Green Mexico: The Clean Way to Travel

The phrase "going green" may be overused, but the sentiment remains. People are venturing away from cluttered cities and looking for more natural, non-damaging trips to occupy their time. "Going green" takes on a new meaning, not only implying eco-friendly travel, but the chance to get out and fully experience the land you are saving. From blinding white beaches and clear blue water, to hiking through jungles searching for lost civilizations, to swimming with dolphins, Mexico tops the list as one of the best eco-tourist destinations.

One of the hot-spots for those looking to reduce their carbon footprint, is the Xcaret Eco Theme Park, located five miles south of Playa Del Carmen. With two hundred and fifty acres of gorgeous coastline, this park hosts unbelievable attractions.

• Swim with dolphins
• Take a sharks tour
• play in the lagoon
• scuba dive, and explore underground rivers
• visit one of the largest butterfly pavilions
• walk along the jungle trail
• visit the wine cellar
• explore the aquarium
• gear up for amazing live performances
• many restaurants to choose from.

The park composts their waste as much as possible. Many objects are potentially hazardous and not allowed into the park. If using sunscreen, they require one-hundred percent biodegradable bottles. Check their website for more details.

Playa Del Carmen offers "beach huts" as well, an excellent alternative to the large hotels. Some of these huts provide food, others do not. Basic necessities are the key. Be certain to clean up after yourself. Nearby Tulum also offers huts for a very good price, where you can visit the ruins and archaeological site. All in all, this is the best way to go to quench your thirst for adventure, sights, and culture in a place that truly respects nature.

Look for hotels that have the Green Globe certification. This organization is dedicated to helping assist and promote businesses who have a commitment to protecting the environment, and are active participants.

Balamku Inn on the Yucatan Peninsula is GG certified, and makes use of solar panels and wind. They monitor their water usage. Situated right on the ideal, unspoiled Costa Maya, this bio-diverse are is the perfect place for those wanting to get away from resorts. Walk up and down the beach, or explore the jungle behind the inn. Enjoy a fantastic massage on your private terrace. Scuba dive the coral reef, and visit Chinchorro, called "an eco tourist paradise". It is the perfect spot to get away and reconnect.

Eco Paraiso Hotel in Celestun, Yucatan, is located at a biological reserve, meaning one or more ecosystems has been untouched by man. Flamingoes flock to this area. The beach is undisturbed. But what makes this place truly special are the bungalows are nestled amongst the green trees, overlooking white sands, and blending in with their surroundings. Their water is recycled through individual filtration systems. They purchase materials in bulk to reduce plastic clutter, and are avid about recycling.

Do you prefer a more typical resort? Wyndham is a trusted name. With a Green Globe 21 international environmental certification, Viva Wyndham Azteca in Playa Del Carmen is dedicated to protecting the environment around it, adding credence to an already successful company.

There are many other things to consider when traveling green. Staying in an eco-friendly hotel is a great way to star. But don't leave it up to these terrific places to take care of the environment for you. Do your part.

1) walk, bike, or use public transport
2) if you are driving, carry a jug of water rather than several bottles
3) use canvas bags to tote rather than plastic ones
4) reuse hotel towels.
5) take as many "natural" tours as you can, such as snorkeling or hiking to ruins.
6) get out and eat locally. Encourage the economy
7) donate conservation funds
8) if you bring it in, take it out.

Xcaret Eco Theme Park
www.xcaret.com

Green hotels:
http://www.allstays.com/green-hotels/mexico-green-hotels.htm
http://www.balamku.com/ecology/
www.ecoparaiso.com
www.wyndham.com or http://www.wyndhamworldwide.com/wyndham-green/

Additional links
www.bloomingtongreentravel.com
http://www.advantagemexico.com/ecotourism.html
http://www.destination360.com/
www.ec3global.com