Traveling responsibly consists are seeing new places and learning about new cultures while accepting that everyone does not do things or see things the same as you and your own culture.
This is becoming a more accepted aspect of travel, with people caring more and being more socially aware and environmentally conscious. Traveling in this manner, with this mindset, improves and enhances the travel experience.
The traveler gets exposed to new customs and cultures, which may come across as strange and communication may be challenging in countries with few English speakers, but most people are kind if an effort is made.
These are some common sense tips to travel responsibly, which are especially helpful to those who are infrequent travelers.
Limit Impact on the Environment
Never litter or leave graffiti, and especially, never remove or disturb architectural fragments or natural habitats. This includes rocks and foliage. This is a growing problem at sights that are natural resources, as tourists want to take a physical piece home as a souvenir. If people continuously do that, the sights will be ruined and disappear.
Be Aware You Are a Guest In Someone Else's Country
Don't walk up to people on the street and immediately start speaking to them in English. Think of how you would react if someone came up to you on the street at home and began speaking Japanese or Urdu. Be polite and make an attempt to use the native language, even if it just with the assistant of a basic phrase book. If people see you trying, they will be more likely to help, and to speak English to you if they are English-speakers.
Never disparage any traditions in the country you are visiting. It is offensive to the people who live there. If people want to tell you about their traditions, listen to them and learn. That is one of the best parts of traveling!
Dress Appropriately
In many places, especially religious sights that are considered sacred, there is a dress code that is considered respectful. This usually means no shorts, tank tops, short dresses or hates.
Be Polite
This seems very obvious, but people often need to be reminded. The people you see are not zoo exhibits. Ask before taking someone's photograph. Follow posted instructions and guidelines, such as rules about photography. Stay off of private property.
Research
Researching areas and its language and traditions before travel is an invaluable assistance to you while on your trip. Knowing some basic phrases, such as "hello," "please," "thank you" and "do you speak English?" will go far on your travels. Learning about the basics of what is considered polite in your destination will help you avoid inadvertently offending someone by being rude.
It is also always a good idea to try to buy souvenirs from local people, rather than the mass produced things that are sold in the gift shop at major destinations and are all made in China. This helps local artists and craftspeople and supports the local economy.
This article is copyrighted by Travelers Today, the travel news leader
