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eco-friendly decision. By avoiding fast food as much as possible (or requesting no drink carriers, bags, or excess napkins, etc.) when buying fast food, you can reduce the amount of trash headed toward landfills. Not only are food choices like fruits and trail mix healthier, but they produce little consumer waste, making them a great environmental choice. Also, many gas stations allow patrons to purchase refillable coffee mugs from their gas stations, which prevents receiving a new cup each time you stop for a cup of coffee along your route.

Many hotels are eco-friendly and cater to guests who are eco-conscious. When booking your reservations, pick a "green" hotel. Websites like http://www.GreenHotels.com and http://www.ItsaGreenWorld.com can help with your search. These hotels make conscious decisions to better the environment. They may provide shower dispensers instead of small disposable bottles for guest rooms, or they may use energy-efficient light bulbs. In addition, they may not change bedding for stays that are more than one night, unless requested. Glass cups may be offered instead of the standard plastic drinking glasses for water.

Vacation homes are now becoming much more environmentally-conscious as well. Take, for instance, Thyme in the Country (http://www.ThymeInTheCountryB andB.com) a bed and breakfast in upstate New York that is devoted to the eco-friendly travel experience. Located on five acres in Hudson, the bed and breakfast prides itself on being a sustainable environment. Almost all the food served to guests is grown on the organic garden situated behind the 1880's farmhouse. The bed and breakfast uses eco-friendly cleaning products, and only bedding and rugs with natural fibers. If you look closely, there's even a cow in the back meadow to keep from using a gas lawn mower.

As more people become aware of their impact on their environment, the number of businesses offering services such as this innovative bed and breakfast will increase. Be sure to tell the businesses you frequent along your route that you appreciate their willingness to contribute to the well-being of the environment.

There's no reason to stop living "green" while on the road. Enjoy your vacation while being environmentally conscious of the space around you as you travel. It's a space that will be enjoyed for generations to come.

Learn more about this author, Starla Ross.
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