Green Journeys: The Art of Eco-Friendly Travel

Embracing Sustainable Travel

In an era where our environmental footprint is more pronounced than ever, the concept of eco-friendly travel has transitioned from a niche interest to a fundamental aspect of modern tourism. Imagine exploring the lush rainforests of Costa Rica, the pristine beaches of the Maldives, or the historic streets of Rome, all while contributing positively to the environment and local communities. This is the essence of sustainable travel - a commitment to minimizing our impact while maximizing the quality of our travel experiences.

The Importance of Eco-Friendly Travel

Environmental Impact

Tourism is a double-edged sword. While it brings economic benefits and cultural exchange, it also contributes significantly to carbon emissions, waste, and the degradation of natural and cultural landmarks. Sustainable travel practices aim to mitigate these effects, ensuring that the wonders of the world remain intact for future generations to marvel at.

Cultural Preservation

Sustainable travel goes beyond environmental concerns; it’s also about respecting and preserving local cultures and traditions. By engaging with communities in a responsible manner, travelers can foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of diverse ways of life, enriching their travel experience. 

Economic Benefits

Eco-friendly travel often emphasizes supporting local economies. Choosing locally-owned accommodations, eateries, and tour operators ensures that the financial benefits of tourism are distributed more evenly within the community, contributing to sustainable development.

How to Travel Sustainably: Practical Tips

Choosing Eco-Friendly Accommodations

Look for hotels and lodges that boast green certifications, such as LEED or Green Globe. These establishments typically employ practices like water conservation, energy efficiency, and waste reduction, aligning your stay with your environmental values. Here are a couple of stellar examples of accommodations paving the way toward eco-friendly travel:

The Brando, French Polynesia

Nestled on the breathtaking private island of Tetiaroa, The Brando is a luxury resort that sets the standard for eco-friendly accommodations. It utilizes renewable energy sources like solar power and coconut oil, a seawater air-conditioning system, and strict conservation practices to protect the island’s biodiversity. In addition, the Polynesian culture is taught and celebrated with curated experiences led by Tetiaroa Society Guides.

Whitepod Eco-Luxury Hotel, Switzerland

 Situated in the Swiss Alps, Whitepod offers a unique eco-luxury experience with its low-impact geodesic domes. The hotel emphasizes sustainability through its use of renewable energy, local spring water, and organic, locally-sourced food, ensuring a minimal environmental footprint. A stay here is almost as if you are becoming one with the environment, the color of the pods is in harmony with the seasons, and the hotel offers activities that also bring visitors closer to nature. 

Mindful Transportation

Transportation contributes a significant portion of tourism’s carbon footprint. Opt for direct flights when possible, use public transportation, or consider renting electric vehicles. Even better, explore destinations by bike or on foot, which not only reduces your impact but also allows for a more immersive experience. Many companies are now offering environmentally friendly transportation services, like Green Motion Car Rental. Green Motion is an environmentally friendly car rental service available in various countries, offering vehicles with lower CO2 emissions, including electric and hybrid models. Opting for such services helps reduce the carbon footprint associated with travel.

Responsible Wildlife Encounters

Wildlife tourism can be extremely rewarding if done safely, responsibly, and thoughtfully. Always research and support ethical sanctuaries or conservation projects. Avoid attractions that exploit animals for entertainment, and never participate in activities that involve direct interaction with wild animals, such as riding elephants or swimming with dolphins in captivity. An example of a company that is working to promote sustainable wildlife tourism is Responsible Travel’s Wildlife Holidays. Responsible Travel is a company that curates wildlife tours prioritizing ethical and sustainable practices. They offer experiences like tracking gorillas in Rwanda or whale watching in the Azores, all designed to respect wildlife and benefit local communities.

Sustainable Dining

Embrace the local cuisine by choosing restaurants that source ingredients locally and sustainably. Not only does this reduce the carbon footprint associated with food transportation, but it also supports local farmers and provides you with fresher, more authentic dining experiences. One of the best ways to truly get to know a culture is through its food. A good rule of thumb is that if the locals eat there, it’s a place you want to visit. And if upscale dining is what you wish, look for restaurant that source their ingredients locally. If it was frozen before you ate it, there is a good chance it wasn’t sourced locally.

Leave No Trace

The “Leave No Trace” principles are not just for wilderness areas. Apply these guidelines wherever you travel by minimizing waste, staying on designated paths, and respecting wildlife and natural habitats. When we went to Greece I wondered what would happen if everyone who visited the Acropolis picked up a pebble. My guess is that by the time I got visited, there would be nothing left to see. Take only pictures (without flash!) and leave no sign you were there!

