5 TIPS ON HOW TO BE A GOOD TOURIST
Travel is one of the greatest experiences of all. The opportunity to discover new places and destinations, people and cultures, but above all, to enjoy unique moments. However, being a tourist also brings with it a series of responsibilities.
When visiting another city or country, it is important to be culturally aware and, just like every good tourist, treat the place you have chosen to enjoy new experiences and adventures with respect.
UN recommendations for sustainable tourism highlight the importance of the following:
- Inclusive and sustainable economic growth.
- Social inclusion, employment and the reduction of poverty.
- The efficient use of resources, environmental protection and measures to combat climate change.
- Cultural values, diversity and heritage. Mutual understanding, peace and safety.
This post gives you a few ideas on how to be a good tourist:
Support the local culture. Use local products and services that will aid development
If you use products or services that sourced directly in your destination, you will be giving a boost for local businesses and encouraging local entrepreneurship, as well as ensuring that the profits stay right there. Above all, it is important to acquire only those items you really need and to pay a fair price for them. This will help to stabilise the local economy as well as workers’ living conditions.
Local Market in Palma: Mercat de L’Olivar, photo by inpalma.com
Take care. There are risks; make sure you are aware of them.
Even before you start packing, the first thing you should do is check out the characteristics of your destination: make sure you have all the documents you need, as well as travel insurance and any necessary medical checks.
Do some research, share and learn about the communities you are visiting.
Each destination offers you the chance to discover unique customs, gastronomy and languages. Being a good tourist means knowing about the country or region you are visiting. Take the time to find out about their traditions and social customs to avoid doing anything that may seem offensive or humiliating to the locals.
Checking out the historic sites you are interested in visiting, or reading up about any events going on in town can turn your trip into the experience of a lifetime.
Teguise Carnivals, photo by vacacionesenlanzarote.es
Do your bit to protect water and land ecosystems
Ecosystems are becoming increasingly damaged and polluted, and human action is partly to blame. To prevent causing the destruction of our flora and fauna, remember only to choose products, experiences and services that guarantee the sustainable use of natural resources and prevent the mistreatment of animals.
Of course you must also avoid generating any waste and remember to recycle. Whenever you get the chance, you should also get involved in clean-ups and environmental care programmes in the destinations you visit. To reduce your impact on the environment, do not leave any litter and take care of parks, beaches and cities.
Marine Posidonia (Ibiza), photo by illesbalears.travel
Save resources. Use them responsibly.
Our planet is more fragile than ever, and much of the damage it has suffered is irreversible. That’s why it is essential not to be wasteful and save water, as in many places it is an extremely precious asset that is difficult to obtain.
Use products and services that can be recycled and reused. Whenever possible, opt for low or zero emission means of transport. Choose sustainable transport options such as eco-efficient and clean collective vehicles
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