Green Tips for Green Trips
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Green Tips for Green Trips
Are you planning an environmentally conscientious vacation? "You’ll first need to realize that you are essentially a guest in another ‘home’," says David Weaver of Ecotourism. "It’s about keeping an open mind and taking an outward, rather than inward, approach,"
Know before you go: Learn all you can about the place you plan to visit. Find out about the history, culture, language and natural environment of your destination.
Keep your eyes open: If you come across a wasteful or damaging practice, tell the manager why you will not use the service again,and let others know as well. The reverse holds true for good products and practices.
Spend wisely: To ensure that the community benefits from your visit, eat regionally grown foods, use public transportation and buy handmade souvenirs. Do not purchase goods purchased from endangered species.
Respect the culture: Be especially sensitive to customs related to religion, photography and tipping. Check with local authorities for guidelines before visiting natural areas and cultural sites.
Leave no trace: Dispose of trash properly. Limit the number of disposable products you use.
Know your operator: If you sign up for a package tour, make sure the company can support its claim of ecological awareness and sensitivity.
For more ideas, contact The International Ecotourism Society at 202-347-9203, or visit www.ecotourism.org.