Eco-Friendly Destinations to Inspire Your Next Adventure

Selecting eco-friendly destinations involves considering places known for their commitment to sustainability, conservation efforts, and environmentally friendly tourism practices. Here are five destinations that stand out for their eco-conscious approaches:

Costa Rica

Known as a pioneer in eco-tourism, Costa Rica boasts an impressive array of biodiverse ecosystems, from rainforests to beaches. The country runs on more than 99% renewable energy and is home to numerous eco-lodges and conservation projects. Visitors can explore the country's national parks, such as Corcovado and Tortuguero, which are teeming with wildlife, all while supporting sustainable tourism practices.

Slovenia

 Slovenia is a green gem in the heart of Europe, with over half of its total area covered in forest. The capital, Ljubljana, was named the European Green Capital in 2016 due to its extensive pedestrian zones, green spaces, and effective waste management system. The country also encourages visitors to explore its natural landscapes, like Triglav National Park, through sustainable means.

New Zealand

New Zealand is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes and commitment to preserving them. The country has numerous eco-friendly initiatives, including predator-free conservation areas to protect native species. Tourists can enjoy the great outdoors through sustainable activities like hiking the Great Walks or visiting eco-conscious attractions like the Waitomo Glowworm Caves.

Iceland

 Iceland's use of geothermal and hydroelectric power makes it one of the most sustainable countries in the world. The country offers a range of eco-friendly travel experiences, from exploring its geothermal spas to witnessing renewable energy projects firsthand. The Icelandic Pledge, an agreement to travel responsibly, is encouraged for all visitors to ensure the preservation of the nation's natural beauty.

Bhutan

Bhutan is the only carbon-negative country in the world, absorbing more CO2 than it emits. The country prioritizes Gross National Happiness over GDP, with strong emphasis on conservation and sustainable development. Visitors to Bhutan are subject to a daily fee that goes towards free education, healthcare, and conservation efforts, ensuring that tourism has a positive impact on the country.

These destinations are not only breathtakingly beautiful but also demonstrate a strong commitment to environmental preservation and sustainable tourism practices. If you are looking to reduce your environmental impact you can explore these locations with the assurance that your visit contributes positively to the conservation of these natural wonders.

Making a Positive Impact While Traveling

There are many actions beyond where you travel to and where you stay that will help you make a positive impact when you travel. One is to engage in voluntourism, but choose your projects carefully. Look for initiatives that have a clear positive impact on the local environment or community, and ensure that your involvement is genuinely beneficial, not disruptive. Working with local volunteer organizations will help to ensure that your actions are aligned with the needs of the community, or work with world-wide

organizations to find opportunities. Another important impact that you make is to seek out local artisans and craft markets when shopping for souvenirs. This not only provides you with unique mementos but also helps keep traditional crafts alive and supports the local economy. A final action to take is to consider offsetting your carbon footprint through reputable programs that invest in renewable energy, reforestation, or conservation projects. While not a solution to carbon emissions, it’s a step towards mitigating your travel-related impact.

The Journey Towards Greener Travel

Eco-friendly travel is not a destination but a journey. It’s about making more conscious choices that align with our environmental values and respect for local communities. By embracing sustainable practices, we can enrich our travel experiences, forge deeper connections with the places we visit, and ensure that the beauty and diversity of our world remain accessible for all who wander.

If you are ready to plan your next adventure, but aren’t sure where to start, book a free discovery call with me. We can discuss your adventure dreams and how to turn them into reality!  

Embracing the Wilderness Within: The Journey to Self-Discovery Inspired by Cheryl Strayed's "Wild"

In Cheryl Strayed's profoundly moving memoir, "Wild: From Lost to Found on the Pacific Crest Trail," we are invited on a journey that transcends the mere act of hiking through rugged terrain. This book, which has resonated deeply with me, is not just about a woman who decides to hike over a thousand miles alone; it's a powerful narrative about the human spirit, resilience, and the quest for self-discovery.

Strayed's journey is a vivid testament to the power of will, persistence, and perseverance. Her story is not unique in its challenges and hardships but in how she chooses to confront them. It's a reminder that often, we look outside ourselves for solutions, for something or someone to "fix" us. Yet, Strayed's journey illustrates a profound truth: the strength we seek externally resides within us all along. She undertook an epic journey believing that the act of walking in the wilderness would free her from what was holding her back. She felt that she needed to prove her strength through this test. I often feel this way as well, but what I learned from Wild was that I don’t have to put myself into impossible situations to find my strength, I can decide to believe in the strength that I have, and tap into it when I need it.

