per person, per night (based on double occupancy).

Eco-Conscious Outerwear
Burton.com offers a line of eco gear in its “Green Mountain” department, including this women’s Tabloid Jacket, which combines eco and recycled fabrics wherever possible – from shell to zipper pulls. Its slim fit and bomber styling make it as chic on the slopes as the street. Priced at $239.95.

Ski and Snowboard Wax
EnviroMountain offers farm-grown ski wax and a natural fiber polishing pad in a cotton pouch. A safe alternative to crude oil and petroleum based products, this ski wax preserves pristine ground waters of heavy-traffic ski resorts, where traditional waxes can rub off, allowing carcinogens to seep into the ground.

Natural Hand and Feet Warmers
Slip a hand warmer of two into the stocking of your favorite skier. These ones are 100 percent natural and chemical free (and no batteries to worry about either). Made of iron, water, salt, wood fiber and charcoal, they’re eco-friendly and sure to keep you to keep you toasty, even in thin air, for up to 10 hours. Foot warmers are also available.

Organic Sunscreen
Keep those cheeks protected and moistured with Soleo Organic’s all-natural and chemical-free sunscreen in SPF 30, which uses zinc oxide to block UVA and UVBs. This smaller, 1.4 oz version comes with a clasp that links to your zipper when you need a fast fix. Water resistant up to three hours. Less than $8 at REI.

Philly's Hotel Palomar Achieves LEED Gold

2010-11-16T17:28:00.000-05:00

I am drooling, DROOLING over the photo spread for Philadelphia's Hotel Palomar. Not only has the hotel and its restaurant been certified LEED Gold, it's delicious design is so tempting, it just may be worth a trip east to soak it up. For your viewing pleasure, I've included a few of my favorite snapshots here.

Why I haven't better perused this site before is beyond me, seeing as I'm a big fan of the Kimpton hotel brand. But nevertheless, here's the scoop.

The 230-room hotel and its Art Deco-inspired Square 1682 restaurant stakes its claim in what was once the Philadelphia chapter headquarters of the American Institute of Architects. An 80-year-old landmark, the structure has been refurbished to its current posh pedicure and is a contemporary addition to the Rittenhouse Square neighborhood of Philly, which was one of five open space parks planned back in the 17th century.

I'm digging the "We Got Gold" package, which includes deluxe accommodations, reusable shopping bag, special "green eggs and ham" breakfast at the hotel restaurant plus one of the following options: sustainable spa products in-room, farm-to-table boxed lunch or brunch, or in-room, eco-friendly temple massage. (I'd choose the brunch.) Package rates start at $329, according to my own web research.

For the full lowdown on Kimpton's cross-hotel green efforts, check out their EarthCare program deets. And if you're interested in seeing all of the LEED lodging options available in the US, download Green Globetrotter's free guide.

Need to get to Philly via plane? Check out airline tickets here.

On-the-Go Eats: Dried Green Beans

2010-11-15T23:36:00.001-05:00

I'm always on the search for portable snacks since I seem to eat on-the-go whether I'm traveling or living life at home like every other normal person. In fact, the words kitchen table have long been gone from my vocabulary. I have an office desk and a dining room desk. And a kitchen counter, where I eat my dinner... standing. I digress.

The other night at Trader Joe's, I came across these nibbles. "Dried green beans, lightly salted and crunchy," claimed the package. [Side note: I'm not exactly known for my daily vegetable intake. I never, ever eat vegetables if I'm not at a restaurant. And it's not because I don't like them, it's just because... I don't like them. There. I said it.] And yet, these, I love! They may not offer the nutritional value of fresh veggies, but hey, they're not potato chips either. And at 130 calories for 3/4 cup with zero trans fat, I'm sold. They pack a nice dietary fiber punch, too.

While they're light and crispy, they don't seem to crumble easily, so they're perfectly packable, and since they're only lightly salted, napkins aren't required. You know what that equates to: an ideal airplane edible that's not overloaded with harsh preservatives.

Wanna snack? I picked up a four-ounce bag for $3.29.

Audubon Offers a Lengthy List of Courses

2010-11-15T23:09:00.002-05:00

Let's talk golf. Not because I'm a huge fan of the sport (the closest I've come to the game is via salacious Tiger Woods TV clips), but because so many other people are. In fact, the design and difficulty of a particular course is often enough to dictate travel for avid golfers. It's more than a sport, it's a lifestyle, they say.

What IS interesting to me, however, is the large expanses of land occupied by golf courses, and (need I even point out?) the vast amounts of maintenance - and energy, and water - required for upkeep. So, what's a green-hearted golfer to do? Certainly not go without.

Offering ease-of-mind similar to that in our LEED Hotel Guide, released earlier this month, Audubon International makes it easy for travelers to be choosy about tee times, with a handy PDF listing, which includes information on those courses certified in the organization's "signature" and "sanctuary" programs. Both include upholding standards for protecting water quality, conserving natural resources, and providing wildlife habitats. Let me say this: the list is thorough. Many, many greens have been greened. (So there's no excuse for visiting a ecologically irresponsible course, really.)

For golfing travelers wanting to keep tabs on environmental initiatives (solar paneled club houses, anyone?), the TurfHugger website offers a nice roundup of golfing news. And for those who are booking on the fly, a visit to www.48hourteetimes.com can be of extreme help; if you're traveling in the Carolinas, that is. Fore!

Tell me: have you visited a course that's lineup of eco initiatives is uber impressive? If so, drop me the deets at jessica@greenglobetrotter.com.

This post sponsored by 48 Hour Tee Times.

Our New, Free Guide to U.S. LEED Lodging

2010-11-08T20:47:00.008-05:00

Download Green Globetrotter's newest, free travel guide PDF at link below

For the first time since I began this blog, an entire two months has lapsed since my last post (yikes!). That's a surefire sign that things are busy here at home, but it's also a sign that some changes are the horizon. While Green Globetrotter has always been a part-time passion, it's undoubtedly taken a backseat in 2010.

In the process of evaluating the blog and its value to readers, I've been thinking about what makes this blog different than others. And guess what? There's not too much that differentiates G.G. from the other green-minded musings out there. What I'd like to do is fix that.

Beginning today, I'm focusing my efforts on creating informative and useful resources that save the day when tired travelers are in search of inspiration. First up is something that I've been searching for online since the inception of G.G. - and never found. It's a guide to all of the lodgings in the U.S. that have been LEED certified. As new hotels are rated and certified, they'll be added to the listing, with hopes that in time, it will far exceed its current four page count.

Want to take a peek? Download Green Globetrotter's guide to U.S. LEED certified hotels in PDF format. For updates, corrections, or anything other comments, please email me here. Otherwise, enjoy!

[Note: Feel free to dispute the "style" I've alloted to each hotel. These labels are based on my own experiences at those properties I've visited, as well as general web research.]

Lastly, if you want to learn more about these LEED hotels and those that are striving for certification, check out G.G.'s LEED Hotels department.

Wine and dine vegan-style @ the Wynn

2010-08-30T17:43:00.000-04:00

On the menu tonight: grilled royal trumpet mushrooms with creamy polenta and shallot balsamic sauce. If you're drooling, slow right on down. You've gotta save room for the banana crepes with coconut ice cream and avocado mousse. It's a vegan fest at the Wynn.

The ultra sleek resort on the Strip announced today an all-new vegan culinary program that's spicing up several of the on-site restaurants. The exclusive dishes incorporate tofu and quinoa into flavorful preparations, exotic grains and vegetables for a boost of fiber, and coconut milk and veggie purees to up the creaminess in sauces and risottos.

What entrees are most enticing? Try some of these next time you're ready to roll the dice:

Alex: Fava bean puree with sauteed hon shimeji mushrooms, snap pea salad and aged balsamic vinegar
The Country Club: Watermelon gazpacho with avocado, jicama, tomato, cucumber, cilantro and yucca crisp
Wing Lei: Crispy tofu with sugar pea, water chestnut, carrot and bean sprout
Sinatra: Blueberry cobbler with toasted almond ice cream

And check out the Tofu Carpaccio, above. Delish.

Chicago's Hotel Felix Scores Silver LEED

2010-08-12T18:28:00.007-04:00

Muted tones and clean, brisk lines make up the interior of Chicago's Hotel Felix. In the lobby, a slender rectangle is cut from the wall, stacked with fire wood, and sandwiched between a long, low fireplace and lounge area. The atmosphere is city chic, but sustainable too.

Recently awarded LEED Silver certification, Felix plays host to an impressive lineup of green features given its Midwest locale and posh presence. Included in the eco-minded development of the hotel are recycled content guest room carpeting, bamboo and cork floors, low volatile organic compound paints and wall coverings, and FSC-certified mill work.

Earth-friendly processes also stake claim at the 225-room historic property, which originally served as an apartment building in 1926. On the rooftop, wind turbines twirl their wide arms, showcasing the city's namesake nature and helping to cut the hotel's carbon footprint.

Why Chicago? General Manager George Jordan cites Chicago as one of the nation's leading green cities, boasting rooftop gardens, comprehensive public transit, "urban density and massive lake front and city parks" that appeal to the masses. And while Hotel Felix and its Elate Restaurant surely tops his list of must-sees, he also recommends the 360SEE Art Gallery, Tesla showroom, and city bike share (coming soon) as worthy sites for the environmentally conscious.

Located on the corner of Clark and Huron Street, not far from the bustle of shopper's delight--Magnificent Mile--Felix's rates seem to waver around a starting point of $150 per night.

Here's a question: Where do you sleep when you stay in Chicago? Last weekend, I holed up at the W Lakeshore and wasn't at all impressed with my accommodations (let's just say that the best part was an in-room recycling bin). So please (puh-lease!), do share your suggestions!

