It’s the summer season again! We all know what this means! Sand, sun, sea and surf! Locals will again groan in annoyance as tourists fill their beaches. More people will make travel plans to the world’s best shores. Expect more Americans relaxing in the Caribbean. Yep, just another summer for all of us.

This summer, however, I’ve decided to make a little different. I’ve decided to take my friends on an eco-friendly beach trip. It’s kind of like a normal beach trip, but more environment-friendly like. But I would need guidelines. These are the tips I came up with so that this summer, you won’t be like those people who litter on the beach without a care.

1. Don’t take anything! I know the urge to keep that beautiful shell is overwhelming, but maybe it’s better if you leave it there as it is. I confess that I’m guilty of this. This has the added benefit of avoiding anything stinging or pinching you! I remember the last time I tried to catch a crab in a beach. I can barely remember it, but there was pain and screaming, and at the end, no crab. Just really sore fingers, and other parts I won’t mention. Sea urchins? I never want to touch one. If you absolutely have to take something, make do with a photo.

2. Don’t leave anything! It’s easy to forget cleaning up your mess when you’re having such a good time, but remember, this isn’t a house party. This is nature. Trash drifts off to sea and can endanger wildlife. Pick up after yourself like your mother always told you! Or have the woman herself along. My mother just loves to tell me to pick up after myself. I learned that at five, thank you mom.

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3. Watch the pets. Some of my friends bring their dog to the beach and the furry things always poop all over the place! This, if you’re not aware, is a bad thing. Feces can house many forms of bacteria that can be washed out to sea and straight in your mouth. Take a moment to consider (and purge from your mind) that mental image. If you’re bringing an animal, look out for their droppings and clean them. Plus, spreading poop around ruins the view. Try to keep them away from the water, too. If they pee in it, it won’t be good for you or any of the people around you.

4. Sail slow. Motorboats are fast, but eat fuel and release harmful gases into the air. If you want to go out to sea, why not use a sailboat? Try not to use that backup motor and just use the ocean breeze to get you where you want to go. To me, drifting along the waves is very relaxing instead of speeding along it.

Whew! I know it will be a pain to get them to follow, but I’ll do my best. What eco-friendly tips are you practicing this summertime? Tell me so I can have one more over their heads. Hehehe.

The environment is a big issue for many of the world’s countries. Billions are spent on making our world a cleaner place yearly. More policies and technological advances help, but the people’s cooperation is what is truly needed. Most do what they can, but some go far and above and aim to make their country the cleanest and greenest it can possibly be, in air, water and land. What are these countries that are the hallmarks of cleanliness?

1. Switzerland – With an environmental performance index (EPI) of 95.5, this European country ranks first in cleanliness. The environment has been in the country’s interest as early as 1876 when it passed a forestry law. There are many major influential pro-environment groups in the country. Nearly all electricity comes from dams and nuclear plants, reducing emissions caused by burning fossil fuels. Strict standards for exhaust are placed on vehicles to lower air pollution. The country is also one of the top recyclers in the world, with stiff penalties levied on offenders. If you want clean, this is the place to be.

2. Sweden – Coming in second with 93.1 are these two countries. Like Switzerland, almost all power is produced without fossil fuels. A good percentage of Sweden’s forests still stand thanks to the people’s efforts, up to today. Like most clean countries, they have emission laws in place. Yet another clean place you can visit!

3. Norway – Tied with Sweden, Norway still uses some forms of oil to power the nation. Norway was once a heavy air polluter, but that has changed after Norway took steps to reduce emissions. A good portion of its land is also protected. It’s always a good time to visit Norway.

4. Finland – Unlike the first three, Finland still uses fossil fuels for power, but this is gradually lessening. Finland takes care of its shores, assigning a majority that can never be built on. Like all the other now-clean nations, it had a past problem with pollution until the government decided to act. Now, it’s one of the cleanest places in the world. I’d love to go there!

5. Costa Rica – It may be unexpected for some, but Costa Rica comes in fifth. This country has a large total area dedicated to parks. Early on in its history, Costa Rica was already acting to have water and air standards. Almost a quarter of the country is protected to preserve wildlife, one of the largest percentages in the world! The nation also contains 5% of the entire world’s species! The country is generally poor but educated, and is the most stable country in its region. They still make an effort for the environment. If they didn’t, they wouldn’t have all those lovely beachside resorts to bring in tourists! They are the most visited place in Central America. Why not come, too?

Next time you plan a vacation, why not go somewhere where you’re sure to breathe clean air? It will be good for you! What are your experiences in these countries? Speak up!

With the weekend just 2 days shy, Everybody must be planning their Easter Weekend getaways by now! With all the Easter sales and travel deal around, it really is an ideal time to go away on a little holiday, just enough to rev up your personal engine for another three to four weeks of work maybe, or maybe just a little break to tide you over before summer.

Spur of the moment trips can be stressful, chaotic and even dangerous! That’s why I’ve developed a few “must-brings and must-dos” every time I travel to make all the stress somewhat bearable.

1.Always bring sunblock.Nothing makes me more irritable than sunburn! Whether you’re planning to go to the sea or snow, chances are- you will need it!

2.Take 1 or 2 of those universal adapter plugs with you. The wiring and voltage is different in other countries, and when you force your favorite blow dryer in the plug, it might set off in a big explosion! You don’t want that, so read the labels and come prepared!

3.Take an anti nausea pill an hour before you go. Bring a couple in your bag too- for the trip back and for your trip mates. Take it from personal experience, vomit on a getaway is NO fun!

4. Make sure to get a good night’s sleep the day before you leave. Yoou don’t want a headache on the plane/car.

5. Lastly, have a general idea of what you want to do, but don’t plan your itinerary to the last second. The best times usually spring from the unexpected surprises!

These are my basics but if you want more travel tips, you can Check this site out. You can share your own too!

I guess the key things to remember is its always better to be prepared. You never know what might happen. If you’re ready though, then nothing will come between you and your well deserved break! Happy Easter!!