In the depths of Costa Rica's jungle, Rara Avis youth hostel still awaits discovery by intrepid backpackers. You might spot capuchin monkeys, hognosed vipers, poison dart frogs or leaf-mimic katydids. A hotspot for bird enthusiasts, Rara Avis includes a butterfly farm, gorgeous waterfalls, smoking volcanoes, and two rustic lodges. Guests can take Dr. Donald Perry's Aerial Rainforest Tram to explore treetop life as well. The Albert B. Lester Memorial Hostel, a sustainable living center in Conway, New Hampshire, is another great find.
Lights are motion-activated compact fluorescents.
Faucets are of the low-flow variety, and bedraggled hikers walk across floor tiles created from recycled airplane windshields. Hostels have always been a great way to save money, especially for penny-pinching students, but now they're becoming a great way to help the Earth, too. All Rights Reserved.