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Easy Vacations for You and the PlanetIt's been a tough winter. For those of us in the North, the cold and snow seemed relentless this year. The economy has seen better days, and most of us are probably ready for a more peaceful world situation. But, after all those cloudy days, the sun has been making more frequent appearances - greening our landscapes, warming our hearts, and giving us hope for the future. Perhaps this summer, more than usual, we are in need of a long, relaxing, soul-cleansing vacation. The usual vacation worries can include long lines, airport security, lost baggage, expensive hotel bills, and car trouble. These hassles are enough to make us feel as though we need another vacation - from vacation! But, with a bit of creativity and an open mind, you can easily experience a wonderful vacation with family and friends while saving money, supporting local communities, and allowing the Earth (and yourself) to rejuvenate with a much-needed break. Need a change of pace? Celebrate diversity right here in the USA. America is the melting pot of the world, so you don't have to travel far to learn about a different culture. Best of all, traveling to a new part of the country doesn't have to involve airports or long car rides. Taking a bus or train to your destination is an environmentally friendly option that will let you sit back and enjoy the view (without worrying about following directions). Once you're there, try to use public transit for additional savings and opportunities to learn about the area you're visiting. For lodging and dining, seek out local bed and breakfasts and family-owned restaurants. You will be able to experience the flavor of the community and know that your money is helping to keep local businesses afloat. If you don't have much time or money for a vacation
this summer, you can benefit from an exciting break in your own backyard.
Check out your local chamber of commerce or tourism office for historical
and cultural events, museums, and parks in your area. Invite friends or
family to visit: showing people around your own area can help you appreciate
it better. Staying local will give your car, finances, and the environment
a rest, while Or, tune back into nature by planning a camping or hiking trip or other outdoor adventure. The fees at state and national parks are generally small - just be sure to plan ahead, since they often require reservations in advance. If you own or can borrow a tent, you'll not only save money otherwise spent on a hotel, but you'll also enjoy a sense of adventure by sleeping so close to nature. Cooking over a fire is fun and inexpensive, and food cooked over a fire after a long day of hiking always tastes amazing. Interested in a 100 percent soul-satisfying experience
this year? Try staying in a beautiful setting at a retreat center. Many
retreat centers offer a range of activities and sessions, from silent
meditations, hiking, and yoga practice to music, cooking, and massage
classes. In addition, some places serve organic and whole foods, reducing
negative impacts on the earth while increasing the benefits to their
clients' bodies. Some great choices include: Kripalu Center for Yoga and
Health in the Berkshire hills of Western Massachusetts (www.kripalu.com
), Omega in Rhinebeck, New York and Whatever vacation experience you choose this year, remember your main objective - to relax and restore your body, mind, and soul. Something about warm weather always brings a renewed sense of hope and energy for the future. So this summer, let your vacation celebrate the Earth and its people, while giving yourself the rejuvenation you deserve. For information on eco-travel and for a list of resources and travel agents, check out Co-op America's National Green Pages online at www.greenpages.org , or call 1-800-58-GREEN to order a copy. Edited by Dave Shultz |
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