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The Brain in Spain Stayed Mainly on.....

 
Posted by Suncear ScretchenApprentice Friday, December 25 2009 2 comments

....Being Green.  Okay, I couldn't think of a relevant word that rhymed with Spain but you get my point.  

Well, I'm back in the states from my fantastic trip abroad and I have some observations on being Conscious while traveling.  It's not an easy state of mind to maintain as it's not convenient or quick.  Certain cities can make it easier than others, however and Barcelona was one such city. 

First, it helps to choose an eco-friendly hotel.  The H10 Montcada, was not only centrally located but they recycled and helped to eliminate wasted electricity by having to use your room key to activate it. To cut down on unnecessary water waste, there was an option provided to not change sheets or towels.( I'll be honest in saying that I preferred to have my towels cleaned.)



Speaking of recycling, there were receptacles all over the city for your disposing convenience. Efficiently colored to not confuse us as to which ones are plastic and which are paper. See above.

The toilets (which also included a bidet -whoo hoo!) came equipped with 2 flushing options- full flush and 1/2 flush.  Obviously, the 1/2 flush allows you to use less water when the 1.6 gallons are unnecessary.

Eating is tough especially if you're hungry and tired.  Research vegetarian restaurants and organic markets or bring your own snacks such as granola bars. Our hotel happened to be down the street from the Veritas organic market which has a few locations across Spain.  The carrot/orange juice and blueberry yogurt was a refreshing change from all of the pastries and patatas fritas. 

 
We also made a trip the La Boqueria which was like walking into a rainbow of fruits and veggies.



Doing some of the same things that you do at home to conserve would apply while on the road: turn off water while brushing teeth, not using the toilet as a trash can, taking public transportation and forgoing plastic by carrying a canvas bag (or putting items in your pockets or travel bag).

All of these tactics are relatively easy and shouldn't be too much of an inconvenience. Research and preparing ahead of time is the key to staying Conscious and still having a good time while on the road.

Happy Trails,

SuncearRaye

http://consciouschicknyc.blogspot.com/

 

 

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Comments

  • Superhero_green_final

    Bob KurzUser2096_level said on December 26, 2009

    Very interesting account of your travels abroad -- thanks so much for sharing. I've never been to Spain but I'm impressed that they seem to be a lot more in tune to greener lifestyle options than the U.S. I think that it should be manditory in the states to have public recycling containers in every town...maybe it would be an in-your-face reminder to the public to step up and do the right thing.
  • Sunnydeoderant

    Suncear ScretchenApprentice said on December 28, 2009

    Hi Bob, I agree but I live in NYC and I can see how people would just put "whatever" in the receptacles instead of the appropriate items. I have seen a few in the city though so I'm happy to report that some process is being made. :)

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