Tag: travel

creativity

My Word for 2026 is Momentum

Christa Avampato
A cinematic back-view of a person wearing a long, flowing red cloak, walking through a sun-drenched forest. They hold a blue and white patterned umbrella as the light filters through the trees, creating a warm, misty glow. The red fabric of the cloak billows out behind them, capturing a sense of graceful movement.
Finding the Moment in Momentum. Photo by Ani Kolleshi on Unsplash

Happy New Year! Each year I select a word to guide my thoughts and actions. In 2025, I chose Rebuild. Now, with that foundation, I’m ready to scale the efforts I’ve loved most.

2026 at a Glance:

  • The Word: Momentum (finding the moment within the movement).
  • The Focus: Scaling NYC’s Secrets & Lies, adopting a heart dog, and publishing in a dream publication.
  • The Goal: Moving from “rebuilding” to intentional acceleration in community, health, and creativity.

Within the word “Momentum” is the word “Moment”. That’s where I want to be in 2026 – in the moment, in every moment. I want to focus on my lived experience each day.

Even with all the challenges and difficulties in the world, in 2025 I found ways to build community through longer tables and creative projects that inspire wonder and curiosity. It’s made me so happy to reflect on that and think about how that can continue in 2026.

Here are some of the areas that interest me most. What are you thinking of in 2026?

Storytelling

I am beyond thrilled that my show NYC’s Secrets & Lies is back and that so many lovely people have filled out audience and graced the stage with their knowledge and humor. This show encapsulates so many things I love: storytelling, a celebration of NYC, history, laughter, and awe. I know how lucky I am to call this city home and I love nothing more than sharing all the wild stories of our collective past that still exists on every street. I’ve also made some of my very best friends because of this show, and those relationships have saved and transformed my life.

We started doing location-based shows with partners in 2025, the dream I always had, and I can’t wait to create more of those immersive environments for our audiences in 2026. Our show at the Seaport Museum was a huge success and they were wonderful to work with so I’m hoping we can do more projects together.

We’re already working on some fun plans during this very momentous year in our city’s history to celebrate:

  • NYC’s 400th anniversary
  • The country’s 250th anniversary
  • 100th anniversary of Houdini‘s death on Halloween (yep – he was a New Yorker!)
  • National Pet Adoption Week in March
  • Our first outdoor show in April with Natural Areas Conservancy for Earth Day
  • Climate Week shows in San Francisco (nature in the San Francisco area) and in NYC (NYC food history)

A few things we’re considering in addition to our shows:

  • Free field trips where a group of us go to an interesting location in NYC and learn about its history
  • Reading club on historical topics
  • Potluck dinners with historical recipes
  • Entering the Great Borough Bake-off at Museum of the City of New York

Dogs

In January 2024, I lost my soul dog, Phineas, after 13 1/2 years together.2024 was a painful year. Sometimes I could barely breathe because the grief was so heavy. It was the worst grief I’ve ever felt. At the very end of 2024 and through 2025, I fostered 10 dogs through Muddy Paws Rescue and became an active volunteer with the organization. I never imagined I would become as involved as I am. More than anything else I’ve done, fostering and volunteering to save shelter dogs has helped me heal. I still miss Phinny every single day. I will miss him every day for the rest of my life.

2025 taught me how to carry the grief of losing Phinny and the joy of rescuing other dogs like him. He never left me, not really. I feel his spirit with me always. There are, sadly, so many shelter dogs who need forever homes. In 2026, I want to get even more involved with helping more shelter dogs. I don’t know exactly what that looks like yet.

I am ready to adopt my heart dog and especially excited to go through therapy dog training with them. My hope is that we’ll become a certified team so we can visit chemo patients and participate in library programs where kids read to dogs.

Writing

At the end of 2025, I pitched an article to my dream publication and they accepted it! This is the good news I hinted at yesterday—I’m so thrilled to finally share it. I’m working on the piece right now and will share it once it’s published.

I spent 2025 further honing my writing skills in different genres and formats, and now I’m excited to put more of it out into the world in more publications and platforms. I learn so much as a writer by reading, and I’m trying to read more books and better track the books I read in a fun analog way.

Learning

2025 brought me many opportunities to learn new skills and grow my areas of expertise. Some of them came through work and many of them I explored on my own. I continued my language learning and I want to build on that in the new year. I signed up for Masterclass again because a few of their courses caught my eye and there was a massive 50% off sale for the new year. My interests vary widely so a platform like Masterclass is perfect for me. I loved their programs that I took a few years ago so I’m excited to dive back into it. I’d also like to find more opportunities to learn alongside others.

