SUGGESTIONS FOR THE VISITOR
The challenge
of ecotourism lies in balancing multiple factors in deciding
how eco one wishes to travel.
The Web makes it easier than ever to find eco-friendly, people-friendly
places. If you are looking for local guides and recommended operations,
consult our World
Travel Directory.
If you have an idea of where you would like to go or what you'd
like to do, your journey begins with the information quest. If you
want to find out specific details about a specific operator or destination,
post queries in relevant forums.
Look at photos online
Flickr.
Buy a guidebook
or travel app. Ask friends and family for their suggestions.
THINGS YOU CAN DO
Once you arrive, here are a few things visitors can do:
BE GENEROUS - Once you have decided where you are traveling,
contact locals and ask what they would like. This is a variation
of the Platinum
Rule (Do unto others as they would like to have you do unto them).
BE NEIGHBORLY AND RESPECT THE LOCAL ECONOMY - In a small
town being neighborly is essential and every local job is vital.
RECYCLE DEAD TREES - Global understanding could vastly be
improved if we took (and left) better books
on our trips! Recycle those dead trees! If you have academic leanings,
before you go do some research and find out if the local libraries
can use more technical materials and take them something they can
use.
PICK UP THE TRASH - Actions speak louder than words. If
you are concerned about the environment, show that you care by picking
up trash and never throwing anything of yours on the ground. As
the adage goes, 'pack it in, pack it out.'
LEARN THE LANGUAGE - Learn and use a few words starting
with 'hello' and 'thank you.' If you have the time, take a language
class. For example - there are some great Spanish
language schools in Latin America and Spain.
BE RESPECTFUL OF PEOPLE'S PRIVACY - Some people do not wish
to be visited. In rural communities, wait until you are invited
to approach homes or groups of people.
TAKE PICTURES - Check out the guidelines for Responsible
Travel Photography. During or after your trip, send photos to
those you've taken a picture.
BE RESPECTFUL OF RESTRICTIONS - Some communities may be
closed to visitors. Natural attractions might be off limits for
cultural or environmental reasons. When in doubt of whether or not
to proceed, ask first.
BE RESPECTFUL OF INDIGENOUS PEOPLE - Traditional land owners
should be acknowledged. Indigenous
people working in tourism take their role of welcoming visitors
very seriously. Recognize their connection to the land and you'll
learn to see their heritage with different eyes.
BUY LOCAL CRAFTS - If you are looking for a gift or a souvenir,
patronize the arts and demonstrate your support for local culture.
Buying from a local artisan can cut out 40 steps in the traditional
export chain. Planeta.com's Tourism
and Crafts Guide explains the details. What not to buy? Items
made from endangered animals or pirated archaeological treasures.
TAKE PICTURES - Check out the guidelines for Responsible
Travel Photography. During or after your trip, send photos to
those you've taken a picture.
BUY POSTCARDS - Seek out postcards
shot by local or resident artists and photographers.
VOLUNTEER OR CONTRIBUTE TO A LOCAL CHARITY - Ask around
and find out which social or environmental efforts can use your
time or a financial contribution. Again,
be generous! |
