There is only one planet earth, so why the hell are we ruining it and tearing it to shreds? Sometimes I get that it happens; you can’t always recycle, you can’t always use as little energy as possible, and you most definitely cannot bike and walk everywhere.

But still, preserve and protect what is here and what’s present. I guarantee that if we keep up with our horrendous habits we’ve grown accustomed to everything is going to look a lot different sooner, rather than later. And once that happens, there will be no going back.

The New York Times recently published an article called “How to Travel the Earth And Protect It, Too”. Seems redundant- since how is it even possible to travel and protect the earth without permuting harmonious gasses or simply leaving mounds of trash behind due to tourism and recklessness?

Well, the article offers a few ideas and alternatives on every aspect of traveling, from where to go and how to get there, to where to stay and eat, and what to do. It shows that it is possible to remain eco-friendly and still see the world.

The NYT found practical ways to remain in the wanderlust mind frame and not feel guilty. The author suggests picking a destination that is local or even a few hours away, or visiting an area that is environmentally friendly and maybe staying a little longer than we even expected. You’re not only being more green by doing that, but we all want vacations to last longer, so why not take advantage of it?

While there, the NYT advises seeking out only green stamped hotels, and dining experiences that offer fresh local produce and meats, rather than hitting the McDonalds.

And for activities, the article encourages you to relax, simple as that. Go cycling, camping, sailing, or veg out on the beach; create less harm for the planet by getting outside and appreciating what we have in front of us. Quit feeling like you need to do all the extravagant activities that are listed on the pamphlets that are thrown our way the moment we walk into a hotel and just vacation as if you were a local. 

My motto when traveling is to leave nothing but light footprints behind. Then reminisce on the memories and cross that destination off my bucket list.