Nature

In 2025, I graduated with my Master’s in Sustainability Leadership at University of Cambridge. That was an enormous personal and professional accomplishment. I fulfilled my dream of studying abroad with the most incredible group of people who inspire me every day.

I had hoped to transition my full-time work into climate but political circumstances being what they are in the U.S., that didn’t happen. Through writing my Togetherhood newsletter, storytelling, and advocacy work, I’ve been able to be involved with the climate community and aid collective efforts. In 2026, I’d like to explore more ways that I can help even if my full-time work is not rooted in sustainability. Sometimes, dreams take longer than we’d like. The route isn’t as clear as we planned. The planet needs tending, and in 2026 I want to find opportunities to use what I have where I am to be useful.

Travel

In 2025, I finally got to Italy and Scandinavia, two places that have been on my list for some time. In June, I’ll skip back across the pond to reunite with my Cambridge classmates in London for our now-annual get-together. I’m already looking forward to that. I also decided to plan more weekends away. That’s something I don’t typically do. I’m not sure why I’ve not planned that more often – maybe because I love NYC so much and there is always a lot to do here.

In 2026, I’m going to make the effort to explore more and visit more friends who live outside of NYC. I’m hoping to finally get to Asia, another area of the world I’ve not yet visited.

Home and Finance

I’m very lucky to have a stable living situation after years of being a market-rate renter in a city that is insanely expensive. I love my Brooklyn neighborhood and my apartment. In 2025, I crunched the numbers many times and it didn’t make financial sense to buy a place of my own because of the deal I have in my place now and the soaring interest rates and downpayment requirements. I’ll continue to keep an eye on that in 2026 to see if anything changes. In the meantime, I’m working closely with my financial planner to save for a home down the line. I’m also refreshing my space with some new design touches.

Love
Dating apps did not bring me joy in 2025. Even the mechanics of them are off-putting to me. I know they work for lots of people, so I’ve not abandoned them completely. I’d like to put myself in situations to meet more people who share my interests, and maybe that will also include a partner who is as wonderful as my friends. That’s the only kind of partner I’m interested in having. It’s worth trying. At the very least, I’ll meet interesting people who become friends.

Health

And finally, my health is the basis of all my dreams. It’s really true that health is the first wealth. I learned a lot in 2025 about medicine, nutrition, exercise, and the value of rest. I healed from a few injuries and in the process learned how to better care for my body. In 2026, I’d like to refocus on more meditation – that’s a practice I fell away from in 2025 and I always feel better when it’s part of my routine. I experimented a lot with new recipes, and loved the art and eating of cooking and baking. I want to continue that and invite more people to have meals with me in my home.

2025 marked 5 years since my cancer diagnosis and I’m grateful for my restored health. In 2026, I’ll mark 5 years since the end of active treatment and finish taking one of my medications that may also lead to a change in another of my medications. While these are all positive changes, I’m always wary of new meds and med changes because of past experiences I’ve had. I’m exploring ways to support myself in that process – maybe through acupuncture, saunas, and other holistic modalities.

Some closing thoughts

2025 saw a lot of upheaval and pain around the world. Through donations to and volunteering with organizations doing work, I was able to help others and that is something I will always continue to do. Improving the lives of all beings and the planet has to happen as a collective, and I’m looking forward to using my good health, resources, and skills to further cultivate community and cheer loudly for others in 2026.

Happy New Year. I’m glad we’re here together. Long may that continue.

What is one area where you’re looking to find momentum this year?

creativity

The West Coast Has Underwater Forests. NYC Could Have Underwater Farms.

Christa Avampato
Sugar kelp can grow in the waters around NYC, and thrives during the cold winter months

I recently read a fascinating piece in Smithsonian Magazine about the “underwater forests” returning to life off the coast of California. It details the restoration of Giant Kelp—towering, 100-foot strands that form cathedrals of biodiversity, sequester carbon, and shelter marine life.

It’s an inspiring success story of ecological recovery. But as I read about the Chumash people and marine biologists working together in the Pacific, I couldn’t help but ask a question closer to home: Could we apply this to the waters of New York City?

The answer is a resounding yes—but it looks a little different here. And it’s already beginning.

