Being A Responsible Tourist

Responsible tourism has become a buzz word today when I goggled it gave me “About 88,700,000 results (0.28 seconds)”. When I tried reading the information about it went on about nation government policies and global policies. There are many different phrases used for this term “Green tourism’ “ethical” or “sustainable tourism” being some of them. All of these are used to convey tourism that is good for the people and environment in holiday destinations.

It made me think what I as a traveler should do to be a responsible tourist. Do I stop visiting the places I love? Do I stop my air travel to cut down on my carbon footprints? Are all the efforts that I take actually beneficial? For tourism adds on to the economy so much. My confusion led to an epiphany and confusion gave way to conclusion. I thought I should be responsible to the 3 P’s People, Places & Planet.

People- Responsible Tourists

People, as a tourist my endeavor should be to ensure that local people should get a fair deal out of my visit. I should make use of goods or services of the locals… such as great tasting, authentic food from a local restaurant, real local crafts to take home as a lasting souvenir or guiding services so that I get a peek in the lives of the locals. Do not buy products made from endangered or wild animals and plants. Dress appropriately for the place that you are visiting (a little background reading helps before you leave). Get closer to the country you visit, take book excursions with local suppliers and tour guides. It not only enriches your experience but also supports the local economy.

Places for Responsible Tourism

Wildlife

Places, it’s really important that holidays help conserve and protect our environment, the amazing wildlife within it and the fragile eco system around it. Pristine environments are what make good holidays great. But then too much of tourist in the places of fragile ecosystem can be dangerous. Andaman and Nicobar Islands damaged coral reefs and the Sunderbans are prime examples of such endangerment. Greener travel ensures that any ‘nature’ excursion or tour is taken by guides who know how to preserve the natural environment and wildlife. I am here reminded of my trip to Corbett National Park where for the jungle safari an Assistant Conservator of Forest, accompanied us who not only was knowledgeable but was also very conscious about the preservation of the jungle.

Planet

Planet, this is about our carbon footprint. There are lots of simple ways for you to reduce carbon emissions. Whilst on holiday take short showers rather than baths, reuse towels and bed linen rather than replacing them daily. Many hot countries suffer from periods of drought and this will help to conserve water. Remove packaging from items that you are taking away with you. Turn off heating and air-conditioning when not required. Be kind to the wild life, a nice picture shot for you might be a gruesome experience for the animal. Do not stretch your limits of exploring do not go to forbidden places.

Eco Tourism

By making small changes in the way that we tourists travel, we can all make a difference and ensure that the destinations we love to visit will be here for future generations to enjoy and are not sacrifices by Irresponsible Tourism.

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