Of course, traveling alone has its perils too—such as safety concerns, loneliness, and the dreaded single supplement. But a little preparation and common sense can save you money and get you through the rough spots.

• Why Travel Alone?
• How to Travel Alone Safely
• How to Travel Alone as a Woman
• Avoiding the Single Supplement
• Tips for Solo Dining
• When You’ve Had Enough of Solo Travel
• The Best Solo Travel Websites

Why Travel Alone?

Solo travel can be the ultimate in self-indulgence; you can rest when you want and pour it on when you’re feeling ambitious. Another benefit is that your mistakes are your own, and your triumphs all the more exciting. There’s no worrying that your insistence on trekking all the way across town to a museum that was closed ruined your partner’s day; it’s your own day to salvage or chalk up to a learning experience.

Also, you can do exactly what you want to do—all the time. Always wanted to try surfing? Sign up for a class and go for it; there’s no one sitting on the beach feeling bored while you have the time of your life. Have no desire to see Niagara Falls? Just drive right by. For more benefits of solo travel, see 11 Reasons Why You Should Travel Alone at Least Once.

How to Travel Alone Safely

It’s perhaps the foremost question of the solo or single traveler: “Is solo travel safe?” Without a companion to watch your back, you are more vulnerable to criminals and scam artists, as well as simple health worries. But the saying “safety in numbers” isn’t always true—a solo traveler can blend in more easily than a group, and not drawing attention to yourself as a tourist is one way to stay secure.

Here are a few safety tips for traveling alone:

Do your homework before you arrive. Know how long it takes and how much it costs to get from the airport to your hotel or to the city center. Solo travelers are more likely to be “taken for a ride,” so ask the taxi driver for an estimated fare before you leave. If it’s considerably different from what you know to be true, take a different cab (or opt for a rideshare instead).

Choose the right accommodations. Book a hotel with a 24-hour front desk if you’ll be arriving late, so you don’t end up sleeping in your car or worse.

Trust yourself. If it doesn’t feel right, don’t do it.

Carry good identification—in more than one place. If you choose to wear a money belt, use it for storage and not as a purse. Constantly reaching under your shirt for money draws attention to it and defeats the purpose. Instead, keep your passport, extra stores of money, and other important documents tucked away, and use a theft-resistant bag or purse for carrying daily spending money.

Stick to open and public places, especially at night.

Exude confidence. Whether you’re on a street at home or 7,000 miles away, walking confidently and with direction is an effective technique for deterring unwanted attention, since appearing lost or confused can make you vulnerable. If you are lost, walk into a shop or restaurant and ask for directions there.

Avoid appearing like a tourist. Ditch the Disney T-shirt and don’t walk around with your face in a guidebook. (See 10 Things Not to Wear Abroad for more thoughts on this one.)

Leave valuables at home. Don’t draw attention to yourself by wearing flashy clothes or jewelry.

Lie a little. When asking for directions, don’t let on that you are alone: “Can you direct me to the museum? I have to meet a friend.”

Check your maps and transportation schedules before leaving your hotel/train/rental car/tourist office. A solo traveler who’s too absorbed in their phone can be a mark for unsavory types.

Leave a copy of your itinerary with a friend or family member at home, and stay in touch regularly via phone, text, video chat, or email.

Register with the State Department. For U.S. citizens traveling internationally, consider signing up for the free Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), which could help the State Department assist you in case of emergency. If you’re from outside the States, see if your home country has a similar program.

Arrive during the day. Areas around bus and train stations can be scary and/or deserted, and small towns tend to shut down early. Veteran solo traveler Mara Rothman of San Francisco notes that plenty of beautiful towns can appear eerie at night, and locals who are genuinely trying to help you can appear unnecessarily threatening. Arriving during the day means you’ll be able to find a place to stay and get your bearings before dark.

Trust everyone and no one. One of the best reasons to travel alone is to meet new people, but this also makes you more vulnerable. It’s okay to hang out, travel, and share with new friends, but you might not want to ask them to hold your money. Scam artists can often be the most charming companions you’ll find; you want to be open-minded, but keep your guard up enough to ensure your safety.

How to Travel Alone as a Woman

Though some tips apply to just about every solo traveler, women traveling alone have their own set of safety concerns that most men don’t have to face. Here are a few tips to help you protect yourself.

Exercise hotel safety. At check-in, consider asking for a room near the elevator so you won’t need to walk down long, potentially ill-lit hallways to reach your room. When filling out guest registration forms, consider using your first initial instead of your name, and skip the “Mrs./Miss/Mr.” check box. Additionally, make sure the clerk writes down your room number instead of saying it out loud. This will prevent anyone in the vicinity from knowing where to find you later. Consider packing a door stop to wedge under the door in case the lock is unreliable.

Dress to blend in. To avoid attracting unwanted attention, dress as conservatively as the women you see around you. This doesn’t necessarily mean donning the traditional dress, but a good rule of thumb is to dress modestly. Think knee-length or longer skirts. Bare arms, shoulders, and legs are considered risqué in some countries, so do the research before you go and once you’re there. Note which body parts the local women cover and do the same.

Know when to buddy up. Seeking out company can help you have a safer and more enjoyable experience. Smaller hotels and hostels are great places to find like-minded travelers to explore new places with. And even when you can’t find someone to buddy up with, there are often ways to associate yourself with others so you’ll be less likely to be bothered. In some countries, there are women-only sections in trains and women’s waiting rooms at train stations. Sticking close to families on public transportation and in unfamiliar public markets is another technique some women use.

Combat harassment. Having a repertoire of harassment deterrents can be as important to women travelers as a sturdy pair of shoes and a passport. Not engaging with people who are bothering you can make you a less interesting target. If you want to avoid being approached during lulls in activity, such as while waiting for a train, carry a novel or keep your eyes on your phone to make yourself look busy and involved.

If a situation of harassment escalates, making a scene can sometimes be effective. Many societies place a high premium on respecting social norms, so drawing attention to harassment in a loud and clear manner may solve the problem. The sentence for “leave me alone” is a handy one to learn in the language of your destination.

Avoiding the Single Supplement

Frequent solo travelers are all too familiar with the single supplement, which tour operators and cruise lines often tack onto your bill to make up for the fact that they’re not making money off a second occupant. The supplement can range anywhere from 25 to 100 percent of the trip cost, meaning that you could end up paying twice as much as someone traveling with a partner.

There are several ways to get around the single supplement. You can avoid it altogether by booking with a tour operator that doesn’t charge single supplements on most trips, such as Overseas Adventure Travel.

