Larizah on Location: Sustainability and Intentional Travel
Traveling with Intention in Madrid and Beyond
Studying abroad has already taught me so much about being adaptable, but one lesson I didn’t expect to reflect on is sustainability! The idea of how I move through the world, and the impact I leave behind has been something important for me to understand while being abroad.
Living in Madrid has made sustainable living feel more natural and accessible in ways I hadn’t experienced before. From walking almost everywhere to relying on public transportation, I’ve realized that everyday choices can make a meaningful difference. The pace and structure of life here encourages me to be more mindful, and I’ve found myself embracing that shift.
One of the biggest ways I’ve been practicing sustainability abroad is through how I travel. It can be tempting to take quick flights every weekend to check off as many destinations as possible, but I’ve been trying to approach travel more intentionally. Instead of rushing from place to place, I’m prioritizing fewer trips and spending more time truly getting to know each destination. Taking trains or buses instead of flights when possible has not only reduced my environmental impact but also allowed me to see more of the landscape and experience the journey like a road trip!
I’ve also been more conscious of supporting local businesses when I travel! I like to do this by choosing a family-owned café, shopping at local markets, or booking experiences led by residents. These decisions help contribute to the local economy in a more meaningful way. It turns travel into a way to connect with their culture, versus just sightseeing.
Back in Madrid, sustainability shows up in my daily routine as well! I’ve gotten used to carrying a reusable bag for my groceries, being mindful of food waste, and adjusting to cultural norms like smaller portion sizes and more frequent shopping trips. I’ve also become a huge fan of Madrid’s public metro and bus system. Many buses, especially on busy streets such as the Paseo del Prado, have Zero Carbon Emissions which lessens the impact on the environment while maintaining the business from tourists. These habits felt unfamiliar at first, but over time, they’ve become second nature for me and my classmates.
Sustainability abroad becomes a matter of being aware of your impact. It’s about asking yourself how you can engage with a place respectfully and responsibly! Studying abroad is a privilege, and with that comes the opportunity to be intentional about how we experience the world. As I continue this journey, I’m learning that sustainability is a mindset that strengthens global citizenship—one that I hope to carry with me long after my time abroad has ended!
You can keep track of all of my adventures on the Larizah on Location webpage!