What do you do when you’re dying to take a vacation, but you’re so broke your couch holds more cash than your bank account? You could put your travel itch on hold, save up your money and your wanderlust, and resign yourself to your travel-free reality. Or you could take an in-town vacation. I discovered the in-town vacation during my first years in Philadelphia, when my three part time jobs barely covered the $250 per month I was paying in rent. A local vacation has plenty of advantages: since it doesn’t involve air travel or paying for accommodations, it’s low impact both on your wallet and the planet. And you might be surprised by how much fun you can have without going very far from home. Here are a few tips on how to make the most of your in-town:

1. Plan as if you were leaving town.

Clear your schedule of work and other commitments so that you can be as free as possible to live like a vacationer. Part of what makes vacation time so nice is the freedom you have not to follow any set routine. That way, you can experience the joy of being able to ask, what do I really want to do today? If you’re planning on vacationing with a friend or a partner, make sure that person also has a clear schedule.

2. Buy a guidebook and a map.

Whether you’ve lived in the same place for years or have just moved somewhere new, a guidebook can be an excellent source for good restaurants, interesting neighborhoods, and fascinating bits of local trivia. I recommend the Off the Beaten Path series, but any guidebook will do – the more specific to your area, the better. Depending on your style as a traveler, you may want to read your guidebook in advance, or you may simply walk out your front door, guidebook and/or map in hand, and start exploring.

3. Ditch your car.

The best way to really see a new place, or to see an old place with new eyes, is to walk through it. If you live outside a city, you could drive or take public transportation to the city center or a neighborhood you want to get to know and walk from there. When you travel on foot you are moving slowly enough to be able to observe things that would go completely unnoticed if they were flashing by out the window at 60 miles an hour. You can talk to people; you can pause on a city bench, relaxing while the working world shuffles past. And by the time you stop to eat lunch at that cute little restaurant you never noticed before, you will have spent enough energy to really have worked up an appetite.

4. Look for day trips in your area.

Wherever you live, there are bound to be plenty of interesting cultural and natural wonders within an easy day’s journey of your home. If you like outdoor sports, you can find guidebooks specific to hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, etc. Small towns are often home to craft stores, flea markets and strange but wondrous local museums, like the Museum of Beverage Containers in Goodlettsville, Tennessee. When driving to your destination, avoid interstates and travel on smaller back roads. That way you can catch even the most obscure tourist attractions. I’ve enjoyed traveling with one friend who stops to take a picture every time he sees a quirky mailbox along a country road. If you want to get away for more than a day, small towns are often home to unique, sometimes historic, bed and breakfasts that can still be less expensive than a night in a big-city hotel.

5. Treat your home like a hotel room.

Don’t go home until you’re ready to call it a day. Or, if you and your sweetie are local vacationing together, stop home in the middle of the day to spend some quality time. Whatever you do, though, don’t just hang around the house. You wouldn’t go to Paris and sit around in a hotel all day. Your local vacation will be better if you treat your hometown and its environs like a place to investigate.

6. Splurge on good food.

Hey, with all the money you’ve saved on airfare and accommodations, you can afford it. And since you’re a local, you already know which restaurants have the best reputations and aren’t likely to be found by out-of-towners.

7. Give yourself permission to be a tourist in your own town.

One of the reasons that travel is so great is that when you travel you open yourself up to new experiences. On your in-town vacation, allow yourself to be as inquisitive as if you had never been to your town before. Ask for directions. Smile at people. Take pictures.

Have a good trip.

Traveling solo can be a liberating experience, especially for a woman. Going where you want to go, on your own timetable. Experiencing sublime moments without the din of companions complaining about their bouts of traveler’s diarrhoea. Making one’s own itinerary and stumbling upon a serendipitous experience you would not ordinarily have found in the straitjacket of a plotted holiday.

We are often taught that a woman traveling alone can be a dangerous thing, where a girl can fall prey to all sorts of scams, unwanted attention, and unnecessary risks were she not traveling with a man. Yet the benefits going solo are immeasurable. Women are seen as more approachable than men when traveling, and countless people have helped me when I have stumbled over the language or have lost my way. I have been invited to weddings by Berber women in the High Atlas Mountains in Morocco, played with women’s children in the Annapurnas of Nepal, woven baskets with village matrons in Madagascar. I have traveled alone as a woman on five continents, and for me, the experience has always been more heartfelt than harrowing. Yet, the fear and anxiety some women feel about traveling alone can be abated quite easily if one follows some basic tips:

1. Stay aware – This doesn’t mean actively practicing paranoia. It only means when you are walking from your hotel into town, register landmarks and remember street names. Notice your surroundings, but don’t forget to notice the people around you too. If you keep seeing the same guy turning up at the market or near your hotel, take note. If a guy gets it in his head that he wants to follow or harass you, ignore him or be firm and ask him politely to leave you alone. Always be ahead of the game.

2. Trust your female instincts – Traveling to foreign lands does not mean that a woman puts her instincts on holiday too. You may not know the language or even the lie of the land, but a woman has great awareness when it comes to knowing if someone means well or ill. If a person is making you uncomfortable, or a situation is suddenly going from friendly to aggressive, turn on the charm and get out of there – fast.

3. A guidebook can be better than a boyfriend – I love guidebooks, and not because I look at them every ten minutes. They often have great maps which can orientate you, give you choices about all ranges of accommodation, and are a great reference when that restaurant no longer exists or that shopping district is not where you thought it was. Boyfriends get me lost more often than guidebooks.

4. Busy places are best – Remember your dad warned you about walking down dark alleys? Think about things you wouldn’t do in your home country, like walking down isolated roads or taking hikes without telling someone where you are going. Finding places where a lot of people go can actually make a woman less of a target, and helps her to blend in more with the surroundings.

5. Take calculated risks – Traveling is about risk, after all. Jumping on a bus to an unknown destination, talking to strangers in a bar, getting off the map. As a woman, you can minimize problems by basic planning. Try to avoid arriving in places at night, have enough money with you to check into a hotel without going to an ATM when you arrive somewhere new, and don’t go off with your new friends if you have no idea how to get home.

6. Book your first night hotel – If you are showing up in a country for the first time, it is wise to get a room booked ahead of time. It saves you time driving aimlessly in a taxi after two hours sleep in two days. After the first night, you can always find another hotel that suits you better.

7. Dress according to the culture – Sure, Western women sometimes think that a woman should be free to dress however she wants. However, most countries outside of the Western hemisphere did not get the memo. Understanding a country’s culture and dress code will save a woman from unwanted attention, but will also allow her to interact more comfortably with the local population.

8. Have fun, but watch your drinks – Nightlife is one of the great perks of travel. If you are traveling alone, enjoy yourself, but bear in mind that being tipsy in your own neighborhood is a lot different than being tipsy in a bar in Africa. For one, your instincts are shot and any potential dangers go unnoticed. Secondly, getting home can be dicey, especially in foreign cabs on unknown streets.

9. Leave valuables in the hotel – If you must, bring copies of your passport with you when you go out and explore, but lock all your valuables away. Flashy jewellery and handbags make great fodder for thieves. Check if your hotel has a safe or bring your own lock with you for your valuables, and leave them in the room.

10. Make friends with other travelers – Traveling as a woman alone can be brilliant, but in the off-chance you want to go somewhere remote and would like company, having the GPS on other travelers is a great way to do it. Travelers often watch each other’s backs, and sometimes, this is the best insurance of all.

Photo by edgeplot

A career as a wildlife biologist conjures up visions of tracking Sumatran tigers in Indonesia or climbing trees to collect data on Bald Eagle nestlings. This job appeals to those who are passionate about the outdoors, and to those who feel more than a little wild themselves. But aside from the romance, what can you really expect from this career?

There are many types of wildlife biologists. Some sit at a desk all day. If you prefer a job in the field, look into field biologist or research biologist positions.

Education

Fifty years ago if you knew the wilderness and had a passion for hunting, you could’ve walked out of high school and easily procured a job. Not anymore. Today, the educational requirements require a minimum of a bachelors degree, and many agencies won’t consider hiring you if you don’t have a masters degree for research biologist positions.