Many other tour operators, including G Adventures, Intrepid Travel, Exodus Travels, REI Adventures, Adventure Women, and Road Scholar, offer roommate matching. By finding you a roommate, the company maximizes its own profit off each room and saves you the single supplement. The catch is, of course, that you’ll have to share a room with a stranger. If you’re concerned, contact the tour operator and see what kind of procedures it uses to match roommates. Some pair people off at random, while others will try to put travelers of similar ages together.

Several cruise lines offer single staterooms on select ships, including Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line, Cunard, and P&O Cruises.

You can sometimes save money by booking at the last minute. Tour operators eager to sell out their last few places may be willing to reduce their usual single supplement. Insight Vacations and Road Scholar are two companies that regularly discount or waive single supplements.

It’s not for everyone, but you may also want to consider staying in a hostel, which charges per bed rather than per room. Hostelling International properties tend to be reliably clean and secure, and they’re open to travelers of all ages. You can find more hostels and read reviews at HostelWorld.com.

Tips for Solo Dining

Eating alone isn’t so bad. Many solo travelers (and frequent business travelers) hate dining by themselves, worried that they appear like some worn-out Willy Loman of the road. There’s even a name for it: solomangarephobia. (Occasionally the fear is justified—see Terror at the Table for One.) The following tips can help you overcome what for many travelers is the most unpleasant aspect of going it alone.

Chat with the service people. Waiters and waitresses are some of the best local color you’ll find.

Choose the right eatery. Cafe or outdoor dining is often attractive to single travelers; sitting alone with a book in a cafe isn’t as unusual as a table for one at a fancy restaurant. You can also opt for a counter seat or a seat at the bar. A restaurant booth can also provide some privacy.

Bring reading material. If you start to feel uneasy sitting alone and staring down at your food, you can crack open a book, whip out your phone, or read a magazine.

Eat in. If you don’t want to endure yet another public meal alone, use room service or order carry-out from a restaurant nearby.

Eat well. Just because you’re alone doesn’t mean you shouldn’t take time for sit-down meals, a leisurely cup of coffee, or a decadent dessert.

When You’ve Had Enough of Single Travel

The constant sensory input and vigilance of traveling alone can wear you down. If you feel your attention or your body flagging, don’t be afraid to back off your ambitious itinerary, slow the pace, and kick back for a bit.

When traveling abroad, seek out an expat bar—locals will often know where these are—where you can hang out and speak your native tongue with some fellow expatriates and travelers. When traveling in more familiar locales, a hot shower and a night in front of the tube in a nice hotel room can often give you enough of a reprieve to send you out eagerly the next morning.

The Best Solo Travel Websites

Best Single Travel offers vacations, cruises, and weekend getaways for solo travelers of all ages.

Flash Pack leads small-group trips of single travelers in their 30s and 40s.

GAFFL, which stands for “Get a Friend for Life,” lets you find travel buddies to meet up with in your destination.

Intrepid Travel has dedicated solo trips as well as a roommate-matching program on the rest of its offerings, so you never have to pay a solo supplement if you don’t want to.

One Traveller is a U.K.-based company leading trips for the “mature single traveller” (aged 50+) to destinations in Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas.

Singles Travel International offers trips for solo travelers with an average age 50+. If the company can’t find you a roommate by the time you make your final payment, you can have a room to yourself for free.

Solos is a U.K.-based company offering a wide variety of solo-only trips around the globe.

Solo Traveler offers tips, resources, and destination guides for solo travelers.

Women on the Road offers tips and advice for women traveling alone.

Women Traveling Together is for women travelers, most of them age 50+ and unaccompanied, who prefer to be with a group of like-minded women. The company offers tours, retreats, and other getaways, complete with roommate matching.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2017. It has been updated to reflect the most current information. Sarah Schlichter and Christine Sarkis contributed to this story. All of the products featured in this story were hand-selected by our travel editors. Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

The post Single Travel: Essential Tips for Planning a Solo Trip appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Note that all trips and single supplement discounts were available at the time of publication, but they could sell out at any time. If you’re interested in these solo vacations, it’s best to book early.

Explore Madeira, Portugal, on Foot

Sweeping coastal views, sleepy fishing villages, and sheltered forests await on one of Exodus Travels’ Madeira walking tour itinerary. The eight-night trip includes leisurely walks of up to nine miles a day along some of Madeira’s most breathtaking hiking trails. The trip ends with free time to explore Funchal, the island’s historic capital. Exodus will match you with a roommate, or you can pay a modest single supplement for your own room. Departures are available every month throughout 2023.

See Morocco from the Mountains to the Desert

Overseas Adventure Travel is one of the best tour operators for solo vacations, thanks to free single supplements on most trips. That includes one of its most popular tours, the 15-night Morocco Sahara Odyssey, which takes you through the narrow streets of ancient medinas, over the sand dunes of the Sahara Desert, and through the dramatic peaks of the High Atlas Mountains. Unique experiences include lunch in a Berber home and a couple of nights under the desert sky in a private tented camp. This trip has available departures between March and December 2023.

Camp in Utah’s National Parks

Join REI on a stunning eight-day journey through the national parks of Utah. Hike and camp in Canyonlands, Arches, Capitol Reef, Bryce Canyon, and Zion National Parks as you learn about the nature, geology, and cultural history of the region from REI’s experienced guides. The package includes access to group cooking gear and first aid kits, a tent, and a sleeping pad. Check out their gear list for more information on what to pack.

Explore Northern India’s Icons

See the Taj Mahal and much more on this dedicated solo trip to India from Intrepid Travel. The seven-night itinerary starts and ends in bustling Delhi, where you’ll discover the city’s oldest mosque and have free time to explore on your own. Then you’ll head to Jaipur to visit royal palaces and soar above the city in a hot air balloon before visiting the 14th-century village of Karauli and touring the magnificent Taj Mahal. Intrepid will match you with a same-gender roommate so you can avoid paying a single supplement. This trip departs on select dates between February and December 2023.

Summit Mount Kilimanjaro

A bucket list trip for many avid hikers, summiting Mount Kilimanjaro can seem like a hefty task to undertake by oneself. However travelers partaking in World Expedition’s Kilimanjaro Lemosho Route will feel anything but alone. With dozens of experienced guides, porters, and chefs to support you on the trek and a group of like-minded adventurers by your side, travelers are sure to come out of the 10-day experience with new friends and once-in-a-lifetime memories.

