Although many people are very conscious of being “green” these days, they often associate that word with all work and no play. So even though they are doing their part with recycling, less air-conditioning, and less electricity, taking a green vacation doesn’t sound like very much fun. Seriously, do you want to spend your time off recycling cans? In fact, many people want to take a vacation from their “green” life! Believe it or not, there are many fantastic ideas for taking green vacations and more than that, having fun doing it!

• One-tank vacation.
  Let’s be serious- who wants to pay the gas for more than one tank anyway? Check out your state’s tourism websites to look at areas that may be worthwhile to travel to and are close to where you live. There could be national parks, museums, historical sites, or even amusement parks right under your nose! I know Bali sounds tempting, but you can spice up your vacation routine and save money in the process.
• Stay home vacation.
  This may not work as well if you have kids, but vacation can be a state of mind. Why not take off a week and relax at home? Ban yourself from getting chores done (unless you have similarities to Monica from Friends and that is a vacation to you) and do the normal vacation things: eat out every night, read the books you’ve been meaning to get around to, and go shopping.
• Camping.
  If you have kids, this is a great vacation! Combine this with your one-tank vacation, and explore the wilderness with friends and family. Again, this saves money but is also good for the environment. And it’s ok if you find a campsite with working showers and toilets- think of all the electricity you are saving by not being in a hotel!

If none of these sound appealing, at least keep these green tips in mind during your “normal” vacation:

• Stay away from restaurants or take-out food that gives you plastic silverware, plates and cups. This will help reduce your waste.
• Recycling on vacation is possible! Before leaving for vacation, check out the local website or call the hotel to see if a recycling site is nearby.
• Continue your energy conservation on vacation. Turn off all lights and electronics
before leaving your room, and take shorter showers.
• Don’t have the hotel wash your towels daily. Hang up and reuse.
• Buy local products. By supporting the local produce and shopping, it saves on the products that require extensive fuel for shipping. Frankly, fresh produce usually tastes better anyway.

Green vacations are possible, and best of all, have the potential to turn into your most unique and fun vacation yet!