In other Chicago news...
Chicago Tops Green Seal Cities
Energy Savings in the Windy City: InterContinental Hotel

Schwabish Gmund Slideshow

2010-07-28T20:38:00.019-04:00

Last month, I had the rare and fabulous opportunity to hop a plane to Germany and tour the biodynamic gardens of skincare company, Weleda, which I covered for The Alternative Consumer. You can read my full posts on the experience by visiting the links below, but I just couldn't resist sharing some of the photos from my trip with you here on G.G....

The pond outside of Weleda's visitor center

Calendula fields post-harvesting

Weleda's visitor center, including organic cafe and shop

Simple decor inside the visitor's center

Fresh fare... and a perfect lunch

The Weleda shop (no credit cards accepted)

Town square in Schwabish Gmund (find the gelato place!)

See my full posts, written for The Alternative Consumer, here:
Visiting Germany - Blog Post / Video
Weleda: The Company
Weleda: The Gardens
Weleda: The Products

All photos copyright: Jessica Blair Howell / Green Globetrotter

Off to Germany!

2010-07-13T17:58:00.001-04:00

The life of the so-called globetrotter that runs this blog has been pretty devoid of globetrotting as of late. Instead, it's been full of, well, life. The busy kind that hurriedly pushes one hour after the other, fueled by a move to a new apartment, a move to a new office, and enough spring/summer/fall weddings to qualify me as an honorary party planner (not exactly the career direction I was hoping for, I might add). A little bit of background allows me to better make my point today, however, which is that in just a few minutes I'll be departing the July humidity of Detroit for a quick visit to Germany, courtesy of natural beauty brand Weleda.

In my former life as a full-time automotive and travel journalist I visited Berlin to drive the Autobahn, making this my second stay in Deutschland. And while I'll be sleeping in a city whose name I can't quite pronounce (I really hope my high school German instructor isn't reading this), I'm most definitely looking forward to a bit of sun, hiking, and, naturally, soaking up some of the brand's fabulous skin care and beauty products. Since I'm traveling on behalf of The Alternative Consumer--gotta love this assignment--I'll be dishing out the full scoop on AltCon when I return. Stay tuned!

How clean is that hotel room really?

2010-06-03T20:47:00.002-04:00

Have you heard the story of the traveler who slips the hotel room TV remotes into a plastic bag before using them to flip through the channels? Germ-ridden remotes. It's the stuff of horror movies. And it's not only remotes. While hotel rooms are routinely cleaned by hospitality staff, it's common knowledge that not everything in the room is sanitized between stays. Take, for instance, the bedspread, which is oft overlooked in favor of fresh sheets. According to Dr. Charles Gerba, a microbiologist at the Univ. of Arizona's Department of Soil, Water and Environmental Science, and consultant to green cleaning company Coverall, the bed is one of the six germiest places in even your own home. (Washing machines, carpets and rugs, salt and pepper shakers, kitchen sink and refrigerator round out the list, if you're curious.) Don't even begin to think about those hotel fitness centers...

So what questions should you ask your favorite hotel's staff? Start with some of those listed below. If they don't have an answer, direct them to data released today by J.D. Power & Associates, citing Gen Y moms as a sect that's now actively avoiding potentially toxic cleaning products and supporting brands that provide greener alternatives at home and elsewhere.

Are cleaning processes and products used environmentally friendly? (The ISSA organization lists a helpful guide here.)
Are perfumes or other odors—whether attractive or noxious—still present following the cleaning process? (They shouldn't be.)
Are cleaning crews using hospital-grade disinfectants?
Are cleaning crews using high-efficiency, multi-filtration vacuums to improve indoor air quality?
Are hard-surfaced floors being cleaned with color-coded, microfiber flat mops with a single dip method for eliminating mop water contamination?
Are personnel washing hands properly and changing gloves frequently?
Are "no-touch" spray and vacuum systems being employed in showers and restroom areas whenever possible?

THIS POST SPONSORED BY: Coverall Health-Based Cleaning System

A Black Mark on Gulf Tourism

2010-05-04T19:49:00.000-04:00

A massive oil spill wasn't exactly the ideal way to ring in this April, the month of our 40th Earth Day. In this clip, Katie Couric talks to Gulf Coast expert Mike Tidwell on the tourism-related impact to Florida's west coast and Alabama.

Earth Day Deals: Planet-Friendly Packages

2010-04-11T11:33:00.003-04:00

More than 90 percent of travelers would choose an eco-certified hotel that features pricing and amenities comparable to one that is not, according to a recent national survey by Travelzoo. (Who doesn't want to do a bit of good without sacrifice, right?)

To highlight some of the stellar deals available in honor of Earth Day, the website is hosting a special deals page, highlighting affordable offers from LEED-certified properties like The Avalon Hotel & Spa (pictured above) in Portland and San Francisco's Orchard Garden Hotel.

Book a stay yourself by visiting: http://www.travelzoo.com/green.

Drink Up for a Good Cause

2010-04-06T21:36:00.000-04:00

Who would've thunk? Earth Day takes on a new spirit--literarlly--as Morgans Hotel Group (parent of LA's Mondrian and San Francisco's Clift) unveils an eco chic cocktail to kick off the festivities. Named the "Treetini," the over-ice concoction mixes the only certified carbon-neutral liquor and world's first acai spirit, VeeV, with agave nectar, fresh lime and mint. Ringing in at $12 a pop, it makes for a pricey, but philanthropic, pour. Developed in partnership with Live It Green, the purchase of each 'tini in April will allow for one tree to be planted by the organization.

You can see further details on the Treetini here, a site promoting the one cocktail = one tree philosophy. Hey, there could be worse initiatives than those that involve drinking for a cause...

San Francisco's W Hotel Earns Silver LEED

2010-04-05T21:27:00.001-04:00

When it comes to big brand hotels, the "W" moniker stands out among the rest, promising a sexy-chic stay no matter which metropolis you're visiting. And in San Francisco the hotel labeled with a lone character is upping its sizzle factor by making its eco cred official.

Last week, the four-diamond W San Francisco hotel became the first major hotel brand to earn Silver LEED certification for an existing building. Having begun its green initiatives in 2007, the hotel has implemented a bevy of energy saving systems, including in-room motion sensors that turn off air conditioning when guests aren't present, energy efficient lighting, and third-party energy audits that track total savings. The hotel is also considering adding roof top wind turbines--a feature that would hands-down set this property apart.

For business travel and meeting and convention planners, W San Fran has also added "Sensory Meetings," where "all food and beverage is organic, biodynamic and local." In partnership with Live Neutral carbon offsets, planners can also host and promote zero-waste, carbon-neutral events.

To celebrate the new LEED status, a "Keen to be Green" package is available for booking through the end of the year. Rates start at $249 and include an overnight stay, two "Eco-licious" cocktails, 500 bonus SPG points and complimentary valet for hybrids.

Shack up, save green at the Shore Club

2010-03-29T19:27:00.000-04:00

Ah, the Shore Club. One of South Beach's swankiest hotels, it's a place to see and be seen, as evidenced by the very vocal couple that was consummating their relationship on their guestroom balcony the last time I was strolling though the pool area. An aphrodisiac if I've ever known one, that Miami heat. In all seriousness, and sexual escapades aside, the hotel is hot regardless of the temp. And during the next two months, Shore Club is teaming up with EarthEra to offer carbon balanced rooms at a rate discounted by 25 percent. (Use the rate code SPMEXI when booking the deal; valid on stays April 1, 2010 - May 31, 2010.)

For a list of other special offers, including the Green Getaway (dubbed "green" for an organic spa treatment and Acai cocktail... I know, I know), click here.

Earth Hour 2010 Across the Globe

2010-03-25T18:18:00.000-04:00

This Saturday as the clock strikes 8:30 p.m., lights across the world will be flicked off in honor of Earth Hour 2010. While most of the flipped switches will be housed under residential roofs, a growing number of hoteliers and landmark properties like the Empire State Building are calling "lights out" too. (In 2009, an estimated 80 million Americans participated.)

For the third year in a row, each of Fairmont Hotels & Resorts' 60 locations will go dark for one hour to promote a "low-carbon future," according to the company. At the Fairmont Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten in Hamburg, Germany, guests can enjoy a candlelit dinner and at The Fairmont Orchid in Hawaii, visitors have the opportunity to sip hot cocoa and roast s'mores over an oceanside fire pit. And in the Big D, Texas guests can gather at Pyramid Bar for a "Happy Earth Hour" where local, organic apps will be served alongside an Ecotini, whatever that is...

To see all participating sponsors, like the MGM Mirage in Las Vegas, click here. Then leverage the lengthy list to convince your fave hotels to do the same. Because let's be honest, it's pretty easy to have a good time in the dark when you're with the right company.

Green or Grim: Luxe Hermes Yacht Sails on Solar

2010-03-18T06:57:00.000-04:00

What do you get when you mix a Monaco-based ship-builder with the luxe crafter behind the ever-enviable Birkin bag? An Hermes yacht, naturally. Or, rather, a 125-foot-wide, top of the line vessel set for somewhat sustainable cruising.

Named the WHY (oh, the irony), the boat boasts an indoor swimming pool, spiral staircase, and expansive sun deck. To its environmental credit, it also includes 900 solar panels and a diesel-electric propulsion system that saves roughly 200 tons of fuel per year.

The price of premiere sailing comes at a pretty penny, unfortunately. This joint venture between Wally and Hermes cashes in around $150.8 million.

Bottom line: I like the concept that in previous years has been created on a smaller scale. The stigma that can't be kicked, however: It's a YACHT. Go book yourself a sailboat and let the wind do the work.

Who's worrying now? Top U.S. eco concerns

2010-03-17T18:30:00.002-04:00

Was it the leaked environmental scientist e-mails... or can it be blamed on the weakened state of our economy? Whatever the reasoning, Americans are less worried about environmental issues today than they have been in the past 20 years. True story, according to a recent poll by Gallup.

