Holidaying without Air Travel
If you want to go on holiday, but you want to do it without causing environmental harm, then you might already be reconsidering your habit of taking to the skies. Aviation is a major driver of greenhouse gas emissions. What’s more, it creates other environmental harms, because of the altitude at which the emissions are made.
Fortunately, it’s possible to enjoy a fulfilling holiday without having to set foot inside an airport. Let’s consider a few options for those looking for a no-fly holiday.
Cruise Adventures from the UK
There are many different kinds of cruise on offer. Some of them amount to an extended stay in a floating hotel, with the ship boasting a host of world-class features, like restaurants, swimming pools, and gyms. For others, the appeal comes from the stops along the way – if you want to see the Mediterranean, for example, a cruise ship that stops at a different port every night might be just the way to do it.
What makes this form of holiday particularly compelling for environmentally-conscious travellers is the fact that so many of them depart from the UK. Cruises from Southampton are departing throughout the year, making this a convenient option as well as a green one.
The Joys of Rail Travel
One of the major advantages of travelling to Europe is that the continent is criss-crossed by a well-developed, mature rail network. If you want to travel between major European cities, like Brussels, Paris, and Amsterdam, then the chances are good that you can find a suitable train. At its best, a train-based holiday provides not just a means of getting from one place to the next, but an experience, too. You might spend a few hours relaxing in a train carriage, while taking in the view of the evolving landscape beyond the window.
Ferry Adventures to Nearby Destinations
You can reach many amazing destinations via ferry. These include not just mainland Europe, but less popular islands like those in the Channel Islands, the Isle of Wight, or the Hebrides. Ferries might allow you the luxury of driving around a destination in your own vehicle – which can be perfect if you’re staying on an island that lacks good public transport.
Adventure on Your Doorstep
Of course, it’s possible to enjoy a memorable holiday without leaving the UK. There are sweeping, spectacular routes to be found in every corner of the country, from the Highlands of Scotland to the rugged coastline of Cornwall. You might plot a road trip through a scenic part of the country, and enjoy the flexibility that comes with bringing your own transport.