When researching specific schools, dig deep to see what they have to offer you. Do they have a strong research program where there are internship opportunities? What kind of job can you expect from a four year college degree? Some schools offer very specific programs tailored to wildlife management and wildlife biologist positions, while others offer more generalized programs such as Environmental Studies. Take a long range view of their program and what it has to offer you.

Field Experience

The key to getting a permanent position as a wildlife biologist is racking up as much diversity, or perhaps, specificity, in field experience opportunities as you can. It all depends on where your interests lie. If you are in school look into the various jobs that master’s students in your program of study might offer. Many times they need apprentices in order to help them with their research, and can pay you a small stipend. Don’t neglect volunteer positions either, you can add these work skills to your resume. Do a good job and you will have an excellent reference that you could add to your resume.

Communication Skills

While you are in school think about taking courses in writing, journalism, or education. These classes may set you ahead of the pack. Many people think that dealing with the public is a remote possibility when you have a job in a faraway place as a field biologist. Think again. The public is hungry for your knowledge and expertise, and they want to hear what you have to say. Also, many people are very opinionated when it comes to managing wildlife populations and will want you to consider their ideas. You will often be in the position to educate the public about sound scientific research and practices. If you can demonstrate that knowledge to an employer, you are golden.

How Much Will I Make?

You probably won’t get rich as a biologist, and when you’re just starting out you might not make much more then minimum wage. But it’s a passion for the work and freedom in the field that will give you the greatest job satisfaction. State agencies tend to pay the most, while the federal government’s payscale is lower. Non-profit agencies, such as The Nature Conservancy, also have limited budgets and do not pay well.

Where You Can Find Work

Competition for jobs is fierce. Yet you will be surprised to learn that there are a wide variety of places to find work. Consulting firms such as Griffith Wildlife Biology, hire wildlife biologists for specific projects. In America, look into state government job listings. The federal government also hires wildlife biologists. Don’t neglect opportunities closer to home either, such as local conservation agencies.

Another good source of job opportunities is through the Wildlife Society. Also, check out Ranger 146’s site, where you can get the lowdown on the life of a seasonal wildlife biologist along with job listings. If you want to work overseas, check into World Wildlife Fund or International Wildlife Coalition. But don’t stop there. You will have to root around like a wild boar in the muck to uncover a good position.

Whether this is your first or fifth time to Paris, making greener choices in your travels will lead to a deeper and richer experience. This succinct guide will get you started.

Paris has two main airports, Charles de Gaulle and Orly, which both link to the center of town via bus and RER. Another airport which has become busier with the rise of low cost airlines like Ryan Air is Beauvais. It is accessible from central Paris by shuttle, 13€ one way.

If traveling by train, your point of arrival will depend on which part of France you are coming from. Gare du Nord serves the north; Gare de l’Est serves the east. Gare d’Austerlitz serves southwestern France and northwestern Spain, and Gare de Lyon serves most of the south including Geneva and Italy. All stations are conveniently located on Metro lines.

The Paris Metro is part of any true Parisian experience. It also happens to be the second busiest metro system in Europe, after Moscow, but don’t let that intimidate you. When traveling in Paris, always have a map of the metro with you. Consult it at your leisure instead of getting stuck in the crowd of tourists standing in front of the main map in the station. Download a wallet sized one at the RATP website. The Metro runs from 5:20am to 1:20am, plus an additional hour on Saturday nights. Tickets can be purchased individually, for 1.50€, or in a book of ten, for 11.10€. Paris Visite passes are also sold, and work on both the Metro and buses; the one, two, three and five day passes range from 8.50€ to 27.50€.

When in Paris, bicycling is also an excellent option for getting around. Paris joined the ranks of other bike friendly cities like Amsterdam and Stockholm last year with the institution of the city-wide, self service, bike rental program Vélib. Pick up a Vélib bicycle — 24 hours a day, 7 days a week — at one station, ride to your heart’s content and then and drop it off at the next. 30 minutes worth of bike riding is free, but after that, for only 1€ per day you can’t beat the price as well as the ease of the system. If you’re planning on exploring Paris for a few days, consider buying a week pass, which costs 5€.

Don’t forget that Paris is an ideal city to walk in; take some time to explore small streets and alleyways and you never know what you will come across. Don’t be afraid of getting lost; it’s sometimes the best way to make new discoveries.

Activities

A great way to get a taste of local culture is to stroll through one of the many famed Parisian outdoor markets. Most markets will offer a large selection of locally grown produce as well as cheeses, meats, and artisan items. Some of my favorite markets include Rue Mouffetard, which is actually one long street of artisans and market stands, Monge Market at Place Monge, and Bastille Market on Boulevard Richard Lenoir near the Bastille.

On Sunday afternoons many of the roads that run along the Seine are closed off to vehicles and left to a sea of pedestrians, inline skaters, and those just out to enjoy a romantic promenade.

La Promenade Plantée is a must if you are feeling a little overwhelmed by the constant honking and stress of Parisian streets. Located above the Viaduc des Arts, the Promenade Plantée is a 4.5 kilometer elevated walkway, covered in flowers and greenery. Once an above ground railway, the walkway follows Avenue Daumesnil, allowing you to easily traverse the 12e arrondissement while staying above the street action.

Paris’s most central garden, Jardin des Tuileries, can occupy you for a whole afternoon. Connecting the Louvre to the Place de la Concorde, Jardin des Tuileries is a meticulously sculpted park where you can grab a free chair and sit where you like to take in the people, sculptures and general natural beauty in the heart of the city.

For more Parisian green spaces, like the Montmarte Vineyard, see my guide at Matador Travel, The 5 Best Green Spaces in Paris.

Arts & Culture

In Paris there is always something going on. To find out exactly what is filling the Parisian streets, bars and stages, consult online event magazines for English speakers like Metropole Paris and Paris Voice.

Close to the Eiffel Tower you will find the Musée du Quai Branly or MQB for short, which features indigenous art, cultures and civilizations from Asia, Africa, Oceania and America. But besides its global exhibitions, the “greenest” thing about this museum is its look: designed by architect Jean Nouvel, the exterior of the museum appears to be a living wall.

A personal favorite of mine is the Musée du Picasso, nicely located in the pedestrian friendly Marais neighborhood. Farther to the west in the 4th arrondissement lies the famous Centre Georges Pompidou, which has constantly changing shows on modern and contemporary art as well as cinema showings, performances, and cultural debates.

Place des Vosges is a large square with art galleries and shops housed in buildings around the perimeter. During the summer various classical music groups stop in the square to play for all who pass by, adding a local soundtrack to your stroll.

Green Eats

There’s nothing like buying a baguette hot out of the oven, finding your favorite cheese at the market and heading for a good park bench to enjoy an afternoon Parisian picnic. The promenade along the Seine is also a prime spot for enjoying an afternoon meal en plein air. If you want to stock up on organic goods, look for the Bio label; this stands for biologique and is the organic standard.

Dans le Noir – Lighting up a restaurant consumes energy, so what better way to eat green than in the dark? That is exactly what happens at Dans le Noir where your meal is served in total darkness. The restaurant’s staff is blind, adding to the unique experience.

BIO Art – Located in the 13th arrondissement and facing the Seine, BIO Art is as much a scenic restaurant as it is green. The emphasis is on Mediterranean cuisine, lots of fish and fresh vegetables. Add to the kitchen philosophy an interior with large windows allowing for natural light and a dining room designed around feng shui concepts, and you have all the ingredients for some real French bien être.

Accommodation

For travelers on extended stays, renting a Parisian apartment can be a great option, allowing you to come and go as you please and cook meals with all the fresh produce you picked up at the market. Craigslist Paris can be a good start as individuals list their vacation rentals directly on the site, often with pictures. Bed and breakfasts, or chamber d’hôte in French, which let you stay as the guest of a French host, are an excellent option of you are looking to immerse yourself in the local culture. Some companies like Good Morning Paris find the host and set up all logistics for you.

If you are looking for a more standard hotel or hostel, the options can be overwhelming. Bootsnall fortunately has a great guide to different kinds of Parisian accommodation for any budget. If you want to stick to green accommodation look for the European Union’s official accreditation, the EU Eco Flower Label.

