Green Travel: Gaia Shasta Hotel and Spa

I recently found myself needing a place to stay in the Redding, CA area, one of my least favorite places in the world, and was dreading the night. I searched on my phone for hotel rates using the Kayak app and was pleased to discover the Gaia Shasta Hotel and Spa located in Anderson. I've known about this hotel for awhile, but as it is about ten miles from Redding, if was off my radar of options in my mental search. Not only was my experience at the Gaia extremely pleasant, it was $40 cheaper a night than comparable three star hotels in the area.

We tread lightly at Gaia Shasta Hotel. Our progressive approach to environmental sustainability pairs beautifully with our beautifully appointed guestrooms and suites. Carpet and bathroom tiles are made from recycled materials. Luxurious linens and towels are made of high-quality, long lasting fibers. Solar power helps conserve energy. Recycle bins cut down on landfill waste. Large windows invite natural light while providing amazing views of the outdoors.

The rooms are comfortably large, and the restaurant was very good, although there were only a couple vegetarian options on the menu. The lobby features displays of current power and water usage, and a pedal powered surrey is available to rent, although I don't know where you would go on it. There were swans nesting in the hallways with warning signs they could be aggressive. The bathroom featured bulk shampoo, conditioner, and soap, as well as dual flush toilets. The tubular skylight in the bathroom was a great touch for morning light. Recycling bins were in the rooms and hallways.

There were a few things I did find disappointing about the Gaia, but compared to a normal hotel, I can't really complain. The vending machines were full of classic junk food. I would expect a green hotel to feature healthy food and drink choices. Although I was very pleased the windows actually opened, my room faced I-5, so the noise was too much to let in the fresh air all night. I also would have expected organic sheets and towels, as well as coffee (it was fair trade) in the rooms of a green hotel.

I've seen this hotel pop up before in searches for Bay Area accommodations, but it is really far from all the hub bub. It's location is a bit odd, as it is over an hour to Mt. Shasta, but if you need to stay in the Redding area, this is the place! The Gaia made my difficult journey to Redding much more pleasant!

May 9, 2011

Green Travel: Gaia Shasta Hotel and Spa