The wilderness, with its unyielding and raw beauty, acts as a mirror to Strayed's soul, reflecting back not just her fears and vulnerabilities but also her indomitable strength and courage. It's a powerful metaphor for the personal wilderness we all must navigate. Just as Strayed found herself by getting lost in the vast expanses of nature, we too are called to explore our inner landscapes, to embark on our own journeys of self-discovery. For those of us inspired by Strayed's narrative, the lesson is clear: our "wilderness" might not be a literal trail or a remote expanse of nature. It could be any challenge or situation that pushes us out of our comfort zones, forcing us to confront our fears, insecurities, and the parts of ourselves we've long ignored or forgotten. 

Reading this I wondered if I had the strength that Strayed displayed. I ponder on the old adage that God will only give you what you can handle, and since I’ve lived a golden life, wondered if that meant that I could not handle more. Reading Wild helped me to understand that strength isn’t a contest to see who has overcome the most, but about facing my doubts and uncertainties and moving forward anyway. This memoir serves as a beacon for anyone feeling adrift, reminding us that the path to finding ourselves often begins with getting lost. It encourages us to embrace our struggles, to face our inner demons, and to acknowledge that the journey to self-discovery is fraught with obstacles. But more importantly, it assures us that on the other side of hardship is a profound sense of self-awareness and empowerment. The definition of hardship is personal, and comparison will rob me of my strength and courage.

As we navigate the complexities of life, let "Wild" inspire us to seek our own wilderness, be it through travel, embracing new experiences, or simply taking the time to introspect. The journey might be daunting, but it is within this "wilderness" that we find our true selves, our resilience, and our innate power to overcome. In the end, Strayed's memoir is more than just a story about hiking; it's a resonant narrative about human capacity for endurance, the transformative power of nature, and the eternal quest for self-realization. It serves as a reminder that sometimes, to find ourselves, we must first dare to get lost.

Travel is an excellent way to discover something new about yourself or reinforce your strength and tenacity! Book a free discovery call with me to start your journey into the “wilderness!” 

Money-Savvy Teens: Teaching Your Kids to Budget for Travel

Hey y’all! You know how near and dear teens are to my heart, right? One thing that I’ve noticed when we travel is that my teens don’t have a great sense of how much things cost. Travel opens so many opportunities for us to teach our teens the ways of the grown up world! Since our family has a big trip coming this summer, teaching our teens to budget for travel is a high priority. It's not just about saving money; it's about empowering our kids with financial wisdom and planning skills that will serve them for a lifetime. So, grab a cup of tea, and let's make financial planning as exciting as the adventures awaiting us! (Or as exciting as we can.)

Why Budgeting for Travel Matters

In a world where instant gratification is the norm, teaching our teens the value of planning and saving for their dreams is invaluable. Travel isn't just about the destination; it's about the journey, including the steps we take to get there. By involving our teens in budgeting for travel, we're equipping them with money management skills, teaching them to appreciate their experiences more, and showing them the power of goal-setting and patience, two skills that are lacking in our teens by design. 

Start with a Dream

Begin by dreaming together. What destinations spark joy in your teen's eyes? Is it the blue waters of the Caribbean, the majestic mountains, or the bustling cities with their endless adventures? Let their imagination run wild, and then, gently guide them to translate these dreams into tangible goals. Social media is great for helping solidify teens’ dreams. I’ve been planning a graduation trip to Italy, and “I saw this place on TikTok,” is a common phrase. Have your teen start saving those videos to help them get a clear picture of where they want to go and what they want to do there. Another friend was telling me that she offered to take her nephew anywhere in the world for his graduation and he chose Tokyo, Japan. When she asked what he wanted to do there he said, “Tokyo drift.” A little research into a chosen location can definitely help fill out the picture!

The Role of a Travel Advisor

This is where the magic of working with a travel advisor comes into play. As your family's travel advocate, I'm here to turn those dreams into reality. Starting the process with a travel advisor not only ensures you find the best itinerary tailored to your family's interests but also secures the best pricing. Booking early is key, and as your advisor, I'll keep an eye out for deals and discounts that make your travel goals more attainable. Additionally, it is sometimes really nice to have an intermediary between you and your teen. When we went to Greece my girls wanted to see where Mamma Mia was filmed. Since most of our trip was in southern Greece, it didn’t make since to visit that location, which would have been another day’s travel. When the parents told them, we were wrong and ruining their lives! When the advisor told them, suddenly it made sense and they weren’t happy about it, but more accepting.