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Anna Brones is a freelance writer with a love for travel. She has a BA in International Relations and French Studies and has lived in Sweden, France, Guadeloupe and the Pacific Northwest. Her work has been featured in Transitions Abroad, Pology, Green Mama, Matador Travel, and Traveler’s Tales A Woman’s World Again.

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Halifax, Haligonia, Halifornia, HFX, or simply Hali – fiercely beloved by its residents, this is a city of contradictions: steeped in naval history and lined with stately Victorian and Edwardian homes, it’s also home to a hip student population and some of the kickingest nightlife in Canada. With a potent local music scene and a growing reputation for fine dining, Halifax has something for everyone – whether you want to chow down on cheap vegetarian sushi, do the drunken jig at a traditional Maritime pub, or hit an all-ages hiphop show. Good eating and hard drinking are a big part of life here, and with this guide it’s easy to stay green and still join in the fun.

PRACTICAL INFO

Halifax is located on Nova Scotia’s southern shore, on a narrow peninsula between Halifax Harbour and the Northwest Arm, both inlets of the North Atlantic. The city has merged, for administrative purposes, with neighbouring communities on the opposite side of the harbour narrows and around the inner basin, but Halifax proper is where you’re likely to spend most of your time.

Halifax International Airport receives direct flights from several US cities as well as major cities in the UK, and trains come in a few times a week from Montreal. There are also ferry services from Portland and Bar Harbor, Maine, to Yarmouth, Nova Scotia – from there, you can reach Halifax by bus or car. The nearest land crossing from the US is at the border between Calais, Maine, and St. Stephen, New Brunswick.

GET OUTDOORS

Point Pleasant Park is a sprawling green space on the very tip of the peninsula, laced with paths for jogging, cycling, or just plain walking along and enjoying the views of the ocean or the leaves changing colour in the fall. The park was devastated by Hurricane Juan in 2003 – 12,000 trees were destroyed – but it is still a beautiful, peaceful spot for people-watching, exercise, or relaxation. Follow South Park Street or Tower Road to the park entrance.

The Public Gardens were also hard-hit by Hurricane Juan, but have been largely restored. Bounded by Spring Garden Road and South Park, Summer, and Sackville streets, the gardens are a manicured respite from the busy downtown streets. Open from May 1 to November 1, they’re beautiful to walk around – but stick to the paths: this is a Victorian park, and the grass is strictly for looking at, not for lounging on.

The Halifax Common is another large green space in the heart of the city, stretching between Robie and North Park streets. It’s played host to such big-name acts as Pope John Paul II and The Rolling Stones, but most days you’ll find high school football teams training, people jogging, and kids tossing a Frisbee or kicking a soccer ball around. There are baseball diamonds, a skate park, a couple of fountains, and a city wading pool, all for public use.

Fort George, more commonly known as the Halifax Citadel, is a Victorian-era fortress, designed to protect the city from attack by those darn Yankees. It’s open seasonally for tours, but if theater students in period costume aren’t your thing, the real attraction is the ground the fortress is built on: the imposing Citadel Hill. A climb to the top offers unbeatable views of the harbour and the city; in winter, it’s also a killer tobogganing spot.

Halifax Harbour isn’t all that easy to get out on under your own steam – it’s a major, working industrial harbour, and tourists aren’t allowed to just paddle out and about as they please. There are a number of boat tours that operate out of the waterfront area, from tall ships to amphibious vehicles to your basic booze cruiser – the greenest and most interesting, when it’s in town, is probably the Bluenose II, a replica of the legendary Grand Banks fishing schooner that is featured on the Canadian 10-cent coin. For a cheap look at the harbour and a good view of the waterfront, take the ferry across the narrows to sister-city Dartmouth and back.

There is limited, basic camping on McNab’s Island, a 1000-acre provincial park located in the mouth of Halifax Harbour. Come here for hiking, bird-watching, or to explore the military ruins – no fires permitted, and everything that comes on to the island with you, should leave with you too.

If you have a car, there’s a gorgeous stretch of beach a half-hour west of the city at Crystal Crescent, and good (cold) surfing at Lawrencetown, just east of Dartmouth on Highway 207. Also, again if you have access to a car and have the time to get out of the city, check out one of North America’s greenest road trips, a great loop that begins and ends in Halifax.

ARTS AND CULTURE

Check out The Coast, Hali’s excellent free alternative weekly, for the latest word on live music, gallery events, theater, movies, readings, and more.

GREEN EATS…

Bob and Lori’s Food Emporium should be your first stop for green-friendly eats. It’s a funky old place on Gottingen Street, near the Common, and the food is cheap and memorable. Bob buys his veggies from local Annapolis Valley farmers, and his coffee from Just Us! Coffee Roasters Co-op, Canada’s first fair trade operation. Almost everything – from the fresh bread and oatcakes right down to the hummus, mayonnaise, and soynaise – is homemade on site. The sandwich and soup combo is a hearty meal – all of Bob’s soups are mind-blowing, and try the tofu salad sandwich. The vegan chef salad is also a great fresh option, and the veggie burger is to die for. In fact, pretty well everything on the menu is fantastic (except the perogies, which come from a frozen bag). It’s not all vegetarian, either – the ham and cheese sandwich is a crowd favourite, as are the traditional Newfoundland fishcakes (served with “chow,” a green tomato relish) on Fridays. Open for breakfast and lunch, this hippie haunt is highly recommended.

After over a decade as Halifax’s go-to pay-by-weight veggie buffet, the Heartwood Bakery and Café has recently renovated and gone to a set menu with table service. Check it out on Quinpool Road.

A couple of other vegetarian/organic/local-friendly options include Satisfaction Feast Restaurant, on Grafton Street, or The Wooden Monkey on Argyle Street. For green-friendly groceries, try the fantastic Halifax Farmers Market, in the atmospheric old Alexander Keith’s brewery building near the waterfront, or Great Ocean Natural Food Market, on Quinpool Road.

…AND DRINKS!

How better to go green in a drinking town like Halifax than by supporting your local microbrewery? Halifax boasts two genuine craft microbrewers, Propeller and Garrison. Look for their products in pubs throughout the city, and if you’re with a large group, arrange a tour (and tasting session) at the breweries themselves. Two larger brewers also got started in Halifax, the mid-sized Oland, and the giant Alexander Keith’s, whose signature IPA is on tap across Canada.

For more green-friendly bakeries, restaurants and grocers in the Halifax area, check out HumaneFood.ca’s Halifax listings. Also, feel free to wander in to almost any downtown eatery or pub that catches your fancy: almost all are locally owned small businesses that are worth supporting.

For more restaurant and pub recommendations in Halifax, see my Matador Guide to Budget Dining and Drinking in Halifax.

ACCOMMODATION

Halifax Backpackers Hostel is a friendly indie hostel on Gottingen Street, near the Common. Halifax Heritage House Hostel, near the train and bus stations, is the city’s Hostelling International location. The YWCA on Barrington Street is a good cheap option if you’d like your own room (women-only, though), and also a good cause to support: the place also houses a battered women’s shelter. The YMCA near the Public Gardens welcomes both genders to its single rooms. In summer you can also rent dorm rooms at St. Mary’s University, Dalhousie University, or my own alma mater, University of King’s College. (Hint: Kings campus is the prettiest!)

TRANSPORTATION

Unless described as being out of town, everything in this guide is within walking distance. The city and surrounding area is hilly, but biking is a popular option and a great way to get out to some more far-flung sites: rent your own at Pedal and Sea Adventures. Metro Transit runs buses and ferries in the area.

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Eva Holland is a historical researcher and freelance writer living in Ottawa, Canada. She blogs about travel for World Hum and Vagablogging, and her writing has appeared in The Ottawa Citizen, The Edmonton Journal, and Matador Travel.

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Perhaps the color most closely associated with Key West, Florida is blue. The clear skies and clean waters produce a consistently beautiful setting, ripe for outdoor activity. A visitor commenting on the glory of the environment on any given day can expect to hear “just another day in paradise. . .” from any local listener. The ranks of people who appreciate the value of sustaining this splendor are growing, and if the recent city-wide initiative to join the Cities for Climate Protection Campaign is any indicator, the new color associated with Key West will be green.