Approximately 33 percent of people are concerned by the loss of tropical rain forests, 31 percent are worried about plant and animal extinction, and a measly 28 percent are losing sleep over global warming. So, what gives? Apparently, the U.S. is more upbeat about the strides taken in environmental quality, making it a less worrisome topic around the dinner table. And perhaps, a less tangible marketing angle for tourism operators worldwide.

When it comes to eco fears, the issue most worried about in the states is pollution of drinking water (although it's still down 9 percent from last year).

On the bookshelf: The Art of Dining In

2010-03-10T23:22:00.000-05:00

When Cathy Erway's The Art of Eating In: How I Learned to Stop Spending and Love the Stove came across my desk, I was unfamiliar with the twenty-something New York blogger who had shunned eating out in favor of kitchen-created cuisine. Even in my suburban neck of the woods, dining out--or take home carry-out--holds major appeal, despite its environmental impact. And when it comes to travel, eating out, whether in a fine dining establishment, airport food court, or fast food chain, is practically a necessary indulgence.

In her book, Erway, who launched the Not Eating Out in N.Y. blog in 2006, chronicles her creative culinary undertakings and the path that led her from day one of blogging to the official "opposite week," two years later, in which she eases into the occasional dine-out lifestyle. In the book, Erway explores a plethora of foodie factions, including underground supper clubs and cook-offs, to freeganism and dumpster-diving. Along the way, she forages Brooklyn's Prospect Park for edible greens and weighs the differences (literally) of the same meal in take-out and homemade versions. (If you hadn't guessed, the waste created in the take-out version drastically outweighs the simple home-cooked meal.)

As I made my way through the hard cover--part Erway's life story, part cook book--I considered the pros and cons of eating out while traveling. The pros, vast in number, include convenience, experience, and culture, among others, and a strong debate that supporting locally-run establishments contributes to the overall economy... and benefits small business owners worldwide. The cons, not surprisingly, include massive waste, often lesser-quality ingredients, and a distinct separation from farm to table. Not to mention outrageous energy consumption... restaurants use five times more energy per square foot than other commercial buildings and five times more energy in the kitchen than in the rest of the building, according to the National Restaurant Association.

That said, having been inspired by Erway's approach, I still find myself on the fence when it comes to travel-related dining. And in a recent post on her blog, Erway debates the issue herself.

Bottom line: Prep for en-route snacks yourself. Whether it's homemade granola, fresh fruit (chopped is better, in my opinion, because apple cores aren't always easy to toss away on a plane), or a simple sandwich, make sure its easy to eat on the run. But when you've reached your destination, feel free to treat yourself. Make the most of it by choosing locally-owned and operated dining establishments that source ingredients locally, offer organic and vegan options, and if possible, encourage social responsibility.

The Great Debate on Hybrid Parking

2010-03-08T12:23:00.000-05:00

A recent Treehugger post, The Perverse Hybrid Incentive, got me thinking. In it, Adam Lowry promotes the idea of low-carbon commuting incentives over the more popular overnight hybrid vehicle parking discounts we see at eco-minded hotels like the W Hotel in San Francisco. To make his point, he explains that his mother-in-law, who drives a 22-mpg Toyota Highlander Hybrid, is privy to the "hybrid parking" perk, while he in his 40-mpg VW Jetta Diesel pays full price. The monstrosity(!), right? As most of us know, "hybrid" does not always equate to the most environmentally friendly option.

Some hoteliers, however, aren't jilting the true treehuggers. Take, for instance, The Charles Hotel in Cambridge, Mass., which recently implemented initiatives like the Hotel Bike program, which gives guests free use of an Electra Amsterdam Classic bicycle--equipped with shopping baskets, naturally--to pedal the streets of Cambridge in eco style. Also intriguing is a new nanoMAX small car detection system that measures vehicles as they enter the garage and charges rates based on size. Small cars get a discounted parking rate, hybrid or not. According to this blog, the hotel also offers free charging for hybrids and EVs.

Similarly, The Heathman Hotel in Portland, Ore. offers complimentary parking for "guests arriving in a green-friendly or hybrid vehicle" as a part of its Go Green Package... my bet is that a Jetta diesel would score free parking under these terms.

Bottom line: Ask your hotel if they'll honor your environmental strides by expanding a hybrid discount to include diesels, bikes, or even public modes of transit (a discount off your room rate, perhaps, since you won't require parking). In the least, you'll help to spur the "What's green really mean?" conversation among hotel management.

Suitcase Staple: All-natural skincare packables

2010-03-04T21:11:00.002-05:00

There's something so indulgent about a packaged skincare travel set. One look at my typical quart-sized ZipLock, required by the TSA, and everyone in line at the security check line knows I'm a fanatic of several brands, including Tom's of Maine, Weleda, and The Body Shop. That's why six products--all similar in design--and packaged neatly in less than three ounce containers seems like a luxury. A coordinated luxury at that.

My latest love in the suitcase staple category is this mini travel set by natural skincare expert Deep Steep. Available in a multitude of scents, the set offers up miniature versions of honey bubble bath, body wash, polish, lotion, butter and a clever, twist-up moisture stick.

Free of parabens, sodium lauryl sulfate, and petroleum, the products contain zero artificial fragrances and chemical preservatives... I'm a fan of the grapefruit/bergamot collection, which is a ripe-smelling set that leaves just a trace of fresh scent on your skin. Not to mention, it comes in the sweetest little carry-on case.

If you're looking for a set like this one, which runs $14.95, check out Deep Steep or the travel section of FutureNatural, an organic beauty site loaded with tempting treats.

LEED Platinum and Posh on the West Coast

2010-03-01T17:55:00.001-05:00

If the lure of wine isn't enough to have you packing your bags for California's Napa Valley, perhaps Bardessono Hotel and Spa will be. The luxe West Coast digs recently became the third hotel in the world to achieve LEED Platinum certification - an impressive feat within the tourism sphere. The naturally elegant and certainly chic 62-room boutique boats innovative efforts from roof to ground - literally. Starting at the flat top roof, Bardessono is blanketed with 947 solar panels that fuel roughly one half of the property's electricity needs. Beneath the glossy panels, visitors lounge in guestrooms that each feature a minimum of 200-square-feet of glass to allow natural lighting and ventilation. And far beneath the hotel (300 feet deep, to be exact) reside 72 geothermal wells to heat and cool the property.

Take one look at the sleek exterior of the hotel and you'll see the stones originally used to build the Bardessono's 1970s home, which was incorporated into an existing stone building meant for wine storage, according to the hotel's website. And all visible wood - deep hues of Orchard Walnut, Redroom, Elm and Monterey Cypruss - was salvaged, and would have otherwise been burned or ground up.

Naturally, the list of eco endeavors goes on and on. Water recycling, composting, low-flow fixtures and LED lighting make the list. And better yet, amenities include everything organic, from linens to cocktails, and a farm-fresh restaurant. Lastly, not to be forgotten, my favored indulgence - the spa. I'd sign up for the Vinotherapie Massage, a treatment based on the anti-aging properties of organic Chardonnay grape seed oil ($125 for 60 minutes). Yes, PLEASE.

For a full list of the hotel's environmental initiatives, available online, click here.

Vancouver's Sustainable Stays

2010-02-15T23:35:00.007-05:00

On Canada's west coast, mountains meet sea in an eclectic sprawl of urban activity. Vancouver, oft referred to as "Hollywood North," is a destination unlike any other in North America--diverse in culture, rich in art, and dogeared as one of the most appealing places to live by many a magazine. And while I've never gotten the chance to venture due north of Seattle or south of Alaska, I've always held a sweet spot for the city. A crush from afar, if you will.

This month, the buzzing metropolis plays host to the 2010 Olympics, luring international travelers from near and far and offering up a hardly surprising array of eco accommodations. We're taking a closer look at some of the city's downtown alternative energy options should you be inspired to plan a visit of your own. After all, there's a lot of gold, silver and bronze in this town right now... someone should be cheering on the green too, right?

The Listel Hotel
Loaded with artistic appeal, The Listel Hotel is an airy, colorful downtown destination that's known locally for its live jazz seven nights a week. An intimate size with 119 guestrooms and 10 suites, The Listel offers guests a choice of rooms on Museum or Gallery floors--both featuring key pieces of Northwest Coast eye candy--and subscribes to an initiative dubbed Environment Matters. Created with annual objective setting and reviews, the program serves as a check point to ensure that waste is minimized, natural resources are conserved, and decision-making incorporates eco considerations. Most admirably, it hinges on community partnerships (including a solar panel project with a B.C.-based renewable energy leader), education and increased awareness of positive environmental change.

Cascadia Hotel
An extended-stay property, Cascadia Hotel & Suites is the nation's first to be 100 percent zero-waste... using mixed container recycling, organic recycling and alternative recovery to help choke the flow of everyday trash. In addition, the hotel, a dream for business travelers, uses annual third-party audits to measure successes and reveal strategic opportunities. The 2008 run-down calculated 106 cubic yards of saved landfill space, 601 un-chopped trees, and nearly 250,000 gallons of water left in the ocean.

Pacific Palisades Hotel
A boutique option on chic shopper's Robson Street, the Pacific Palisades Hotel appeals to the trendy traveler with 232 mod guestrooms and suites, a rotating local art gallery, and requisite state-of-the-art spa. Recently awarded a four out of five Green Key ECOmmodation rating by the Hotel Association of Canada, the property has taken several small-scale steps to greening up, including organic menu options, composting kitchen waste, low-flow water valves, and eco-conscious cleaners. Guests can save 10 percent by using the Green Rate (code EOR).

Header image courtesy of Thom Quine, via Flickr.

Does Your Hotel Offset 100% Electricity?

