Tips for Responsible Travel

These lessons should last a lifetime!

Families today are more environmentally aware and eco-sensitive than ever before. Help instill these values in your children by following these simple rules for responsible travel.

• Choose destinations that aren’t overdeveloped or overcrowded.
• Stay on marked trails – off-roading may disturb plants, animals and habitats.
• Never feed, chase or touch wildlife or marine animals.
• Don’t litter or take any natural souvenirs (rocks, coral, leaves etc.).
• Learn about the area you are visiting – read up on the geography, history, biodiversity, customs and culture there.
• Support local festivals and events – help preserve traditions and bolster the cultural integrity of the region.
• Respect people’s privacy – ask before you snap their pictures.
• Do not purchase souvenirs made from endangered plants and animals (tortoise shells, ivory, feathers, skins etc.).
• Patronize locally run restaurants, lodgings, tours, shops and services.
• Contribute to conservation organizations with time and/or money.
• Use e-tickets wherever possible to cut down on paper useage.
• Seek out lodging that uses energy efficient lighting, recycling bins, low flow pluming and gray water systems, linen reusing programs, alternative energy sources and other environmentally conscious practices.
• Choose ecotourism products that create economic opportunities for the local communities.
• Celebrate biological and cultural diversity.
• Support National Parks – help preserve sensitive areas so that future generations can enjoy them.