For the last few decades traveling abroad has become more and more popular due to significant alters in the migration systems of many countries. People have much more possibilities for studying, traveling, working abroad. This fact itself makes people think of the ways how to be a conscious-minded traveler.
But what does it mean to be a responsible traveler, anyway?
Long story short, traveling responsibly is nothing but having a strong awareness about the effect that a single traveler has on tourism destinations and cultures around the world- It can be either positive or negative, depending on the traveling habits of individuals. It’s also about considering your impact which of the travel providers you select, and taking responsibility for ensuring that each facet of your travels, from the transport you are taking, the places you stay, the way you interact, and therefore the companies and governments you support, are as sustainable as possible.
Here were are suggesting you several tips you should consider to be a sustainable traveler:
#1 Respect Locals People and Culture
You must remember that the world is so different from other people’s perspectives and even more different for people with different cultures and lifestyles. But simply because something is different, doesn’t necessarily mean that it’s wrong or your way is healthier. It’s a perk of traveling to discover something new and appreciate it as well! Most importantly, mind it that treat locals the way you would wish to be treated as being a guest, simply, “try to walk in their shoes”. At least try it!
#2 Plan Your Trip Responsibly
More folks are jetting off to explore the planet beyond our borders than ever before, which may be a superb thing. The way we are intimate, however, is extremely important, as it’s estimated a replacement 56,000 new passenger aircraft will embark within the next 25 years to fulfill demand, greatly increasing the travel footprint. You can help minimize this by planning your route responsibly. If you’re traveling around a continent, group destinations that are closer together, instead of sticking on flights that you just might think fit your schedule better. Take locally run ground transport between close destinations instead of flying, and ask locals for advice on the way to get between places, trust me, they know it better than you!
#3 Animal Welfare is what matters!
You, as a traveler, see animals in different regions as well that is true that they are a part of your traveling experience, but you must not forget that riding elephants is neither good nor natural and kind for them! The training required for the animals to do all the stuff they are doing is brutal, and paying money for it is nothing but irresponsible and “don’t care attitude” towards wildlife. Instead, we recommend a ‘look but don’t touch’ approach to wildlife, go search for the companies who have those animals in sanctuaries which are so close to the natural habitat of those animals.
#4 People Choose Peace!
The International Institute for Peace Through Tourism, which was founded in 1988, aims to push tourism because of the world’s first global peace industry. The IIPT has established and fosters various tourism initiatives which contribute to international understanding, collaboration, protect the environment and biodiversity, sustainable development and preserve heritage. As a traveler, you’re encouraged to be an envoy for peace to assist reduce poverty for a more peaceful and sustainable world.
#5 Ethical Photography
Taking photos while traveling is a thing that most travelers do. It’s a great way to keep your memories fresh and go back to them any time you want. It seems that we sometimes forget about photography etiquette as soon as we step out of our country. Responsible photography is all about placing yourself into other people’s position, whether you would be happy if someone took a picture of you without your permission. Have you ever thought of if the photography is culturally accepted in a particular place of your visit?
Making it a two-way interaction isn’t only important to us, it generally ends up in a much more comfortable and engaged photograph. Plus you may even get a rare insight into something you wouldn’t have experienced otherwise!