Responsible Travel

Responsible travel is all about making sure that the impact you have on the countries you visit is as positive as possible - supporting the old adage "take only photographs... leave only footprints". Here are some ideas from us about ways that you can travel responsibly:

  • Before you leave home learn as much as possible about the religion and culture of the places you will be visiting.
  • Make the effort to learn some simple greetings and pleasantries in the local language. Don't be embarassed to use it - local people will always appreciate the effort you have gone to try to communicate with them.
  • Support locally owned businesses, hotels, restaurants and other services. Eat local food and drink local brands.
  • If you think a business promotes cruelty to animals or exploits child labour, don't go there.
  • Support traditional artists and buy local products whenever possible
  • Bargain respectfully - while bargaining is acceptable in many countries (especially Turkey) - don't try to get a bargain at the cost of the seller. A small amount of money to you could be a significant amount of money to the seller.
  • Use your guide book to research a destination but then leave it in your hotel room. You will learn far more by asking questions of, and interacting with the locals.
  • Make sure that you dress in a respectful manner and in line with local standards. At religious sites (e.g. mosques in Turkey) check any special dress requirements. For women, as a guide, it is usually a good idea to make sure that your shoulders are covered and that your trousers or skirt reaches at least your knees. It's a good idea to pack a silk scarf that can be used to cover your hair when visiting mosques.
  • Always ask for permission before you take a photograph of a local person. Don't forget to send a copy of the photo wherever possible.
  • Make sure you understand local laws - what might be acceptable behaviour in your country could face serious penalties in another country.
  • Think twice before you give money to beggars and children - this is generally not a constructive way to support the community
  • Remember that different countries are at different stages of development and that different cultures have different ways of thinking (e.g. in terms of concepts about time) and so things that we take for granted at home may not be readily available in other countries. Think twice about complaining or comparing a situation to home.
  • Be aware of the impact you are having on the local environment. Don't drop rubbish or cigarette butts (an old film container makes a great travel ashtray) and take a fold-up plastic bag alternative.
  • Ask your tour guide if there are any local environmental or social development projects that you can support.
  • Don't catch taxis or take public transport if you can hire a bike or walk.
Remember that responsible travel will not only ensure that you have a positive impact on the local environment and culture - you will have a much richer travel experience - the difference between being a traveller and a tourist.