2010-02-08T23:14:00.003-05:00

There are about, oh, a gazillion "standards" when it comes to rating green lodging. I'm not in favor of adding another semi-reliable rule-maker to the list, so instead, I'm taking a closer look at the hotels and resorts that have made one very impressive list courtesy of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

The 100% Green Power Purchaser list represents only the organizations that buy enough alternative power to meet 100 percent of their ENTIRE electricity use. Made up of several different industries, the list hosts a small number of travel and leisure companies, even fewer when we're just considering accommodations. In the whole lineup, however, the combined power purchases amounts to nearly 5.5 billion kilowatt-hours annually, enough to power 544,000 average U.S. homes per year.

The 100% Green Power Purchaser list represents only the organizations that buy enough alternative power to meet 100 percent of their ENTIRE electricity use.

The list changes annually, as organizations opt in and out of the program, but in my opinion, it's worth dropping a note to the owners of your favorite hotel. Whether they're a B&B, a boutique hotel or a sprawling resort, this is a step that speaks volumes and doesn't pass unnoticed.

Never heard of the EPA's Green Power Purchaser list before? Take a look at the above link and scout out other retailers and service providers near you who made the cut.

100% Green Power Purchasers
Alpine House Inn & Spa (Jackson Hole, WY)
Aropahoe Basin Ski Resort (Keystone, CO)
Carlyle Suites Hotel (Washington, D.C.)
Grand Targhee Resort (Alta, WY)
Habitat Suites Hotel (Austin, TX)
Jackson Hole Mountain Resort (Jackson Hole, WY)
Legacy Hotel & Meeting Centre (Rockville, MD)
Mountain View Grand Resort & Spa (Whitefield, NH)
Powdr Ski Resorts (Park City, UT)
Savoy Suites Hotel (Washington, D.C.)
Steven's Pass Resort (Skykomish, WA)
Stratton Mountain Resort (Stratton Mountain, VT)
Sugar Bowl Ski Resort (Norden, CA)
Talbott Hotel (Chicago, IL) *shown above

Eco City Planned for Singapore

2010-02-04T21:48:00.009-05:00

When I think of my list of must-visit locations, the town named Punggol is nowhere near the top. Let's be serious, it's not even on the list. In fact, I hadn't even heard of it until recently... let alone have any idea how to pronounce it. YET, it's caught my attention. Located in Singapore, it's slated to be the country's first "eco-town," capitalizing on the newest green tech, according to a recent article by The Straits Times.

A former fishing village, the city that's home to roughly 52,000 people is undergoing a transformation to become the testbed of eco innovation in Singapore. The country's Housing and Development Board, responsible for public housing--and widely credited for solving the squatter issues of the '60s--is leading the project. Energy and water conservation efforts, as well as waste management and solar-power initiatives, will be featured among smaller, walkable communities with shared green spaces. Naturally, an integrated public transit network will allow people to get from one place to another in a more efficient manner, including via waterway.

Tell me this: What features would be critical to have in your dream eco-city? CNN's GO network took a stab with the article "Welcome to Emerald City, sustainable eco-lopolis of the future." There's some good stuff there, too--a piecing-together of their most admired innovations--from a passenger powered subway to an urban forest. Lovely, if you ask me.

Take Note: Eco Journals Make Jotting Easy

2010-01-26T19:48:00.003-05:00

Let me begin by saying: The irony that I am posting a paper product review directly above a deforestation PSA is not lost on me. There's no need to worry. These lovely journals are made of 100 percent post-consumer recycled paper... and equally appealingly, were manufactured in the U.S.

If you've browsed a Barnes & Noble lately, it's likely you've seen them. In cheery shades like clementine and kiwi, they stand out. (In fact, the first day I plopped one atop my disaster of a desk, a co-worker was lured in by its bright blue hue.) Like most lines of paper products, these journals are available in hard or flexible covers, bound with lined, grid or blank pages. A new line by one of my all-time favorite paper companies - Sterling Publishing - the journals offer one environmental feature I haven't seen before.

On the back cover of each journal, a unique book number is printed. By plugging in the specific code at the Ecosystem Life site, consumers can get a detailed look at exactly where the components of their journal were manufactured, how many people are employed at each facility and the eco benefits. NOW, I'm not sure how many people are really curious about the intricacies of the product crafting process, but it's cool to know that the info is available should you want it. (See an ingredient snapshot of the journal Barnes & Noble sent me below.)

Indulge me for a minute here and imagine a world where supplier component location and details are listed on each consumer product like the FDA regulates nutritional info on our foods.

Carbon shock would surely ensue, no?

Bottom line: Support the manufacturers who are rolling out best practice efforts. You can take a closer look at this line, exclusive to Barnes & Noble, at Ecosystemlife.com. Prices run from $10 - $20. (My vote goes to Ecosystem Author in a large clementine flexi cover, if you care to know.)

The devestation of deforestation

2010-01-25T18:01:00.004-05:00

Who can put a dollar figure on the value of Central Park in NYC? The tiny, green section of grass is a safe haven for millions of city dwellers - yet, across the world, rain forests stunning in their biodiversity are being plowed to the ground at a rate of 90 acres per minute.

The below video, created by the What is Missing Foundation takes a look at the true cost of deforestation and the "sixth mass extinction of species," habitat degradation and loss, as well as the carbon impact preserved by allowing earth's rain forests to continue existing.

Want to take a closer look at how deforestation is growing rampant across the globe? Check out this link from Treehugger on the top offenders. And then, if you're up for it, visit the Charity Guide for a list of voluntourism opportunities that strive to find solutions to this growing issue.

New map highlights geo gems of Northwest

2010-01-22T18:09:00.010-05:00

Honest admission: I don't really know what geotourism is. It sounds like a word I should be familiar with, because it clearly has to do with tourism, and secondly, because it brings to mind "geocaching," which is a slightly mysterious pastime that I've read a little bit about.

I'm not sure how you handle it, but when I'm stumped with a word... or an idea... or an acronym.... I head straight to Wikipedia. And so, I find that "Geotourism is 'best practice' tourism that sustains, or even enhances, the geographical character of a place, such as its culture, environment, heritage, and the well-being of its residents."

As it turns out, glossy magazine and adventure travel pioneer National Geographic (NG) coined the phrase in the '90s AND they're written a whole charter on it. Yes, a charter. You can download the PDF here if you want the nitty-gritty.

My lesson stops short however, because the reasoning behind this post is not to educate you on the history on geotourism (which by the way, is not recognized by spell check and is driving me crazy), but to point out a cool endeavor headed up by Travel Oregon. Said endeavor is The Central Cascades Geotourism Project of Oregon and Washington.

Now, getting back to NG, who helped to create a brand-new map/guide for the Central Cascades (printed on recycled paper, natch) and available for FREE to download as a PDF here. Not only is it pretty, it's useful.
And best of all, it was created by hundreds of local residents who wanted to shine the light on their favorite sustainable tourism spots. Alongside the pin-pointed locales, you'll find tips from some of these folks, making it an especially personal experience. (Imagine if you could work hand-in-hand with NG to craft a map like that of your hometown... there's something so warm and heartfelt to it all. Like marking the memories of hundreds of people. I like it.)

If you're yearning for a true taste of the Cascades, this is the way to do it. Just remember these simple sustainability tips as outlined on the map and by the website: leave no trace; keep wildlife wild; be prepared, stay safe; shop local; respect local cultures; reverse your route; mind your resources; park the car; and give back.

[Photo up top by Larry Gedis, courtesy of Travel Oregon.]

The 10 Places Your Travel Dollars will Do the Most Good

2010-01-19T20:06:00.005-05:00

When it comes to the amount of cash we drop on travel each year, most of us are very particular. After all, travel is never cheap. (If you know something I don't, please do share.) Take for instance, my 2010 travel fund, which should have been started in 2009 and is just now beginning its slow growth in a safe, (and this is key) not-easily-accessed online savings account.

The point that I'm trying to make is this: considering the large sums of money we invest in travel, we should be pretty darn particular about where that money goes. ESPECIALLY when our dollars are associated with cause-related travel. The current crisis in Haiti has me thinking about voluntourism more than ever (if you want to find out more about how you can contribute--mostly, by staying at home--take a look at Peter Greenberg's latest post).

In line with this thinking is the recent release of Ethical Traveler's 2010 report, "The Developing World's 10 Best Ethical Destinations." (I covered it briefly over at Alternative Consumer, too.) According to the organization, mindful travel is playing an increasingly important role in the tourism industry, one of the planet's largest money-makers. And because it makes sense, they're asking the question: Where should we go - and where should we spend our money when we get there? Because at the end of the day, "the way we travel has a measurable impact on the environment, human rights, and the way our home country is viewed by people."

Having given plenty of time to the environmental protection, social welfare and human rights efforts in these countries, Ethical Traveler chose the following top 10 destinations:

Argentina
Belize
Chile
Ghana
Lithuania
Namibia
Poland
Seychelles
South Africa
Suriname

This year, while some folks cut back on "want" spending and try to keep frugal as the recession rides out, countries like these will suffer a swift cease in progression--slowed significantly from a lack of travel-stimulated money that typically goes toward sustainability and eco efforts.

Did you notice though, that some big names didn't make the list? Costa Rica, for example, which is now considered one of the world's most notorious destinations for sexual predators. (More than 3,000 girls and women work in the 300 brothels of San Jose and the country is sadly at the top of the charts in child prostitution.) Bolivia and Bulgaria, also omitted, due to unusually high levels of child trafficking. And also no mention of Asian countries thanks to a lack of responsible development, abuse of human rights and close-to-no environmental policies.

Interesting stuff, right? Most of all, a great go-to list when you're mapping out this year's excursions, because even if you aren't volunteering time or energy while you're overseas, you can make a difference by simply choosing ethical vacation destinations. Tell me, have you booked a trip to any of these places? If so, I'd love to get the scoop on your experiences.

