It's great going off the beaten track when you're planning a holiday, but many of us worry that we're having a detrimental impact on the remote communities that we visit.
There are of course up-sides to your visit for the local community in the form of economic benefits, but make sure you balance your impact with the benefits you bring. These 10 tips from Gap Adventures should help.
1. Do some research into the country you are visiting, and respect local customs and traditions. Check what behaviour is acceptable and what isn't. For instance, when entering temples in Asia wear long trousers or skirts and keep shoulders covered. Learning a few words in the local language can go a long way and is appreciated by the local people. It also makes your interactions more meaningful and memorable.
2. Mind your manners: Always ask permission to take photos of people and respect their wishes if they refuse. If you do take a photo, offer to send copies back to them and make sure to follow through with your promise.
3. Take appropriate gifts: A simple way of having an impact on many people's lives is to bring practical gifts for individuals, a school or community that can bring long-term enjoyment. For example, books, pencils or durable sporting equipment. If you opt for gifts such as balls, don't forget to bring a pump too so they can be enjoyed for longer. Choose presents that are not easily available, mixed with locally bought presents that support the economy.
4. Reduce waste: Recycling is extremely limited or non-existent in most developing countries, so avoid products with excess packaging, and remember to choose drinks in glass bottles, as they tend to be re-used. A big way to reduce waste is to bring a reusable water bottle with you, filling it whenever possible. By carrying water purification tablets, you can further reduce waste from disposable plastic bottles.
5. Don't dump batteries: Batteries are incredibly toxic. Many communities do not have proper hazardous materials disposal facilities, so if you use batteries take them home with you for proper disposal. If possible, use rechargeable batteries - but make sure you take a battery charger and plug adapter.
6. Choose eco products: Taking products such as biodegradable shampoo can make a big difference when visiting parts of the world that have fragile water systems. Such products should be easily available from your local camping or outdoor shops or online. Also, remember if you brush your teeth outdoors, try to stay at least 50m away from waterways.
7. Keep to the trail: Straying from the trail while hiking can contribute to erosion and harm the environment. Keeping on designated trails and paths is an easy and critically important way you can help to preserve the local ecology for future generations. Remember the timeless traveller's mantra: take only pictures, and leave only footprints.
8. Watch what souvenirs you buy: Do not buy products that exploit wildlife, aid in habitat destruction, or come from endangered or protected species. If you are unsure if a product meets international criteria, consider purchasing other products.
9. Think small: When booking your travel, look for small-scale or locally-owned lodging, and use local and public transportation. While you are away, try to support locally-owned businesses, and where possible, incorporate community-based ecotourism projects into tours. There are many ways you can 'give back' to the people and the places you visit.
10. Look for sustainable suppliers: Booking your trip with companies that support sustainable tourism means you can be secure in the knowledge that the activities planned are designed to support and even benefit the local communities.
Gap Adventures is a leader in sustainable travel and is dedicated to offering low impact tours, which benefit the community as well as the traveller.
