Sustainable Travel Tips for 2017

Many travel companies focus more and more on sustainable travel practices and leaving a positive mark on local communities and the environment. It has become part of their missions and goals to improve the quality of life for those communities.

Even if you’re not traveling with a company with a sustainable travel agenda, there are things you can do yourself. Here are some tips you can use to contribute to sustainable travel.

• Be aware. Research the company you choose as your trip host and check how they contribute to the environment and local communities.
• Buy local, whether it’s food, crafts, art or clothes. A lot of souvenirs sold in shops and hotels are made elsewhere and do not give back to the locals.
• Visit local communities to see how they live. You can always find places that need volunteers, donations or sometimes just a foreign visitor. Local orphanages always love seeing and learning from tourists. That’s how they can travel, through you and the stories you share with them.
• Source local services such as trip guiding, equipment rental, entertainment, excursions and more. Many resorts offer those services but only a fraction of the profits go back to the locals. Yes, it is more convenient; however, also do your own research and read the reviews beforehand.
• Choose eco-friendly hotels, resorts and other types of accommodations. For instance, opt to stay with a local family. There are many websites that offer home sharing or bed and breakfast services. Smaller means more local.
• Make sure you don’t leave your mark behind; this includes taking souvenirs from nature or leaving ones of your own.