Discover Ireland Your Way

Not big on group tours? Consider Great Value Vacations’ Irish B&B Getaway package, which includes airfare, a rental car, and accommodations at bed and breakfasts around Ireland, allowing you to wend your way through the countryside at your own pace. Highlights include dramatic coastal roads, lively villages, and historic castles. The itinerary can be customized for six to nine nights, and you may depart any month of the year.

See Japan by Train

Hop on a bullet train to speed between destinations around the country on G Adventures’ Japan Express: Osaka to Tokyo tour. Travelers can visit shrines in Kyoto, explore the Harajuku district of Tokyo, and enjoy a boat ride on Lake Ashino-ko where, weather-dependent, you may be able to catch a glimpse of the famous Mount Fuji. Some G Adventures tours offers a single supplement option, however on most tours travelers will be paired with a roommate of the same gender.

Spot Rare Wildlife in Madagascar

Keep an eye out for lemurs, chameleons, boa constrictors, and numerous rare birds as you travel with Explore! through Madagascar: The Lost Continent.  In addition to wildlife-watching treks through the island’s national parks, this itinerary also features a walk along a spectacular canyon, a visit to Madagascar’s oldest palace, and a stay in a local community guesthouse. Explore! will match you with a same-gender roommate if you don’t wish to pay a single supplement. This trip has departures between April and October 2023.

Enjoy Nature in Costa Rica

Discover the beauty and biodiversity of Costa Rica with Road Scholar’s nine-night Taste of Costa Rica package. Highlights include river rafting in the Sarapiquí River, Latin dance lessons, a walk through a cloud forest, and a visit to the Monteverde Butterfly Garden. Road Scholar is currently offering single rooms at no added cost on this itinerary. This trip has several departures between March and December 2023.

Discover the Best of Tuscany and Umbria, Italy

There’s a reason Tuscany and neighboring Umbria are two of Italy’s most beloved regions. Discover them for yourself on Insight Vacations’ Country Roads of Umbria & Tuscany tour, an eight-night voyage to destinations such as Florence, Assisi, Siena, and San Gimignano. You’ll enjoy a pasta-making demonstration in Baschi, then learn about traditional textile weaving in Perugia and visit a family-run olive mill in Assisi. If you do not opt for a single supplement, you will be matched with a roommate of the same gender. Departure dates are available between April and October 2023.

Have an Adventure with Fellow Women

If you, like many female travelers, feel safer and more comfortable in the company of other women, consider booking a trip with Adventure Women, which offers active, women-only tours to destinations around the world. Most of the company’s clients come alone, so you’re sure to find common ground with your fellow travelers. Solo vacations for 2023 with availability at press time include a biking and boating tour through Vietnam, an active adventure in the Canadian Rockies, a Serengeti wildlife safari, and more. You can choose to be matched with a roommate or pay a little extra for your own room.

Sarah Schlichter wants to take every one of these solo vacations. Follow her on Twitter @TravelEditor for more travel tips and inspiration. Carol McPherson contributed to this story.

The post 11 Amazing Solo Vacations to Take in 2023 appeared first on SmarterTravel.

All companies featured on this list are approved partners with the Kilimanjaro Porters Assistance Project (KPAP), which monitors the treatment of porters on the mountain to ensure that they are paid fairly, do not carry excessively heavy loads, and are provided with comfortable accommodations and three meals a day during the trek.

Wildland Trekking

Wildland Trekking aims to get guests away from the crowds on Kilimanjaro’s slopes, and starts their trips on the Rongai Route before merging with the more popular Marangu Route. Wildland’s 10-day journey includes plenty of time for acclimatization, which is crucial for hiking at high altitudes. 

As Wildland says, “It takes a team, not an individual to reach the summit of Africa,” and the company truly values and invests in its porters. 

Exodus Travels

Exodus Travels offers trips on two different routes on Kilimanjaro, the scenic Rongai Route and the slightly longer Lemosho Route. (Pick the Lemosho Route for the best chance of success—Exodus Travels has a 96 percent summit rate on this trail). 

Spend summit night under a full moon by choosing one of Exodus’ full moon departure trips, or opt for a woman-powered trek with an all-female crew trip.

Abercrombie & Kent

Abercrombie & Kent (A&K) boasts an incredibly high summit rate, with 97 percent of clients making it to the top. (The average success rate on Kilimanjaro is 60-70 percent.)

The secret to A&K’s success lies in its preparation. Every climb will feature first-rate safety and emergency equipment (including oxygen and a portable altitude chamber), proper nutrition in the form of fresh food, and comfortable campsites complete with private toilets. 

Every A&K guide on its Kilimanjaro trips are certified Wilderness First Responders—and most have completed over 200 summits. 

MT Sobek

Every year, MT Sobek operates an annual Wilderness First Responder and Wilderness First Aid training in Tanzania to ensure their guides are prepared for anything on the mountain. 

When you are focused on the summit, you might forget to consider the scenery along the way. Fortunately, MT Sobek has done the research for you, and follows a unique trail over the Machame Route, through the Great Barranco Valley, and over the Western Breach for some of the most beautiful views on the mountain. This path also allows for plenty of time to acclimatize (including spending the night in Kibo’s crater before making the summit push), contributing to the company’s 98 percent success rate. 

Intrepid Travel

Not a fan of camping? Sign up for Intrepid Travel’s Marangu Route trip, which overnights in mountain huts along the way instead of tents. Machame Route treks are also available, as are trips that combine Kilimanjaro with a relaxing safari. 

Intrepid Travel operates with a strict ratio of one guide for every two clients. 

Ultimate Kilimanjaro

Ultimate Kilimanjaro helped Anne Lorimor become the oldest person in the world to climb Kilimanjaro—so the odds are good that they can help you reach the top as well. 

The company has been leading trips up the mountain for over 15 years and leads over 150 climbs annually.

Pristine Trails Adventures & Safaris

Pristine Trails Adventures & Safaris is locally-owned. Owner Edward Lyimo was born and raised in Tanzania and worked at another tour company before deciding to start his own operation. Under the “Pristine Promise” all guides have extensive experience (and are Wilderness First Responder certified). Guides and cooks are re-trained each year during the low season. 

Guests will sleep in roomy Mountain Hardwear tents during the trek, atop local-made sleeping mats that will increase their comfort levels. 

World Expeditions

Leave Kilimanjaro better than you found it on a trip with World Expeditions. This eco-minded company asks its guests to pick up 10 pieces of litter each day of the trek, helping to keep the mountain pristine. 

