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Email to a FriendResponsible Travel
Travel and volunteering abroad should help people better understand their place in nature, not just as beings affected by it but as agents of change. The reason many of us travel is to understand how different communities interact with their natural environment and in the process, see how economic, cultural and social forces combine to shape this interaction.
Responsible travel is about conserving the world's natural culture and heritage. We need to travel with our eyes and ears open and be aware of the impacts, negative or positive, of our journeys around the globe.
Here are a few tips for how you can become a responsible tourist:
- It's difficult when travelling to these far off destinations to avoid flying and it's also difficult to avoid hearing the news that air travel is the fastest-growing source of CO2 emissions. You can invest in sustainable development by offsetting your carbon emissions with organisations like ClimateCare who invest in projects that prevent or remove the equivalent levels of carbon from the atmosphere, for example by planting trees. Some conservation organisations also run projects specifically designed to target the negative effects of CO2 emissions.
- Wherever possible, try and use alternative forms of transportation, from dhows to zebu carts. It might not be the most comfortable but local transport lets you see so much more of the country and can be an experience in itself. Book your transport locally so that the money contributes to the local economy.
- Book all your trips and excursions with local tour companies- this will make sure the money goes back into the local economy but also, who better to show you around their back garden than a local?
- Many of the countries you're likely to visit get most of their income from tourism. Buying your food and souvenirs from local markets and stores ensures the money goes to its producers, not to some foreign company. Staying local also encourages more cultural exchange and even the chance to practice your language skills- which is what you wanted from your trip in the first place! The key is to keep it local. Your host country loves having you there so pay them back by shopping at their stores, not spending your money at the McDonalds.
- Travel is about experiencing foreign customs, not changing them. It's important to be tolerant of your host country's traditions and way of life, not judgemental. But this does not mean you can't make a difference while you're there. Taking the opportunity to volunteer abroad enables the volunteer to make a tangible contribution to the lives of the communities they visit, whether they are involved in sustainable community development projects, teaching and care of children, health care, and the conservation of wildlife in countries that are rich in biodiversity.
- Ask before taking photographs of people, rituals or sacred buildings. If someone seems reluctant to have their picture taken, don't take it! With children, ask their parents if it's alright to take a photograph. Cameras aren't as prevalent in more rural societies so the chances are your impromptu photoshoots will be an exciting novelty and people will be happy to take part- but still check first. Also be wary of eager participants who will later ask for money in exchange for you taking a photograph.
- Try and learn a few words in the local language, people will respect you for it. You could even use your language skills to get more involved with your community- get yourself a local teacher and you could set up a language exchange- a few words of Swahili for a few words of English!
- Be aware of religious and cultural considerations. See what other people wear and dress accordingly. Little details like this not only help you feel more comfortable but make a good impression on the local community.
- Always treat people with the utmost respect. Watch your language- people might not always speak English but if they do, they'll probably recognise swear words. You are a guest in their country so act accordingly and appreciate their hospitality, don't be rude or unfriendly even if you don't agree with their actions.
- While you are away, keep up to date with local events in the local newspapers and radio stations. It's a great way to practice your language skills and get more involved with your host community.