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I’ll be the first to admit that travel is not the most eco-friendly hobby to have (Coachella = planes, cars, shuttles) but travel can be responsible, and not just in the hardcore voluntour-kind-of-way. In honor of Earth Week, here are my mean, green travel dreams for 2011…

1. Roadtrip… in a Tesla
From America’s West to the Amalfi Coast, it’s no surprise that road tripping is on my to do list. So it’s a good thing that Tesla creates electric cars that are actually… well, electric. On the road since 2008, Tesla Roadsters are more upscale, more varied and, quite frankly, just plain cooler than the traditional idea of an electric automobile. 

2. Eat, drink and buy local… in Nicaragua
Don’t be tempted by Starbucks and snow-globes! Support the surrounding community by stocking up on local snacks and souvenirs. There’s no better way to learn about a country than through its’ local traditions, crafts and of course, food, and this year I’m in need of Nicaragua (the best gift I got this year was this pack of presents from a friend in Nicaragua). Providing exclusive access to one of Central America’s lesser-known ecological treasures — the Indio Maiz Biological Reserve — Rio Indio Lodge has the benefit of being near both the rain forest and the Caribbean on the Costa Rica–Nicaragua border… a perfect place to fill my stomach, and suitcase. 

3. See it to believe it… in South Africa
Falling in love with nature is a key step in wanting to save it… and there’s nowhere better to fall head over heels than in South Africa. Part elegant boutique hotel, part wildlife safari, the Vuyani Lodge is a posh but comfortable base for exploring the South African bush. The lodge’s designer chalets and suites are clustered in the shadow of the Drakensberg Mountains on the 36,000-acre Moditlo Game Reserve.

4. Healthy you (and view)… in Texas
Take care of your mind, body and…. surroundings. The brand new (literally, it opened on April 14) Travaasa Austin is a part-eco, part-spa and part-adventure retreat amid the rolling hills of the Balcones Canyonlands Preserve, 30 minutes outside Austin. It welcomes the stressed-out, the seekers of health and those simply looking to get back in touch with nature. But don’t worry; despite the vegan-optional menu and the Reiki treatments, Travaasa is not a hippie hideaway. Instead, expect a full-fledged resort with an upscale spa and endless outdoor activities including horse programs, archery, cooking classes and much more.

5. Explore the Outdoors… in Peru
I plan one major trip each year, and this year, it’s all about the outdoors. Pick a trip with eco-potential and a low carbon footprint. On the top of my list - Machu Pichu. Deep in south central Peru the dramatic Andes Mountains house some of the most impressive archaeological and cultural links to the ancient world. During a nine-day journey, Bio Bio Expeditions guides intrepid travelers through the majesty and mystery of pre-Columbian America. Hike the Inca Trail, marvel at Machu Picchu and mountain-bike through the Sacred Valley during this once-in-a-lifetime adventure.