The city itself is involved in efforts to bolster its recycling program and implement and enforce reasonable water restrictions, among other things. The Keep Key West Clean & Green Committee has developed significant momentum, and as businesses and other organizations in town pick up the banner, eco-conscious tourists will have an easier time minimizing the impact of their visit.

Lodging

The Hyatt Key West and The Banyan Resort are two lodging facilities which have recently received Green Certification from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection. They utilize a range of methods to achieve this status, including switching to green cleaning products, installing high efficiency air cleaners, putting high efficiency lighting on automatic timers, and installing low-flow water fixtures. The Banyon in particular, has made considerable progress in its push to green. The building, a restored wrecker’s home, is an historic landmark. Management has made extensive efforts to preserve its lush gardens, introduced xeriscaping on the property, and installed solar panels. In addition, the resort has attempted to facilitate the recycling process within the property for staff and guest alike, including posting recycling instructions in every suite.

Both of these hotels are located right downtown, so it’s an easy walk to Duval Street, shops and restaurants, water activities, and nightlife.

Transport

Those who want to explore the island will need a little more mobility. Bicycles are available for rent by several outfits, and they can even bring the bikes right to your front door. Bicycles are a great option because the entire island is only eight square miles – you could get around the whole thing in a couple of hours if you wanted to. If you’re not that comfortable with riding, electric cars are recommended. These are also readily available from a handful of operations, and can be useful if you have youngsters who might tire quickly on a bike, or if you want to do some shopping. Be aware that parking can sometimes be a troublesome issue, especially if you’re there during the height of the season or the weekend of a big event like Powerboat Races. If you don’t want to be bothered with renting at all, consider taking a pedicab as opposed to a regular taxi. You can take in more of the sights and sounds of the street and engage in some informative and entertaining chatter with your driver as she pedal-powers you wherever you want to go. A tip: ride the Conch Tour Train before you rent your transportation. You’ll learn some cool background stories and get the general lay of the land, plus the trolleys run on propane.

Landmarks, Culture, Events

Make Fort Zachary Taylor one of the stops on your trip. It’s only a couple of bucks to get in and the money supports the maintenance of the state park. Tour the fort and learn the amazing history of this obscure military outpost. It’s a great place to entertain the kids or find a secluded, romantic spot. They have changing rooms on site, and vendors for lunch or snacks. The park also hosts art exhibits, plays, and concerts on different occasions.

The Key West Tropical Forest & Botanical Gardens offers another opportunity to learn and have fun with a sustainable cause. The 7.5 acre Gardens acts in part as a wildlife refuge, dedicated to the care of local and endemic species of plants and animals (many of which are becoming increasingly rare and endangered) as well as taking part in research and educational programs on the grounds. They maintain two of the last remaining fresh water ponds in the Keys and act as a vital migratory stopping point for neo-tropical birds from as far as South America. See a short film and take the tour. The Gardens is full of life, from orchids to turtles and butterflies to iguanas, and the Gardens strives to cultivate this life that has been or is currently threatened in the Florida Keys.

Wind down the day or crank up the night at the Mallory Square Sunset Celebration. The sun disappearing behind the Gulf of Mexico provides the backdrop for this tapestry of tight-rope-walking dogs, Maori fire dancers, escape artists, local musicians, and eccentric magicians working all over the pier. Local artists and craftspeople display original works, from jewelry to paintings to coconut postcards. There’s no admission charge; the performers play for tips. They and the vendors pay for the privilege of the location, and that fee benefits the agenda of the Historical Preservation Committee.

If you happen to be in Key West on the third Thursday of any month, take advantage of another free cultural attraction. Traffic is shut down on White Street for the Night on White Gallery Walk. All the art galleries are open late and serve coffee, wine, and refreshments.

Eats

The best place to eat on the island boasts the simplest name. The Cafe is located on Southard Street, just a half-block off Duval. The not-exclusively-vegetarian establishment offers a diverse and delicious menu in a really cool vibe.

Around the corner on Simonton Street is the Sugar Apple. It’s a health food store that also features a vegetarian juice and sandwich bar serving both cold and hot food.

If you subscribe to the “when in Rome…” theory, make sure to help the city on its green mission when you’re in Key West.

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Bradford Whipple has been a commercial fisherman for over twelve years and has seasonal sites in Florida, Oregon, and Alaska. Check out his travel blog on Matador or at DeepSeaGangster.com.

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Feature photo by Alessandro Vannucci
Photo above by Six in the World

Wanting to secure a job that allows nearly unlimited travel options? Teaching English to Speakers of other Languages (ESOL) can afford you the financial freedom to stay on the move. In this podcast episode, Craig Martin briefs you on the qualifications needed for and job opportunities available in the ESOL world.

Craig has been funding travel through teaching English as a Second Language since 2003 and has been using it to fund a two-years-and-counting world trip. It is a viable way of staying solvent whilst seeing all the places you’ve ever dreamed of.

Some companies will give you in-house training when you get a position, others will expect a University degree along with a highly recognised qualification. The two most sought-after by ESOL schools are the Trinity TESOL and the CELTA certificates. Are you just looking for work? Check out the job listings onTefl.com and at Dave’s ESL cafe. We regularly receive hundreds of volunteer and paid job opportunities a week through their RSS feeds.

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Don’t miss the chance to subscribe to the Traveler’s Notebook Podcasts in iTunes. Click here now for a free subscription.

In this interview with writer, professor, community builder, kayaker, and self-professed “post-hippie Deep South anarchist,” John Lane shows Matador writer Julie Schwietert around the textile mill being converted into an environmental studies center, and talks about the relationships between people and place, between traveling and settling, and how to form community. Click on the audio links to hear clips from their walk along Lawson’s Fork Creek, and read on for a conversation about Lane’s book and writing about place.

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Click here for the full article.

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One of Matador’s most prolific contributors, Julie Schwietert Collazo is a writer, editor, researcher, and translator who lives in New York, Mexico City, and San Juan. She has a BA in English and Women’s Studies, a Masters of Social Work, and is working on a PhD in Literature at the Centro de Estudios Avanzados de Puerto Rico y el Caribe.

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Being a paid pilot is not always as romantic as the movies portray. Some pilots refer to it as being a glorified taxi driver. Many pilots flying small to medium-sized aircraft in order to log hours for jobs on the big airliners and cargo planes become bored with the monotony of prescribed routes and flight plans and give it up. Then there is the passionate pilot who loves the adventure of flying in adverse conditions. The pilot who wants a challenge, and not interested in earning a fat salary. A Bush Pilot.

Bush Pilots all over the world have earned their respect from fellow pilots. There is a reason for this. To be a Bush Pilot, you do not fly by the numbers. Most of the time you do not use registered airfields or any airfields at all! It requires seat-of-the-pants flying in adverse conditions. At first glance, it looks downright dangerous and scary. With the right training, it is neither.

Realities of being a Bush Pilot

1. You’ll be away from home for extended periods.
2. Expect to live in varying types of accommodation ranging from hotels and motels to sleeping in the back of the aircraft!
3. Don’t expect a huge salary.

Pathway to becoming a Bush Pilot

Devote the best part of a year to obtain a PPL (Private Pilots License) and subsequent CPL (Commercial Pilots License) and if you are going to ferry passengers you will need an ATPL (Air Traffic Pilots License). This is if you can do the course full time. Part time, it can take up to 5 years. The cost can vary from $10,000 up to $50,000 depending on how intensive you want to do the course and how cheap you can rent a plane and instructor.

You must be prepared to study and write exams in order to pass the theoretical tests.

You must be able to deal with abnormal conditions like removing ice from the control-surfaces of the plane, because it got frozen over night. In Africa, we had to change tires because the Lions chewed through them!

Before you will get paid for any type of flying, you must meet the minimum FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) requirements.

1. You must be at least 18 years old
2. You must be able to read, write and speak English.
3. You must have at least a PPL or higher license certificate from the FAA.
4. A minimum of 250 hours flying experience.
5. Have your logbook endorsed by a certified instructor to confirm the above-mentioned ratings and experience.
6. Pass all the practical and theoretical tests in order to hold a Commercial Pilots License. Most flight schools, that train commercial pilots, have a set program for students to obtain this type of certificate.

