12 minute read
Exploring Ecotourism
Exploring Ecotourism with Green Travel Queen
BY ANGEL FUCHS
TThe past few years have been full of global enlightenment, with a heavy focus on sustainability and change. This intense interest has even modified the way people travel. Where people once looked at vacation as an escape from responsibility, some now see it as a way to further philanthropic growth and improve the places they visit, leaving no trace behind.
One Arizona company is taking ecotourism to levels beyond minimalist trips and glamping. Green Travel Queen is assisting its clients in booking unique life experiences. Danielle Coletto founded her agency nine years ago on a mission to change the way her clients vacation. Coletto began her career 13 years ago as an event planner specializing in destination weddings. Starting Green Travel Queen was born out of necessity. “I was always referring my wedding couples to a separate business for their flights and accommodations,” she says. “I knew I could plan all the details, including the travel, so I started Green Travel Queen.” She still runs her event planning business, Events by Danielle, but she is now a one-stop shop, fueled by her passion to see the world and live as sustainably as possible, while helping others to do the same. Green Travel Queen takes pride in creating custom vacations through everything from transportation to lodging and service activities.
“People don't want to pick up trash or volunteer while they're on a trip,” Coletto says. “But I can plan excursions and outings that maintain the fun while helping out in the destination.” That could be as simple as bringing boxes of pencils to schools in Cuba, where they are much needed and appreciated, or planning visits to assist in schools or orphanages. “Any trip can be eco-conscious,” says Coletto. “Even if it's just bringing along a case of water for areas where it's not as readily available.” Coletto also wants travelers to know that even in the most pristine places, there are areas that need help within the surrounding communities and landscapes, leaving plenty of opportunity for an eco-conscious vacation experience. “In places like Bali, you see resorts with perfectly clean beaches, with crystal-clear water, and pure white sand, but nearby there are areas littered with bottles and a ton of trash,” she says. “People don't realize this reality and this is where we, as tourists, can help out and give back to the places we visit.” Eco-conscious travel can easily make a wonderful vacation into something wonderfully fulfilling and life-changing, and it can be as simple as how you pack. Coletto’s basic tips for planning an eco-friendly trip are: PACK LIGHTLY Especially when flying. “The heavier the suitcase, the heavier the plane, the more fuel is used. Lightening the load truly does help reduce your carbon footprint.” RESEARCH AND PLAN Every destination has needs and programs for eco-tourism activities. Bring along a trash bag to help keep hiking trails or beaches clean and safe. Or pack some children's books to donate to area shelters.
DRIVE If you can drive to your destination, do it, advises Coletto. It leaves a much smaller carbon footprint than flying. Driving is also a great way to see and explore more and bond with traveling companions. Coletto also advises travelers to verify their accommodations are green certified. “Find a hotel that is eco-conscious or has green certifications,” she advises. “Most hotels will make mention of that on their websites.” For more information about booking an eco-travel friendly vacation, visit www.greentravelqueen.com.
For more photos and eco-travel articles, visit www.greenlivingmag.com/travel
Outstanding Farm to Table Food Experience Event Catering - Customized Meals School Programs - Private Chef
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GREENShe’s GREENHe’s
BY JENNIFER & JOHN BURKHART
He said: This one is a clear case of wallet flex. Are you willing to shell out the extra money to eat a superior product? This is the best of the best when it comes to quality canned fish. Wild-caught in Alaskan waters, which means it's lowest in potential contamination, but when that little can slid across the register and $7.85 popped up, it was like getting kicked in the shins. She said: If you're tired of the classic tuna fish sandwich, you need to try salmon instead. Look for wild-caught, or Pacific, and steer clear of anything farmed. Wild Planet sockeye made for a very flavorful (read: fishy) sandwich, but also very aromatic (read: open all the windows and light a candle). Our youngest walked around plugging his nose, ha! Worth it, it was delish. Ever have those blah days where you just don't feel like cooking? Yeah, us too. More so lately than we'd like to admit. Thankfully, it's possible to still eat somewhat healthy with convenient, shelf-stable
Wild Planet Wild Sockeye Salmon, canned
meals. Let's see how some of those fared in this month's reviews.
