Earth Day Hotel Happenings

  A new report says that responsible tourism has weathered the global recession better than the tourism industry as a whole. Perhaps that’s one reason many hotels are eagerly embracing Earth Day. (Though we’d like to think that a growing commitment to sustainable practices plays a role.) Here are just some of the spots where vacationers can combine Earth Day activities with their travels next month:

At Fairmont restaurants, chefs will serve their favorite sustainable-seafood entrees. When the bill comes, diners can donate $1 to the National Geographic Society to support marine conservation and restoration.

The Resort at the Mountain on Oregon’s Mount Hood is enlisting volunteers to take part in a creek-restoration project on April 17. Afterward, they can take advantage of discounts on eco-minded spa services.

The Eldorado Hotel & Spa in Santa Fe, New Mexico, is offering the “Go Green, Save Your Green” package, which includes a 15 percent room discount, free overnight parking for hybrids, and 20 percent off organic spa products.

The Vinoy Renaissance Resort & Golf Club in St. Petersburg, Florida, is also providing free parking for hybrids and free bike rentals with which to explore the city’s 50 miles of bicycle trails.

On Earth Day (April 22), the Ritz-Carlton in Laguna Niguel, California, launches its Ambassador of the Environment program which, through games, excursions, discussions, and presentations, will emphasize responsibility and stewardship. Each day will be dedicated to different aspects of Southern California ecology and native cultures.

--Wendy Becktold