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Escapemaker > Things To Do > Themes > Green/ Eco Getaways

Green/ Eco Getaways

green travel

Gas prices out of control? Need a car-free getaway? Maybe you'd just like to be kinder to the planet?

More then ever and especially during summer, gas hikes and times of drought - we need to conserve! If the term "eco" or "green-travel" conjures up images of saving the rain forest or whale watching excursions - think again!

northeast recycle programDoes your innkeeper recycle, compost or use solar energy? Do they loan bikes out? Maybe your hotel will pick you up at the train or bus depot or provide a free shuttle to attractions? Call around and find out - remember, they want your business!

If you plan on travelling locally this summer, you can still be good to the Earth while enjoying your trip. With a little planning and a dash of forethought, you'll save water, energy and best of all, the planet!

featured destination

Dorchester County

Dorchester is a county with a story to tell! From the heroic tales of Harriet Tubman and the Underground Railroad, to the early and modern times of the maritime industry, it's a remarkable 557 square miles of land and people. A small space with a vast...

Profiled Destinations:

Cape May - The shore meets Victorian splendor.
Caroline County - Slow down, enjoy nature, and soak in small-town America!
Columbia & Montour Counties - Covered bridges and country charm!
Cornwall - Where the Appalachian Trail meets the Housatonic River.
Delaware County - The land of DIY vacations!
Delaware Water Gap - Head for the Poconos. Romantic retreat and mountain paradise - minus the cheese.
Dorchester County - Scenic splendor and maritime fun!
Dutchess County - Cultural riches and scenic grandeur.
Genesee County - The "birthplace of Western New York" and JELL-O!
Greater Lehigh Valley - Thrill rides, beautiful parks, and IronPigs!
Greene County - Rich artistic history, majestic mountain views.
Hamptons Getaways in Southampton Town - The classic seaside getaway!
Highlands/Sandy Hook - Beaches, hiking, lighthouses and fishing!
Lewis County - The three "R's" of a good vacation - recreation, relaxation, and rejuvenation!
Luzerne County - A Poconos paradise!
Morristown and Morris County - Where history meets hip!
Saratoga County - Historic battlefields and healing waters.
Saratoga Springs - Health, history and horses!
Steuben County - Glass and glassmaking. Wine tastings and tours. Art, aviation, and history museums!

Featured Packages:

The Summer of Love in New Paltz

Enjoy long, lovely days and evening of romance under in the stars at the Moondance Ridge B&B. Choose one of our five luxury suites for the two of you to be together in your own world... We're one mile from the heart of New Paltz, with shops and...

The Summer of Love in New Paltz

Enjoy long, lovely days and evening of romance under in the stars at the Moondance Ridge B&B. Choose one of our five luxury suites for the two of you to be together in your own world... We're one mile from the heart of New Paltz, with shops and...

TIPS: Practice a few of the tips below on your next getaway and you'll be surprised at how easy and effortless it is to be "green." Your small efforts will contribute to the larger good and perhaps educate others along the way.

1. Travel in the off-season or mid-week. The seasonal
peaks of travelers contribute to over-development and over-crowding. Avoid crowds and contribute to the local economy when it needs it the most.

2. Use the public transportation system or bring your bike to get around. Escapemaker.com always gives you transporation alternatives for every destination we review. Ask your innkeeps about renting or borrowing bikes on site.

3. Conserve water! Tell the cleaning staff you'd like to reuse your towels and linens instead of having them changed daily.

4. Patronize carry in/out parks that encourage protecting the environment. Consider picking up 1 piece of discarded trash a day. If everyone did this we'd have much cleaner beaches and parks.

5. Try your luck at camping! There's no better way to get back to nature but make sure you leave your campsite just the way you found it.

6. Do not remove any wildlife, marine life or indigenous plants from their environment. Remember only YOU decided to leave home, not them!

7. Seek out local souvenirs to support the local economy.

8. If you must have wheels, consider renting an RV. At least you'll save on lodging and meals.

9. When eating out, try the local dishes. By doing this, you support local business and you will not be contributing to the fuel waste of importing food from far away.

10. Only purchase snacks and beverages in recyclable containers -- and then recycle them!