Tourism is probably one of the largest industries in the world – and it keeps growing year after year. We’re not surprised, since we know very well how marvelous it is to explore new corners of the world. What we also know, though, is that the time has come for all of us to care more about our precious Earth and its inhabitants: that’s what sustainable travel is all about. Have you ever heard of it?
What is sustainable travel?
Sustainable travel is defined as a type of travel who causes as little environmental harm as possible, while enriching both the tourist and the local community.
Contrary to what one might think, then, sustainable travel is not only connected to environmental awareness – although that plays a big part in it. There are two more pillars who contribute to it: the economic side, where you can make an impact supporting the local businesses, and the social side, which involves sustaining the cultural projects of the specific destination.
Since we’re taking an increasing number of journeys and we’re roaming the world high and low, it’s become necessary to do it in a more conscious and respectful way: that’s why the concept of sustainable travel was born.
3 tips to be a sustainable traveler in 2019
We all agree on how crucial it is, nowadays, to make a positive impact while traveling – but how can you turn theory into practice and be a sustainable traveler yourself?
Here’s three simple tips you can implement from your next trip!
1. Reduce pollution and waste
First of all, use planes only if absolutely necessary in order to limit carbon emissions – prefer trains or buses. Ride a bike instead of hopping on a taxi in the cities you’ll visit.
Secondly, minimize waste: go plastic free as much as you can, carrying your own refillable water bottle, refusing plastic straws and bags and preferring solid soaps over bottled liquid ones.
2. Support the real local economy
You can do that in many ways, starting from the accommodation you choose: ignore the big hotel chains and stay in family run B&Bs or guesthouses. Buy locally-made souvenirs, that won’t be cheaper but will definitely make an impact on the artisans’ lives. Enjoy your meals at local markets or small eateries, which will also allow you to enjoy your food travel to the fullest.
3. Preserve and respect the culture
Sustainable travel involves awareness: do some research before leaving for your journey, try and learn as much as you can about the local culture… and then, respect it. Dress properly in public and religious places, don’t have disrespectful behaviors, try and act like a local would do. Don’t be a sloppy tourist, be a thoughtful traveler.
Last but not least, if you decide that you want to give back to that people whose country hosted your adventures, make sure you do it in a really ethical way. Again: do some research and make sure the money or goods you’re giving will actually help the cause you embraced.
We strongly believe that sustainable travel will be the future of the tourism industry – but we actually embrace it in the present already. Travel with us, and you’ll experience it firsthand!
Source: https://www.blindexperiences.com/sustainable-travel-how-to-make-an-impact-while-exploring-the-world/