After you have obtained your Commercial Pilots License, you can go to a flight school that specializes in training pilots to become Bush Pilots. This normally includes training to fly airplanes equipped with floats, skis or tundra wheels. These flight schools will also train you to fly in abnormal conditions. This will include learning to land on lakes, gravel-bars on riverbanks and frozen lakes in winter.

There are a number of flight schools that offer this type of training, and depending on what type of environment, type of aircraft and type of work you will be doing, the courses run from a few hours to a week. On average a Ski Plane and Glacier Landing training course will last for 5 hours at a cost of around $1800 and will include two night’s lodging. A Sea Plane Refresher Course can cost around $180 per hour. A Bush- and Mountain flying course includes 5 hours ground- and 5 hours flight training and costs around $1400 with two nights lodging. An Advanced Bush Pilot Course can take up to 5 days, and will include 5-7 hours ground training and 5-7 hours flight training. This course will cover mountain flying, river landings and high altitude lakes. This course will challenge you, and sharpen your skills as a pilot. These courses are very helpful and necessary for any aspirant Bush Pilot who is going to fly in Alaska, Canada or operate in off-airport conditions.

You will learn to land, and take off in circumstances that conventional pilots regard impossible or very dangerous. You will learn precision flying, and would be able to get your aircraft in to very confined spaces, and out again. You will be able to do it safely and confidently. You would regard this as a normal day at the office. You will become one of “them,” a bush pilot.

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More info:

www.alaskafloats.com

ebushpilot.com

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Cedric Pieterse was born in Pretoria, South Africa and finished his schooling on the East coast city of Durban. He eventually became successful in business, but then did not like the whole corporate thing, and packed his old Land Rover and traveled though Africa for four years. He met the love of his life, Maria, and has decided to move to her hometown Uppsala, Sweden. Besides exploring his new home country and trying to learn Swedish, he is also starting a career in writing.

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Cocktail parties, foreign dignitaries, expense accounts – the stereotypical life of a diplomat hardly meshes with the Matador philosophy of greener, sustainable travel and of honest interaction with the local culture.

But when you’re thinking of jobs that allow for a lifetime of travel, it’s a tough one to ignore. And as it turns out, the reality is both less glamorous and, perhaps, more in keeping with your goals and principles than you’d expect.

I recently asked Doug Holland (my dad), who is currently serving as a Canadian Foreign Service Officer in Barbados, what life in the diplomatic corps is really like. Read on to see if you have what it takes – and if the job’s for you.

What does a diplomat really do, anyway?

Most countries’ diplomatic responsibilities are divided up into three main categories: political, trade, and consular services.

So, “a political officer, in a small mission like ours in Barbados, is a generalist who reports on local developments and advocates for support for Canadian interests,” such as a Canadian-supported motion at the United Nations or a similar multilateral international effort.

“A trade officer promotes the interests of Canadian companies, by introducing them to useful contacts, making them aware of commercial opportunities, providing guidance for visits and basic information they can use.”

A consular officer deals with day-to-day travel problems like lost passports, and in an emergency, “provides essential services to Canadians in need.”

On an average day, a political officer might write a speech for a visiting high-ranking politician from back home or attend a ribbon-cutting ceremony.

A trade officer might put an engineering firm from their home country in touch with a local government, to help them land a contract setting up the new light rail system.

A consular officer might have to sort out the case of a visiting national accused of a crime, or contact family members back home in the case of an injury or death.

There are also more specialized roles for development experts, police or military attachés, and more, but the bulk of the work falls into these three main categories.

What are the perks?

Salaries vary across different governments and across different roles, but a rough spectrum might run from $35 000 to $100 000 per year, not including upper management. Other benefits include extra vacation time, “family reunion” flights, subsidized (and sometimes flashy) accommodation, duty-free goods, and more.

And then of course, there’s the travel, which “can range from the mundane and limited to exotic and too frequent.” For example: since arriving in Barbados, “I’ve been to Antigua twice, Dominica twice, Grenada, St. Kitts, St. Lucia twice and St. Vincent, all within less than 5 months – but I’ve not seen much of any of them,” thanks to meetings and report-writing.

Still, living and working as a diplomat, contrary to stereotype, can lead to a great deal of knowledge and insight about a country. Between invitations to cultural events and celebrations, endless briefings about local customs, and the simple immersion of everyday life, “you can get to know things about a country that few others would.”

Can diplomats ‘make a difference’ in the world?

Diplomats go where the average traveler can’t, from full-on hot zones like Iraq and Afghanistan to (marginally) more stable, impoverished places like Haiti or Chad.

While most development and aid work is done by more specialized staff, diplomats in these areas nevertheless have the opportunity to help repair a fractured economy, spread the gospel of electoral accountability, or get involved in the refugee claims process.

Even in calmer areas, there are still ample opportunities to effect positive change: “I like to think I am making a difference by promoting Canadian training for police, military, etc. and by encouraging regional institutional development so the good guys can better compete with the organized criminals.

Or making a difference by fostering Canadian standards for government procurement that will reduce corruption and old boys’ influence/control.” In other areas, “a trade officer might say she makes a difference by increasing a company’s sales so it employs more people.”

And a consular officer makes a difference for at least one stressed-out traveler when they arrange a replacement passport quickly, or, in a worst-case scenario, “when they send the body bag home promptly.”

Sounds pretty sweet – what’s the catch?

Some of the big-picture downsides can include social, cultural and linguistic isolation, or even physical danger. And of course, moving around the world every three years or so can take a heavy toll on families, as spouses are forced to sacrifice their own careers and children hop from school to school.

On a day-to-day basis, there are also the inevitable expat frustrations, when “things don’t work they way they ‘should’ like in Canada.” Then there are the financial challenges in the pricier cities of the world, “where our salaries don’t match up to what the locals get, so you’re in this really interesting place but can’t afford to go to a restaurant.”

How do I sign up?

Competition is fierce for a relatively small number of positions: baseline requirements generally include a bachelor’s degree (though a masters is increasingly an ‘unofficial’ requirement), and tough-to-quantify characteristics like judgment and intelligence. Language skills are an asset, as is prior international experience.

Expect an extended testing process rather than a straightforward resume-and-cover-letter, interview-and-offer type of scenario. You might be tested on your writing skills, your knowledge of world events, logic, or aptitude for languages.

In the latter stages, expect to have to pass a serious security screening: this may include exams relating to your physical and mental health, extensive police background checks, and the accumulation of a fair bit of your personal information in a file folder somewhere in your government’s intelligence branch.

For more information, try the US Department of State, the British Foreign and Commonwealth Office, the Canadian Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, or the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

Feature Photo: Mikey G Ottawa

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Eva Holland is a historical researcher and freelance writer living in Ottawa, Canada. She blogs about travel for World Hum and Vagablogging, and her writing has appeared in The Ottawa Citizen, The Edmonton Journal, and Matador Travel.

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There’s one thing that’s always enriching about travel: the people you meet along the way. Craig Martin was lucky enough to be invited to a family Christmas in 2007…but it certainly wasn’t his family. In this podcast he shares some of the things he learned while experiencing a special event miles from home.

Check out the traveler’s notebook on iTunes.

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One of Matador’s newest contributors, Craig Martin has been living on the road since leaving Auckland, New Zealand in February 2006. In fact, he hasn’t slept in the same bed for more than two weeks all year! He podcasts at the indie travel podcast.

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Photo by Taylor Williams

First things first. This isn’t the “White Guide to Boston,” so if green – grass, trees, plants – is what you’re seeking, visit Beantown between May and October.

This is not to say traveling to Boston in February would be a complete disaster – but you know what, don’t. Just don’t. Spring, summer and fall are just too good in Boston to waste a trip in the middle of winter. Plus, you’ve heard about the icy demeanor of New Englanders? Multiply that by ten when there’s two inches of slush on the ground and a teeth-chattering wind is blowing off the “hahbah.”

(Leaf-peepers need to time their trips pretty meticulously so as not to miss optimal viewing of God’s kaleidoscope that appears every fall in New England)

Disclaimers behind us, Boston is one of the greenest cities – in both the Al Gore and Kermit the Frog definitions of the word – in the United States. The left-leaning, young and active core of the city’s population makes sure they have ample places to relish in the area’s natural beauty, commute around town responsibly, and eat organically. This means the green traveler will find plenty to do – and eat and drink – in and around Boston.

