Tourism Ethics: Five (5) Ways to Be a More Responsible Tourist and Traveller

The tourism industry is increasingly becoming the world’s largest industry as travel continues to grow. According the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) Barometer, between January and August this year, destinations worldwide welcomed 901 million international tourist arrivals (overnight visitors), 56 million more than in the same period of 2016. This corresponds to a robust 7% increase well above the growth of the previous year.

Assuming that the forecasters are correct, international arrivals will exceed 1.3 billion by 2018.

While destinations usually train industry personnel to treat tourists with fairness and respect, tourists on the other hand also have the responsibility of ensuring that their activities are consistent with the natural, social and cultural values of the host community.

Everybody has a role to play creating responsible travel and tourism. Government agencies, private businesses, and host communities must do all they can, but as a traveller or tourist, you can support this in many ways to make a difference:

•  Open your mind to other cultures and traditions.

Research your destination to learn about local customs, traditions and social conditions. It’s a great way to build understanding of the local community and excitement for your adventure ahead.

Learn to speak a few words in the local language. This can help you connect with the local community and its people in a more meaningful way.

Always ask before taking photographs of other people as their privacy matter as much as yours.

• Help preserve natural environments

Protect wildlife and habitats and do not purchase products made from endangered plants or animals. Reduce your environmental impact by being a guardian of natural resources, especially forests and wetlands. In protected areas, access only the places open to visitors.

Reduce your water and energy consumption whenever possible. Leave only a minimum footprint and a good impression behind.

• Contribute to economic and social development of the host community

Purchase local handicrafts and products to support the local economy using the principles of fair trade. Bargaining for goods should reflect an understanding of a fair wage.

Do not buy counterfeit products or items that are prohibited by national/international regulations.

Hire local guides with in-depth knowledge of the area.

•  Be an informed traveller

Inform yourself about the destination’s current health situation and access to emergency and consular services prior to departure and be assured that your health and personal security will not be compromised. Make sure that your specific requirements (diet, accessibility, medical care) can be fulfilled before you decide to travel this destination.

Research well before engaging into volun-tourism. Choose tourism operators with environmental policies and community projects in place.

•  Respect human rights.

Observe national laws and regulations. Exploitation in any form conflicts with the fundamental aims of tourism. The sexual exploitation of children is a crime punishable in the destination or at the offender’s home country.

Refrain from giving money to begging children and support community projects instead.

Take photos instead of protected cultural artefacts as mementos of your trip. Provide honest travel reviews upon your return and promote your positive experiences.

#TravelEnjoyRespect