Already in the 1980s critical voices began to emerge with the direction that tourism development was taking. 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 becoming increasingly fashionable, which is the one 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 to you about the second edition of the Responsible Tourist Vademecum , a series of tips that the Center offers us Spanish for Responsible Tourism (CETR), an initiative of KOAN Consulting and Rutas PANGEA that was born with the aim of hosting responsible tourism projects, initiatives and professionals from all over the planet. Would you like to discover the CETR recommendations? Well, be very attentive!
Before
The process of being a responsible tourist begins long before you set out on the trip. 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. Thus, you should find out about the history of the place, its culture, its economy, its religion, its gastronomy and its natural spaces. It’s even a good idea to learn polite expressions in the local language. In addition, it is advisable to choose tour operators, hotels and area companies that are committed to the environment and the host communities.
During
Logically, most of the advice proposed 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 your habits. In addition, you should have fun trying the local gastronomy . At first it may be difficult, but you will soon discover that it is the best way to enjoy a trip. Of course, you must respect the rules of the place, without showing arrogant or offensive behavior. In this regard, it is important to inform yourself about the local tipping practice. In addition, they recommend not giving alms.
Another of the CETR recommendations to be a responsible tourist is to wear appropriate and not too flashy clothing. This is a tip that you should take into account in places of worship. Of course, you should not flaunt 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 local crafts , always taking into account the practice and limits of bargaining; 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 prejudices or previous 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 the natural and archaeological sites, buy products made with endangered species, throw waste on the ground or make graffiti . Nor should you disturb plants or animals or, logically, damage 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 take care 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’s permission before taking photos of them.
After
If you want to be a responsible tourist, your mission will continue after you return home. What they recommend from the CETR is to reflect on what you have seen and known and keep the commitments that you have acquired with the local people. Also, if you have witnessed intolerable or serious situations, you should let your tour operator or travel agent know.