Here’s a sampling…

Transport

They don’t call Boston “America’s Walking City” for nothing. You can literally get most anywhere in the metro area – from the core of the city as far out as Lexington and Concord or the Boston Harbor Islands – using your feet or public transportation, including the daily improving subway system (the T), above-average water taxis and ferries, and local buses. So don’t even think about renting a car when you come, or else send back your Sierra Club membership card immediately. The T is pretty easy to navigate, and if you get lost, fire up the notebook computer in a WiFi Café and click over to HopStop.com, where you can find riding and walking directions to just about anywhere.

Also, pick up a copy of Car Free in Boston, a self explanatory little booklet that will give you the very best Boston experience, exhaust-free.

To Do

Sure, there’s always the hyper-touristy Duck Tours and the Freedom Trail – the 2.5-mile walking path past many of the city’s historic spots downtown – but I’ll focus on some of the activities you likely won’t find in The Rough Guide. Take an eco-cruise out to the Boston Harbor Islands, a surprisingly fun day-trip that departs from UMass-Boston on Mondays for only $5 per person. (if you want to go on another day of the week, ferries leave several times daily from near the New England Aquarium, but tickets are $12 a person and the trip less ecologically focused) En route, you’ll get some unique skyline views from the water, and the wildly diverse set of islands offers camping, hiking, and a Civil War-era fort, among other things.

You’ll definitely want to take a day or two to explore the core of the city. Take the T to Park Street Station for a Frisbee or Wiffle Ball game on Boston Common, the city’s famous downtown park. Crossing Charles Street from the Common, wander through the Public Gardens, Boston’s hub for floral amazement. From the Garden, a relaxing urban walk down Boylston Street brings you to Copley Square, home to 17th century Trinity Church, the John Hancock Tower, and Boston Public Library’s main branch. Guided tours of Trinity are free when you attend a service beforehand, or $5 otherwise. The Library may seem like an unlikely destination, but you’ll understand when you enter its cavernous and opulent foyer, ascend the grand staircase, and take in one of the many interesting shows and exhibits revolving through the Boston landmark.

You don’t want to miss the bountiful recreation in and around Boston. A sure bet is to bike, walk, or blade a portion of (or all, if you’re hard-core) the 17-mile Esplanade trail along the Charles River, which separates Boston from Cambridge. You can also rent small sailboats and kayaks on the Charles, a timeless summer tradition.

Getting a bit out of the city, the Minuteman Bikeway – which takes you from the Alewife T station on the Red Line through the birthplace of the American Revolution – is a wonderful day-long option. Hop off the trail in the quiet town of Lexington to see where the first shots of the Revolution were fired. Just south of Boston, Jamaica Plain is the greenest – again, in both senses of the word – neighborhood within the city limits. Here, you’ll find beautiful Jamaica Pond (which you can hike, jog, or sail), colorful houses, and colorful people walking dogs, enjoying a book in the park, or experiencing a jazz concert.

For the inevitable rainy day, consider visiting Harvard’s Museum of Natural History, which houses the world-renowned Glass Flowers Exhibit, an extraordinary turn-of-the-century collection of 3,000 hand-crafted replicas representing over 800 plant species. You also might consider visiting the New England Aquarium, which not only showcases some of the world’s wildest marine life, but has as its primary mission the understanding and conservation of oceans and their habitats.

To Eat

In Boston, “local” is the operative word. The locals love and prefer their food to be local, so travelers won’t have a hard time finding quality, tasty, and healthy non-fast food options. Here are a few of the local faves.

East Boston’s 303 Café is perhaps Boston’s hottest new spot in one of Boston’s hottest and fastest-growing neighborhoods. 303’s menu offers a variety of vegetarian and vegan options, but all the food – even the Bison Burger – is both delicious and regret-free. After dinner, get an organic and fair trade coffee to go and walk one block to Piers Park, which provides the city’s best panoramic skyline and harbor views, hands-down.

Ashmont Grill in Dorchester offers local and organic food, including herbs grown on the restaurant’s patio. You’ll feel good knowing that the grease used to make your French fries will be turned into biodiesel afterwards.

A number of the spots listed on the Certified Green Restaurant Guide are in and around Boston – no surprise there. For snacks or picnic items to go, visit one of the numerous Trader Joe’s locations in the Boston area, including downtown stores on Boylston and Beacon Streets. Visit one of the many downtown farmer’s markets – including the city’s oldest and largest, Haymarket (open on Fridays and Saturdays) – for fresh produce and vegetables and a healthy dose of Townie charm.

To Stay

You could easily fork over $200 a night – or more – for a hotel room in Boston.

Don’t.

463 Beacon Guest House – at the advertised rate of $75 a night year-round, you can’t go wrong with this downtown bed and breakfast. Centrally located in the historic Back Bay neighborhood, 463 offers nightly, weekly, and monthly stays in a number of room styles, some of which include kitchenettes. 463 certainly lives up to its clever slogan: “Boston’s Best-Slept Secret.” I told you it was clever.

Hostels – Sleep in New England like you would in Old England. For simple and affordable lodging, consider one of Boston’s several downtown hostels, where you’re sure to meet up with other road warriors like yourself. Share stories, swap Boston travel tips, and make plans. That’s what green travel is all about, right?

Monastery – For something a lot different, consider one of the guest rooms at St. John the Evangelist Monastery in Cambridge. Explore mystical Christian spirituality with the brothers on a self-directed or group program retreat for between $60 and $105 a night, or just lodge at SSJE while touring Boston (no price break). Robe not included.

There’s also always camping, of course. The Boston Harbor Islands offer camping, along with many of the outlying suburbs of Boston. (you don’t have to drive far outside the city to begin feeling a tad pastoral)

For those of you who would ignore my imploring against staying in hotels, at least choose one that is eco-friendly. These hotels earned recognition from Boston’ mayor last year for operating in a particularly green way: the Seaport Hotel; Jurys Boston Hotel; the Hyatt Harborside and the Lenox Hotel.

Easier to Be Green in Boston

Boston has tons to do when the weather’s nice, but this guide has to end. This is only a start. Bottom line: Visit Boston (remember: spring, summer, or fall). Travel eco-friendly; Boston makes it easy. Now that you know, there are no excuses, right?

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One of Matador’s newest contributors, Steve Holt is a freelance writer living in Boston, eager to explore the world and tell its story.

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When I was younger my father often liked to tell me “pack what you would be comfortable carrying on foot for a few miles.” As we traveled I was always frustrated that I was only allowed the space of one carry-on bag and what went in it were only the essentials. Nowadays I am thankful my father taught me the basics of efficient packing; I secretly smile when people ask “you’re only bringing one bag?” Packing light while still managing to bring all the right things along is often easier said than done, but with a little common sense and a willingness to downsize, you too could be traveling lighter and more efficiently.

1. Pick the right bag. First off, think about where you are going. If you are going to be trekking the Australian outback, you probably don’t want a suitcase on wheels and if you are going on a classy fashion trip to Singapore, you may not want a grimy, overused backpack. That being said, choose a suitcase, bag or backpack that you are comfortable transporting. For the truly packing conscious traveler, pick one that fits carry-on standards, that way you are limited in your packing space but you can be assured that your bag will be with you upon arrival. For one traveler’s pick as the ultimate carry on, check here.

2. Utilize stuff-sacks. There is no bigger hassle than having to pull every single item that you have meticulously packed in order to get to that one pair of pants that you put at the bottom of your backpack. How to stay away from this problem? Invest in (or sew) some stuff sacks, found at any outdoor or sporting goods store. They are a great way to organize your clothes (t-shirts in one, pants in the second, socks and underwear in the third) and when you do need to do a full unload of your pack or suitcase, you won’t have to do any unnecessary folding to get everything back in. For a more inexpensive version, try Ziploc bags, which thanks to their see-thru quality also allow you to see exactly what is packed in each bag.

