Tips for being a responsible tourist

Already in the 80s, critical voices began to emerge with the direction that the development tourist. Fortunately for the planet and for all of us who live on it, other forms of tourism have gained visibility in recent years. In fact, responsible tourism is increasingly fashionable, which is carried out taking into account principles of social and economic justice and being respectful of local cultures and the environment.

If you also want to be a responsible tourist, we recommend that you do not miss anything that we tell you below, since today we are going to talk about the second edition of the Vademecum of the Responsible Tourist, a series of councils proposed to us by the Spanish Center for Responsible Tourism (CETR), an initiative of KOAN Consulting and Rutas PANGEA that was born with the aim of welcoming projects, initiatives and professionals in responsible tourism from all over the planet. Would you like to discover the recommendations of the CETR? Well, be very attentive!

Before

The process of being a responsible tourist begins long before you start your journey. Thus, if you are planning your vacation to another country, it is essential that you first seek as much information as possible about the destination you plan to visit. So you should inform you about the history of the place, its culture, its economy, its religion, its gastronomy and its natural spaces. It is even a good idea for you to learn friendly expressions in the local language. In addition, it is recommended to choose tour operators, hotels and companies that are committed with the environment and with host communities.

During

Logically, most of the advice proposed to us by the CETR has to do with the trip itself. Thus, they recommend taking advantage of the holidays to get to know a different culture, which means that you will have to adapt to their customs, without imposing your lifestyle or habits. In addition, you should have fun trying the gastronomy local. At first it may cost you, but soon you will discover that it is the best way to enjoy a trip. Of course, you must respect the rules of the place, without showing haughty or offensive behavior. In this regard, it is important to inquire about local tip practice. Also, they recommend not giving alms.

Another of the CETR's recommendations to be a responsible tourist is to wear suitable clothes and not too flashy. This is a piece of advice that you should keep in mind in places of worship. Of course, you should not have wealth and luxury, especially if the local standard of living differs greatly from yours. On the other hand, it is important to support cultural manifestations and crafts local, always taking into account the practice and limits of haggling; and that you use the services managed by the local population, especially transport and reception structures. In addition, it is essential that you travel without prior prejudice or stereotypes.

Of course, you should not leave marks of your passage through the chosen destination, which means that you will not have to take things from natural and archaeological spaces, buy products made with endangered species, throw waste on the ground or do graffiti. Nor should you disturb plants or animals or, logically, harm their environment. And if you want to visit the protected areas, try to do it in small groups and with expert and local guides. In addition, during your trip you should also be careful to turn off the air conditioning, lights and taps when you leave the accommodation. On the other hand, it is essential that you ask people for permission before taking photos of them.

After

If you want to be a responsible tourist, your mission will continue after returning home. What they recommend from CETR is reflect about what you have seen and known and keep the commitments you have made with local people. Also, if you have witnessed intolerable or serious situations, you should let your tour operator or travel agent know.

Tips for being a responsible tourist - Riu Hotels & Resorts (April 2024)