Budgeting 101: A Family Affair

Creating a travel budget is a fantastic opportunity for a family project. Break down the costs involved - flights, accommodations, activities, food, and souvenirs. Be transparent with how much you as the parent contribute, and how you will be budgeting for your part. Then, set up a savings plan. How much can your teen contribute from their allowance or part-time job? This exercise not only makes the trip planning more realistic but also more rewarding. 

Then think about logistics. How will they save? Will you hold it or do they have an account? There are many options out there for families who want to give their kids the responsibility of having a debit card, but want to retain some control. This is also a great time to talk about exchange rates and what things can be purchased with your home currency (like hotels and tours) and which can be purchased with the local currency (like food and souvenirs). How far will their dollar go?

Visual Goals: Keeping the Dream Alive

Teens live in the moment, so keeping their travel goals top of mind is crucial. How about setting a dream destination photo as their phone wallpaper? Or creating a vision board in their room? Sharing their goals with friends can also add an element of excitement and accountability. If their goals are front and center, it will be much harder for them to say no when something comes up, like dinner with friends or the newest Starbies drink comes out. Since you budgeted together, you can mention your goalss when they want you to spend money, like dinner out instead of cooking, or a new pair of shoes that aren’t needed but everyone else is getting. Teens are driven to instant gratification, and keeping their goals front and center will help them learn to pause and make another choice. Don’t forget the power of social media! Send them videos and images from your destination to help keep the excitement for the trip, and budgeting, alive!

The Journey of Saving

Encourage your teens to think creatively about saving. Maybe they can offer their skills for odd jobs, sell crafts, or even start a small online business. Every penny saved is a step closer to their dream adventure. And remember, small sacrifices can lead to big rewards. Skipping that extra coffee or movie night can add up to more travel funds. When I was in middle school I asked my grandfather if I could rake his yard to earn money, and he said yes, but only if I passed the interview process! Talk about teaching your teen a great life lesson. P.S. I got the job!

Remember, the journey is as important as the destination. Celebrate milestones along the way – the first $100 saved, the booking of the flights, the final payment. Each step is a victory, teaching your teen the value of persistence and hard work. Never underestimate the power of a thermometer hanging on the wall!

Budgeting Isn’t Just About the Money

Empowering our teens to budget for travel is more than just teaching them to save money; it's about instilling values of planning, patience, and perseverance. As your family's travel guide, I'm here to help turn this educational journey into an exciting adventure, filled with learning and laughter along the way.

So, are you ready to embark on this adventure with your teen? Book a discovery call today. I’d love to chat with you and your teen about your travel dreams and how we can make them a reality. 

Self-Care Strategies for the Busy Mom

Hello, Supermoms! In the hustle of parenting, work, and life, it’s easy to forget the most important person in the equation – you. Self-care often gets misconstrued as indulgence, but it’s about much more than bubble baths and chocolate. It’s about connecting with yourself, embracing grace, and finding calm in the chaos of life. There are so many things about being a mom that make self-care difficult. Often there is a price tag to self-care, and spending money usually makes me feel more stressed than cared for, especially if it is for me. Self-care can also seem like something that takes up a lot of time, and I don’t have time as a luxury because I’m choosing to spend it very methodically on the things that will further my goals in this season. Self-care can also seem so woo-woo that I don’t want to even try because woo-woo makes me feel like there is something else I have to defend my actions on. Are you feeling these things when it comes to self-care? Then this blog post is dedicated to you, the moms out there making it all happen, and how you can integrate real, meaningful self-care into your daily routine.

Mindful Minutes

Self-care doesn’t require hours of spare time. Start with ‘Mindful Minutes’ throughout your day. It could be a five-minute morning meditation, a moment of deep breathing before a hectic school run, or a quiet evening reflection. These small pauses are powerful in bringing you back to the present, allowing you to center yourself amidst the day’s demands. 

In the past few months I’ve started to feel more anxiety than I ever have in my life. There is free floating anxiety in the world, and the added stress of having a senior in high school and starting a business have all converged on me! A friend taught me the 3-2-1 strategy: in a stressful moment pause to breathe and name 3 things you can see, 2 things you can hear, and one thing you can feel. Or make up your own combination! In less than a minute I can feel more grounded and present, and shake the anxiety that is swirling around me.

