You're floating the river in a reused raft --sounds pretty green so far. But how'd you get to that river? We've got a few suggestions to help you make it from your doorstep to the river bank with minimal environmental impact.
1. Go local: If there are rivers in your area , start by rafting close to home. Eco-tourism doesn't have to take you across the globe.
2. Use public transportation: Many outfitters have shuttle and bus services; ask your outfitter about the transportation options for your trip. For longer trips, skip the plane and embrace the train. The Los Angeles Times has the rundown on Amtrak , and Independent Traveler lists popular train routes .
3. Drive smarter: If you must drive, rent a hybrid car . Both Avis and Hertz have added hybrids to their rental car fleets. You can rent a Prius directly from participating Toyota dealerships. Make the car trip greener by carpooling with friends or using rideshare .
4. Make it count: Even high-speed rafting enthusiasts can steal pointers from the slow travel movement. One long vacation is more carbon-friendly than jetting back and forth over a string of weekends. Make the most of your river rafting trip by visiting nearby towns and tourist attractions (save fuel by mapping out your side trips ahead of time). The Green Vacation Hub has tools to help you find eco-friendly lodging .
-- D.W.
Sources: eHow , LA Times , Earth 911 , Green Guide , New York Times ,
1. Go local: If there are rivers in your area , start by rafting close to home. Eco-tourism doesn't have to take you across the globe.
2. Use public transportation: Many outfitters have shuttle and bus services; ask your outfitter about the transportation options for your trip. For longer trips, skip the plane and embrace the train. The Los Angeles Times has the rundown on Amtrak , and Independent Traveler lists popular train routes .
3. Drive smarter: If you must drive, rent a hybrid car . Both Avis and Hertz have added hybrids to their rental car fleets. You can rent a Prius directly from participating Toyota dealerships. Make the car trip greener by carpooling with friends or using rideshare .
4. Make it count: Even high-speed rafting enthusiasts can steal pointers from the slow travel movement. One long vacation is more carbon-friendly than jetting back and forth over a string of weekends. Make the most of your river rafting trip by visiting nearby towns and tourist attractions (save fuel by mapping out your side trips ahead of time). The Green Vacation Hub has tools to help you find eco-friendly lodging .
-- D.W.
Sources: eHow , LA Times , Earth 911 , Green Guide , New York Times ,