7/15/11

Many hotels now have volunteer programs for guests to go into the local community and help make a difference. While that may sound like more work than play, it can also be an opportunity to experience the culture and to get a peek of non-tourist areas during your stay. Spending the afternoon doing something worthwhile can be a fun and helpful experience. Just ask the concierge to see if the hotel has any programs you can participate in.

7/14/11

If you usually take baths, consider taking a shower as a luxurious and efficient way to save water. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, "a full bath tub requires about 70 gallons of water, while taking a five-minute shower uses 10 to 25 gallons." The math speaks for itself, so anyone up for an eco-friendly hot shower?

7/13/11

While donating or reselling a piece of furniture is one of the greenest ways to keep it out of a landfill, there's one item that should be shared carefully: a crib. The Consumer Product Safety Commission recently announced that reselling or donating cribs made before July 23, 2010, is illegal because many of these cribs feature designs that have been recalled due to safety issues. Only the most up-to-date models that meet safety requirements should ever be given as a hand-me-down to an expectant mother. Go to www.cpsc.gov for more information.