Flying to Paradise a Big Beauty Hazard

Low-level radiation is a silent killer, because we cant see it, feel I, hear it, taste it, or smell it. I am not talking about just nuclear weapons, but rather the low levels of exposure we are continuously exposed to on an every day basis. This post is dedicated to a friend of mine, and was born out of my concern for her, as she flies often.

Easy, Eco-effective Travel Tips

Wondering how small changes can make a big difference? Individually, they may not. But when enough of us make the changes we will make the world a more livable, sustainable place–and enjoy ourselves while we’re at it.

Responsible Hotels of the World Launched

Global travel website for responsible holidays, Responsibletravel.com, has launched a new collection of hotels that ensure local people and the environment are respected.

Luxury Retreats Promote Responsible Travel

Eco Luxury, a collaboration of some of the best retreats in the world, is working to change the focus of luxury tourism.

What Exactly is Eco Tourism Anyway?

Besides having less of an impact on the planet when you travel, what exactly defines eco tourism?

According to the Centre for Ecotourism, Hector Ceballos-Lascurain created the term “eco tourism” in 1983 to mean “nature-based travel to relatively undisturbed areas with an emphasis on education.”

The term “eco” is a combination of three words environment, culture and oriented travel. The International Ecotourism Society says eco tourism can be defined as “responsible travel to natural areas which conserves the environment and improves the welfare of the local people”. In short, ecotourism is an insightful, mindful and participatory travel experience to natural and cultural environments, assisting the well-being of the local cultures and environments for future generations. Eco tourism, however, is different from nature tourism because it puts more emphasis on conservation, education, traveler responsibility and active community participation.

Green Luxury at Napa

Every element of this hotel, restaurant and spa is wrapped in an earth-friendly blanket of luxury. Secluded on five lush acres of gardens and vineyards, the 62-room hotel boasts a “green spa,” heated and cooled by an underground geothermal system, smart guestrooms in buildings crafted from hand milled, reclaimed wood and steel and 93-seat restaurant headed by Executive Chef Sean OToole, former group operations chef for Michael Mina. If approved, Bardessono would be the second U.S. hospitality entity to receive platinum certification and the first in California.