We are sure you have heard about sustainability in tourism. You might even be an enthusiast responsible traveler, or maybe you just wonder what it is about! We would like to give you 5 easy steps to make your travel sustainable and responsible: just 5 actions you can take with little effort that will transform the lives of the communities you visit, and will greatly benefit the environment!
1. Eco-tourism is, by definition, an active type of tourism: include visits to national parks and natural areas, with local guides. Spending time in nature will boost your energy and the guide´s educated eye will find so many different details that you wouldn’t see on your own. Remember, enjoy without destroying or interfering: just watch! Or as the popular saying goes, take only pictures and leave only footprints.
Visit a natural park
2. You probably do this at home, and you should not stop when you travel. Minimize your waste: reuse and recycle every time! Never leave the trash behind you, especially if you are visiting natural areas. Make sure you properly dispose the trash you generate. Bring your own bottle to refill with water, eat in restaurants and avoid the extra packaging of the ‘to-go’ food, avoid using straws to drink, come up with your own ideas to make a positive contribution!
3. Support the local business when you travel: buy their products, try their food, learn their culture! By trying the local food and beverages, your trip will become more authentic! In the end, tourism is a great opportunity to channel your spending in the most responsible way: as much as you can, buy locally made goods and hire local services.
Hire a local guide
4. Make sure that the company you hire to plan your vacation is really “eco driven” and committed to nature preservation and to benefit as many local actors as possible. When you hire a responsible travel company, they will become your partner, making your trip sustainable and you won’t even notice.
5. Make an educational experience out of your travels: don’t assume locals speak your language: learn and speak as much of their language as possible to interact with local communities. Engage with local communities as much as possible to learn about their culture and history, share yours being respectful and polite at all times. Always share stories with each other!
Share stories
Finally, tell this to your friends: if you like it, preach it! Being responsible in your travels is easy and fun!
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