Travelling sustainably is important to me as a travel consumer. I want my travel investment to have a positive impact on the communities I visit. Travel can be a force for good in the world when done in a responsible manner. By working with a travel professional that is knowledgeable and passionate about sustainable travel and making choices with your travel dollars to support destinations and travel companies that incorporate sustainability in their business practices you will be encouraging more companies and destinations to follow suit.
Choose your tour company wisely
There are some wonderful tour companies that focus on positively impacting the communities and countries they take their clients to visit. Some forward-thinking tour companies are making sustainable tourism practices a priority by choosing locally owned and operated accommodations, using local guides on tours, and supporting community tourism projects among other things. Ask questions when planning your next trip to see what choices are available.
Eat & Shop Locally
When you eat and shop locally you can ensure the money you’re spending during your trip is going directly into the community you are visiting. Search out local markets to find incredible handicrafts made by local artisans. Stop by the local food vendor that has a lineup of locals. I promise you won’t be disappointed.
Buy Quality Luggage
When buying luggage it’s important to invest in pieces that can take the battering that travel puts on it. Your luggage is going to see conveyor belts, rough baggage handlers, trains, taxis, elevators and more on an average trip. A cheap suitcase is only going to last one or trips at most before it starts to fall apart. Many times you can find great luggage brands at your local Winners or Marshalls for a great deal. One of my personal favourite brands is Lug. I have a few of their bags that have been all around the world with me and still look as good as the day I bought them.
Protect from the sun without causing harm
Some chemicals found in sunscreen and other skin-care products are detrimental to coral reefs. Of specific concern is oxybenzone, a chemical used in sunscreens to protect our skin from harmful UV light. There are ways to protect ourselves from the sun without using sunscreens that cause damage to coral and ocean waters. Wear a shirt and hat while at the beach and wear a long-sleeved rash guard when swimming. Avoid spray-on sunscreens. Use safer mineral-based sunscreens like zinc oxide or titanium oxide. Look for marine safe products, such as those labelled with the “Marine Safe” icon.
When you’re planning your next adventure, I would be happy to go over the sustainable travel options available to you. Click the yellow button below to get started with a complimentary consultation.