[Photo above is of the Cotton Tree Lodge in Belize, which offers one-day volunteer opportunities for visitors. See the details here.]

More of GG's juicy travel scoop

2010-01-19T19:55:00.006-05:00

Green Globetrotter is my *home,* yes, but that doesn't mean I'm not sharing eco news elsewhere. If you're not already, take a few minutes each day (or week, if you prefer) to peruse The Alternative Consumer blog, where I post weekly on hot ecotourism topics, like today's:

Voluntourism: Giving time, reaping the rewards

For one-stop clickability, I'm adding a sidebar here on GG for my most recent Alternative Consumer posts. Is there a topic that you'd like to hear more about? E-mail me at jessica@greenglobetrotter.com.

2010 Green Travel Outlook

2010-01-01T17:38:00.003-05:00

For two years now I've been keeping an eye on the world of ecotourism for Green Globetrotter. During that time, several glossy magazines and fresh websites (some that I've written for) heralding the "era of eco" have gone into production... and many of them have ceased production, too. It's a scary world in today's media industry, where our nation's daily newspapers and influential weekly and monthly mags are struggling to stay afloat despite dwindling subscriptions and fewer advertising dollars. One thing, however, remains constant: People want - and need - reliable information more than ever. That includes the goods on green. And it's convenient for me, because newsworthy environmental tidbits just keep cropping up in the travel industry.

So, what's the scoop for 2010? In August of last year, the U.S. Travel Association released a study that revealed a growing understanding of the terms "carbon footprint" (from 12 percent in July 2007 to 54 percent in July 2009) and "green travel" (from 9 percent in July 2007 to 22 percent in July 2009). Regardless of whether you're a believer in offsetting carbon use (and there are certainly skeptics that point to "green travel" as an oxymoron itself), it's a good sign that this terminology is become more widely referred to and understood by everyday travelers, many of whom haven't given much thought to the waste factor of leisure and business travel.

According to Roger Dow, president and CEO of the U.S. Travel Association, consumers are looking for green travel options at the right price. To help them easily locate and learn about offerings, the organization even launched a new site - www.TravelGreen.org - in partnership with American Express. Take a gander, there's good stuff there.

And more recent data compiled in December by TripAdvisor points to an influx in leisure travel in 2010, with 41 percent of U.S. survey respondents saying they'll shell out more money on travel in the New Year. Twenty-two percent of travelers plan to be more eco-conscious in their travel decisions in 2010, and 44 percent will go as far as to book stays at green lodging providers. (Bonus news for hotels with eco policies: 33 percent of potential guests count your policy as a factor when choosing accommodations.)

What does it all mean? Since I first started typing away at this blog, there's been a continued interest in doing good and doing green while we're fulfilling all of those wanderlusting tendencies along the way. As long as new, eco efforts keep popping up, I'll keep notifying you of them. And with all of the forward-thinking steps we've seen taken in 2009, I've got a feeling there's a lot more to come in 2010. Stay tuned!

America's First LEED Airport to Launch in May

2009-12-30T08:00:00.000-05:00

The country's first LEED certified airport - the Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport, also the first international airport to be built since 9/11 - is on track to open in May 2010.

The 4,000-acre international gateway has landed both Southwest and Delta airlines as mainstays of a terminal that is on its way to becoming the first U.S. LEED certified. According to a news release, development includes sustainable construction materials and minimal irrigation landscaping. And to offset the building of the property, an Airport Conservation Easement has been set aside, containing - and maintaining - 9,600 acres of West Bay coastland, wetlands and pine forest.

To watch an interview with airport construction manager Roy Willett, peek here, and see how the surrounding grounds are being protected during project work.

India's Royal Gardenia Lands Largest LEED

2009-12-29T00:28:00.001-05:00

On Christmas Eve, a splash sounded in the travel industry as India's Hotel Royal Gardenia announced itself as the largest LEED Platinum certified hotel in the world. That's right... the WORLD. The new luxury digs in Bengaluru join the lineup of ITC properties to be carbon positive, water positive, and solid waste recycling positive.

Dubbed a "monument to the future" by Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, the Hotel Gardenia's sister Green Centre in Gurgaon, was the world's first largest green building. This time around, ITC is boasting the slogan "Forward to Green, Back to Nature," highlighting efficiencies such as energy savings, solid waste management and the newest en vougue terminology: green banqueting.

What greens the guest experience? Besides a wash of natural light, vertical gardens hang, electric cars are available through the hotel concierge, and "Dudson" crockery - eco friendly cooking tools - are used for food and beverage.

If you're booking a stay in Bengaluru, the country's third largest city, get the deets by calling +91 80 22119898.

Eco Adventurer Gift Guide

2009-11-14T00:00:00.003-05:00

This year, you'll want to stuff the stocking of your resident adventurer with the newest tools for eco exploration. We've rounded up our favorite pieces, which fit the bill whether you're planning to scale rocks, trek desert or hike Denali in 2010.

Retro BPA-Free Bottle ($6.50)
Rough and tough bottle manufacturer Nalgene brings retro design to the market this year, offering up BPA-free choices like this wide-mouth screw top bottle. With a 32-ounce capacity, it promises zero leakage and easy access hydration.

Organic & Fair Trade Hiking Sock ($14)
During the colder months, I live in Maggie's Functional Organic Killington Mountain Hiker socks. Made of certified organic wool and cushioned for long days on the trail, these specialty socks are a must-have. You can pick up a pair at most Whole Foods.

Patagonia Recycled Retro-X Vest ($140)
Made of recycled polyester (think used soda bottles and pre- and post-consumer fabrics) and privy to Patagonia's Common Threads Recycling Program, this durable vest is a smart choice for the classic outdoor enthusiast. Windproof and lined in mesh, it's also available in a slim fit for women.

Smart Wool Arm & Knee Warmers ($25)
Since layers are key to a comfortable day outdoors, we trust the convenience factor of the arm and knee warmers from Smart Wool. Machine washable and dryer-safe, they stand the test of time and since they're made with New Zealand's sustainable, natural and renewable wool, they're as warm you'd imagine.

Osprey Messenger Bag ($89)
Crafted from nearly all recycled materials, this convenient messenger bag boasts enough space to squeeze a laptop between adventures. A padded strap and waist stabilizer make it a solid choice on the go, and with one zillion pockets, there's a place to store everything.

Chunky Cherry Bumble Bars ($3)
I'm a die hard fan of these agave-sweetened energy bars. Vegan, organic and gluten-free, they're an option for almost every picky eater while sneaking in the benefit of flax, organic cherries and coconut. Naturally, they taste delicious, although the chance that you'll be likened to a bird picking at seed is fairly high.

Experiential travel with ekoVenture

2009-11-13T05:18:00.002-05:00

Another new social media travel site hit the web recently. ekoVenture, a "social marketplace for experiential travel," offers access to more than 10,000 tours from operators worldwide while allowing users to post reviews, blogs, photos, and videos to the site.

What sets it apart from the plethora of identical web destinations is the "go do good" philosophy and commitment to donate 10 percent of profits to the sustainability-focused causes it supports when you book a trip. A cool feature: users are also able to create charity-driven events to leverage the community for a charitable cause.

Visit www.ekoventure.com to take a look around.

Eco Chic Globetrotter Gift Guide

2009-11-12T19:10:00.004-05:00

I'm a shopaholic at heart, so it's no surprise that when the holidays roll around, I'm keen on digging up the greatest gifts available. This year, we've created guides by recipient type, but you can always stroll through our archives of gift guides and travel products for additional eco ideas.

First up - the Eco Chic Traveler Gift Guide, guaranteed to warm the heart of every fresh fashionista on Santa's list.

Recycled Organic Jewelry Roll ($50)
So sweet, this soft, lemony jewelry roll is by Dogeared and crafted from recycled tees and organic cotton. Inside, you'll find a place to safely store necklaces, as well as two zippered pockets for otherwise easily-lost earrings and bracelets. Naturally, it's made in the USA.

icu Eyewear Eco Sunglasses ($21.95)
In shades like tortoise, red and black, these aviator-style shades make an impact whether you're snoozing during a layover or deckside on a cruise. Made from reclaimed materials, they're the cutest green sunglasses I've seen and also one heck of a deal.

Jane Manvel Jitney Travel Bag ($119)
Outfitted with inside pockets and a handy magnetic snap, this durable tote is a dream find, but as part of Jane Manvel's collection things only get better. All products are completely vegan - without the sky-high price point.

Hemp & Organic Cotton Circle Scarf ($40)
I'm in love with this hand-dyed, organic cotton and hemp circle scarf from Pretty Birdie's Etsy shop, which can be wrapped, slung, or belted for a variety of looks. Not only will it ward the chill on a long flight, it works with warm and cold climates, doesn't take up crucial space, and always looks artfully draped.

MamaOm Organic Bumble Dress ($90)
The princess cut of this dress makes it a favored go-to that's perfectly packable. Designed with the environment in mind, it's made from 100 percent organic Pima cotton utilizing fair-trade practices and transitions from day (paired with flats and a chunky bracelet) to evening (throw on comfortable wedge heels and layer a few beaded necklaces) in a snap.

Heys Three Piece Eco Luggage Set ($360)
Tough and brilliantly teal, these EcoCases are the first in a series of earth friendly offerings from Heys USA. Made of 100 percent recycled plastic, each lightweight piece of luggae features four spinner-style wheels that make terminal treks a breeze.

Marriott announces pre-certified LEED prototype

2009-11-12T19:09:00.001-05:00

How familiar are you with pre-certified LEED building? If you're like me, not very - and it's because it hasn't been happening all too frequently. Turns out, Marriott, in its plan to expand its green hotel portfolio ten-fold over the next five years, will be participating in "volume build certification" through the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) with an eco prototype of new Courtyard Hotels.

The hotel, which will be available in April 2010, will cut design time by six months, reduce energy and water consumption by one quarter, and payback the LEED building investment in two years time.