World Expeditions has been offering Kilimanjaro treks for over 25 years, and is one of just a few companies that offer trips up the less-crowded Shira Route and Northern Circuit. 

G Adventures

Kilimanjaro trips are expensive, but budget-minded travelers can find some good deals with G Adventures. G Adventures hikes are a little more basic than the others on this list (you won’t find private toilet tents on these expeditions.) However, G Adventures’ summit rates are still very high, varying from 90 percent to 96 percent depending on the route.

There are lots of Kilimanjaro trips to choose from with G Adventures, including tours that combine Kilimanjaro, Serengeti, and Zanzibar.  

The post The 9 Best Companies to Climb Mount Kilimanjaro With appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Hit the Honky Tonks

They don’t call it Music City for nothing. The epicenter of Nashville’s rich, live music scene is Lower Broadway, a street in the middle of downtown that features neon lights, late-night bars, and live music all day everyday. To get an authentic Nashville experience, select one of the bars, called honky tonks, that play classic Western swing music, such as Robert’s Western World or Layla’s. There are so many of these spots some people call this the Honky Tonk Highway (but not Music Row, that’s a different part of town where you’ll find music publishers’ offices). Don’t forget to tip the band generously. They’re the ones who make Nashville sing…literally.

Walk Across a Famous Stage

Not all of us can experience the adulation of playing music in front of an appreciative crowd. But we can get the general idea by taking an information-packed tour and getting to walk across a hallowed stage. Two of the best backstage tours to take are the Grand Ole Opry’s Opry House and the Ryman Auditorium. Both offer lots of details about the famous folks who have performed on these stages and give you a photo op to impress your friends back home.

Explore Civil Rights History

Students from three Nashville universities were essential in helping the civil rights’ sit-in movement go national. There are several places to learn about their methods of nonviolent protest (and the violent responses they faced.) Start with the informative Civil Rights Room at the Nashville Public Library. Then walk over to check out the windows of the Woolworth Theatre, which include artifacts from Rep. John Lewis. Then continue to read the inscriptions on the outdoor Witness Walls.

Visit Little Kurdistan

One of Nashville’s claims to fame is that it is home to more Kurdish-American residents than any other city in the country. It’s a great opportunity to learn more about the culture and food of the Kurdish region which includes parts of Iran, Iraq, Syria, and Turkey. (Kurds are the largest ethnic group in the world without their own autonomous land.) Just off of Nolensville Pike, you’ll find an area nicknamed Little Kurdistan, a neighborhood with a concentration of restaurants and shops owned by Kurdish immigrants. Highlights include the baklava and black tea at Newroz Market, the fresh-baked bread at Azadi International Food Market and Bakery, and the shawarma at Sulav International Market.

Listen to Singer-Songwriters

Honestly, it is almost difficult not to listen to live music, as music is in Nashville’s DNA and it is played almost everywhere, from on the sidewalks on Lower Broadway to hotel lobbies to official music venues. To really get a feel for Nashville’s storytelling through song, pick a venue where you can hear singer-songwriters play acoustic sets and talk about how they come up with their ideas (these sessions often include multiple songwriters who take turns, a format that is called “in the round”.) Best bets for this intimate experience include The Listening Room, Backstage Nashville, and the famous The Bluebird Cafe (for which tickets typically sell out).

Get Glam, Nashville-Style

No, not everyone in Nashville wears cowboy boots and hats bedecked with rhinestones every day. But many talented designers live and work in Music City, making it a good place to shop for the fashion accessories of your dreams, particularly if your dreams include some personal customization. Get cowboy boots made -to-order at Planet Cowboy, a one-of-kind hat at Daisy May Hat Co., artisan bling from Judith Bright Jewelry, and clothing with sequins from Any Old Iron.

Go Greek

Since 1897 one of Nashville’s most distinctive landmarks has been a full-size replica of Athens’ Parthenon, a monument to education, intellect, and architecture. Head to Centennial Park to see the head-turning icon. During the day you can tour its art galleries and see the 42-foot statue of the goddess Athena inside. At night, watch the shadows play off the columns as lights automatically highlight its shadows and form starting at dusk.

Tour a Music Museum

A well-designed music museum takes you beyond great sounds to help you understand the people and places that created your favorite genres and songs. Nashville has many essential stops for going deep into what made the soundtrack of our lives. Lorenzo Washington’s guided tour of The Jefferson Street Sound Museum shows you what life was like for Jimi Hendrix, Sam Cooke, and others who made Jefferson Street thrive. The National Museum of African American Music is an interactive, multimedia experience that includes R&B, gospel, blues, and more. The Johnny Cash Museum and Patsy Cline Museum feature smaller, intimate collections built by family and friends devoted to the country stars. The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum documents the birth of a genre while the Musicians Hall of Fame highlights the people who keep the beat.

Eat at a Meat ‘N’ Three

The cafeteria-style meat ‘n’ three is a Nashville institution, a place where everyone, no matter how famous or not, stands in line with a tray and selects dishes from the comfort food of the day. Traditional meat ‘n’ threes are open primarily at lunch and feature fried chicken, meat loaf, and fried catfish, with sides such as green beans and mac ‘n’ cheese. Arnold’s Country Kitchen, Silver Sands Cafe, and Swett’s are some of the best Music City meat ‘n’ threes.

Sip Tennessee Whiskey

What would a trip to Tennessee Whiskey country be if you didn’t sample the brown liquor? If you want to explore the Middle Tennessee distilleries, including the world-famous Jack Daniel’s Distillery and George Dickel, let Mint Julep Tours do the driving for you. Inside the city limits, there are many options, including Pennington, where you can blend your own bottle, Corsair Artisan Distillery, and Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery.

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The post The 10 Best Things to Do in Nashville appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Do Groupon Getaways Actually Save You Money?

No matter what Groupon deal you’re considering, always price check it against the cost of booking it yourself directly. This will help you be sure that the Groupon is really worth it.

To find out if Groupon Getaways actually save you money, we compared three current Groupon travel deals against the cost of booking it on our own. We compared the prices based on two people traveling, as Groupon Getaways generally charges a single supplement fee for solo travelers. Here are the results:

Editor’s Note: All prices were accurate at the time of writing, however, deal costs and fares are likely to change quickly.

4-Night Hawaii Vacation With Hotel and Air

This trip includes round-trip airfare from Los Angeles to Honolulu, along with four nights in a City Mountain-View room at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Alana – Waikiki. The cheapest Groupon option is for dates between March 10 and March 31.

