Introducing.... 3 things

Oxfam Australia has launched an exciting new initiative called ‘3 things’ – it’s a project for young Australians by young Australians challenging the myth that ‘young people don’t care anymore.’ They have a new home at www.3things.org.au where you can swing by and check out the issues that have young people talking, tweeting and texting.

There’s a section dedicated to the environment, and there are also lots of cool articles about fashion, sustainable livelihoods, and travel like this blog by Rosaline featured below...

Like what you see? We do too. We'll be featuring some of the best blogs from the 3 things writers here on A Climate for Change.

Image thanks to Design4Change students at UTS, another wonderful 3things.org.au project.

Slow Travel Is Green Travel

By Rosaline

When we go on holiday we like to kick back and chill. But have you heard of slow travel? It’s a group of people, hotels and websites who have dedicated themselves to chillin’ on holiday.

Slow Travel is partly about staying in one place longer to experience more of the place you are vacationing in. But it’s also about engaging with the local community. Rather than clinging to your Lonely Planet, it’s about picking up the paper (even if you don’t really get the language) and trying to spot local events like fetes and markets.

Instead of the local Backpackers, it’s about renting a place in a not-so-touristy part of town. While you’re renting you’ll have to shop for yourself, buy local produce and cook your own food. You can try local shops, a new language and try different foods.

At the heart of Slow Travel is the journey. Instead of flying everywhere, it’s about considering the slower, less environmentally painful ways to get around. Is there a local bus you could take? A train? If you get lost, your train is late, there’s a cow on the road, make the most of it! The unexpected is what makes holidays fun and you’ll have some awesome stories for when you get home.

In emphasising getting to know the area, Slow Travel can be a deeper, more relaxing experience. The difference say between 10 laps in the local indoor pool, and a day spent on the beach. So next time you’re on holiday – Take It Slow!