3. Mix and match. Without sounding like a J. Peterman catalog, one of the best pieces of advice for packing is to pick several items that all work together. Two pairs of pants, three shirts, a belt and a scarf can go a long way. Remember to not pack specific outfits, but focus on simple, easy-to-wear pieces that you can mix and match. If you do get bored with your clothing options during your travels, remember that you can always buy a local item in whatever country you find yourself in to spice up your limited wardrobe.

4. Choose quick dry items. At some point in your travels you may be caught needing to do some much needed laundry in your hotel bathroom sink. When this arrives you will happy that you spent your pre-travel bucks on micro-fiber underwear and nylon pants. These types of clothes are easy to wash and dry much faster than your average cotton versions.

5. Bring one nice outfit. Even when you are taking off on a dirty backpacking adventure, you never know what can happen. Packing an item of clothing that can be worn in a nicer situation is always worth your while. Think of your traveling clothes as combination pieces; putting two clean, semi-nice pieces together can in fact make a good looking outfit worthy of a fancy dinner out on the town.

6. Low maintenance clothing. Unless you are jetting off on a 3 day business trip and need to be clad in the finest of the fine, leave starchy shirts and blouses at home. Any item that normally needs to be ironed should be crossed off your packing list immediately. Go for items that you can pull directly out of your suitcase and throw on without a second thought.

7. The right primary footwear. I cringe at writing this because I know it is a boring piece of packing advice, but traveling entails walking, and your voyage will be much more enjoyable if you are comfortable on your feet. Fortunately you don’t always have to sacrifice style for comfort. There is an array of functional yet stylish options that won’t leave your dogs screaming after a day on the pavement or trail. Remember to pack shoes that you don’t mind getting dirty or wet and, above all, are durable.

8. Flip flops. Even when going to cold weather destinations, a pair of flip flops can be indispensable, especially if you are planning on spending time in hostels. Throwing on a pair before venturing into the shower in a shared bathroom will protect your feet from a variety of microbes that cover the floor. On warmer trips, flip flops are a much appreciated break for your feet at the end of a walking-intense afternoon.

9. The necessary extra: a first aid kit. Accidents do happen. You want to be prepared. You don’t need to pack a heavy duty save-your-life-in-the-outback kind of kit (unless you are spending several days in mountainous backcountry) but you want something to take care of smaller problems: blisters, cuts, headaches, etc. Along with your regular stash of toiletries, add a good antibiotic cream, like Neosporin, which can go a long way. Various sized band-aids, athletic tape and a good dose of ibuprofen can also come in handy, as well as benadryl for mild allergic reactions. For feisty blisters caused by hours of aimless wandering, consider carrying 2nd Skin, which can be applied to a busted blister and taped over with athletic tape, and make your feet feel good as new.

10. For the trip home. These are only the beginnings packing efficiently, but it should put you in the right direction. As a final note, don’t be surprised when at the end of your travels you have just a little bit extra than when you started. Buy (or bring) an inexpensive duffel bag, check it, and hope it meets you at your home airport.

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Anna Brones is a freelance writer with a love for travel. She has a BA in International Relations and French Studies and has lived in Sweden, France, Guadeloupe and the Pacific Northwest. Her work has been featured in Transitions Abroad, Pology, Green Mama, Matador Travel, and Traveler’s Tales A Woman’s World Again.

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Sweden’s capital city was recently named the world’s most livable city by Reader’s Digest, and with good reason. Here, green options abound (think IKEA on a large scale). Although a cosmopolitan city, Stockholm and its locales are definitely inspired by the simplicity of the Swedish countryside and are committed to keeping their environment healthy. Buildings are green, public transportation is efficient and there is a general sense of well-being hanging in the air.

Practical Information

From Arlanda International Airport you can get to downtown Stockholm by train, bus or taxi. Arlanda Express is a 20 minute train into downtown, but if you’re on a budget, opt for the bus shuttle Arlanda Flygbuss. Travel to and from other Swedish cities is easy with Sweden’s national train system SJ. Buses are also a good form of cross-country Swedish travel and the big names in the business are Swebus and Safflebussen ; tickets can easily be purchased from the bus kiosks at Central Station.

Once in downtown Stockholm you will find that many of the city’s attractions are easily accessible by foot. If you want to explore a little farther outside of the downtown area the Tunnelbana is Stockholm’s underground metro, and the city also has an extensive network of buses, both of which are run by Stockholms Lokaltrafik.

Keep in mind that in Sweden, “youth” is defined as anyone 26 years or younger, allowing those of you in your mid-twenties to take advantage of reduced prices on tickets and beyond.

To get yourself oriented, download the helpful Stockholm Green Map before you go. The map is full of everything green, including parks, stores and restaurants.

Activities

Since last summer, getting around Stockholm has become easier and greener with the City Bike . During the spring, summer and early fall, you can take advantage of the great program which allows you to pick up and park one of the official bikes at over 80 different bicycle parking stations placed around town. A bike card costs 25 SEK (a little under $4) and gets you a full day’s worth of bike access. For those spending an extended time in the Swedish capital, consider a season pass.

During the summer, Stockholm locals spend a lot of time at their picturesque summer houses scattered around Stockholm’s Archipelago , or Skärgården in Swedish. Exploring the archipelago makes a great day trip, or even a multi-day excursion, and quickly gets you into Swedish nature. On the more than 24,000 islands, islets and rocks you can find everything from wildlife reserves to youth hostels. During the summer, the Stockholm Tourist Center offers a five day archipelago pass for only 300 SEK (about $47 at the current exchange rate) which allows you unlimited boat travel throughout the islands.

If you want to stick closer to the city but still want the ferry experience, take a trip to Djurgården, which is home to the Skansen , an open air museum with lots of animals and living history, and Gröna Lund Amusement Park.

While cruising the Stockholm streets, you may notice how trendy everyone looks. The locals are known for their hip clothes and cutting edge hair styles. Not to worry, you can get your own chic eco-friendly haircut at Friekosör.

Any season merits a visit to Kungsträdgården, central Stockholm’s main public place which can be described as a park, town square and a botanical garden all-in-one. The City of Stockholm sponsors various events throughout the year, such as concerts, art exhibitions, festivals and an ice skating rink in the winter, making it a great space to congregate with the locals and enjoy a little respite from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Arts & Culture

Stockholm has a large concentration of museums located within the central downtown area, making them easy to reach by walking or public transportation. On Skeppsholmen Island in central Stockholm lies Moderna Museet, which houses a wide selection of contemporary Scandinavian and international art. For classical works, visit the Museum of Fine Arts.

Another popular choice is the Ethnographic Museum. After a tour through world cultures, you can take an organic coffee break in the museum’s café.

Kulturhuset, centrally located at Sergels Torg, is one of Stockholm’s main cultural centers, offering everything from foreign film screenings to an International Writer’s Stage and boasting a roof covered in solar panels. The house café serves organic coffee and a daily organic special.

Green Eats

Rosendals Trädgård: The Rosendal Garden is a large garden committed to sharing organic cultivation methods with the general public. One of the greenhouses is home to the Garden Café, open from February to September, which uses only local, seasonal and organic products. Connected with the Café is also a bakery, where you can try out a variety of well known Swedish pastries all made with biodynamic flour and baked in a stone oven.

Chutney: A vegetarian restaurant in the hip neighborhood of Södermalm, Chutney offers up organic wines, and even champagne. The atmosphere is relaxed with world music in the background and ever-changing art shows. Just as good for a coffee break as for a full lunch.

Indoor Markets: Called Saluhallar or hallar in Swedish, Stockholm’s indoor markets are sometimes the best places to shop for fresh local food or drop in at a lively café. The big ones are Östermalms Saluhall , Söderhallarna, and Hötrogshallen.

Accommodation

Many of Stockholm’s accommodations are deemed eco-friendly, including the Nordic Light Hotel and Rica Hotels.

Staying in a hostel is also a great option for traveling green while on a budget and Stockholm has some of the funkiest. Red Boat Mälaren offers accommodation in just that: two red boats. Another boat option is the historic HI Hostel af Chapman & Skeppsholmen , which was built in 1888 and turned into a hostel in 1949.

During the summer months, camping is also a popular option, allowing you to get a little taste of the Swedish outdoors life but at the same time close to city attractions.

