Here are several ways we can say “I Love You” to our favorite destinations.

 

 Join the no plastics bandwagon -While this may sound like “too much to do about nothing,  – what’s a little plastic straw anyway?” the amount of plastics and non-biodegradable items are increasing and harming the oceans we love and enjoy.  Remembering that sea life calls the ocean home is the first step in realizing the dangers plastics and other trash items present to marine life.

There are simple ways we can help.  Use paper straws or bring along reusable straws which can be reused over and over.  Ask for paper instead of plastic whenever possible.  There are also metal straws which can easily be washed and reused over and over again.

Keep noise level low – Going on a trip to celebrate a big occasion or milestone event?  What a great reason to travel!  Keep your celebration at a respectable level, especially when staying in vacation rental homes, condos and neighborhoods where families are living their day-to-day lives. It will be greatly appreciated and will show your respect for the local residents and their homes.

Pack insulated reusable bags  – Who doesn’t love a picnic while on vacation.  Beach time or the local park offer great opportunities to pack a bag filled with goodies.  And, the perfect way to bring along the perishable items is in a packable, reusable insulated bag instead of a styrofoam cooler picked-up at the local grocery.  Insulated bags keep things fresh and protects the environment from yet another bag in the trash.  Also remember to bring along other items which do not become trash.  No plastic cups, use recycled paper products (napkins) and reusable silverware.

Bring along reusable bags for shopping –  No need to accept plastic or paper, if you have your own bags.  Store a couple of light-weight canvas or cotton bags which can be used for shopping, transporting items and keeping things organized while traveling.  Canvas bags really work because they are easily rolled and packed, and can be washed when soiled.

 

Purchase and bring reusable water bottles – Stay hydrated all day without adding to the amount of trash and garbage needing to be disposed.  Add a little fun to your water with colorful bottles and ones with various prints.  They are easy to care for with a little soap and water right in your hotel room.  And, just think of all the plastic water bottles you are avoiding!  Now that’s eco-friendly!

Purchase a travel coffee thermos with a cup – Skip the recycled cups and make a larger impact by bringing along your own coffee thermos and cup.  The folks at the coffee shop will be happy to fill your thermos!  Just ask and you’re on your way with your favorite coffee in your favorite personalized containers.

 

Use recycled products – Recycled products have environmental care written all over them. Literally, you can find the recycled symbol on items which are made from products once used and recycled for another use. Look for the symbol and make a difference.

 

Shop local – When you buy local you not only support the small businesses in the community, but you help promote a secure and safe place to visit.  Destinations where the economy is doing well creates stability and less chance for unsavory behavior to become the norm.  Shopping local is a fun way to learn more about the culture, art and history.  Search for arts and crafts stores, and farmers markets to enhance your experience and support local vendors.

Research banded items – and, don’t buy them –  Our awareness of the cruel practices associated with purchasing items like ivory, bird’s nest soup or shark fin soup have improved.  There are many other animal, plant and environmental items that you should not purchase as souvenirs, especially from your international trips.  Leave shells, rocks from ancient architectural sites and other historic artifacts in tact. Items which look cute and crafty can also harbor insects and bugs dangerous to U.S. plants and animals.  The basic leave-no-trace theory applies here.  Take photos and bring them home as your souvenir and memories.

 Researching items you can and can not bring back into the U.S. is fairly easy.  The USDA (United States Department of Agriculture) has a website listing banded items.  Awareness of banded items makes your return to the U.S. less stressful and less possibility of being fined.  The policies are in place to protect plants and animals in the U.S. from insects which can damage crops and cause devastation to forest and farmland.

 

Reuse hotel and beach towels – There is no need to switch towels each day and hotels will encourage guests to hang your towel on the towel rack to dry and signal it’s ok to leave it. After two days you can leave your towels on the floor indicating you would like them changed. Hotels are also no longer changing and washing sheets each day. What a simple way to save water, electricity and labor costs.  This is a great way to say “I Love You” to your favorite destination.

Turn off lights and unplug devices once they are sufficiently charged – No need to burn extra electricity!  Turn off lights when leaving and retiring for the evening.  TV’s off, devices unplugged once charged and turning off the heat or air when opening the window are all great practices to adopt when traveling as well as at home.

Walk, bike, use golf carts or take public transportation when possible – Reduce pollution by taking public transportation, walking, biking and using golf carts.  Each is easier on the environment and helps you enjoy a “slower vacation” taking in more of the scenery and enjoying the destination.  Stop for coffee or a glance around an art gallery you just happen to find during your walk. This tip helps you stay in shape, explore the city more in depth and you’re saving the environment.  Wow!!  That’s a triple win.

Remember … you are visiting a destination that many call home!  Practice respect and regard for day-to-day life which continues long after you have departed.

What tips do you have for showing love to the destinations you visit?  Share them below.