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Traveling responsibly doesn't necessarily mean traveling abroad; being responsible extends to all trips both near and far, and it's our obligation as humans that can traverse any number of ecosystems (leaving our fellow animals behind), to be as kind as possible as we travel.
Take nothing but pictures, leave nothing but footprints- it might be cliche, but it's important for travelers to be mindful of their surroundings when it comes to litter. I watched a documentary about a small Thai town completely inundated with plastic water bottles that had accumulated from tourists! With that in mind, I have compiled a list of suggestions for traveling respectfully and responsibly.
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Tips for responsible travel: Environmental Interactions
Get a reusable water bottle- this includes Nalgene and Camelback; some even come with filters inside, such as the Bobble or Brita (Camelback seems to sell them now, too). Save money on bottles of water, and be kind to the environments you travel though- many countries frequented by backpackers do not have adequate facilities/systems to deal with large amounts of trash and recycling created by travelers.
Get reusable containers, such as tupperware, in addition to utensils. For long-term travelers and backpackers, this helps to cut down on waste, and also helps to protect against food poisoning. In some places, shops will give a discount for having a container.
When possible, travel overland rather than by plane- carbon emissions are a growing concern for the globe, and there's no easier way to help than by choosing buses, trains, ferries, and other low impact means of travel. This includes taking traditional canoe rides (which are an awesome way to travel)!
Avoid experiences that include "rides" on other kinds of animals. Instead, opt for up close experiences that support wildlife, such as interactions (bathing, feeding, petting) at local sanctuaries and nature reserves. Volunteer holidays are becoming more and more popular, and many have single day options for those looking for a more authentic interaction but don't have a week or more to help out.
Buy local produce, preferably at local markets. When possible, avoid buying imported goods, especially food, as it will be more expensive (and probably not as delicious). This helps to support local farmers, or domestic companies, and is also helps to support your wallet while you travel!
Stay in locally owned accommodation that is eco-friendly, whenever possible. This can be difficult in many parts of the world, especially since it can be more expensive than other types of accommodation, but if a traveler can afford it, it's definitely worth considering. When eco-friendly travel is too expensive, locally owned, smaller hotels or home stays tend to have a lower impact.
Choose tour operators that have proven record in animal welfare and protection, and follow their rules when interacting with animals and other wildlife.
If you choose to scuba dive or snorkel (which I highly recommend!), be careful not to damage coral or other marine life, and do not touch or remove wildlife. Observe, take photos, marvel at the under water wold, but refrain from touching or disturbing anything (a good idea, especially given many coral and other animals are venomous!).
Try to limit water consumption; turn water off while scrubbing hands and try to take shorter showers. In other words, try to avoid unnecessary water waste; this is especially important if staying with home stays and tourists generally consume much more water than locals.
Do not, under any circumstance, purchase products that have been made from animal parts and be mindful that in many countries endangered species are poached to produce souvenirs. If you are not sure what something is made from, ask. If it is made from an endangered species, let locals know the reason you are not buying and ask to see something else. Locals often poach in order to make a living, and it is important to support local economies. However, buying local art, handicrafts, woodworking/metal works, or textiles instead, can encourage a more sustainable tourist economy.
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| Kaohsiung Wetland Area, Lotus Pond |
Tips for responsible travel: Human Interactions- Respecting Local Cultures
Once a basic framework for the culture has been grasped, apply it! If the country expects modesty, as almost all Asian countries do, don't strip down and go topless (both men and women!)- I was horrified to see so many nearly naked foreigners in Bangkok (a completely land-locked city). Many countries expect all members of society to be covered at minimum at the knees and shoulders, so keep this in mind and go low impact on your next trip.
Do a little digging- keep abreast of the current news in the country or region you plan to visit. If traveling in the longterm, keep up to date on political issues; this can be a life-saver as travelers often wander into dangerous areas (and sometimes fly directly into riots) because they did not keep up to date on current issues.
Watch a few movies about the culture or history of the region, or watch a movie that was made in the country with subtitles, if necessary. This will help gain insight and give context into the region, and help prepare for potential culture shock.
Learn a few key words and phrases in the local language, included in many guide books. Learning even a few words can really improve interactions with locals- my experience has shown that you can really make someone's day by greeting or thanking someone in their language. Learning a few words can also help to ensure you get what you want and need while traveling- if you have food restrictions or allergies, make sure you learn the appropriate words before you go; it will make life so much easier!
*For people traveling long term, consider laminating a card to keep on your person with your crucial info: Name, Nationality, Medical Alerts, and Emergency Contact (Embassy Info and Personal Info) and have this translated into multiple languages so in an emergency, there are no questions if you need urgent care.
For travelers staying in home stays or visiting more remote areas, consider bringing small gifts for your hosts. These gifts do not have to be expensive or grand, but generally things that relate somehow to the traveller's country of origin are the most coveted. If you make things yourself, consider bringing small crafts you have made- from what I've seen, people love these the most!
Avoid giving candy to children. Most travelers have encountered children that beg for money or sweets, but the reality is that sweets aren't really an acceptable 'replacement' for money. Instead, try traveling with cool pencils or crazy erasers (fun shapes such as food or animals), kids really get a kick out of the erasers and you won't have to worry about giving kids cavities and pain that they won't be able to afford to fix.
Choose tours and groups that have a proven record in supporting the local economy and helps to support the local community. Consider off-beat tourism started by less known groups, such as indigenous populations. I will try to get a working global list of these together as a guide, but it could be some time before it gets published. In the meantime, look around and do some homework. The communities you are visiting will be better off for it!
If you're traveling to more remote locations and want to give photos as souvenirs, consider a small hand-held printer, such as Polaroid's Mobile Printer, which are light and fast, and provide great little gifts for people to remember you by. If you don't bring a mini-printer and promise to send photos, make sure you do it when you get back (even if it means writing notes to yourself).
Strive for meaningful interaction with locals every time; make people and communities a part of your trip!
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