Many times the smartest way to access information, goods and services is by taking no trip at all. Online shopping and banking, long distance learning, videoconferencing and social networking make physically transporting yourself from point A to point B a travel option, but not always a requirement.

You can still think, shop and act locally — online!

Many of your favorite local business establishments offer online ways to do business with them. Say for example, you need to get some photographs printed for a display you are putting together at work. Instead of making a car trip to drop off the job, you can order the prints you need, upload the images, pay for the job, and add your special instsructions all online. Even though the print shop is just down the street, you avoided one complete round trip to order the job simply by placing your order online. When your order is complete, you can arrange to have the job delivered or pick it up at the local shop.

Hate to arrive late to a meeting or appointment?

Consider joining the meeting by calling or videoconferencing in and reap the savings of time and cost by not traveling to the meeting. By checking out the traffic conditions on the Cruz511 map before you embark, you might see that traffic is too heavy to arrive on time and opt to participate remotely. (Of course certain appointments such as doctor or dentist visits can only be done in person!)