Real Gap is the original provider of ethical travel ideas and as a result many people ask us the question; ‘What is ethical travel?'
Quite rightly, the world has recently become more aware of the ethical consequences of global travel. Global travel impacts on the environment and more and more people want to know what ethical travel means and how they can travel ethically.
To answer the question ‘What is Ethical Travel?' it may make sense to first explain what is ethical travel primarily concerned with.
Ethical travel is all about respecting, preserving and encouraging the culture and environment visited by the ethical traveller. Real ethical travel makes a positive impact on the other cultures that the ethical traveller visits.
I want to travel, but what exactly is 'ethical travel'?
Ethical travel is concerned to support the local economy by buying local goods and commodities
Ethical travel tries to conserve a fragile environment that suffers from limited energy and water supplies by using them sensitively and sparingly
Ethical travel respects the rights of others - It seeks that others are not exploited or diminished by the traveller's tourism
Ethical travel doesn't create a begging or “hand-out” dependency culture
Ethical travel is concerned with creating self-sustaining communities by helping local communities set up their own forms of industry and commerce
Ethical travel means taking time to learn about the political, environmental and social issues of a country before you visit it
Ethical travel involves understanding local tabboos and traditions - Being aware of cultural sensitivities will make your stay far more pleasant, and win you friends
Ethical travel involves learning fundemental courtesy phrases - Being able to speak a little of the local language goes a long way in creating good relationships
Ethical travel involves knowing when to listen and how to speak - Don't assume that you or your society has all the answers. You can learn much from these communities, especially about social cohesion, hospitality, generosity and wisdom. Learn to speak with respect and be prepared to have your own ideas challenged
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