How can I be an ethical traveller?

    • Be aware of the impact you make on the places you visit.
    • Try to minimise your impact.
    • Be respectful of locals, wildlife, and the environment.
    • Support local businesses.
    • Support sustainable businesses.
    • Be culturally sensitive and respect local customs, practices, and traditions (even if they oppose your own views).
    • Dress according to local dress standards.
    • Make an effort to learn some local phrases.
    • Be friendly while haggling and don’t make a big deal over a couple of cents.
    • Try to learn a bit about your destination before you arrive.
    • Leave no trace.
    • Try buy locally produced goods.
    • Eat at local establishments vs international ones.
    • Support family owned businesses for accommodation, tours, etc.
    • Don’t give money to beggars, especially children. (There are often shady characters in the background collecting money).
    • Don’t buy souvenirs or products made from endangered or unsustainable animal products.
    • Don’t hold animals as a photographic prop.
    • Don’t ride elephants. Elephants are often mistreated, harshly trained, jabbed with billhooks, and physically restrained by shackles and chains.
    • Don’t take photos of people without their consent.