The Coconut Cult Probiotic Coconut Yogurt, Chocolate Mousse
He said: Okay, there's two different ways to approach this product. Mindset one: This is a tasty dessert with some probiotics in it. Mindset two: This is a gut health vitamin that sorta tastes like chocolate mousse. I recommend the latter. The only way this is a tasty dessert is if you can ignore the funky foot flavor, and if you can do that, you don't need to read product reviews ’cause you can eat anything.
She said: A darn delicious way to take your vitamins! Four simple ingredients blend perfectly to create a TART, mousse-like, non-dairy yogurt. Careful though, you'll need to start with small portions (8 servings per jar) to avoid any, ahem, extra bathroom time. Actually, as a parent, bring it on! That's Tasty Bite Organic Indian Coconut Squash Dal
He Said: Oh man! Dal is my favorite food order when we get Indian. It's usually this rich, hearty smooth lentil dish that has a complex spice profile and just a little heat—perfect for dipping garlic naan in. My mouth is watering just thinking about it. But Tasty Bites' dal royally lacks in the spice department. Good for a quick fix, but nowhere near as good as the original.
She said: Dal is perfect for those chilly evenings, when you need a cozy, the only place I can be alone. Kinda.
satisfying meal. Amazingly, this one is done in 60 seconds! It was creamy, slightly sweet with a hint of heat. It would be better with more chunky vegetables, but ya can't be too picky with a meal in a pouch. I recommend pairing this with white rice over the coconut rice pouch.
R.W. Knudsen Apple Cider & Spice
He said: Well it's officially fall now, which means the nights get colder, the leaves change color, and the warm drinks go back into rotation. This apple cider was sugar and spice and everything nice. It will definitely warm your bones on a chilly fall evening.
She said: Yum! I love fall, and all the harvest goodies (yep, PSL gal here). Apple cider is a favorite around here, and our kiddos loved this one. It was tasty both hot and cold, but it could use more “spice.” So toss in some cloves and cinnamon when you warm this up on the stove. (And some rum on the side for the adults!)
GREENScenes
November 6-15 November Events Throughout Arizona
The magical event of the year is back! Bring your friends and family to this holiday party hosted by Phoenix Zoo. Zoolights features 66 in a Wildlife Lantern Safari, as well as millions of twinkling lights, and dazzling animal sculptures. This year also features an all-new drive-through experience. The event will run from 5:30-10:30 p.m. Prices are $16 for Zoo members, $20 for nonmembers; and $60 per car for Zoo members for the drive-through, or $75 for nonmembers. For more information, visit www.phoenixzoo.org/events/zoolights/.
November 27-26 A Christmas Carol
Celebrate art in the city of Scottsdale with this fun series of educational activities and interactive displays. Running for 10 days, this event aims to celebrate water, art, and light while highlighting sustainability and water conservation. The event will feature 10 art installations, live music, workshops, and more. Free. For more information, visit www.canalconvergence.com. November 7, 14, 21 Dog Days at the Garden Spend a fun morning with your furry best friend at Desert Botanical Garden. All dog owners are invited to stroll the gardens with their pets during this event. Rise early, as admission begins at 6:30 a.m., with the last admission at 9:30 a.m. The event is included with garden admission, and dogs are admitted for free. For more information, visit www.dbg.org/events/dog-days-atthe-garden/2020-08-30/. Nothing beats the classics! Head to Hale Centre Theatre for a showing of A Christmas Carol. The spectacular, heart-warming version of Charles Dickens’ classic tale of redemption is magically brought to life on the Hale Stage. This production is rich with traditional carols, stunning costumes, and memorable characters that are guaranteed to enrich the holiday season. Tickets start at
Canal Convergence | Water + Art + Light |
$22. Grab yours today at www.haletheatrearizona.com.
December 12 Santa’s Enchanted Holiday Party
Bring the entire family and join Santa at this jolly holiday party hosted by The Teapot. The event features cookie decorating, giveaways, fun crafts, and more. You can even take a picture with Santa himself. Delicious tea and treats will be available for purchase. Free; RSVP required. For more information, visit www.eventbrite.com/e/santas-enchanted-holiday-partytickets-120321227029.
NORTHERN ARIZONA November 7-January 3, 2021 Polar Express Train Ride
All aboard this merry train ride! The treasured holiday experience has returned for its 20th year. Hop on and ride from Williams to the “North Pole,” where Santa and his reindeer await with gifts. Hot cocoa and chocolate chip cookies are served on the train as the classic story is read. This 90-minute round-trip excursion is a perfect experience to share with the young ones in the family. Tickets start at $33 for kids and $47 for adults. For more information, visit www.thetrain.com/events/polar-express/.
