Tweet

Be Flexible

Are you prepared to accept cultures and practices that are different from your own? Being part of the locals’ daily lives is one of the most fascinating travel experiences. Do your homework and learn about the people and places you’re visiting, and be sure to bring plenty of sense of humor and flexible attitudes with you, so you’re prepared to accept and enjoy unexpected encounters.

>> Read more: Tips for Travelers by Ecotourism Society of India

Give Feedback

Let responsible companies know that you like what they are doing. Encourage those that are less responsible to change by talking to them about the issues you care about. If they see that tourists expect companies to operate responsibly, they are more likely to change. After all, it’s your money that keeps them going!

>> Read more: Wild Asia – You and Responsible Tourism

Go Green By Biking

Biking is a healthy, enjoyable and eco-friendly way to get around and to experience the places you’re visiting. Plan ahead to find bike rental options and local bike routes. One Street, an international bicycle advocacy NGO, offers various practical tips and educational resources on bicycling.

>> Learn about and share information on biker-friendly accommodations on One Street’s Bed and Bike Directory.

Travel Slowly

Instead of hurriedly moving from one place to another, try slowing down during your next trip by kayaking, walking, biking and getting around by public transportation like the locals do. While traveling slowly, enjoy the unique experience of connecting with the people and places you’re visiting.

>> Read more: “Local Travel Connecting Independent Travelers with People and Places”
>> Read more: Local & Slow Travel Stories

Admire from a Distance

Learn about wildlife viewing guidelines and appropriate behaviors before you go. Be sure to maintain a respectful distance when viewing and photographing wildlife. Avoid scaring or stressing wildlife, and do your part to protect natural wildlife habitats to make the most of your wildlife viewing experiences.

>> Read more: Your Travel Choice stories on ecotourism and wildlife

Pack for a Purpose

Visit Pack for a Purpose, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing needed educational materials and medical supplies to children around the world, and find participating ecologes and information on items (educational materials and medical supplies) to pack in your luggage when you visit them. Every little bit helps!

>> Learn more about Pack for a Purpose

Portable Water for Your Adventure

Water purifier is a handy tool to accompany your outdoor trip, allowing you to make portable water out of any water source and enjoy your trip free of bottled water. Learn how to pick the right water purifier for your travel needs.

>> Learn more: Selecting Water Purifier (Trails.com)