Local is Eco-Friendly

For years I’ve promoted the idea that eating locally, sleeping locally and traveling using local transportation was ideal because these methods are cheaper for the traveler, they get you closer to the culture and they help support the locals.

I’d like to add that these also fall into the sustainable travel category.

Next time you travel, consider the following.

Eating locally – This usually means eating street market food or in smaller restaurants that are family owned, as opposed to chains. These are generally frequented by locals and the meat and produce are probably locally grown rather than being purchased in bulk and trucked in from far-off locales. By eating in smaller restaurants, you’re supporting a local family, saving yourself some bucks and supporting a business that doesn’t rely on the transportation and fuel it costs to bring in products from other regions. You’re also more likely to get to know the proprietor of such a restaurant and therefore have the opportunity to become an ambassador of your own country.

Sleeping locally – Rather than fall back on what’s comfortable, meaning chains or high end boutique hotels, check yourself into a family-run pensione or small hotel where you know the family is benefiting from your dollars. For a home-stay, join a program like Servas, CouchSurfing or GlobalFreeloaders. With these programs you’d have a chance to meet the locals in their own homes and genuinely get to experience the hospitality of another culture.

Local transportation – Taxis are convenient, no doubt. But hopping in a taxi to get to your destination is nowhere near as energy efficient as jumping on a bus, train, subway or trolley. And, it’s often a fraction of the cost. Plan your time accordingly, giving yourself some extra time to get from point A to point B on public transportation, and avoid times and locations that could potentially be unsafe.

Travel thoughtfully on your next journey and stay posted here for more ideas on sustainable travel!

Happy Travels!