Different Coast, Different Kelp

In California, the focus is on restoration: bringing back wild Giant Kelp forests that have been decimated by urchins and climate change.

In New York and the broader Northeast, our opportunity lies in regenerative ocean farming. We don’t have the deep-water Giant Kelp; we have Sugar Kelp (Saccharina latissima). This golden-brown algae is shorter, but it is a powerhouse. It thrives in our cold winter waters—growing rapidly when most marine life is dormant—and acts as a “scrubbing brush” for our harbors.

Sugar Kelp absorbs carbon dioxide (fighting ocean acidification) and, crucially for NYC, it soaks up excess nitrogen from urban runoff, which is the main driver of harmful algae blooms.

We aren’t just “restoring” nature here; we are building a blue economy. Here are the local pioneers turning this idea into reality right now.

1. The Indigenous Lead: Shinnecock Kelp Farmers

Just as the Chumash people are leading efforts in California, the Shinnecock Indian Nation is leading the way on Long Island. The Shinnecock Kelp Farmers are a multi-generational collective of Indigenous women leveraging thousands of years of traditional ecological knowledge to heal the water.

They have established the first Indigenous-owned kelp farm on the East Coast in Shinnecock Bay. Their work proves that kelp isn’t just a crop; it’s a tool for sovereignty and survival, actively filtering the waters that sustain their community.

2. The Science: It Works in the East River

You might think kelp needs pristine, open ocean to survive. Think again.

Researchers Dr. Christopher Gobler and Mike Doall from Stony Brook University have been running pilot studies to see if kelp could survive the urban waters of the East River. The results were surprising: the kelp didn’t just survive; in some cases, it grew better in the nutrient-rich waters of the harbor than in cleaner, deeper waters. This suggests that NYC’s “working waterfront” could double as a biological filtration system.

3. The Pioneers: Breaking the Regulatory Barrier

The technology exists, but the permits have been the hard part. The industry is so new that New York State didn’t have a regulatory framework for it until very recently.

In 2023, Violet Cove Oyster Co., led by former WNBA star Susan Wicks, secured the first-ever commercial permit to grow kelp in New York state waters (Moriches Bay). It took years of advocacy to get there. Her success paves the way for oyster farmers across the region to become “multitrophic” farmers—growing shellfish and seaweed together to maximize the environmental benefit.

The Vision for a “Blue” NYC

Organizations like GreenWave are already training the next generation of ocean farmers, with a goal of creating thousands of jobs. Imagine a future where the New York harbor isn’t just a transit lane for ferries and cargo, but a grid of regenerative farms.

These farms would provide local food, sustainable fertilizer, and bioplastics, all while cleaning the water and capturing carbon.

California’s underwater forests are a reminder of nature’s resilience. NYC’s underwater farms could be a testament to our innovation. The seeds (or rather, the spores) have been planted. Now, we just need to support the regulations and organizations that will let them grow.

creativity

NYC’s Secrets & Lies: The Power of Partnership and Resilience in Live Events

Christa Avampato
Ashley Semrick, Erin Hunkemoeller, Carla Katz, and Christa Avampato

I’m proud to share that the NYC’s Secrets & Lies holiday show this week about secret NYC maritime history at the South Street Seaport Museum was a huge success! I’m still GLOWING from all the good cheer. ✨️

This show is a dream passion project for me, and I feel so lucky to do this work. The phenomenal storytellers, the engaged and joyful audience, and the perfect museum partner team and venue made for such a special holiday celebration. I’m beyond grateful to everyone who came out to the show.

We had a packed house that enjoyed a special evening of history and stories, complete with snack table filled with historically accurate treats that all had a backstory! This event was our first location-based event; all the stories were thematically linked to the space where we performed creating an immersive environment where the audience didn’t just hear the stories but could feel them.

It was also a powerful case study in the critical value of collaboration. Working with the Seaport Museum team was seamless, proving that when partners share a clear vision, we can create an immersive meaningful experience for our audience that stays with them long after the show ends.

Live events are a masterclass in crisis management. As the creator and producer, successfully navigating the unexpected is part of the job description. Though it might sound crazy to some, this is what I love about producing: problem-solving, thinking on my feet, and taking care of everyone involved in making the show possible. The ultimate reward is delivering a high-quality experience for the audience and seeing the talented storytellers shine.

