I’m really not fond of buzzwords or fads, so when I talk about “green” travel I’m addressing some of our inner core values. What is “green” travel? For me, it means that I travel responsibly, only taking photos and only leaving footprints; I support hotels and travel suppliers that give back to the community—both socially and economically; I use the same sheets and towels for multiple day hotel stays; I avoid hoarding the plastic-bottled toiletries; I often walk or take public transportation when sightseeing.

What I don’t like about the label “green” travel: that it connotes “roughing it” vacations (shunning beds, hot showers, and yummy food); I resent airlines that “ALLOW” you to purchase carbon offsets for pollution caused by them—hello???? Why doesn’t the airline purchase their own carbon offsets and also research more environmentally friendly fuels? I also get my dander up (is dander green????) when companies charge you more for responsible travel. It’s like paying more for healthy food.

Core value? What kind of person am I? How do I demonstrate it? Do I care about others? About our world? Or is it, when I’m honest with myself, all about me? This isn’t just about travel–it’s about daily life. Sometimes I demonstrate compassion and yet, at other times, I forget that the world has a population greater than 1. My goal: be the change I want to see. And you?