RESPONSIBLE TRAVEL

Looking to holiday more responsibly when we’re allowed to travel again?

From the dolphins spotted in Venice to the thousands of sea turtles seen flocking back to the Great Barrier Reef, lockdown has given the natural world a much-needed reprieve, and in the space of just a few short months, it’s already showing signs of healing.

However, as we begin to ease back into normal life, there is a risk of undoing all the good we’ve done by returning to our old damaging habits, one of which being how we travel. The act of going on holiday doesn’t have to be a bad thing for the environment, though.

So, if you’re keen to continue making the world a better place while making the most of your exotic holidays again, Here are a few easy, simple tips to help become a responsible traveller;

1. Book the most direct route possible, Most flight carbon emissions are emitted during take off and landing.

2. Choose an eco friendly hotel - we have a huge list of hotels that do their part to help the environment, we'd be more than happy to recommend any, just get in touch.

3. Take a reusable cotton bag with you, you can take to the local markets. Say no to plastic bags they are toxic for the environment. They kill animals that mistake the bags for food. They clog up waterways and are one of the largest contributors to landfill on the planet. In short, plastic bags are incredibly harmful.

4. Dress appropriately in places of worship, and remove sunglasses when talking to people. In many countries it can be seen as disrespectful to show too much skin.

5. Learn about local customs, traditions and a few words of the local language before you travel. It can avoid any uncomfortable faux pas.

6. Take a reusable water bottle, to avoid buying plastic bottle of water, the insulated bottles are great for keeping drinks chilled even in very hot climates, or hot drinks hot in freezing temperatures - think Hot Chocolate with mountain vistas. If you must purchase water buy it in the larger bottles.

7. Always ask before taking photos of others, or having your photos taken with animals used as props, it encourages captivity.

8. Remove and recycle the excess packaging before you pack your suitcase, to avoid throwing it in the bin on holiday.

9. Say no to animal cruelty. Travellers are more aware than ever of the mistreatment of animals in activities like elephant riding safaris, cub petting and walking with lions.

10. Support eco-friendly initiatives during your stay, such as reusing towels, turning the lights off when not in the room, and turning off the air conditioning when out.

11. Make sure you buy locally made souveniers instead of mass produced imported items. Avoid items made from endangered animals or ivory.

12. Support the local economy, eat out at local restaurants, drink the local branded drinks, spend at the local markets, and use the local stores.

13. Its tough but avoid giving money to beggars. They often earn more than someone who works for a living so can cause its own economic problems and encourage more beggars. Instead, try to support local charities, you could look at Pack For A Purpose - they support worthy causes all over the world, you can look up the area you're traveling to and get much needed supplies directly to those that actually need them.

14. You can offset carbon emissions at myclimate.org.

15. Stop rushing around and go at a slower pace… use local transport, hire a bike or explore on foot.

16. Use small reusable bottles for your toiletries. Even better take shampoo, conditioner bars instead, you can even get 3 in 1 which act as a body wash too!

17. Bamboo is a fantastic alternative to plastic - bamboo coffee cups, toothbrushes and straws are some easy alternatives.

18. Use biodegradable wet wipes, they are a travel essential but finding a biodegradable alternative will have a huge impact.

19. Share your experience. When someone does good things, tell the world, Write a good review, share it on social media.

20. Finally, DON’T Stop travelling!

Tourism revenue is crucial for many countries and the pennies and pounds you spend whilst visiting can make a huge impact on the everyday lives of local people.

If you have any top Eco friendly or Responsible tips on how to be a better, more responsible traveller, we'd love to hear about them in the comments.