A little behind-the-scenes secret – I was more nervous about this show than any show we’ve ever done. Between my back injury, the cookie baking, a brand new venue with a brand new partner, this being our first location-based show, and a last minute emergency I didn’t expect, my natural stage fright was flying high. But through collaboration and partnership and joy, it all worked out. Once I focused solely on the storytellers, our audience, and our museum partner, the nerves finally faded. We are always stronger and better together.🫶

And good news (a la Buddy the Elf!): I saw a dachshund outside the museum as I arrived and another dachshund outside the museum on my way home. My Phinny is always with me!🐾

Thank you again to the phenomenal team, the storytellers, and everyone who came out to support live storytelling and New York history. This is proof that focused passion and strong partnerships can achieve anything!

Below are some photos from the show. Happy Holidays!

creativity

“The Best Storytelling I’ve Ever Seen in NYC”: Why NYC’s Secrets & Lies is Your Perfect Pre-Halloween Night Out

Christa Avampato
http://lies.eventbrite.com

The storytellers of NYC’s Secrets & Lies and I have spent the last month celebrating the secrets hidden beneath New York City—from the quiet wilderness of Central Park to the forgotten history in the street streets. As October deepens, we’re switching our focus from nature’s secrets to something far more chilling: NYC’s infamous ghosts and the secrets they left behind.

The audience feedback from our last event, NYC’s Secrets & Lies – Nature, was absolutely overwhelming. Before we dive into the chilling tales planned for October 28th, we want to prove that this is more than just a show—it’s a truly unforgettable New York experience. If you’ve been on the fence, let our past audience convince you to secure your spot for a night of fright, tricks, and treats!

Why the Show Works

We set out to create compelling, high-caliber storytelling, and the response confirmed it. This show isn’t just reciting history; it’s about crafting a narrative that sticks with you long after you leave The Hidden Jewel Box Theater, a secret theater hidden inside Port Authority Bus Terminal.

Here is a glimpse of what audience members said about the last installment:

🗣️ Testimonial 1: “From the moment I stepped in through the secret door to the moment I left through ANOTHER secret door, this was the best storytelling I’ve ever seen in NYC!”

🗣️ Testimonial 2: “I haven’t been this entertained and educated at the same time in a long time. The perfect New York night out—NYC’s Secrets & Lies is a true hidden gem of the city’s indie arts scene.”

🗣️ Testimonial 3: “A masterclass in stage presence. The performers brought every secret to life and I had no idea which stories were true and which was the lie! I bought tickets for the next show before I left the theater.”

From Nature to Ghosts

Image created by Christa Avampato

The same dedication to research, quality performance, and compelling narrative that wowed the audience last month is now being turned towards the city’s darker corners.

For NYC’s Secrets & Lies – Ghost Stories on Tuesday, October 28th at 8pm, we’re diving deep into the true hauntings and the unsettling history that makes New York one of the spookiest places on earth. Expect to hear real, unsettling stories about:

  • The notorious ghosts of Greenwich Village’s oldest theaters.
  • The dark family secrets buried beneath modern skyscrapers.
  • The lingering spirits tied to a famous Manhattan landmark.

And one big lie! This is an intimate, spine-tingling historical journey just three days before Halloween. Our show is your perfect way to connect with the ghosts of New York’s past. Come early when the doors open at 7:30pm to enjoy some treats, meet the storytellers, and explore The Hidden Jewel Box Theater before it closes and disappears forever!

Space at The Hidden Jewel Box Theater is extremely limited for this one-night-only event. With the clock ticking down to October 28th, tickets are selling fast thanks to the buzz from our last show. Don’t wait to secure your spot!

👉 CLICK HERE TO BUY TICKETS FOR OCTOBER 28TH 👈

http://lies.eventbrite.com

[TICKETS AVAILABLE HERE: http://lies.eventbrite.com]

PS – Keep following our social channels for behind-the-scenes looks at the chilling research for the Ghost Stories show! You can follow me on Instagram and Threads at @christarosenyc and you can follow the show on Instagram at @nycsecretsandlies.

creativity

Living Roman

Christa Avampato
Photo of St. Peter’s through Rome’s Aventine Keyhole by my sister, Maria Avampato Waldrep

Italians have their priorities straight. I had the privilege to be in Rome for a week with my sister. It’s her favorite city and I see why. (Also huge thanks to her for arranging our entire trip and for taking this photo of St. Peter’s through Rome’s Aventine Keyhole with a line of ornery, inpatient teenagers behind her!) It was so fun to see dear friends, Julie and Brian, who were also in Rome. And Julie was one of the people who encouraged me to take this whole trip!