Groupon Price for Two People

Total Price: $1,462.92 / $731.56 per person. The package price is $649 per person and there is a $20.64 daily resort fee. 

Cost to Book Directly for Two People

Flights: $568 Total / $284 per person. The cheapest round-trip flight from Los Angeles to Honolulu costs $284 for a March 24 departure and March 28 return.

Hotel: $1,342.38. Booking the same City Mountain View room directly through the DoubleTree’s website costs $1,342.38 (including the resort fee).

Total Price: $1,910

In this case, booking through Groupon Getaways saves you a few hundred dollars. 

Cofresi Palm Beach Spa Resort

A Superior Garden-View Room with VIP Amenities at the all-inclusive Cofresi Palm Beach Spa Resort is on a super sale through Groupon. There is a four-night minimum stay on the Groupon deal, and the cheapest rates are found for stays starting April 1. Only one voucher is needed for two guests sharing a room.

Groupon Price

Total Price: $247 for 4 nights.

Cost to Book Directly for Two People

Total Price: $520.46 for 4 nights.

The same hotel room costs more than double to book directly on Cofresi’s website

However, one of the FAQs on Groupon’s website should throw up a red flag regarding this hotel. “Will I be approached to attend a timeshare sales presentation? Our customers are never obligated to attend a sales presentation. If you are approached and decline a presentation, you will not lose the value of your voucher or have to pay additional fees.”

Be sure to check the reviews carefully (both on Groupon’s website and other sites to determine the quality of the hotel included in the deal.

8-Day Tuscany Vacation with Hotels and Air From Gate 1 Travel

Since this deal is also available directly from Gate 1 Travel, we compared it against booking it through Gate 1 as well as booking it on our own.

The cheapest package option includes round-trip airfare from New York (JFK) to Milan, an economy manual rental car, 5 nights at the Grand Hotel Plaza & Locanda Maggiore, and 1 night at the Hotel Novotel Milano Malpensa Airport. The $699 price is valid for departures on October 11.

Groupon Price for Two People

Total Price: $1,398 / $699 per person

Cost to Book With Gate 1 Travel

Total Price: $1,398 / $699 per person

The price is exactly the same to book via Gate 1 Travel.

Cost to Book Directly for Two People

Flights: $812 total / $406 per person on Tap Air Portugal.

Hotels: $586 total: $500 Grand Hotel Plaza & Locanda Maggiore + $86 Hotel Novotel Milano Malpensa Airport

Rental car: $194 total

Total Package Price: $1,592

Booking this deal through Groupon or Gate 1 Travel saves you a bit of money compared to booking directly.

Watch out for the Fine Print

Always read the terms and conditions before booking a Groupon Getaway. You’ll also want to carefully scrutinize what’s included in the deal. Here are a few things to look out for:

• Single supplements: How much extra will you have to pay if you’re traveling alone?
• Expiration date of Groupon voucher
• Age restrictions (many travel deals are for 21 and older)
• Cancelation policies
• Additional fees you’ll have to pay at check-in
• Flight options (including number of stops and departure times)
• Rental car options (generally the cheapest car type with a manual transmission is included, so you might want to investigate how much an upgrade will cost you.

Should You Book Through Groupon Getaways?

Groupon Getaways are undeniably a good deal. However, be warned that Groupon Getaway costs can quickly escalate from the rock-bottom advertised cost. For example, the Tuscany package mentioned above is promoted at $699, but will quickly increase to $849 if you would rather fly out of Miami. Adding the hotel “upgrade” package will be another extra cost. Picking a different departure date can bring the cost up to $1,049 per person. Make sure you pay attention to the extra price as you customize your trip.

Before booking, you should evaluate all of the options included in the deal. Independently research the hotel included in the Groupon Getaway. Is it in a good neighborhood? Does it have good reviews? Is it near the things you want to see and do? What bed types are included in the deal?

Also see if you can find out what flight options are included before committing. Is the flight nonstop or will there be layovers? Is the flight at a convenient time? 

Booking a trip through Groupon Getaways can definitely save you money. However, if you would rather have a bit more control over your flight times and hotel choices, Groupon Getaways can also be a great jumping off point to plan your own vacation. For example, if you see a cheap package deal to Tuscany, it likely means that travel to Tuscany is pretty inexpensive during the dates that the Groupon is valid. You could then look up your own flights and hotels for the same time period and find something similarly priced that would give you more flexibility than booking with Groupon. However, if you’d prefer not to have to do all of the trip planning research, and just want someone to take care of all the details, a Groupon Getaway can be a great deal. 

The post Are Groupon Travel Deals Really a Bargain? appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Although you may not be up for setting sail right now–especially given the new, ever-changing CDC guidance on cruising–you can still take advantage of these incredible offers by booking sailings through late 2022, 2023, and even 2024. It’s also worth noting that most cruise lines have implemented flexible cancellation policies, including full refunds or future cruise credits. 

Ahead, we’ve rounded up the top 10 best wave season deals of 2022. 

Emerald Cruises

It’s Your Time To Travel with Emerald Cruises. Guests who book select 2022 and 2023 Danube, Rhine, and Rhone river cruises can snag up to $2,500 in savings. Pay your 2022 sailing in full to receive an extra $150 off per person. Similarly, passengers who pay their 2023 sailing in full at least 12 months before embarkation can score an additional 10% off. The fun doesn’t stop there, though: Emerald is also offering up to 25% off select 2022 and 2023 yacht cruises–plus free premium beverage packages. Customers setting sail in 2023 can snap up an added 10% discount if they pay in full one year before embarkation. Both of these promotions expire on March 31, 2022. 

Holland America Line

Holland America Line is kicking off wave season with their Ultimate Upgrade Event. Those who book a qualifying 2022 and 2023 sailing can score a free stateroom upgrade, 50% off deposits, complimentary beverage packages, specialty dining, WiFi, and shore excursions. The promotion officially ends on February 28, 2022.

Princess Cruises

Princess Cruises’ annual Best. Sale. Ever.is back just in time for wave season. You won’t want to miss this limited-time sale, which offers staggering savings of up to $695 per passenger based on a six-night cruise. This seasonal sale includes five free perks: The Premier Beverage Package–think: cocktails, wine, beer, bottled water, and more–as well as unlimited wifi, gratuities, stateroom location upgrades (available on a first-come, first-served basis), and one specialty dining meal. Book by March 2, 2022. 