This summer, the first green prototype will open as the Courtyard Settler's Ride in Pittsburgh, Penn., joining Marriott's 50 currently LEED registered properties.

To find out more, check out YouTube's Marriott Green channel (featuring recent broadcast coverage of the initiative) or the brand's "Spirit to Preserve" site.

No applause necessary, unless you'd really like

2009-11-03T19:54:00.001-05:00

I just love being included in great green round-ups, here's a new one that highlights our certifiably green travel content: 100 Great Blogs for Green Students.

Do you have other favorites that didn't make the list? Leave it in the comments!

Snapshot of paradise

2009-10-13T18:29:00.012-04:00

You know those days when you feel like you could really use a vacation?

This is one of them. Seeking serenity now, I'm uploading some of my favorite snapshots from Clayoquot Wilderness Resort's site... full of rock-you-to-sleep type scenes that have me wishing for a little bit of British Columbia right here in Michigan.

For the full scoop on the resort, read my post @ Alternative Consumer.

Planning an Eco-Scape in Jackson Hole

2009-10-05T18:41:00.024-04:00

Hotel Terra, skier's dream and Jackson Hole's green darling, has begun its campaign to lure the winter-ready among us to Wyoming with a lineup of green theme "eco-scapes."

The posh property, which blends rustic appeal with admirable LEED Silver certification, offers an impressive array of green efforts in addition to chic accommodations and superb location. Included in my list of favorites are 90 percent, naturally-lit hotel interiors; 100 percent offset electricity; guest-accessible water stations for aluminum bottle refills; and clever, eco-chic design components (like those recycled seatbelt chairs in the photo below).

Opened last year, the 132-room hotel is tempting travelers with a bevy of packages for the looming season:

Winter Eco-Scape: A four-night package with one day of private guided skiing or ski lesson, a snowcoach tour in Yellowstone, lift tickets to Jackson Hole Mountain Resort for two and a 50-minute spa treatment at Chill Spa, where only 100 percent natural products are used. Starts at $598 per night.

Backcountry Eco Adventure: Jackson Hole is known for its pristine backcountry skiing, and Hotel Terra is known for helping to preserve the very same environment. With this package, you'll get a recycled 2010 Mountainsmith backcountry pack and an apres ski recovery massage; starting at $529 per night.

Ski Green: Combining AAA Four Diamond luxury with sustainable operations, Hotel Terra offers a ski vacation at a whole new level of eco luxury. Rates, which include breakfast and daily ski tickets, start at $234 per night.

America's largest (greenest) companies

2009-09-25T19:25:00.003-04:00

This week, Newsweek announced their 2009 Green Rankings - an "exclusive" look at the environmental impact of our nation's 500 largest corporations. The well-known names dominating the travel sector are hardly surprising if you're a frequent consumer of eco news.

Can you guess who landed at the top of travel?

1. Walt Disney (Disney's Eco Makeover)
2. Marriott International (Marriott's Eco Initiative)
3. Starwood Hotels & Resorts (Starwood's Element Hotels)
4. Wyndham Worldwide (New WyndhamGreen Program)
5. Las Vegas Sands
6. Carnival
7. MGM Mirage
8. Wynn Resorts
9. Southwest Airlines
10. Delta Air Lines

Oregon Adds Another LEED: Courtyard City Ctr.

2009-09-23T18:50:00.000-04:00

Earlier today, on the west coast's "hub" of alternative action, Marriott's Courtyard Portland City Center hotel was certified LEED-Gold by the USGBC. Powered by wind and hydroelectricity, the 256-room property reduced energy consumption by 30 percent during its recent redesign. This feat is coupled with the composting of kitchen waste, creation of biodiesel fuel (from used cooking oil), and employee garb that's fashioned from recycled plastic bottles. Chic, no?

Located near shopper's central, the Pearl District, and ever-blooming Rose Garden, this hotel is a hop, skip and jump from eco-dining options like the Farm Cafe, Wildwood, and Urban Farmer. Want to scope out the city's leafy appeal? TravelPortland lists their top-notch nature-viewing suggestions here.

Nature: Captured in Time

2009-09-22T22:42:00.006-04:00

The only thing better than witnessing a rare and wondrous moment in nature is capturing the moment with a swift click of a button. As time erodes memories, the fortunate among us have photographic proof... the kind that you never tire of losing yourself in.

Next month, the National Museum of Wildlife Art in Jackson Hole will debut "The Natural World: Photographs by Thomas D. Mangelsen." Chronicling 20 years of photography (nowhere near a studio), the exhibit highlights a selection of panoramic images that span 10 ecosystems, each accompanied with excerpts from Mangelsen's journal.

A theme that runs throughout the photo line-up is conservation. Says Mangelsen in a press release, "These animals, even the most seemingly insignificant ones, are the barometer of the health of this planet. It doesn't take long to realize that we are on that same chain, we are all linked in nature."

If you're not in Jackson Hole, but are as curious as I am, check out the accompanying book, "The Natural World," a 256-page hardcover filled to the brim with Mangelsen's moving artwork.

The National Parks: America's Best Idea

2009-09-21T19:07:00.003-04:00

In 2008, 275 million visitors geared up for a trek through America's National Parks. From Yellowstone to Yosemite, that's a lot of Gore-Tex.

With the first audible "crunch" of leaves, a new rush of nature lovers and adventurers will hit the trails for the season's dramatic display of foliage. If you're one of them (and you happen to live in NCY), you'll want to get a taste of what's in store by checking out National Parks Week NYC, which kicked off last Saturday. View all the events here.

This Wednesday, the National Parks Conservation Association (NPCA) and PBS will host a free concert--featuring the Counting Crows, Eric Benet, Gavin DeGraw, Alison Krauss and the Union Station, and more--while doling out teasers for Ken Burn's upcoming film "The National Parks: America's Best Idea."

Want in? Head to Central Park's East Meadow @ 7:00 pm.

The New Alternative Consumer

2009-09-19T12:45:00.001-04:00

Oooh, have you seen? The Alternative Consumer, the go-to resource for eco-minded shoppers, has just launched a new, beauiful website. You'll definitely want to check it out.

Chicago's River North gets a LEED-ing hotel

2009-09-18T18:18:00.003-04:00

The Windy City might be home to Green Seals and hip, Energy Star-rated hotels, but most folks consider LEED certification king of "standardized green." That's what makes the LEED Gold Certification (Existing Buildings, Operations & Maintenance) of the Holiday Inn Chicago Mart such a big deal. As of this month, it's the first LEED certified hotel in the city.

Built in 1977 in the River North district, it's not the most chic building you could imagine, but what it lacks in luster, it makes up for in intelligence. A part of the 2.25 million square foot, 25-story 350 West Mart Center, the hotel is made up of 521 guestrooms and recently underwent a redesign that updated several hotel areas and added solar window film that will help the building to better maintain its temperature.

The hotel has also adopted many new eco initiatives, including a Sustainable Purchasing Policy that makes purchasing green products (like cleaning supplies, furniture, electronics, etc.) a priority.

For visitors who love art (River North has the largest concentration of art galleries in the U.S. outside of Manhattan) and design, and a solid selection of dining options, this is a convenient location to stay.

Cali's Wente Vineyards Goes to School

2009-09-17T20:44:00.001-04:00

Give. Grow. Green. Three pretty simple words, yet each are loaded with meaning when we look at them individually. When I sit down to write a post for Green Globetrotter, those words -give/grow/green - are the mantra that plays in the back of my mind. The travelsphere is chock full of eco-driven initiatives today, happily obliging the conscious wanderers among us. But, many of those programs and initiatives aren't coming from a place of truth. They're greenwash, as we've come to dub them. And to combat it, I'm sticking with my give/grow/green concept, which rules that every idea is somehow giving back, encouraging growth, and promoting sustainability.

One example of a company that's leveraging their sustainable practices is Livermore, California's Wente Vineyards, who this weekend, will partner with a local college to educate students on their conservation practices. Ecology and biology students of Las Positas College will be participating, taking in the sights of The Course at Wente Vineyards and learning about its involvement with the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary, as well as the Wente family's "Farming for the Future" philosophy.

"Farming for the Future" is a concept that extends across the family's 3,000 acres of Estate vineyards, into The Restaurant, the golf course and all property activities. Created in the early 1990s, it is a system of practices that enhances the vitality of the soils, nurtures a balanced and sustainable ecology, minimizes water use and reduces non-organic waste.

Cheers to that.

Summer Vacation!

2009-07-31T19:00:00.000-04:00

I know... it's been far too long since I've posted on Green Globetrotter. Truth is, here in Michigan it's summertime and I'm taking the few short months of warm weather and soaking it all up!

No worries, you can follow the latest on green travel news by checking out Alternative Consumer, where I'm still posting weekly.

For now, enjoy the sunshine!

Jessica

Suitcase Staple: Repurposed leather journals

2009-06-10T19:00:00.003-04:00

What better place to jot your travel notes than this beauty of a journal, made from repurposed leather and recycled paper. By Dogeared, the collection of soft, supple books come in small (2.5 x 4) and large (4 x 5.5) sizes and range from $32 - $50.

Handcrafted in California, they'll arrive at your doorstep in recycled brown paper bag wrapping, ready for all the salacious scribbles detailing your escapes. After all, a photo album can only capture so many memories.

Available in an array of sassy shades and emblazoned with either a peace symbol or "LOVE," the journals complement Dogeared's line-up of eco-friendly goodies, which include soy travel candle tins, organic shoe sack, lingerie bag, and the hipster belt purse that looks pretty functional for a day of touring, if you can pull of the style.

The top US National Parks

2009-06-07T21:43:00.005-04:00

This summer, 73 percent of travelers plan to escape to a National Park, according to a recent Trip Advisor survey. And where do they plan to pitch their tent... hike the trails... or row the river?