Rome is a thriving, livable city. It feels comfortable and easy. Forgiving. It takes its time because it knows it has time. Weathering thousands of years of history, often brutal and bloody, gives Romans perspective. People don’t rush in a place that’s eternal. They go out late. They linger. They rest.

Art is everywhere. Everything is art – a statue, the way the water runs through a fountain, a twirl of spaghetti, the language, the winding of a road, a sculpted scoop of gelato, a swirl of rich balsamic vinegar in green-tinted, earthy olive oil. A Roman life is a masterpiece that goes on and on.

Only take what you need. Just enough food. Just enough water. Your salad doesn’t need to drown in dressing. Your house doesn’t need to make a statement. Your tiny car is parked sideways to make room for more people traveling via different modes of transport. Take what you need and leave the rest for others. It’s a minimalist life, not a maximalist one, that offers a greater reward – freedom from the weight of physical things and knowing that neighbors have what they need because you didn’t overindulge.

Walk the streets at any time and be entertained, be joyful, be at ease. It’s not about spectacle. It’s just about living every simple, singular moment. That’s all there is. That’s all there needs to be.

There’s fresh spring water from fountains available to everyone all over the city. More hydration, less plastic bottle trash. Laughter and live music provide the soundtrack for the streets. On these days of simple microjoys, I wanted for nothing. Everything I needed was here. In a city of abundance, I found it made me want less because I wasn’t worried about having enough. What a gift.

Now back home in America, I’m going to keep Roman living top of mind and close to my heart. It has much to teach us about living well and sustainably, thriving in hard times, and caring for our neighbors.

creativity

How to make a decision

Christa Avampato
Photo by Chris Czermak on Unsplash

For months I’ve been trying to decide whether or not I was going to go to my University of Cambridge graduation. The day after my foster dog, Dorothy, was adopted, I woke up and something told me, “Just go. Commit to going and figure it out.”

Once I made the decision, a whole wonderful trip came together around it, including a week in Italy with my sister. (More details on the trip soon – flags for hints 🇮🇹🇬🇧🇫🇮🇸🇪)

It all worked out but it required me to make a decision and commit to seeing it through. Nothing would work unless I did. Nothing would move or change unless I moved and changed.

So often we’re in this state of limbo where we just can’t see our way through. We don’t know what to do. When that happens to me, I try to give away my worry. I breathe it out and let the sky take it. I plant my feet into the ground and let the Earth take it. I look out at the sea and let the water take it.

Then I watch where my mind goes when I ask, “What’s the best thing that could happen?” And where my mind goes is the decision I make.

creativity

Scoring Green Goals: Making the 2026 FIFA World Cup in NY/NJ a Model of Sustainability

Christa Avampato
Award-winning artist and NJ native Rich Tu designed the NY/NJ poster intended to “reflect the vibrancy and diversity that define this region.” Image from City of Jersey City Official Government Facebook Page.

The excitement for the 2026 FIFA World Cup is already building, and as New York and New Jersey prepare to host a significant portion of this global spectacle including the final at MetLife Stadium on July 19, 2026, there’s a powerful opportunity to set a new standard for environmentally sustainable mega-events. Large-scale sporting events inherently have a substantial environmental footprint, from carbon emissions due to travel and energy consumption to vast amounts of waste generated. However, by embracing innovative and comprehensive green strategies, the NY/NJ World Cup can truly “score green goals” and leave a lasting positive legacy for our planet.

FIFA has already outlined a sustainability and human rights strategy for the 2026 World Cup, focusing on sustainable infrastructure, mitigating climate impact, reducing air pollution, and promoting water efficiency. Building on this, here’s how New York and New Jersey can lead the way:

1. Transportation Transformation: Moving the Masses Sustainably

  • Prioritize Public Transit: This is perhaps the single most impactful area. With New York and New Jersey’s extensive public transportation networks, a concerted effort to heavily promote and incentivize their use for fans, staff, and athletes is crucial. This includes clear signage, dedicated routes, extended service hours, and potentially even event-specific transit passes.
  • Active Travel Promotion: Encourage walking and cycling to venues where feasible. This means creating safe and accessible pedestrian pathways and ample, secure bike parking facilities.
  • Low-Emission Fleets: For official tournament vehicles, prioritize electric or hybrid vehicles. This extends to shuttle services for teams and VIPs.
  • Efficient Air Travel: Work with airlines to encourage direct flights and optimize routes to reduce emissions from air travel, which is a major contributor to the event’s carbon footprint.