Celestyal Cruises

Escape Back to the Blue with Celestyal Cruises. The cruise line, which is best known for its Greek Isles and Eastern Mediterranean voyages, is offering up to 30% off select 2022 sailings. Among the most notable itineraries include the three-night “Iconic Aegean” (from $449 per person; originally $610) and the seven-night “Three Continents” (from $1,019 per person; originally $1,250). Children 12 years and younger can cruise free on select sailings, while solo travelers can take advantage of reduced single supplements as low as 15%. Book by March 31, 2022.  

Celebrity Cruises

There are, quite literally, 3,000 reasons to sail with Celebrity Cruises this year. Book any 2022 sailing and receive a discount of up to $3,000 per stateroom. Alternatively, experience the Galapagos’ rich wildlife, culture, and stunning scenery: Those who book a 2022 or 2023 Galapagos sailing aboard Celebrity Flora, Celebrity Xploration, or Celebrity Xploration will enjoy 20% off cruise fare–plus free round-trip airfare when booking via “Flights With Celebrity.” These deals expire on February 28, 2022. 

Oceania Cruises

Oceania Cruises’ OLife Choice is chock-full of fun perks and added value. The package includes 2-for-1 cruise fares, free round-trip airfare (with transfers!), and one free extra per stateroom. These include up to eight shore excursions, free beverage packages, or up to $800 in onboard credit. This promotion–which is available on nearly 500 sailings through November 29, 2023–ends on April 2, 2022. 

Cunard Line

Cunard’s “Three For All” promotion offers customers up to $2,00 in onboard credit based on their stateroom category, along with specialty dining credits and 50% off deposits. Repeat passengers can save up to an extra $1,200. Additionally, those who book a Grills Suite will receive a complimentary drinks package. Book by 2/28/2022.

Hurtigruten Expeditions 

Up for a fun-filled, action-packed adventure? If so, book your sailing with Hurtigruten Expeditions this wave season. Customers can save up to $2,900 on select 2022 sailings featuring bucket-list-worthy destinations like Galapagos, Antarctica, Alaska, Iceland, Norway, Patagonia, and Greenland. Select 2023 and 2024 cruises–including voyages to the British Isles, Scottish Isles, Iceland, Norway, Greenland, the Panama Canal, South America, the Faroe Islands, and the Canary Islands–are available for up to 30% off. Both of these offers expire on March 31, 2022.  

Azamara Club Cruises

Find Your Journey with Azamara and take your pick of nearly 150 sailings across the globe.  The best part? These itineraries–which run through May 5, 2023–have been slashed up to 30% in celebration of wave season. Destinations include The Canary Islands, Spain and Morocco, and the Caribbean, to name a few. Bonus: Azamara is also throwing in a $500 onboard credit per stateroom. Book by March 31, 2022. 

Seabourn: 

Enjoy The Suite Life with Seabourn this wave season. Book by March 1, 2022, to enjoy a free two-category veranda suite upgrade, as well as a 50% reduced deposit. This offer is available on over 300 voyages setting sail around the world between now and 2023–including awe-inspiring arctic expeditions, Australia and New Zealand itineraries, Caribbean sailings, and many other amazing destinations. 

The post The 10 Best Cruise Deals for 2022 appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Airbnb is searching for 12 people to live in accommodations listed on Airbnb for one year. Inspired by the surge in long-term rentals last year due to remote working, Airbnb is hoping participants will help shape the future of long-term Airbnb rentals by launching their “Live Anywhere on Airbnb” program. 

Airbnb is encouraging remote workers, creatives, empty nesters, staycationers, young families, and digital nomads to apply. Travel will take place during a 10 month period, likely beginning in September 2021. The 12 people chosen will be allowed up to 3 companions to accompany them on their journey. 

Those chosen will be awarded between $12,000-$24,000 of Airbnb credit per 5 month period and $5,000-$12,000 in travel expenses and other transportation costs throughout the 10-month period. The amount given will be dependent on how many companions will be joining the participant. If a companion leaves, the amount will likely decrease. 

Of course, it isn’t just a free ride. According to their Live Anywhere page, if chosen, you will be assisting Airbnb in shaping the “future of flexible travel” by informing them about:  

• Product changes and resources that could help improve the long-term living experience on Airbnb
• Ideal types of accommodations for solo travelers or groups like families
• Better understanding of financial benefits of hosting while traveling

Applicants must have a valid passport, and be at least 18 years of age. Full Terms and Conditions can be found here. 

CLICK HERE to apply. Applications are due by June 30, 2021. 

The post Live For Free Anywhere in the World for One Year appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Group Tours Are Selling out Fast

Planning a trip for the end of summer or fall? Book now to secure your spot or risk missing out. Group tour operator Trafalgar has seen bookings for September double compared to the early summer months. Their New England Autumn Colors tour saw a nearly 450 percent year over year increase in demand, and is already sold out for 2021. 

For Contiki group tours, July is by far the busiest month. Adam Armstrong, CEO of Contiki, says “The demand is definitely there—travelers are booking trips even with the uncertainty of the future just to have a reservation on the books and something to look forward to.” 

With many tour companies offering flexible booking policies that allow rescheduling without penalty, travelers are willing to make a reservation for a trip that feels lower risk than booking on their own. 

Millennial group tour company FTLO Travel saw their monthly bookings in April 2021 surpass pre-pandemic numbers. Founder Tara Cappel believes, “People are craving connection after the past year and they’re excited to meet other travelers. I also think they feel more comfortable going with a company that knows the country, has local contacts, and provides a trained guide. It adds a certain amount of reassurance that if something were to go wrong, we have their back.”

Where Are the Most Popular Destinations for Group Tours in 2021?

Domestic trips are becoming increasingly popular for 2021, with the national parks and Alaska at the top of many travelers’ lists. The trend for this year leans towards outdoor-focused trips to beaches, mountains, or parks. Always wanted to visit Alaska? This year is a unique time to go—since cruise ships are still grounded, the usual summer crowds will be greatly reduced.

Melissa Dasilva, president of Trafalgar, tells us, “Many of our guests are looking to stay a bit closer to home as our world adjusts and rebuilds. There are twice as many people planning to travel domestically with us this year than any other destination, and all of our national parks itineraries (as well as Alaska) are trending in our top 15 most popular trips.”

For international trips, Europe remains the number most-wished for group travel destination. 

According to a Trafalger poll, 65 percent of travelers are hoping to book a European trip as soon as possible, with the U.K., Italy, Ireland, and Germany ranking as the most popular destinations.  

