Travel Wise

The last few years there has been a huge increase in ‘eco-tourism’. This is tourism where tourists try to have a positive effect on the people and places that they visit. If you are really committed to this idea, then you can spend your holidays helping on an organic farm in Britain or taking part in conservation projects in Africa or the Amazon rainforest.

If you are heading off to a place for the first time, it is an excellent idea to find out as much about it as you can. A guidebook is a great place to start. As well as learning about the local places of interest, you can read about the way you will be expected to behave and dress. This can save you from making embarrassing mistakes and means that you are less likely to upset or offend your host. Knowing a little about the place that you are visiting before you leave can make your holiday much more enjoyable when you arrive.

It is also important to think about how you spend your money when you are on holiday. Whenever you can, try to put into the local people’s hands. You can do this by eating and drinking local products rather than imported brands, staying in locally owned accommodations, and using local guides.

Another important thing for the eco-tourism is to have as little effect on the local environment as possible. This is easy to do if you follow some common-sense advice. You should never buy products made from rare plants or endangered animals. If you are lucky enough to visit a truly exotic destination such as coral reef, remote mountain or desert region, or a rainforest then you should try to leave it exactly as you found it so that future visitors can enjoy it just as you did.

Eco-tourism organizations say that respecting the culture and environment of the places that you visit will lead to much more rewarding and enjoyable holidays. If we try to encourage the local economy, leave the environment undamaged and are aware of the different laws and attitudes in the places we visit, then all of us can enjoy our ‘eco-holidays’ much better now and in the future.