2. Venue Virtuosity: Sustainable Infrastructure and Operations

  • Energy Efficiency and Renewables: Leverage existing stadiums like MetLife Stadium and Red Bull Arena. Implement aggressive energy efficiency measures, such as LED lighting and smart HVAC systems. Explore opportunities for on-site renewable energy generation (solar panels) and ensure all electricity used for the tournament is sourced from renewable energy providers.
  • Waste Not, Want Not: Implement a robust, multi-stream waste management system across all venues and fan zones. This means clearly labeled bins for recycling, composting, and landfill. The goal should be to minimize waste to landfill, focusing on a circular economy approach where materials are reused or recycled. Eliminate Single-Use Plastics: Ban single-use plastic bottles and foodware, encouraging reusable alternatives or offering compostable options. Food Waste Reduction: Partner with local food banks to donate unconsumed food and implement composting programs for food scraps.
  • Water Conservation: Implement water-saving fixtures and practices at venues and associated facilities. Explore rainwater harvesting for irrigation and other non-potable uses.
  • Sustainable Procurement: Prioritize sourcing materials, merchandise, and food from local, ethical, and environmentally responsible suppliers. This reduces transportation emissions and supports the local economy. Consider sustainable building certifications for any necessary temporary structures.

3. Fan and Community Engagement: A Collective Effort

  • Educate and Empower: Use the World Cup platform to raise awareness about environmental issues and promote sustainable practices among fans. This can be done through interactive displays, public service announcements, and engagement campaigns.
  • “Green Team” Volunteers: Recruit and train a dedicated “green team” of volunteers to assist with waste sorting, guide fans on sustainable transportation, and promote eco-friendly behaviors. If you’d like to get involved as a volunteer for the event in any capacity (green or otherwise!), you can sign up now at https://www.fifa.com/en/tournaments/mens/worldcup/canadamexicousa2026/volunteers
  • Local Partnerships: Collaborate with local environmental organizations, community groups, and businesses to implement sustainability initiatives and foster a lasting green legacy beyond the tournament.
  • Carbon Offsetting: While reduction is paramount, for unavoidable emissions, invest in high-quality, verifiable carbon offsetting projects that benefit local communities and ecosystems. However, transparency and accuracy in reporting are crucial to avoid “greenwashing.”

A Lasting Legacy

The 2026 FIFA World Cup offers more than just thrilling matches; it’s a chance for New York and New Jersey to demonstrate global leadership in sustainable event management. By meticulously planning and rigorously implementing these green initiatives, the tournament can inspire future large-scale events and leave a tangible, positive environmental legacy for generations to come. Let’s make the 2026 World Cup a true testament to the power of sport to drive positive change for our planet.

creativity

Nature’s Embrace: Surprising Ways to Travel Sustainably This Summer! ☀️

Christa Avampato
Photo by Luca Bravo on Unsplash

Summer is calling, and with it, the urge to explore! But as nature lovers, we’re always looking for ways to minimize our footprint while maximizing our adventures. Beyond the well-known tips, there are some truly surprising and delightful ways to make your summer travels more sustainable. Get ready to rethink your next getaway!

1. Embrace the “Slow Travel” Revolution (Beyond Just Trains!):

We often hear about taking trains instead of planes, which is fantastic! But “slow travel” can be so much more. This summer, consider:

  • Barge Holidays: Imagine gently gliding along canals in Europe or the UK, powered by electric or hybrid engines. You unpack once, enjoy stunning scenery, and dock in charming villages – all while leaving a minimal carbon footprint. Many offer bike rentals for shore excursions! Google “barge holidays” and you’ll find so many options. Add a location to your search if you fancy traveling to a specific area.
  • Long-Distance Cycling Tours (with luggage transport): Not an ultra-cyclist? No problem! Companies now specialize in multi-day cycling tours where your luggage is transported for you. You get the incredible experience of human-powered travel and the joy of exploring at a leisurely pace, truly connecting with the landscape. Intrepid Travel has many global options, caters to cyclists of all skill levels, and they are a B-Corp with a commitment to sustainability and wildlife welfare. Backroads is another great company with destinations all over the world and in the U.S., and they also have a strong purpose-driven commitment to communities and the environment.
  • River Cruises on Electric/Hybrid Vessels: Look for smaller, eco-conscious river cruise lines that are investing in greener technologies. These offer a unique perspective on landscapes and cultures, often with a focus on local experiences and less mass tourism. Several companies are actively developing and deploying these vessels, with notable examples like A-ROSA Cruises, Viking River Cruises, and Hurtigruten.

