Planning a trip this summer? Wondering where to go and what to do?
Here are some websites that will help you get the most out of your travel experience, while maximizing benefits to the people and places you visit.

The International Ecotourism Society (TIES) has a member directory listing companies and tour operators committed to responsible travel practices. They also have hints on how to travel with everyone's well-being in mind (which often makes for the most memorable trip!).

For more on ecotourism and responsible tourism, check out Sustainable Travel International, Planeta, and EcoClub.

Want to do more than sit on a beach? Consider a volunteer vacation (voluntourism). You can also join the throngs of travelers and travel operators building the Travelers' Philanthropy movement, by giving back "time, talent, or treasure" to host communities.

How do you know if a hotel or tour operator really understands and engages in responsible travel practices? This can be one of the most difficult decisions of your trip! One way to increase your chances of having a high quality, enjoyable journey is to look for responsible travel certification marks.

In South Africa, seek out travel companies certified by Fair Trade in Tourism South Africa, which offer fair wages and good working conditions. In Costa Rica, look for the "green leaf" rating system of the Certification for Sustainable Tourism program. While there are significant differences in the 60+ responsible travel certification programs worldwide, efforts are underway to create a global Sustainable Tourism Stewardship Council, bringing together existing programs.

Here in the US, several states have great ecotourism options available! Consider West Virginia, Hawaii, or Lousiana. Traveling domestically can lighten the environmental impact of your travel drastically.

Want more information on global trends in responsible tourism? See the article "Interest in Responsible Tourism Grows," in the Worldwatch Institute's Vital Signs 2005, or visit the reports section of the Center on Ecotourism and Sustainable Development.