November 6-8, 27-29 Oak Creek Arts and Crafts Show
This outdoor art festival will be held at Sedona Vista Village. The event features over 40 different artists, live music, and delicious restaurant food. Free. For more information, visit www. visitsedona.com/events-calendar/oak-creek-arts-and-craftsshow/.
November 27-December 20 Miracle on 34th Street
Enjoy this heartwarming story on a live stage in Flagstaff. Presented by the Theatrikos Theatre Company, Miracle on 34th Street is sure to make you cry, laugh, and smile. There is no better way to welcome the Christmas season than with this play that truly showcases the magic of the season. Ticket prices vary. For more information, visit www.theatrikos.com/.
December 5 Annual Courthouse Lighting
There is a reason Prescott is known as Arizona’s Christmas city—so come and down and witness the city’s 66th Annual Courthouse Lighting. Celebrate this season with a festive parade around downtown Prescott, featuring floats, festivities, and Santa. A few hours later, gather in the Courthouse Square to watch the Christmas lights to come to life. Free. The parade is at 2 p.m.; the courthouse lighting is at 6 p.m. The lights remain up until mid-January. For more information, visit www.prescott. org/2020-annual-courthouse-lighting.html.
BUSINESS November 12 Women’s Financial Empowerment
Calling all women! Join Versatil Capital Management for this free educational panel discussion. The panelists will discuss the proper steps women can take towards financial empowerment. Topics include estate plans, taxes, self-care, financial management, and more. The event will be held at the Arizona Country Club and will run from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Registration is required. For more information, visit www.eventbrite.com/e/ womens-financial-empowerment-tickets-104342160210.
SOUTHERN ARIZONA November 11 Bravo Vino
Get ready to dine and have some good wine when you attend this festival in Tucson. It features wine from wineries all over the state, as well as gourmet food from vendors, and local artisans. The event’s program also includes musical performances from local musicians, including members of the Arizona Opera and the Arizona School of Music. But be sure to get there early— the event runs from 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Tickets start at $20. For more information, visit www.visittucson.org/event/bravo-vino.
November 14 Bisbee after 5
Enjoy a fun day at this free artwalk in Old Bisbee on the second Saturday of each month. Over 30 restaurants, galleries, and shops leave their doors open until 8 p.m. The artwalk also features live music, special promotions, and even a raffle. And, you can start the fun early, for the event begins at 10 a.m. For more information, visit https://www.bisbeeafter5.com/.
December 13 Boys Chorus Holiday Concert
Welcome the holiday season with this joyful concert of Christmas carols and sacred songs performed by the Tucson Arizona Chorus Boys musical group, accompanied by a professional orchestral ensemble. The concert will be held at University of Arizona’s School of Music Crowder Hall. $20 for premium tickets; $15 for general admission; and $8 for kids under age 12. For more information, visit https://boyschorus.org/.
December 3 Green Finances
Join the Arizona Green Chamber for this educational networking virtual event. Hosted by Robin Reed, the president and CEO of the Arizona Black Chamber, the event will run from 5-6:15 p.m. Through this virtual meeting you will be able to meet like-minded individuals and learn about finances. Registration is required in order to obtain the zoom link. Don’t forget to bring your favorite beverage! For more information, visit www.azgreenchamber.org/ event-3933134.
Home Sweet Home
Two mountain lion kittens, found in Simi Hills, California, have found a forever home at Southwest Wildlife Conservation Center in Arizona. The pair were left orphaned after biologists with the National Park Service discovered that their mother, a 2.5-year-old mountain lion, was dead. She died of rodenticide poisoning, a commonly used mouse and rat poison. Rodenticide is primarily used around homes to rid properties of rats and mice, but can have devastating results for other species—whatever animal eats the poisoned rat or mouse will suffer the same fate (pets and wildlife included).
According to the biologists, the then 3-week-old kittens would not have been able to survive in the wild without a mother. The kittens are now about 3 months old. They are adjusting to their new home, and have begun to show typical wild cat behavior: stalking, wrestling, and climbing. They come out of their shell more and more every day, and have even begun to develop their own personalities; the female is bolder while the male is laidback. “They are inseparable and a great comfort to each other,” says Linda Searles, director at the Southwest Wildlife Conservation Center. www.southwestwildlife.org
