Being a responsible traveller means a lot of things: from preserving natural environments, respecting foreign cultures and human rights, to protecting one’s own health and safety as traveller.
When practiced with an open mind, we at Fair Voyage believe that travelling is not only a way of self education and enjoyment, but also an irreplaceable factor to foster mutual understanding across cultures, remove unjustified fear or prejudice, and achieve lasting peace globally.
Everyone has a role to play in creating responsible travel and tourism. Governments, business and communities must do all they can, but as a traveller you have to power to make a difference each time you go on a trip.
To learn more about what you can do, please read the official advice provided by the United Nations, based on the Global Code of Ethics for Tourism of the World Tourism Organization:
1. Open your mind to other cultures and traditions
Open your mind to other cultures and traditions – it will transform your experience, you will earn respect and be more readily welcomed by local people. Be tolerant and respect diversity – observe social and cultural traditions and practices.
2. Respect human rights
Exploitation in any form conflicts with the fundamental aims of tourism. The sexual exploitation of children is a crime punishable in the destination or at the offender’s home country.
3. Help preserve natural environments
Help preserve natural environments. Protect wildlife and habitats and do not purchase products made from endangered plants or animals.
4. Respect cultural resources
Respect cultural resources. Activities should be conducted with respect for the artistic, archaeological and cultural heritage.
5. Purchase local products using fair trade principles
Your trip can contribute to economic and social development. Purchase local handicrafts and products to support the local economy using the principles of fair trade. Bargaining for goods should reflect an understanding of a fair wage.
6. Protect your own health and safety
Inform yourself about the destination’s current health situation and access to emergency and consular services prior to departure and be assured that your health and personal security will not be compromised.
Make sure that your specific requirements (diet, accessibility, medical care) can be fulfilled before you decide to travel this destination.
7. Learn about your destination
Learn as much as possible about your destination and take time to understand the customs, norms and traditions. Avoid behaviour that could offend the local population.
8. Learn about laws and regulations
Familiarize yourself with the laws so that you do not commit any act considered criminal by the law of the country visited.
Refrain from all trafficking in illicit drugs, arms, antiques, protected species and products or substances that are dangerous or prohibited by national regulations.
Conclusion
Each time we travel, there’s a lot that we can do to make a real difference for local communities and the environment. The first step is to learn how to be a responsible traveller.
Fair Voyage serves conscious travellers who take the time to become aware of responsible travel recommendations for their destination and make conscious travel decisions with a positive impact for their destination.
For more information about responsible travel, check out our sustainability page.
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