Traveling the Green Way

“Responsible travel is a new way of travelling for those who’ve had enough of mass tourism.  It’s about respecting and benefitting local people and the environment - but it’s about far more than that,” says responsibletravel.com.

The sustainable travel website links travellers with 270+  responsible operators and 100s of responsible places to stay - villas, lodges, B&Bs and small hotels.   Holiday types include safaris, scuba diving holidays, independent travel, overland tours and more.

What are smart responsible travel planning tips?  responsibletravel.com suggests:

Before you book your holiday

• “Plan your route to minimise carbon emissions - travel by train and public  transport where possible, and minimise internal flights. Try our lower carbon travel holidays, or there are some great ideas for train travel almost anywhere in the world on this web site: http://www.seat61.com/ .”
• “Minimise flying time and stopovers - the worst carbon emissions are emitted during take off and landing. For the flights that you cannot avoid, offset the carbon emissions of your flight using our carbon calculator . That way the money is invested in carbon reducing initiatives around the world, offsetting the emissions caused by your flight.”
• “Ask to see the tour operator’s policy for responsible tourism. All responsibletravel.com members have to have one.  Make sure it explains how they minimise environmental impacts and support the local economy.”
• “Ask your hotel/accommodation our 10 simple questions to see if they really are eco!”

Before you travel

• “Read up on local cultures and learn a few words of the local language - travelling with respect earns you respect.”
• “Remove all excess packaging  - waste disposal is difficult in remote places and developing countries.”
• “Ask your tour operator for specific tips for responsible travel in your destination.”
• “Ask your tour operator/hotel if there are useful gifts that you could pack for your hosts, local people or schools.”
• “Ask your tour operator whether there are local conservation or social projects that you could visit on your trip, and if/how you could help support them.”

Images courtesy of responsibletravel.com