My Journey into Renewable Travel
Okay, so I wanted to share something I’ve been trying out lately. For years, my holidays were pretty standard. Fly somewhere, stay in a big hotel, do the usual tourist stuff. But honestly, I started feeling a bit… well, off about it. Thinking about the crowds, the waste, my own footprint. I wanted something different, something that felt a bit more, you know, renewable. Not just for the planet, but for me too, something more meaningful.
So, I decided to actually do something about it for my last trip. Here’s how I went about it, step by step.
Figuring Out the How
First off, I had to plan differently. Usually, I’d just hit the big travel websites. This time, I started digging deeper.
- I specifically looked for smaller places to stay. Guesthouses, locally-owned inns, places calling themselves ‘eco-lodges’. You gotta be careful though, some places just slap on a label. I spent time reading reviews, looking for real comments about recycling, local food, or how they treat their staff.
- Then I thought about getting there. Flying felt like the easy option, but for this shorter trip, I looked at trains. It took longer, sure, but it felt like a better start. Less rush, more scenery.
- I also packed differently. Sounds basic, but I made sure to bring my reusable water bottle, a travel coffee mug, and a couple of cloth bags. Trying to cut down on plastic from the get-go.
Putting it into Practice
The trip itself was to a quieter coastal area, known more for its nature reserves than big resorts. The place I stayed was run by a local family. They grew some of their own vegetables for breakfast, used rainwater harvesting, and gave great tips on local spots away from the main drag.
Instead of hitting generic souvenir shops, I looked for local craft markets. I actually talked to the people making the stuff. Felt much better buying something knowing it directly supported someone there.
Eating was similar. I skipped the international chains and sought out small cafes and restaurants that advertised local ingredients. The food tasted fresher, honestly.
I also deliberately chose activities that were low-impact. Lots of hiking, visiting a small marine conservation center run by volunteers, just spending time on the beach without needing lots of gear or noisy stuff.
How it Felt in the End
You know what? It was different. In a good way. I felt more connected to the place. Talking to the guesthouse owners, the artisans, the guides – it made the experience richer than just ticking sights off a list.
It took a bit more effort in the planning stage, I won’t lie. Reading reviews, comparing options beyond just price and star ratings. But during the trip, it felt simpler, slower maybe.
And yeah, I felt less guilty. Knowing I was trying, even in small ways, to travel more responsibly made a difference. It wasn’t about giving things up, it was about finding a better way to do it. For me, this “renewable” approach isn’t just a buzzword, it’s genuinely a more rewarding way to see the world. I’m definitely sticking with it.
