Responsible Travel

To act as a responsible tourist is to travel whilst taking into consideration the natural, socio-cultural, economic and political contexts of a destination in the search to increase benefits and minimise negative impacts

We expect all our clients to TRAVEL WITH RESPECT.

The Environment

• NEVER purchase goods that abuse wildlife or help destroy habitats or species. We ask all our clients not to purchase goods made from endangered species i.e. ivory. Buying goods such as Ivory will only encourage the trade. (see ‘Observations’ – pg 10, paragraph 6 of Trip Dossier)
• Please remember you are going to a remote area and you will be visiting places where the waste disposal systems are poor and often cannot cope with the increased pressure that is brought by tourists. You can make a big difference if you remove the wrapping of packaged goods where possible before leaving.
• Bring cosmetics and detergents which are environmentally friendly and when using, use as little as possible. This will help keep precious natural fresh water supplies, streams, river and the sea pollution free.
• Do not leave litter; always dispose of it in a safe and responsible way. Not only are cigarette butts, plastic, bottles, cans, etc an eye sore but they can be lethal and often deadly to wild animals!
• Fresh water will be very valuable in the majority of place you will be visiting. Please keep the volume of water you use to a minimum for showering and washing etc. (see ‘Water’ – pg 9, paragraph 7 of Trip Dossier)
• When in a remote area where toilet facilities are not available please make sure you are a fair distance (at least 30m) from a water source and always bury your waste.
• NEVER feed animals or attempt to touch them. We say this not only for your own safety but for the well being of wild animals.
• We realise that there is always a temptation to get as close as possible to wild life. We instruct our guides to maintain a suitable distance from wild animals i.e. giving animals enough space to escape. Please do not encourage your guides to breach the acceptable distance. Instead we advise you to take the most powerful lens suitable for your camera.

Social Issues

We always encourage our clients to learn about the people and the local community not only will this enhance your holiday experience but it will also help you create an understanding of their different way of life.

• It is very easy to offend small, simple communities which are less developed by coming across as a rich snooty foreigner, please be aware of the feelings of other people and try avoid being offensive. This can be avoided by learning a bit about the local culture for example dress sense, trying to learn a little of the local language and appropriate times to photograph.
• We ask for you to always ask for permission when taking photographs of people, ritual events or special places such as shrines. Be careful not to offend anyone through thoughtlessness. If people look reluctant then do not take a photo. Remember you are visiting people’s communities, their lives are not exhibitions.
• Please ask your tour leader for advice on how to react to begging and giving gifts appropriately. For instance, it is advised when giving gifts to give them to a leader of the group i.e. the Head Teacher if you were to give a gift to a school group. Handing out gifts such as sweets to children directly encourages an annoyance by begging. Also, sweets may cause ruin their teeth as dental facilities are poor, sometimes non-existent.
• The display of luxurious goods such as expensive jewellery, digital cameras, CD players, etc not only encourages robbery but also emphasises the gap between the rich and poor. (see ‘Security’ – Pg 9, paragraph 9 of Trip Dossier)

Economic Issues

The standard of living in the regions where you will be visiting are often different to what you are used to. It is important to realise that you may be economically more powerful but do not abuse it.

• We encourage all our clients to buy locally made crafts and support local skills. Please do not purchase goods on price but on value to you. It is expected and accepted for you to bargaining for souvenirs and services however do not drive a hard bargain just for the sake of it.
• We encourage you to buy local food and taste local dishes. Many rural areas in the world are under threat from decreasing their agricultural base. By eating goods produced locally you will help the local farmers as well as the local economy. (see ‘Food’ – Pg 4, paragraph 4 of Trip Dossier)