Here, the top 10 parks as voted by the public:

1. Zion National Park, Utah
2. Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
3. White Sands National Monument, New Mexico
4. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Hawaii
5. Redwood National and State Parks, California
6. Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, Nevada
7. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
8. Mount Rainier National Park, Washington
9. Yosimite National Park, California
10. Acadia National Park, Maine

Which is your favorite? And which is on the top of your list?

Two-Day Stay: Baltimore

2009-05-27T12:30:00.007-04:00

Let's face it. The economy sucks. For many folks, especially those here in Michigan, the summer getaway of yesteryear simply isn't an option. So we're rounding up the best 2-day stays money can buy your green self. Read on for my top-pick 2009 summer destination: Baltimore.

"People go to Baltimore for business travel." That was the response I received more than once before packing up and heading eastward. Turns out, if the only thing you're bringing to Baltimore is a suitcase of loafers, you're out of luck.

On Maryland's coast, Baltimore boasts a palatable blend of historic charm and modern must-haves. Most appealing of all is the walkability of the Inner Harbor, where I stayed at the Hilton Garden Inn, a perfectly comfortable hotel that's best feature was its prime location (check out their sustainability policy here.)

If you're heading to the city this July or after, check into the new LEED-certified Fairfield Inn & Suites, which I was treated to a hardhat tour of, courtesy of general manager Patric Leary. For the full scoop on this 154-room hotel, housed in what was once the Baltimore Brewing Co., read on at Alternative Consumer.

Day One
What better way to stretch out of a car or airplane-induced cramp than on bicycle? Make the pedaling truly worthwhile by joining a bakery bike tour with Monumental Tours, run by daytime pediatrician RS Brown. Delightfully droolworthy, the tour constitutes as breakfast and serves up an equally satisfying helping of city history.

Afterwards, hop aboard a water taxi and travel over historic Federal Hill where you'll find Spoons Coffee Cafe. This is the place for lunch, offering up a mile-long menu of locally-sourced, natural options. Find a tucked-away table to chat or admire local artwork while you sip on organic coffee and await a Blue Crab and Asparagus Frittatta or a Strawberry Fields Salad.

Heading back toward the Inner Harbor, you'll pass the National Aquarium and Maryland Science Center. They're both worth a look - even more so if weather isn't on your side. Or, if you're interested in more mindless entertainment, head on over to Harborplace and the Gallery for some seaside shopping. As you'll see, the harbor is a people watcher's dream. Find a grassy space and park it for a while... the view of the water is gorgeous and I recommend soaking it up.

For dinner, take a cab to Clipper Park and visit Woodberry Kitchen, a farm to table experience that mates seasonal foods from local growers with the chef's creative, homestyle flare, for a meal that's rich in Chesapeake tradition. Expect a crowd to fill the dining room on the weekends, where stacks of chopped logs, brick walls and candlelight create a cozy atmosphere. While you're waiting for your meal to be served, enjoy a view of the chef as he artfully adds the finishing touch to each dish at the cook's table. (Pictured above.)

Day Two
Start your day with breakfast at Ze Mean Bean Cafe in Fell's Point, a city dweller favorite that's known for their Sunday Jazz Brunch. Once a coffeehouse and cafe (hence, "mean bean"), the two-story restaurant now features a wine bar. It's easy location on Fleet Street also makes it an ideal starting point for a walk through the cobbled stone streets and alleyways of historic Fell's Point, founded in 1763.

The Preservation Society offers guided walking tours or you can embrace electricity and climb onto a self-balancing Segway for a two-hour, two-wheel tour through Fell's Point and the inner city.

Whatever you do, make sure you take a moment to swing into Pitango Gelato on Broadway, where you can sample all-natural gelato until your heart is content. Made with organic milk and local produce, this gelato is the real deal. I recommend a cup of half Nocciola (hazelnut) gelato and half Bourbon Vanilla. Positively delicous.

Across the harbor, in the Mount Vernon cultural district, you can visit the Futurefarmers exhibit: The Reverse Ark - In the Wake through August. Part art installation, part community project, this collection of recycled resources makes a social, political and environmental statement. Peek into George Peabody's Library too, where you'll bear witness to the most magnificent display of books in the nation.

Finish up your two-day stay with dinner at family-owned Lebanese Taverna, offering a wide variety of healthy Middle Eastern meals, or Pazo, specializing in Mediterranean dishes - and boasting a 100-label wine list.

For more info, visit http://www.baltimore.org/ or check out the city's green guide.

100% sustainable resort near San Diego coming

2009-05-24T05:22:00.003-04:00

This August, Anza, California, near San Diego, will become the home of SoCal's newest ecotourism hot spot as the Ramona Band (of the Cahuilla Indian Tribe) is slated to open the first 5 of 38 cabins in an off-grid retreat.

According to Hospitality Design, the project if jointly funded by the Ramona Band, the Dept. of Energy, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and multiple other federal agencies, and will employ several alternative energy technologies to self sustain. The resort, in addition to providing lodging for leisure and corporate travelers, will serve as an educational experience that touches on Native American culture and naturally green lifestyle practices.

The apparently yet-to-be-named resort boasts a line-up of key green technologies, including: a solar-powered water treatment plant; windmill-powered wastewater treatment plant; bio-diesel plant; fuel cells; electric vehicles and LED lighting.

For the full scoop, check out this Wind Today article.

A San Fran lodge that's award-winning in style and green too

2009-05-22T21:23:00.011-04:00

If you were to ask me, I'd say that sustainability is often tied to high-style. We've all heard the buzzwords "eco-chic," right?

When it comes right down to it, social responsibility is about making people feel good about the decisions they've made. And what feels better than feeling good in a fabulous setting? Not much, according to Hospitality Design Magazine, who just announced the recipients of their fifth annual design awards.

The sustainable lodging winner: Cavallo Point, "The Lodge at the Golden Gate" in San Francisco (we wrote about the hotel last February), whose simplistic, colonial design begs the weary to unwind.

Anvaya Cove in the Phillippines earned a place as a runner up, boasting a "mountains meet the sea" mentality that spares no luxury.

I'm wondering: how important is design in your lodging decisions? For me, it's often a tie-breaking feature.

Where trash picking earns you a free night stay

2009-05-15T06:29:00.003-04:00

Here's something new...

The Antlers at Vail lodge in Vail, Colo., is offering a weekend escape that blends local voluntourism with premium accommodations this June. Called the "Trash Pickin' and Picnickin' Package" (no, it's not a joke), the hotel is offering one night of a two-night stay free when guests participate in the resort's annual highway clean-up program.

Available this June 20-21, the package includes a Sunday-morning guided trash pick-up (approximately three hours long) with a picnic lunch following at the Antlers pool area. Visitors new to town can also take in the Healthy Homes Tour and Fair on June 20, which showcases eco ideas and products to take home. For details, call 970-476-0954.

For more details on Antlers at Vail, Green Star-rated since '02 and winner of the Vail Valley "Green Business of the Year," or their green initiatives, visit www.AntlersVail.com.

"Milking the Rhino" in rural Africa, a documentary

2009-05-13T06:00:00.002-04:00

Don't book an African safari before viewing this film.

Produced for PBS' Independent Lens series, "Milking the Rhino" is a documentary that first aired in April, which reveals the conflicted toll ecotourism takes on Africa's conservation and indigenous communities.

Shot against a stunning backdrop of Kenya and Namibia, the film shows what is often just beyond the camera lens in most wildlife documentaries - the people that live, quite literally, among the animals. Raising cattle. Keeping watch for lions. Praying for rain. Occasionally laying out their wares for the intrigued tourists that visit community-run eco lodges like Kenya's Il Ngwesi Lodge.

It's these eco lodges, leasing land from the community, that provide funding to indigenous communities for schools, offices, goods and land. Yet, it is also the eco lodges that force communities to adapt to a new way of life, in favor of appealing to tourists. (Imagine men sweeping ATV tracks from the sand in preparation for a new tour. It happens.)

In the rest of the world, Africa's community-based conservation is praised as a win-win situation for communities and conservationists alike. In rural Africa, it's a complicated issue that divides many, each day changing the outlook and future for the country's wildlife.

Take a look at the clip below, check local listings, or order the DVD here ($29.95)

Testing filtered water bottles

2009-05-12T06:53:00.003-04:00

A big proponent of using tap water, I'm always eager to check out the latest water bottles touting built-in filtration. What's better than saving money (and waste) while traveling?

You tell me:
A) A $4.00 bottle of Aquafina once you've made it through airport security
B) Or cold H2O from the drinking fountain in a filtered water bottle?

I choose B. And needless to say, not one of these is made using BPA.

So, it only made sense that I put the latest claims to the test. This round-up takes a look at some of the more recent portable filtration units on the market, including one that you can find at Target, and two others that are most easily purchased online. This week, we'll take a look at basic ease-of-use. (And next week, I'll reveal the particles-per-million results of each with a TDS meter, which shows the total number of detectable dissolved solids in a sample.)

The Clear2O bottle is, in my opinion, the easiest to use. Holding 24 oz., it's lightweight, a breeze to clean, and held up well during my travels. In fact, on a recent bike tour of Baltimore, it was the ideal hydration companion. It's life cycle is 100 gallons. Grade: A-

Bottle w/filter: $16.99
Replacement filter 2-pack: $11.99

The Wellness H2O bottle, on the other hand, was hardly convenient. (In fact, I'm beginning to wonder if this particular bottle has a defect.) Barely squeezable, water merely trickled out the spout with the filter in place, and no matter how I tried, the wheezing sound that emitted from the cap had every other gym-goer staring at me. Holding 22 oz., it weighs in at 7.5 ounces thanks to a heavier filtration system, andt boasts a lifecycle of 150 gallons. Grade: C

Bottle w/cartridge: $49.95
Replacement cartridge: $20.00

The LivPURE bottle, coming in at 20-oz., makes slightly lower filtration claims than both of the above and has a lifecycle of only 75 gallons - but these are reflected with a smaller pricetag. While the bottle is fine for deskside hydration, it requires a bit too much effort for use during real activity or exercise. Grade: B

Bottle w/filter: $12.99
Replacement filter: $7.99

Pictured above, left to right: Clear2O, LivPURE, Wellness H2O

A southern Oregon road trip outline

2009-05-11T18:16:00.007-04:00

Nothing gets your travel taste buds salivating like a glossy write-up that seems it was written for no one but you. Best-kept secrets. Hidden town gems. Must-stop shops.