2. The Power of the “Micro-Adventure” & Hyper-Local Exploration:

Sustainable travel doesn’t always mean going far. This summer, recharge your personal battery by rediscovering the magic close to home:

  • Backyard Camping (or Glamping!): Transform your own outdoor space into a nature retreat. It eliminates travel emissions entirely and allows you to enjoy the stars, build a campfire (responsibly), and reconnect with nature right outside your door.
  • “Staycations” with a Green Twist: Instead of just staying home, actively seek out eco-friendly businesses, farmers’ markets, and natural areas in your own region. Discover hidden gems, support local sustainable initiatives, and reduce your travel impact significantly.
  • Paddle Power Adventures: Kayaking, canoeing, or stand-up paddleboarding on local lakes, rivers, or coastlines offers an incredible way to experience nature from a new perspective, with zero emissions. Pack a picnic and make a day of it!

3. Rethink Your Accommodation (Beyond Eco-Lodges):

While dedicated eco-lodges are wonderful, there are other creative sustainable options:

  • Farm Stays: Many working farms now offer accommodation, allowing you to connect with the land, learn about sustainable agriculture, and often enjoy farm-to-table meals. It’s an authentic, low-impact way to experience rural life. Farmstay has U.S. locations and Farm Stay Planet has global locations. These are two of many organizations that can help you find this type of accommodation. If you’re interested in spending some time working on an organic farm, check out WWOOF.
  • House Swapping/Sitting: Exchange homes with someone in a different location. This not only saves money on accommodation but also minimizes the environmental impact associated with building and maintaining commercial lodging. Plus, you get to live like a local! HomeExchange is one platform that facilitates home swaps and they’re also a B Corp.
  • Camping (Low-Impact Style): Even traditional camping can be made more sustainable. Choose designated campsites, practice Leave No Trace principles diligently, use reusable cooking gear, and minimize your water and energy consumption. Backcountry’s free online guide is a good place to start to learn about this style of camping.

4. The Art of Packing Light & Smart:

This isn’t just about avoiding baggage fees; it’s about reducing the fuel needed to transport heavier loads.

  • Multi-Purpose Items: Think sarongs that double as towels, blankets, or skirts. Solid shampoo bars that eliminate plastic bottles. Travel-sized, concentrated products.
  • Sustainable Fabrics: Choose clothing made from natural, breathable, and durable fabrics that don’t require frequent washing (e.g., merino wool, hemp, organic cotton).
  • This is a tough one for me so I’m consulting REI’s free online guide with step-by-step tips and starter packing list.

This summer, let’s challenge ourselves to travel not just for leisure, but with intention. By embracing these surprising sustainable travel methods, we can nurture our wanderlust while protecting the very natural world that inspires it. Happy and sustainable travels!

creativity

How I embrace Finland’s nature-based wisdom in Brooklyn

Christa Avampato
Photo of Lake Summanen, Saarijärvi, Finland by Tapio Haaja on Unsplash

In this moment in time, I’m looking for comfort and advice in nature and books. I recently read The Finnish Way: Finding Courage, Wellness, and Happiness Through the Power of Sisu by journalist Katja Pantzar. A Canadian with Finnish heritage, she moved to Finland for work. What she never expected and found is that embracing the Finnish lifestyle would radically transform her mental and physical health. Curious to see if I could adopt these lessons myself in my Brooklyn life, this is what I’ve tried and how it’s going:

Nature heals

Finns spend time outside in all sorts of weather all year long, even when the days are short and cold. They bike to work. They go out of their way to take the scenic route, spending as much time in nature as they can. They take winter swims (or dunks!) in the frigid sea followed by warm and cozy saunas. Cold water dips have been shown to have health benefits: circulation, reduced inflammation, and enhanced mood, along with a possible boost to the immune system. (However, if you have heart issues, please consult a doctor before trying cold water swimming.)

People in Finland put away their technology and embrace being together with others, often outside and in natural settings. They see nature as a generous neighbor. Yes, it takes effort and time, but the benefits far exceed the work and planning required to experience them.

