Green Senior Vacations

     If you are a senior and need a change of scenery, a vacation would help you get centered tremendously.

     Pick a spot that is well known for being senior friendly. A partying atmosphere may not be your cup of tea, while some excursions may be downright dangerous. Some places are simply tough to get around if you cannot drive so check on the area to see if it is senior friendly.

     Once the vacation destination has been reached, it makes good ecological sense to take advantage of alternative modes of transportation, including public transit (buses and trains), bicycles, and walking. In fact, many foreign destinations lend themselves to alternative forms of transportation, as opposed to many U.S. destinations, which cater to private automobiles. Many of these places give senior discounts as well as have special safety measures for seniors.

     Stick to destinations within a 100 or 150 mile radius. There are probably more attractions than you realize within a couple of hours away from your home, and choosing these over distant vacation spots will help minimize your greenhouse gas emissions along the way. You might even consider renting a newer, more fuel-efficient vehicle for the trip, which will cost you a bit more but will reduce your carbon footprint even further. You will also be near medical facilities if you need any assistance.

     Take a home-based vacation. If you're in or near a major metropolitan area or tourist town, chances are there are nearby attractions you haven't seen yet, or haven't visited in years. So take the subway or the train downtown to visit the newest exhibits at the art and science museums, aquariums, zoos, botanical gardens and city parks. Mark your calendar for special events like art shows, food-and-music festivals, book readings and more.

     Staying at resorts or hotels that care about the environment is also a great way to care for the environment while vacationing. A growing number of lodgings now provide earth-friendly accommodations for their guests which include, water conservation, recycling facilities, eco-friendly cleaners, low-flow toilets and motion-activated lights.

     There are many green options for seniors to choose from. Assess your needs, pick a vacation, and enjoy!