What's wrong with going on holiday?
The problem is it can have a negative impact on the people and the environment of the countries you visit. But there are things you can do to minimise your impact.
Wherever you travel, you leave a footprint. As soon as you step on the plane you're contributing to global warming. And many favorite holiday destinations are in poorer countries where natural resources are in short supply.
Tourism also has a major economic and cultural impact on the local population, not all of it good.
So ask questions about your holiday before you book. All-inclusive holidays, for example, often don't benefit the local population very much as the profits go straight back to a multinational operator.
So what should you do? Here are a few pointers to get you thinking.
Buying locally produced products from local shops (rather than your hotel lobby), whether it be beer, fruit juice or coconuts, puts money into the hands of local people. (Drinking Pepsi and Coke does not). And it could well taste better!
Staying in locally owned accommodation, rather than a multinational hotel chain, puts money straight back into the local economy.
You can research the culture of the country you are visiting before you go so that you wear appropriate clothing that won't offend your hosts.
Don't just rely on your guidebook: talking to local people is still the best way of finding out what's going on. If you're taking photographs of local people, why not ask first?
Refrain from giving sweets or money to children as it may encourage begging. If you want to help the local people give some money to a local school or community project.
When you buy locally made goods and souvenirs, always try and find out what something is worth and pay a fair price. The 50p you save by haggling aggressively may be enough to feed the vendor's family for a day.
Souvenirs made from coral or other endangered species are clearly a no-no.
Don't ask for your towels or sheets to be washed every day, and think before you have your second long shower of the day.
Always refer to your policydocument to ensure you have adequate cover.
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