That's exactly the type of review I found in this month's Budget Travel, by Justin Bergman, who details the perfect three-day itinerary for a long weekend in southern Oregon in "The State of Being Green." Included are first-hand accounts of the organic menu at Deschutes Brewery (pictured left) in Bend, and the Saturday Market in Eugene.

This story, combined with today's cool spring breezes, have me dreaming of the west coast.

And the winner is...

2009-05-06T18:46:00.003-04:00

Congrats to our two winners of the Green Giveaway for Picalili's chic collapsible totes:

Karen Shaw
Christine Olszewski

Thanks to all for entering! And ladies, do share your opinions on the Picalili bags. I'll be happy to post your personal review...

Clearwater Beach Resort achieves LEED Silver

2009-05-05T22:46:00.007-04:00

Florida's Sandpearl Resort, located on the north end of Clearwater Beach, is the first in state to add some certified green to all those blue waters.

The hotel, the newest accommodations on the beach in a quarter century, has been working toward LEED certification since its 2007 opening. Today, the hotel announced that it's been awarded LEED Silver Certification, making it one of 15 hotels/resorts to be recognized worldwide.

A member of the Florida Green Lodging Program and an AAA Four Diamond property, the luxury resort (room start around $250) boasts several eco initiatives, including a chilled water air conditioning system, geothermal pool heating, and water and waste conservation practices. Lazy guests can rest easy knowing that staff will sort the recyclables thrown into the garbage too, according to this PDF press release.

For more on the hotel's green highlights, visit their environmental web page. To make a reservation, call 1.877.726.3111.

So tell me, which do you prefer? Rustic eco-lodge or posh, LEED certified resort?

New to the market: Moto Renew

2009-04-27T21:15:00.009-04:00

The first mobile phone in the world made using the plastic of recycled water bottles (you knew it was coming), the Moto W233 Renew, is truly and quite literally green. Palm-sized and portable, it's also carbon-neutral, meaning Motorola has funded environmental programs to offset the carbon emissions created during the manufacturing of the phone.

Naturally, you'll want to charge it using a Solio solar charger. And just as it is in the beginning, the end of Moto Renew's life leads to something new. That's right: The 2GB phone can be completely recycled. (Find full details here. $51 for T-Mobile.)

On the topic of dying phones, don't think your digital dinosaur is best off in the junk drawer. Do some good and send it to Recellular, who will dissect it and reuse every salvageable piece their zero waste initiative.

It's that time again...

2009-04-21T19:30:00.007-04:00

Just like last year, we're celebrating our favorite holiday with a juicy round-up of fresh-picked eco news straight from the web. Here are some of our favorite picks for inspirational stories that will have you packing a suitcase before you submit for the time off.

Are we missing a great article that you found (or wrote)? Drop us a comment and we'll post the link.

Green, mainstream and A hybrid for a day (Budget Travel)
Hotel chains that have eco'd up and tips on hybrid car rentals

Earth Day signals a trend in eco travel (New York Daily News)
Don't say we didn't tell you it would catch on soon enough...

Volunteer for the planet (Grist)
"Screw Earth Day" and make every day count with voluntourism

Guilt-free getaways (New York Times)
Service, value and personal fulfillment: An easy recession vacation?

Authentic shopping guide (National Geographic Travel)
Grab handcrafted goods on your next excursion

National Parks in pictures (Away.com)
A stunning reminder of travel uninterrupted

Ecotourist hot spots (Sherman's Travel)
A round up of trendy destinations, including Botswana and Antarctica

The best adventures of 2009 (Outside)
The most droolworthy, wanderlust-inducing trips of this year

Community-based tourism: going native (Ode Magazine)
Turn travel as you know it on its head by leaving hotels and going local

Best save-the-earth trips (Travel + Leisure)
This slideshow takes you from India to China on missions for the better good

Of course, in true ecotourism form, don't ever forget that sometimes, your own backyard can be the most interesting of destinations.

Green Giveaway: Reusable Picalili Bag

2009-04-18T00:15:00.011-04:00

Groceries? Library? Farmer's Market?

Whatever your dilemma, Picalili's got a bag that serves as the solution. Above, is the Black Pop-Out-Bag, a reusable shopping tote that--in addition to being easy on the eyes--collapses into an attached "pocket" for extra easy storage in the console of your car of bottom of your purse.

These lightweight, shiny shoppers offer reinforced handles to cart around that half gallon of orange juice and if it springs a leak, there's no need to worry: the bag is machine washable. (Whew.)

WIN IT!
Want one of your own? Simply leave your name and e-mail below for a chance to win one of two Black Pop Out Bags (MSRP: $25) from Picalili. Naturally, they're made in the USA.

One entry per person, per day allowed. US residents only. Contest runs from April 18, 2009 - April 30, 2009. Winner chosen at random. Know that we will never share or use your e-mail for any reason other than to contact winning participants.

How do you celebrate?

2009-04-17T23:34:00.006-04:00

Wednesday is Earth Day and I'm curious to know, how do you celebrate?

I'll be hitting the daily grind from 9-5 on Wednesday and am looking for some ways to spruce things up around the "office," get people to feel the green, you know? Of course, this weekend, I'll be dropping by my local festival, the Earth Day Expo in Rochester, Mich., to check out what's happening close to home - versus my usual global travel beat.

What's going on in your neck of the woods and what are you doing at work and home to keep the Earth under our feet in perspective?

Share your tips and suggestions for making Earth Day 2009 the best yet!

Suitcase Staple: 3-in-1 Bamboo Cleansing Cloths

2009-04-13T19:55:00.006-04:00

Sometimes I come across a product that just makes life easier. When that's the case, I almost always become a lifetime devotee... and that's just what happened when I began using Kaia Bamboo Facial Cleansing Cloths.

Incredibly soft to the touch, these "cashmere" cloths are made of sustainable bamboo and combine eye makeup remover, facial cleanser and toner, allowing for one sweet sweep before you hit the sheets. Infused with eight pure citrus essential oils, organic Canadian honey, sunflower seed oil, oat amino acids and fatty alcohol that won't dry skin, Kaia's cloths are natural, non-harmful to the environment and are unbleached, biodegradable and recyclable. To stay moist, they're housed in a snap-shut reusable container.

Perfectly packable for travel, these quick-clean cloths were too tempting to save - even on my dry skin. I've used them all up and only took advantage of the space savings on one weekend getaway. But that's okay; I'm already on board to order more. My only request? A refill size that I can load into my original snap-shut container.

Available exclusively in the US at http://www.futurenatural.com/.

Price: $18 for a pack of 30 cloths.

KEEN Community: I like it

2009-04-07T07:00:00.001-04:00

Connections. They're everywhere. EVERYWHERE. The web is such a vast, infinite space that it's alarming the number of veins that branch out and connect one person to another.

On that note, another platform enters the mix. This one, HybridLife, was developed by footwear brand KEEN, a socially responsible manufacturer that prides itself in furthering "hybrid lifestyles" of sole-happy customers. Not to mention their shoes are solid gear great for travel - check out the blog. When I heard that they'd launched their own social network: HybridLife, I decided to check it out. I like. In fact, my profile is here.

Interested in the end goal of "inspiring positive change?" Join here. Then send me your link.

Top 10 Ecommodations, according to Trip Advisor

2009-04-06T19:32:00.005-04:00

Online travel booking site Trip Advisor released its top ten list for green accommodations today, populated with a nice mix of highly-regarded lodging, I must say. Nice job. That goes to the site editors and the travelers like you who rate the properties online.

So who made the cut?

Eco-Adventure: Hamanasi Adventure and Dive Resort, Hopkins, Belize
Terra Firma: Hotel Terra Jackson Hole, Teton Village, Wyoming
Organic Accommodations: La Cusinga Eco Lodge, Uvita, Costa Rica
Tree House: Morgan's Rock Hacienda & Ecolodge, San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua
Preservation Place: The Ambrose Hotel, Santa Monica, California
Nature Nook: Hix Island House, Isla de Vieques, Puerto Rico
Wildlife by the Water: Alaska's Sadie Cove Wilderness Lodge, Homer, Alaska
Conservation with Coffee: Finca Rosa Blanca Coffee Plantation and Inn, Santa Barbara, Costa Rica
Sustainability Under the Stars: Concordia Eco-Tents, Virgin Islands National Park, St. John
Paint the Town Green: Hotel Monaco Seattle – a Kimpton Hotel, Seattle, Washington

Have you stayed at any of the above? I can vouch for Kimpton Hotels, but that's about it. Share your experiences!

More Green on the Worldwide Web

2009-04-06T19:16:00.003-04:00

Grist lauches its new website! (Grist)
The eco mag celebrates 10 years with a new beta site

Is this the Golden Age of green travel? (Nat'l Geographic Adventure)

Sustainable Travel Panel Answers FAQs (Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
Great nuggets of info from some leading green decision makers

Mind Altering Vacations - Literally (Concierge.com)
Not-so eco-related, but interesting all the same. From kava to magic shrooms.

April is Virginia Green Travel month
Info and events here

Top Green Destinations (Travel Answer Man)
Do you agree?

100 Can't Miss Adventure Travel Bargains for '09 (Smarter Travel)