The New York Times has a report on a hotel, the Old Bangkok Inn in Bangkok (Thailand) that promotes eco-travel in a different yet subtle way. The 8 room hostelry encourages guests to skirt taxis for a motorized version of a gondola that traverses the city's narrow canals with an inter-modal link on to its SkyTrain, Bangkok's mass transit system.

The Times report notes how "steering guests away from gas-guzzling taxis and toward alternative forms of transport is just one way the Old Bangkok Inn is actively distinguishing itself as an urban "green" hotel — one of the increasing number of places that are adopting that strategy". That's an eco-approach that the Big Apple's (as well as other similarly situated cities) hotels may find worthy of emulating.

New York has its very own Water Taxi company which promotes itself as "The best way to see New York! Our boats provide regular service between 12 stops at the city's hottest neighborhoods and attractions. Water Taxis are fast and fun, so you'll see more sights in less time and enjoy a stress-free, breezy ride".

With "hop-on, hop-off" service (during the season), the water-taxi with its bright yellow coloring and checkerboard stripes not only serves commuters but also tourists looking for spectacular perspectives of the city as well as those seeking an off-the-beaten-track experience.

Vijay is Chief Operating Officer and part-founder of Apple Core Hotels- a chain of 5 midtown Manhattan hotels offering value and comfort in the heart of the city.Member of the board of Directors - Hotel Association of New York.  www.vijaydandapani.com