For Christians across the globe, the Lenten Season is a solemn time for reflection and building a deeper relationship with God. Likewise, this season also signals a brief vacation, the perfect time to travel.

But if the Lenten Season is all about evaluating our spirituality, it makes sense to keep Mother Nature in mind as we explore her many wonders. Here are some tips on how you can be an earth-friendly traveler:

Look for eco-friendly accommodations.

Look for a hotel devoted to reducing carbon emissions and waste reduction, and has recycling policies. Find out if your hotel promotes environmental awareness to its employees and patrons.

Limit energy use.

Lessen the use of air-conditioner and hot water. Don’t forget to turn off lights, television and the air-onditioner when you leave your hotel rooms.

Choose conservation-conscious tour operators.

If you opt to go on tour with a professional tour guide, research his or her company’s protocols and practices. The way they manage waste or treat local wildlife can impact the local ecosystem.

 

Choose earth-friendly transportation.

Once you reach your destination, go ahead and try their local public transport. Renting bicycles and walking are few of the most basic ways to reduce carbon emissions, too.

 

Leave no traces behind.

Do not litter. Don’t write your names on walls, trees and anywhere you can think of. As the mountaineers say, take nothing but pictures and memories.

Protect the marine environment.

If you dive or snorkel, don’t touch reefs or marine animals. Also, don’t collect shells, corals or other natural items.

Respect the off-limits areas.

Whether you’re on a mountain, on an island, at the beach or simply hopping from one church to another for your Visita Iglesia, it is your responsibility to keep the sanctity of the area.

If you’re still wondering what these tips have to do with Holy Week, try reflecting on Acts 4:24 in the Bible which says: “Sovereign Lord, you made the Heavens and Earth and the sea and everything in them.”

As stewards of this creation, it is our responsibility to take care of all our surroundings.

Have a meaningful Holy Week, everyone!

With research from:

www.tripstodiscover.com and wwf.panda.org