For international trips, travelers are looking for destinations with relaxed entry requirements for American tourists. Both Trafalger and Contiki have seen an increased interest in Greece and Egypt for 2021, thanks to their willingness to allow in American tourists. 

Most people are just eager to get out of the house and see somewhere new—a Contiki survey found that the top priority for travelers in 2021 was to visit a destination that they haven’t been to before.

What Safety Measures Are Group Tour Operators Taking?

Most tour operators are implementing smaller group sizes, enhanced cleaning protocols and physical distancing measures. Others, like Trafalgar, are going as far as to bring a dedicated Wellbeing Director on each trip to oversee health and safety. 

Reduced group sizes will contribute to tours selling out sooner than normal, so keep that in mind as you plan your trip. 

Expect to see tour operators pivot to outdoor activities and dining when possible, as well as a more intense focus on hygiene measures (think: handwashing stations, mask/sanitizer handouts, etc.).

Will Group Tours Require Vaccinations? 

Both Contiki and Trafalgar will require either proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours of departure, in addition to any destination-specific requirements. 

Other companies, like FTLO Travel, are making decisions on a case-by-case basis. “Right now, we do not have a blanket vaccine requirement,” says Cappel. “Certain trips, like our new Italian Wellness Trip that takes place on a small island, will require a vaccine.”

The post How Group Tour Operators are Restarting Travel appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Editor’s Note: All prices were correct at time of publication and are subject to change. Some services and amenities listed below may be altered/halted due to the pandemic.

Intrepid Travel

Contrary to popular belief, small-group tours are one of the best ways to see far-off destinations, and are affordable with seasoned millennial travel providers like Intrepid Travel. The key word here is “small”—avoid tour providers that will plop you on a giant bus with dozens of strangers. Large groups stick out in most destinations, and are unlikely to get off the beaten path for any local experiences or hidden gems.

Previously Gecko Adventures, Intrepid Travel’s 18 to 29s Adventures Tours serves travelers under 30 and packs plenty of value into trips like South America treks and Southeast Asia island adventures. Intrepid’s local guides provide indispensable insight and connect visitors with locals for unique experiences—and a safari in the Serengeti or road trip from New York to New Orleans is going to be a lot more enjoyable with people your age. Plus, as part of their “travel for good” ethos, Intrepid will plant 50 trees in Kenya for every 18 to 29s Adventures Tour booked as part of their Eden Reforestation Project. With nightly accommodations and day-to-day transportation included, you can spend less time thinking about your travel plans and more time dreaming about what adventure is waiting the next day.

ViaHero

Not sold on spending your money on a tour? Use ViaHero to get expert insight without being chained to a guided experience. For $40 per day, ViaHero connects travelers in destinations across North and South America, Central America, Europe, and Asia with seasoned locals to craft an itinerary full of hidden gems. The app offers an offline mode for when you don’t have Wi-Fi or data, and matches you up with a trip planner based on your specified interests.

Your personally assigned local “hero” will recommend an itinerary for your trip, and will tailor it upon request if you have suggestions or concerns. ViaHero says 70 percent of proceeds go directly to the locals they employ, and the company is hoping to expand soon to other destinations. The local help and low price point make it the perfect millennial travel option.

REI Adventures Weekend Getaways

Want a quick, all-inclusive outdoor getaway? Millennial travelers can join hikers, mountain bikers, and backpackers of all ages for REI Adventures Weekend Getaways. Dozens are available across North America, and start at around $799 including accommodation and activities.

REI also offers women-only packages designed to connect women through the outdoors, such as Women’s Backcountry Navigation and Women’s Introduction to Mountain Biking. Find one within driving distance to skip airfare costs. You’ll meet like-minded female travelers for day trips or long weekends, little to no vacation time required.

Tentrr

Camping is a great way to unplug, but as a millennial traveler, I can confidently say that many of us don’t know how (or don’t want) to purchase, pack, and set up all the campsite necessities. If you’re more of a glamping person, try Tentrr—the Airbnb of camping.

Land owners list campsites on Tentrr, which provides the equipment when you rent the space. Forget lugging grills, chairs, or water. Upgrade to a campsite with a toilet and giant tents, which are included in the nightly price of about $120—a steal if you’re splitting among friends. The service is currently offered in limited U.S. locations.

For the Love of Travel

Looking to befriend some fellow young professionals with a passion for jet setting? A millennial travel service called For the Love of Travel caters to those between the ages of 24 and 34, and provides both weekend and longer international trips for like-minded travelers. Groups are tailor-made to complement your interests based on your personal profile, and a roster of your group will be provided before departure.

For the Love of Travel tells me most participants are under 30. The service’s more affordable trips include simpler weekenders like a weekend on a Colorado ranch from $799, or niche options like Mexico City Foodie Trip for $1,099—but the itineraries extend far beyond North America. The company also recently launched Sojrn, a program that gives young professionals the “study abroad” experience of their dreams by sending them to live and work in a new country for a month alongside a like-minded Sojrn community.

G Adventures

If “shoestring budget” sums up your millennial travel needs and Southeast Asia tops your list, it’s still possible to get a guide-led tour. G Adventures offers travelers age 18 to 30-something an array of affordable no-frills tours, some for less than $1,000.

Destinations include Vietnam, Cambodia, Sri Lanka, and many more. Skip the hassle of researching and booking hotels and transportation—these tours include both (but not airfare) plus a local guide to lead you through it all. When you don’t speak the language or understand the day-to-day customs, the help of a local is invaluable.

EF Ultimate Break

With a focus on 18- to 28-year-olds, EF Ultimate Break is perfect for anyone looking to travel before settling into a day job. Trips can be paid in monthly installments, many starting well under $200 per month, and EF College Break prices out excursions separately so you’ll only pay for what you want to do.

Trips include experiences rather than cookie-cutter vacations, like a 14 day itinerary around Japan or a 57 day, 5 continent trip across the world’s major cities. Whether it’s the study abroad adventure you never had or a chance to abandon your day-to-day work schedule for a while, EF Ultimate Break is a versatile millennial travel option.

Sandeman’s New Europe

Backpacking or hostel-hopping around Europe means counting your nickels and dimes, so walking tours, while insightful and educational, usually won’t make the budget. In some cities, however, you can get a walking tour for free—Sandeman’s New Europe tour guides work for tips, and therefore draw millennial travel addicts happy to capitalize off of anything labeled “free.” Next time you’re in a European hub wondering where to begin, see if Sandeman’s guides can tell you about the local history and culture, and maybe recommend a restaurant or two. Locations include London, Brussels, Paris, Prague, Munich, Amsterdam, Barcelona, Lisbon, Liverpool, and many more. Tip what you can.