Once Pantzar took on this view of nature, and practices like cold water swims and warm saunas, she noticed her mental and physical health improve. She felt clear-headed and physically stronger. Her gratitude for nature grew. Her relationships flourished.

My take:

I’m fortunate to live close to Prospect Park in Brooklyn. It’s a sprawling green space of over 500 acres. I’ve been trying to get there more often, even when it’s cold, either before or after work or at lunch time. I’ve also been trying to spend time in nature with others, a walking meet up.

I’m about a 20-minute subway ride from the ocean. However, there’s no sauna close by so I’ve not done the cold plunges in the open water. Instead, at the end of my morning shower, I turn the water to cold and try to bear 10 seconds. Though I can’t say I love the cold water, I have found them helpful. From the first time I tried this, I felt a rush afterwards. Something about doing this makes me smile. I feel alert and ready to take on the day.

I also learned that in NYC, we have a few saunas. Brooklyn Bathhouse and Bathhouse Flatiron to name just two.

The beauty of difficulty

Doing things that are difficult carries a certain level of pride and accomplishment. When we realize we can do hard things, our confidence grows. Whether that’s a cold-water swim, a strenuous hike or bike ride, learning a new skill, or simply getting through a long and difficult winter, there is joy to be found in overcoming obstacles and challenges. We don’t need to shy away from something because we’re afraid of failing, nor because we’re complete beginners trying to find out way. We can embrace that, one step at a time.

My take:

I really love being a beginner. I’m always trying to do new things, with varying degrees of success and learning! Whether it’s learning a new language, cooking and baking, in my writing and paper collage work, a new academic pursuit, or new sports, workouts, and physical challenges, I approach things with curiosity. The older I get, the more comfortable I am saying, “I have no idea how to do this but I’m just going to see how it goes.” I’ve especially loved taking on tasks that I initially think are way too difficult for me to do. I like practice. I like seeing progress and improvement, however small. And when I do make it up that mountain, the views are really spectacular.

Food and exercise

When it comes to diet and exercise, Finns take a sensible approach. They eat more vegetables and fruit than anything else. They bake movement and exercise into their everyday routines. And they make it all fun and engaging. Feeding themselves and exercising is not work; they’re essential to their well-being and a source of joy.

My take:

Having been through cancer, I have seen how what I eat and how I exercise can improve my health outcomes. I got through cancer treatment and continue to get through my current medication side effects largely through diet and exercise rather than taking more medications with even more side effects. My medications impact my muscles, joints, mental health, bone health, and everyday life. They’re not a picnic to manage, but I find when I eat well and move more, I feel better, and the side effects are lessened. Being in good physical shape also helps my medications be as effective as possible. Diet and exercise are within my control, and therefore empowering. Though I’m an omnivore, I’m a plant-based eater and I love cooking and baking. I exercise every day. For my health, I gave up alcohol. I’ve never felt better!

Body-mind communication

One of the many things I admire about the Finns is their growth mindset at every age. They understand the connection between their minds and bodies as part of their culture. Reducing stress is a big part of their motivation of how they live their lives.

My take:

In different chapters of my life, I’ve gone back and forth on whether the body influences the mind more than the mind influences the body. Now I see them as truly equal partners. Sometimes, my mind helps my body level up. Other times, embracing physical challenges helps clear and calm my mind. Their partnership makes me whole.

Though I live over 4,000 miles from Finland, this book helped me bring a bit of the Finnish lifestyle to Brooklyn. I’m excited to keep exploring and to see where this all leads.

creativity

Hope is a Renewable Resource

Christa Avampato
https://www.buzzsprout.com/2053590/episodes/16000698

With everything happening in the world now, hope may feel in short supply. I’ve got something that will help. I had the honor of being a guest on the Art Heals All Wounds podcast with host Pam Uzzell. 

During our conversation, I share my journey from growing up on a rural apple farm amidst adversity to becoming a climate advocate. I talk about my passion for reshaping the narratives and storytelling around sustainability and human design, and how my process of healing from cancer in the depths of the pandemic gave me perspective on healing the planet and the collective responsibility we all share for our planet’s future. This echos what the climate scientist, Dr. Michael Mann, calls “channeling dooming into doing.”

I also make the case for kindness (especially in urban settings), the urgency of transitioning to clean energy, and my plans for fostering environmental restoration, rewilding, and community engagement so we grow stronger together. Thank you, Pam, for the opportunity to talk about everything I love.

Listen to our conversation at https://www.buzzsprout.com/2053590/episodes/16000698