eco tourism [link friday, 10.5]

Eco tourism is a growing popular vacation option for many people. It's focused on visiting natural areas and features, but doing so in a way that's less harmful to the environment. It can educate the traveler, provide funds for ecological conservation, directly benefit the economic development and political empowerment of local communities, or foster respect for different cultures and for human rights.

Louisiana is a state with many beautiful natural areas, and as such, is becoming a place for eco tourism destinations.

And there are many resources for getting more information on eco tourism in Louisiana.

• UL Lafayette's Center for Culture and Eco Tourism website allows you to search by attraction, interest or parish.
• Visit Louisiana Coast has a section devoted to eco tourism.
• Louisiana Travel features links to different eco tourism programs around the state. (Just search for eco tourism!)
• Pearl River Eco-Tours has information on a good ol' Cajun swamp tour.
• WWL, out of New Orleans, posted an article about eco tourism in Louisiana this past April.
• And BnBscape has information for you to look up eco-friendly and green lodging for your travels.
• Lastly, St. Landry Parish Tourism recently completed a green tourism center. It's located in Opelousas and features a water cistern, wind turbine and photovoltaic panels. Building materials were salvaged during construction to reuse for the creation of an art exhibit and functional pieces.

Even if you don't live in Louisiana, I encourage you to look up eco tourism options in your area next time you're looking for a short getaway or a new adventure. You'll be surprised at what you can find!