As he stared at Baltimore's Fort McHenry, Francis Scott Key was looking for just one thing - the enormous flag he hoped would still be flying above the ramparts. Today, the American flag is still a symbol of freedom and independence.

Whether you're celebrating at home or on the road, I wish you a happy and safe Independence Day.

Photo © Nancy Parode

Last year, I was in Moncton, New Brunswick on Canada Day. Red and white flags, balloons, hats, shirts and face paint were everywhere. It was a wonderfully festive celebration.

I took this photo at Cape Enrage on Canada's Fundy Coast. I can't wait to get back to this beautiful part of the world.

Happy Canada Day to everyone!

Photo © Nancy Parode

When I visited Mexico's Riviera Maya area, I knew I would be visiting hotels and attractions committed to sustainable tourism. What I didn't know was just how committed some hotel and attraction owners are to the principles of sustainable travel. I saw state-of-the-art air conditioning and water heating systems at a resort that has a desalination plant. I saw a hotel property deliberately built away from the beach so that the mangrove forest, which shelters countless animal species and protects the area from the worst effects of hurricanes, could be preserved. I saw beachfront hotels that rely exclusively on solar, wind and emergency generator power.

Sustainable tourism isn't just about conservation, though. It's also about sustaining and building the prosperity of local communities. On my trip, I met tour guides and staff members who are proud to work for employers who do more than just issue paychecks. I talked with tour guides from the Mayan community who are dedicated to helping their fellow Mayans grow their tourism-related businesses and to showing visitors the Riviera Maya through the eyes of the Mayans themselves.

If this type of travel appeals to you, it's time to learn more about sustainable tourism. Mexico's Riviera Maya is a great place to begin.

Photo © Nancy Parode

Forget Route 66. Traveling by train is enjoyable and relaxing. Best of all, you can take the "A" train - or any other kind of train you like - in countries around the world.

This week's About.com Travel Blog Carnival features rail journeys - 40 of them, no less - you can take. Susan Breslow Sardone, About.com's Guide to Honeymoons and Romantic Travel, has put together a fantastic travel blog carnival for your enjoyment, with contributions from About.com's Travel Guides.

All aboard!

More About: Train Travel | Senior Rail Discounts in North America | Senior Rail Discounts in Europe | Rail Passes for Seniors

Photo © Bianca Meyer