Topdeck Travel

Deal-hunting millennial travelers can find affordable vacation packages at Topdeck Travel, which offers sales of as much as 20 percent off. Think island-hopping around Bali from $644, or seeing the Sphinx up close on a 9 day Egypt Express itinerary from $964. Topdeck’s unique packages are available across the globe, and pack value if they’re not already surprisingly affordable. Once you purchase, there’s no need for planning: most meals, lodging, activities, and a guide are included. Unique add-ons like yoga classes and guided tours make it a customizable experience.

International Volunteer HQ

Want a volunteer opportunity worth traveling for, but not sure where to start? International Volunteer HQ can set you up with a vetted and affordable volunteer program in more than 50 destinations, from Brazil to Romania to Vietnam. Thousands of under-35 travelers have used International Volunteer HQ to start their voluntourism, with program fees starting at $180 per week. In exchange for your time, you’ll get transportation from the airport, a place to stay, meals, an orientation session, and pre-departure as well as on-site support services. Weekends are yours to travel as you’d like, and you’re likely to find yourself surrounded by like-minded volunteer travelers making lasting memories.

Associate Editor Shannon McMahon writes about all things travel. Follow her on Twitter and Instagram.

The post 10 Trips Millennial Travelers Will Love appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Carbon offset companies, ecotour operators, green hotels, hybrid rental car agencies … with so many eco-friendly resources on the internet, where’s a would-be green traveler to start? I’ve cut the confusion by gathering my favorite green travel resources in one convenient spot—so whether you’re interested in renting a hybrid car or offsetting the pollution from your last flight, you can find the info you need right here.

General Ecotourism and Green Travel Resources

Learn more about the principles of ecotourism and green travel by browsing these sites.

• Ethical Traveler
• Green Lodging News
• International Ecotourism Society
• Nature Conservancy
• Rainforest Alliance
• Sustainable Travel International

Carbon Offset Companies

There are a number of companies and charitable organizations that will offset your carbon emissions, not only for flights but also for car travel and household energy use. The range of projects varies widely, so I’ve explained a little bit about each organization to help you decide which offsetter is right for you.

• Atmosfair: German nonprofit organization that donates funds to alternative energy projects
• Carbon Footprint: British company that retires carbon offsets, plants trees, and supports international energy-saving projects
• Carbonfund.org: American nonprofit organization that retires carbon offsets, plants trees, and supports renewable energy and energy-efficiency projects
• The Conservation Fund: American nonprofit organization that plants trees across the U.S.
• GreenSeat: Dutch company that supports renewable energy projects
• Terrapass: American company that funds clean energy, biomass, and industrial efficiency projects

Eco-Friendly Lodging and Green Hotels

Looking for a hotel that takes steps to care for the environment? These green travel resources can help.

• a&o green: Sustainable hostel brand
• B’n’Tree: Plants a tree for each hotel booking that originates on the site
• Design Hotels: Upscale green hotels
• ECOCLUB: Ecolodges across the world
• Element Hotels: Environmentally friendly chain with worldwide locations
• Five-Leaf System: Green hotels around the world rated with up to five “leaves” for eco-friendliness
• Green Getaways Australia: Eco-friendly lodging in Australia
• Green Globe: Certified eco-friendly hotels across the world
• GreenHotels: Green hotels in Greece
• Green Hotels Association: Eco-friendly hotels in the U.S. and worldwide
• Green Vacation Hub: Green hotels and vacation rentals around the world
• ResponsibleTravel.com: Eco-friendly lodging worldwide

Eco-Friendly Tour Operators

These tour operators take a sustainable approach to travel, with some even paying for carbon offsets for their trips.

• Adventures Within Reach: Adventure travel around the world
• AdventureSmith Explorations: Expedition cruises and wilderness trips
• Backroads: Biking, hiking, and adventure trips around the world
• Blue Ventures: Volunteer trips for marine conservation projects
• Context Travel: Small-group city walking tours with an educational focus
• Country Walkers: Walking tours around the world
• Dragoman Overland: Overland tours
• Earthwatch Institute: Research expeditions worldwide
• Ecoteer: Volunteer trips in Asia
• Ecoventura: Carbon-neutral luxury yacht cruises in the Galapagos Islands
• Elevate Destinations: Travel combined with local philanthropy
• Escape Adventures: Biking and multi-sport tours
• Explore!: Small-group adventure trips
• G Adventures: Small-group adventure tours
• Gamewatchers Safaris: Safaris in East Africa
• International Expeditions: Nature-focused tours and small-ship expeditions
• Intrepid Travel: Small-group tours around the world
• Lindblad Expeditions: Expedition cruises around the world
• Mosaic Adventure: Trekking expeditions in Nepal, Tibet, and Bhutan
• Natural Habitat Adventures: Wildlife- and nature-focused trips around the world
• OARS: Outdoor adventure tours
• Peregrine: Small-group trips led by local guides
• Rainforest Cruises: Expedition cruises
• REI Adventures: Adventure tours
• ResponsibleTravel.com: Eco-friendly tours worldwide
• ROW Adventures: Whitewater rafting and other adventure trips
• Seacology: Volunteer trips to various conservation project sites
• UnCruise Adventures: Small-ship cruises
• Wildland Adventures: Luxury trips, including family vacations

Hybrid and Fuel-Efficient Rental Cars

Opt for a hybrid or other fuel-efficient car rental on your next trip from one of these providers.

• Alamo: Hybrid rentals at select locations
• Avis: Hybrid rentals at select locations
• CarRentals: Search engine for hybrid rentals around the world
• Enterprise Rent-A-Car: Hybrid and electric car rentals
• Fox Rent A Car: Hybrid rental vehicles at select locations
• Hertz: “Green Collection” of hybrid and fuel-efficient rental vehicles
• National Car Rental: Hybrid rental vehicles at select locations

More from SmarterTravel:

• 6 Easy Ways to Travel Plastic-Free
• 11 Endangered Bucket List Destinations (and How to Visit Them Responsibly)
• What Your Sunscreen Is Doing to the Environment

Follow Sarah Schlichter on Twitter @TravelEditor for more travel tips and inspiration.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2017. It has been updated with the latest information.

The post 60 Green Travel Resources Every Responsible Traveler Should Know appeared first on SmarterTravel.