How to Be a Green Tourist

Eco-tourism encourages environmentally responsible travel around the world. When you travel green or want to become an eco-tourist, your goal is to do no harm to the environment. While you vacation, you can help give Mother Earth a well deserved rest.

Instructions

1. When you book your hotel, ask about their environmental policies and practices. Choose lodging in a hotel that is committed to the green movement.

2. Travel light. Extra luggage means extra airplane fuel. Choose organic clothing. Be sure to be aware of local conventions and dress accordingly. Respect places where modest dress is required.

3. Walk, bike or use the local transportation. If you need to rent a car, request a hybrid.

4. Enrich your experience while supporting the local economy. Hire local guides or ask tour operators to use local guides.

5. Save trees. Go paperless by downloading tickets, maps, travel guides, boarding passes to a handheld device. Consider podcasted tours and itineraries. Try to get rid of excess packaging before you go.

6. Reuse towels and sheets. Many hotels already make this suggestion to their guests. Use only the towels that you need and then hang them to dry. If you request to not have your sheets changed daily, you can help save up to 30 gallons of water.

7. Respect the natural environment. Follow designated trails and don't disturb the natural habitat.. Never buy crafts made from endangered species.

Tips & Warnings

• Always ask before you take someone's photograph.

• Eat locally, minimizing food transport costs.

• Determine if the local water is safe to drink. If it is, go ahead and drink it.