You can enjoy adventure, nature and/or culture, and be socially and ecologically conscious. Responsible travel is about having fun, while also giving back. It is ethical travel that strives to reduce negative impacts of our journey while creating long term benefits to the environment, local people, and their communities. I recently attended a conference in a U.S. city.  The hotel that hosted the event belongs to a major chain, which touts its commitment to sustainable practices. They have been recognized twice as the Energy Star Partner of the Year for Excellence in Energy Management.  Yet conference attendees were wearing extra layers of clothing to keep warm in the conference rooms due to the air conditioning setting; just think what energy could be conserved if the temperature was set even two degrees warmer. If you make it a habit to find the discount travel codes on the appropriate website, you can save hundreds or even thousands on travel expenses, which can ultimately save a vacation or make it possible to take the much needed business trip.

The more ways that we all can find ways to save money on travel, the better, as the decline of summertime travel is part of the decline of our economic state. Being able to afford more travel is simply beneficial for everyone. Plastic cups wrapped in plastic were replaced daily.  After using a thimble-full of shampoo and hair conditioner, the almost full bottles were removed and replaced with new ones. I don’t have to tell you how plastic and non-biodegradable products clog our earth, not to mention the waste of product.  Is a “green” hotel one that asks guests to place towels on the floor if laundering is desired and guests can choose to not have sheets changed daily?