Polar Explorer Eric Larsen
Economy Car
a blizzard
14 December 2007 | Aspen, Colorado
Driving in Colorado last week, I began to question one of my travel norms: economy car rental. If I have to rent a car, I always opt for small economy car. Usually, the rental representative will try to push me into something bigger and cushier, but I politely refuse.

Sure I have to roll down the window, unlock each door manually and worry about potential blow outs in doughnut-sized tires, but seriously, you can't beat the gas mileage.

Let's face it we all travel, drive cars and consume fossil fuels. There is no question about that. However, the little choices we make can have a positive impact on the environment - from more fuel efficient cars to carbon offsets to renewable energy.

I began to question my automobile choice right around the 10,000 foot mark (above sea level that is), a bit below Vail Pass, on I-70. It was late at night and blizzard conditions. I could barely even see the road. Yet, somehow I inched my way toward Aspen and the Sky Hotel for an event organized by my PR firm Scream Agency.

The Sky Hotel and the party hosted there were unbelievable to say the least. I managed to rub elbows with all sorts of interesting and amazing people. Check out the great NEVE hats we are wearing in the above picture. On my left is owner and founder of NEVE Designs, Rhonda Swenson. On my right, is Scream Agency's founder, Lora Lederman.

While in Aspen I also had the chance to meet with Save the Poles - Everest team member Aron Ralston. Aron is one of the nicest guys you'll ever meet. We discussed philosophies and some of the nuts and bolts of organizing an expedition to the summit of Everest. In the end, we decided it would be best if Aron were to assemble the team around our summit bid.

Driving back over Vail pass the next day in another blizzard, I smiled as SUV's, sports cars and trucks all floundered. Meanwhile, my little rental car that could motored steadily and safely forward.

I was only one hour late to my meeting at Sierra Designs.
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