How to Have a Sustainable European Summer, Wherever You Are

 
 

This article was contributed by a member of our beloved Sustainable Baddie community. Sustainable Baddie exists in part to share perspectives outside of our own and to present a rich array of diverse voices. The opinions presented are those of the guest contributor and do not necessarily reflect or represent Sustainable Baddie’s voice, tone, and point of view. 


Aquamarine seas, blooming bougainvillea, winding cobblestone alleys filled with sunshine. The aesthetic of Europe in the summer is a well-known and captivating one. It’s no wonder Europe is such a sought-after summer vacation destination. 

Whether you travel with your body or in your mind this summer, European vibes can be just what you need to get you excited for the season, even if you won't get to spend it on a terrace in Positano. 

After all, a little "staycation" is a fantastic opportunity to relax and explore your area and also a more sustainable way of vacationing. This form of traveling comes with the benefits of a holiday but without the carbon footprint of long-distance travel and the extra waste that can be harder to avoid when far from home. 

So, we created the perfect cocktail of susty, fun activities to enjoy moments of a slow, relaxing European summer right where you are. 

Enjoy a glass of conscious wine (or beer) 

 
 

There are many different European countries, all with their unique culture, languages, and history. But if there is a way to group them regionally properly is by alcohol preferences. (That's right; there is a "wine Europe" "beer Europe" and" vodka Europe.")  


Alcoholic beverages are an integral part of the history of countless European regions, and their production goes way back in time, with even European medieval monks making their spirits.   

Enjoying European spirits might be the easiest way to add a European flair to your staycation and get into a relaxed, vacation-like mood. 

To make your drink susty as well, here are a few certifications that can guide you in your choice:   

Try out a traditional European dish with seasonal ingredients

 
 

Now that you picked your drink, it's time to focus on the food. That's because, in much of Europe,  people consume alcohol mostly during lunch or dinner, preferably in good company. 

We all know that there's nothing better than some good food to release some of that good old dopamine, and by picking recipes with seasonal ingredients, you can make your Europe-inspired meal more sustainable and summery.     

Here is your checklist for a European-themed dinner party or (solo date):

  • Pick a European country; you have plenty of options. From sunny Portugal to mountainous Switzerland.    

  • Look up traditional recipes like the Italian pasta e fagioli and caponata 

  • Choose some with ingredients that are in season in your area. Since it’s summertime, warm-season classics like tomatoes and cucumbers are a safe bet

  • Choose some music from your country of choice. Anything from 20th-century icons like ABBA and Raffaella Carrà to contemporary artists like Gustaph and Ariete 

  • Enjoy the whole thing with your European drink like limoncello or sangria

   

From fika to aperitivo - have a treat outdoors with your friends 

 
 

In addition to breakfast, lunch, and dinner, people enjoy one or more communal light meals in many areas of Europe between the main ones. 

Some have proper names, like the Swedish fika, and the Italian aperitivo, and are consumed at specific times, while others are more informal but still culturally relevant. Did you even visit Naples if you didn’t have a caffettino after 5 pm? Some might say not. 

These rituals are perfect for a European summer staycation because you can take them outdoors and enjoy them with friends. So if you have ever dreamed of going on a European trip with your besties, this is a great and more eco-conscious (and budget-friendly) way to enjoy some of those vibes. 

If you need any help with that, here is a little guide: 

  • Pick an outdoor spot with plenty of sunshine. City dwellers can gather at a friend’s rooftop, terrace, or public park. If you live in the suburbs, a backyard will do. Our countryside readers have plenty of options: forests, beaches, fields, anything goes!    

  • Choose a European light meal as your theme like the afternoon tea or the merienda 

  • Have each of your friends bring something that matches the theme 

  • To make this more susty, use reusable cutlery and plates if possible 

Be a tourist in your own area 

 
 

One of the best parts of vacationing is having the time to explore and see new places—excellent ways to make memories and get out of your head. 

Thanks to the short distances and high-speed rails, in Europe, it is easier to do a lot of sightseeing and exploring in a short stay or without going too far from home. While not all get to live in an area with a lot of new exciting events going on at all times and lovely sights, there might still be something worthwhile near you that has escaped your notice. 

These are some tips to find cool places and activities in your area: 

Plan (and wear) vacation outfits with the clothes you already own 

If you're a fashionista or type A, planning your vacation outfits is likely one of your favorite parts of the tip. Luckily, you don't need to go on an actual vacation to have some fun with vacation fashion.  

We all know that sustainable baddies love to #ReWearThat, so your "European" staycation can be an occasion to create new, fun summer looks with clothes you already have. 

Here are some tips for creating your susty Europe-themed staycation outfits:


Get some Europe-themed reading done through your local library 

 
 

With thousands of years of history, European cities give tourists plenty of opportunities to learn about their history, art, and culture in a fun and intuitive way that conjugates relaxation and learning. 

Whether you're a nonfiction or literary fiction lover, reading books set in Europe or about Europe through your local library can be a way to spice up your TBR, travel with your imagination, and support libraries. 

If you don't have a library near you, check out these libraries that offer out-of-state cards:


Roberta Fabbrocino is a journalist who covers culture and the environment. Her work has been published by several international publications such as Lampoon Magazine, LifeGate, SUSTAIN, and Luxiders Magazine. Find her on Instagram @naturallybree.

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