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Eco Vacations

How to Have an Extraordinary Eco Vacation That Makes a Difference

What is ecotourism? When asked that seemingly simple but critical question, my answer usually addresses several variations of the same question – How does ecotourism affect destinations? Why is ecotourism important? Who is it for?

Ecotourism is a tool that provides opportunities. A financially viable tool that provides sustainable solutions to economic challenges and conservation needs. An alternative means of supporting rural economies to help revitalize and sustain local heritage. And a market-linked force connecting and empowering stakeholders.

But equally importantly, ecotourism is certainly about fun – aboutEco_tourism_1.jpg discovering new places, seeking new experiences and making new friends. So here are some tips for fellow travel enthusiasts on how to make the best of the opportunities that ecotourism offers by minimizing footprint, maximizing benefits, and making lasting impact on communities and destinations.

I encourage travelers to visit amazing destinations around the world and gain authentic experiences, but to do so with consciousness—by adjusting your travel plans to minimize air travel and to stay longer in a destination whenever possible (rather than making many short trips); utilizing non-motorized and alternative modes of transport (walk, bicycle, horse, camel...); choosing low-impact and energy efficient options while at the destination; reducing your 'food miles' by eating local; making contributions to credible carbon offset programs; and sharing your stories with your family, friends and colleagues and encouraging them to also travel responsibly.

And remember, your vacation starts when you book! The choices you make when deciding where to go, what to do and what to (and what not to) bring with you do make a difference.

eco_tourism_3_1.jpgOne of the simplest and most effective, yet often neglected, ways for travelers to make their travel more sustainable is to be a conscious and proactive consumer. Choose wisely and shop smart by researching online. Call the tour operator you are traveling with to ask about their sustainability practices. And contact the local or national ecotourism association to gather information about the destination.

It’s like trying on a pair of shoes before you buy them; only your travel choice is an opportunity for you not only to make your holiday a unique and memorable experience, but also to help enrich the lives of others.

So remember, when planning your next trip, that eco-traveling can be much more than just taking only pictures and leaving only footprints; it’s an opportunity for you to make a difference and help transform the way the world travels.

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This article and photos provided by and reprinted with permission from:

The International Ecotourism Society

 

 
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