Another thing that I do is force myself to walk slower. I breathe and slow my steps. As my feet slow, my heart and brain do also. Taking a break from rushing is the ultimate act of self-care for me and reminds me that I control time, not the other way around.

Movement for Mood

Exercise is often touted for physical health, but its mental benefits are equally vital. This doesn’t mean you need to carve out time for a full gym session. Incorporate movement into your day: a brisk walk, stretching during a TV show, or a quick yoga flow once the kids are in bed. This can significantly lift your mood and energy levels.

I have made a habit of moving for 5 minutes an hour. A quick walk around the block, pacing to the front of the house and back, vacuuming for 5 minutes, anything that gets me moving. I also love the 10 minute workouts on Apple Fitness (you can find the same kinds on YouTube your your favorite app). After 10 minutes I feel like I have done something to honor the body that I usually take for granted, and I get a little burst of workout high! 

Bonus: Create a mood booster playlist (here’s mine) and blast it when you take your five minute break. Movement + Music = Mood Enhancement!

Journaling for Self-Discovery

Journaling can be a transformative tool for self-reflection and emotional clarity. Dedicate a few minutes each day or week to jot down your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. This practice can help you process emotions, celebrate successes, and gain perspective on challenges.

My favorite app for guided journaling is Stoic. It’s free (there are upgrades) and I love the simplicity of the design. It is set up for morning and evening journaling - you put in what you want to focus on that day and the journal gives you prompts. There are all kinds of other prompts also, I learned fear-setting by using this app, and that alone is worth the download! The app also has breathing, meditation, and much more. 

Nourish Your Body and Soul

Eating well is a form of self-respect. Amidst the busy schedules, prioritize nutritious meals that fuel your body and mind. This doesn’t mean elaborate cooking; simple, healthy recipes can be both time-efficient and nourishing.

I joined a meal prep service this fall and I felt so guilty. I wanted to be able to spend time making a menu, and planning a grocery list, and shopping, and cooking, but I just didn’t have the bandwidth anymore. And you know what happened, my family started cooking. I realized that I had been holding those tasks to myself, and when the recipe was on a card right in front of them, they were more than happy to pitch in. We’ve cut back on how many meals we get each week, but when I choose the recipes I print them out because when they are not on my phone for me only, my family can help and they want to! We were eating nourishing meals, and also everyone’s soul was nourished because they were contributing to the family. And this leads me to…

Seek and Accept Support

Self-care also involves knowing when to ask for help. Lean on your support network – be it family, friends, or community resources. Accepting help isn’t a sign of weakness; it’s a smart strategy for self-preservation and balance.

When my girls cook dinner they are learning so many life skills, and I get 30-45 minutes to work on an itinerary or build content (like writing a blog post). When my husband does the laundry, he’s giving the gift of support and getting the gift of gratitude. When I “burden” my friends I am actually giving them the gift of trust and they are giving me the gift of support. Seeking and accepting help is the opposite of selfish!

Connect with Your Passions

Remember the things you loved before becoming a mom. Whether it’s reading, painting, or dancing, find little ways to reconnect with these passions. Even if it’s just for a few minutes a week, this can be incredibly rejuvenating.

I love to read, and I have to make myself put down travel guides and magazines, and entrepreneur books to pick up something fun. When I read something fun, something just for me, I feel so happy. Your passions make you who you are, and if you lose them or ignore them, you aren’t as whole. Everyone in your life wants you to be whole, and you need you to be whole. Don’t sacrifice what you love and what you find fun for the sake of time or making someone else happy. 

Self Care isn’t Selfish

Moms, remember that taking care of yourself isn’t selfish; it’s essential. These strategies aren’t about adding more to your to-do list but about integrating self-care into your daily life in manageable, meaningful ways. By doing so, you’re not just surviving; you’re thriving, and that’s the best gift you can give to yourself and your family.

When I don’t take my own advice, I become a wretched, anxious troll. I don’t love myself that way! I’ve found that I don’t need a three hour bubble bath with champagne and scented candles to practice self-care. Self-care is best for me when it is something that fits naturally into my day and doesn’t require line in my budget. 

Travel can be a excellent form of self-care! Whether solo, with friends, couples or as a family - travel can help us reconnect to ourselves and our loved ones. Book a free discovery call with me today to share your travel dreams and start the journey toward travel reality!