I don’t blame you for hating me for enjoying many mojitos at the Mandarin Oriental in Miami. The stay was pure luxury; the weather, a winter dream…

In between Mojito sips, I did charge a few brain cells to read about the hotel’s green initiatives (low flow water systems; a rigorous recycling program) and a sweet Miami Everglades package they offer in partnership with the World Heritage Alliance and Everglades National Park. This package includes a day trip to the park where guests get a special tour and can participate in “voluntourism” activities such as tree planting, recycling projects, and weeding out exotic plants.

I learned about it too late, but next time I’m yearning for the Miami heat, I’m taking this green opportunity.