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Anna Brones is a freelance writer with a love for travel. She has a BA in International Relations and French Studies and has lived in Sweden, France, Guadeloupe and the Pacific Northwest. Her work has been featured in Transitions Abroad, Pology, Green Mama, Matador Travel, and Traveler’s Tales A Woman’s World Again.

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For the longest time I thought my dad had the coolest job on earth – visiting oil rigs in the middle of the Atlantic ocean, taking helicopter trips around active volcanoes, collecting weird rocks, and traveling all over the world. I would later find out that as a petroleum geologist, he went exploring for oil in the deepest of oceans. Thus began my fascination with the geosciences.

Study

Geologists usually start out with a strong background in physics, chemistry, and mathematics. In actuality, an advanced degree is often required to be taken seriously in the world of geology. A Masters degree will be sufficient to start at an entry-level position but preference is usually given to PhD holders.

“It has all changed since I was a junior geologist, when a BA [Bachelor of Arts degree] was enough, and there were no helicopters or computers”, notes Stuart McColl, a consultant and a petroleum geologist for many decades. “…The field work was done with horses and the paperwork by hand. But there is still nothing that can replace hands-on experience with the rocks and techniques in the field”.

Like with many career paths, there are various areas of specialization.

If you’re interested in the origins of rocks or the physical structure of the earth, then specializing in petrology, geochemistry, or structural geology may be the route for you. If you still can’t shake off your fascination with dinosaurs, you could specialize in paleontology. Other common specialties include glaciology – study of glaciers, marine geology – study of the ocean floor and continental shelves, as well as the more popular petroleum geology, which explores the earth for oil and gas.

Specializing in one of the many aspects of geology will aid your future job search and help you secure a possible long term position in a particular industry.

Work and Travel

In addition to discipline and self reliance, a zeal for travel is one of the many traits of a geologist. Your studies will definitely take you out on field trips – from places of geological interest in your backyard to more exotic and remote locations all over the world. Since geology is an applied science, practical field experience is required at some point in your career. Most geologists spend time out in the field early on in their careers.

The biggest employers of geologists are the oil, gas, and petrochemical industries. Most of these jobs are usually on a contract basis which requires that you renew your contract every couple years or so. Other industries that hire geologists include the mining, quarrying, and engineering industries. Even though some employers provide specific training to their geologists to better suit their line of business, having some technical skills to augment your expertise will definitely make you more attractive in the workplace.

Stuart recommends getting with major integrated oil companies such as British Petroleum (BP) or Exxon for overall exposure and training. “They are the best way to see how the business really works”, he adds.

Many geologists do end up becoming professors and continuing their research in an academic environment.

Network

Attending tradeshows and conferences are just a few ways of building your professional network. Like with many niche careers just as geology, building a solid network of references and contacts will only boost and promote your visibility in the industry.

Joining professional organizations such as the American Association of Petroleum Geologists and the Geological Society of America is also a great way of actively participating in the geology community. In some cases, geologists [like engineers] may need to obtain specific licenses to operate in certain states and areas.

Pay

Entry level jobs usually start at around $32,000 annually. According to the U.S. Occupational Handbook, geologists can earn from $37,700 to $130,750 per year, but this usually requires that you specialize. With advanced degrees, practical experience, and in certain industries such as oil and gas, geologists can climb into the six figure earning range.

If you want to get rich quickly, geology may not lead you there, but wealth is not totally beyond reach. Participating in startup energy and explorations companies as well as taking advantage of stock opportunities can provide the quickest route.

“Look at Lawrie Payne’s company (Ithaca Energy),” notes Stuart McColl. “He has made millions within five years by pooling his experience and drive, attracting investment money, and retaining a large share position.”

“Hard work, solid training and experience…..no substitute for it!”

There are certain types of minor travel disasters that travelers figure go with the territory: the occasional bag going missing, a lost reservation, nonstop rain at a beach resort, or a bad stomach from eating street food. For most of these, we have backup plans or can easily improvise a solution.

But for many travelers, the most significant type of travel disaster is the one for which we’re the least prepared: a natural disaster that occurs during a trip. I learned firsthand the importance of preparing for disasters while traveling when I was on vacation with a friend in New Orleans when Hurricane Katrina hit.

Although no one could have been fully prepared for Katrina’s wrath, we quickly learned that as travelers we were even more in the dark about what plan of action to take.

Next time you’re planning a trip, consider putting together a basic disaster plan and disaster supply kit so you’ll be prepared if the unthinkable happens. Below, I’ve incorporated a few suggestions from the “Family Disaster Plan” developed by the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the American Red Cross, as well as my own experience.

1. Prepare a disaster plan.

What to do if you’re separated from your traveling partner? Most formal disaster plans are geared for preparing for the natural disasters at home, but they can easily be altered to fit your travel needs.

2. Meeting Places.

The Red Cross suggests picking two places to meet up with your traveling companions if you’re separated during an emergency. One of these can be obvious, like your hotel, but be sure to have an alternate location in case your hotel is directly affected by the disaster. Don’t forget to also pick a reliable contact back home who you each can call to check in with if you get separated. After the tsunami in Asia, many friends and families became separated and had no way to easily reconnect.

3. Communication.

Even if all of your traveling companions have a cell phone, chances are the service might go down in a disaster. Also, after a disaster it’s often easier to make a long distance call than a local call. If you’re traveling solo, keep a contact back home updated on your situation so they can fill in others with the latest information.

When I was in New Orleans the day before Katrina hit, I realized that cell service would soon disappear and gave my parents a list of people to keep updated since I knew I didn’t have the time – or battery juice – to call them each directly. I also discovered mass text messages were effective for quickly sending out information without wasting my battery. This only worked until the actual hurricane hit, though, when all communication came to a halt.

4. Emergency info.

Have a hard copy of important phone numbers and keep it in an obvious place. Chances are, many of your frequently dialed phone numbers are carefully saved in your cell phone rather than your own memory. Which is fine until a disaster-related power outage happens and suddenly turning on your phone wastes valuable juice.

A hard copy list of important numbers serves two purposes – it’s an additional resource for you, and it’s helpful in case you’re injured and someone needs to know who to call. Write “ICE” – which stands for In Case of Emergency – next to your emergency contacts. If you’re hurt, this will help English-speaking emergency personnel who are trained to look for this information know immediately how to contact the right person.

FEMA has a ready-made card that you can cut out and personalize. If your traveling companion has a cell phone or if you have friends in the area that you’re traveling, specify that clearly next to their names and numbers. When you’re abroad, know the number for emergency services in each country you visit.

5. Carry cash.

Travelers often avoid carrying extra cash because they’re worried about theft. But if you’re stuck in a natural disaster and a power outage occurs, your ATM cards and credit cards may be completely useless. Trying to finding anyone who will exchange a traveler’s cheque during a crisis may be even more challenging.

Carry change for a few phone calls in case you can find a coin-operated phone that works – land lines often continue to work when cell service goes down.

6. Learn about your surroundings.

If you’re staying at a hotel or hostel, learn what their emergency plan is, if any. The Red Cross suggests determining the best escape routes and finding two ways out of each room.

Get to know the general area as well. If you had to leave town quickly, what are your options? How could you get to a train or bus station? Carry hard copies of a city map along with your hotel or hostel’s address with you at all times. Learn as much as you can about evacuation routes by listening to news reports and speaking with knowledgeable locals, when possible.

7. Keep important documents and extra medical supplies handy.

Important documents can include passport, emergency contacts and numbers including you travel insurance.

The Red Cross suggests including special needs items such as prescription medications, extra eye glasses, and contact lens solution in your Disaster Supply Kit. This is imperative if you want to stay as healthy as possible during a disaster.

If you take a certain medication regularly, plan to bring double the supply, if possible, than you’ll actually need for the length of your trip. That way, if you’re stranded because of a disaster you won’t have to worry about missing doses.

Also, have extra copies of your prescriptions in case you need an emergency refill. Even if you’re not able to fill them abroad, it will help give local doctors information on what you need. Keep photocopies of your itineraries, travel insurance information, passport, etc. in each of your bags. Large, clear bags are great for these, and help protect them from water.

You can read the full Disaster Supply Kit list here. Keep in mind however that it’s geared toward people at home, not on the road, so you’ll need to make a few adjustments based on your particular travel situation.