Changes in public attitudes are essential to change business practices. The fact that we’re all empowered to change the world for the better is cause for hope. We are seeing major shifts in public and business attitudes toward a more sustainable future. Within the last three years, addressing global warming went from being an obscure grassroots initiative to becoming a mainstream phenomenon. Conscientious businesses and travelers are increasingly looking or eco-friendly products and services. At sustainable Travel International, we feel the momentum on a daily basis. The number for inquiries we receive from businesses and travelers who want to support sustainable tourism continues to exceed our expectations. We’re optimistic about the future and want to take this opportunity to thank you-the responsible traveler-for making the world a better place.

Our Holiday, Their Homes!

We often forget that our holiday are spent in other people’s homes and sometimes give little thought to the impact we will have on our holiday destination, it’s people, culture, economy and environment. Here are some ways to ensure the destination, as a whole, benefits from your visit.

Create an instant smile - Chat with the local people and try to speak their language. You’re sure to get an instant smile and a laugh to seal those memories.

It’s not an exam - If you read up on the place you intend to visit, your experience will be enhanced, but your guidebook is just a guide. To truly experience a place, go off-the-beaten-path. You’ll be glad you did!

Slow down - Our hurried concept for time is not the same in other cultures and local people’s thought patterns differ from your own. Challenge yourself and do like the local people do, just for a day.

Create win/win situation - Bargaining is expected in many cultures and we all enjoy the haggling with a smile and a laugh, but it’s easy to get carried away trying to find the best deal. Keep it in perspective and remind yourself that small amounts of money to us could equal the cost of an entire family’s meal that night.

How big is your ecological footprint? - How heavily do you ‘tread’ on your holiday? Natural resources are precious and to size of your ecological footprint will have an impact. Re-use water bottles, don’t buy wildlife products, turn off lights and air conditioners, and think about your waste disposal.

Go local - Buy from local markets and roadside vendors. This keeps money in the local economy and helps local people their jobs.

Giving back - Giving gifts and money unfortunately encourages begging. Instead, find a project to support-there are plenty in this booklet to choose from-or volunteer your time. This will have a more positive and long-lasting impact on both you and them.