Ethical travel has been on hot topic in recent years due to various damages that it has caused. Travelling is fun activity for you to learn more about the world and expand your knowledge. Through travelling to different places, you are more aware of the diversities and even disparities. However, travel is like a double-edged sword because as it brings benefits to the economy, it can be damaging both to the culture and the environment. So should you stop travelling the world then?

How to travel the world and leave positive impact

Travel is good for society if everyone is aware how to do it with the right ethic. Here are ethical travel tips you can implement:

Be mindful when choosing destination

Choose less visited travel destinations so you can help improve local economy. Keep in mind that you don’t have to travel to places most people visited. Visiting less-known travel destinations, it’s a great way to help the planet and the local populations so they can just continue their lives in a more sustainable way.

Choose the right transportation

Mitigate your footprint by choosing transportation with the least carbon footprint. Airplane has the highest level of carbon footprint so it’s better to avoid taking flight for your trip, if possible. Consider train or bus if your trip is less than 1000 miles. Use direct flight if possible, and look for airlines that have carbon offset adds-on. 

Consider booking green lodging

Reduce your travel footprint by choosing green lodging instead. Use reputable site to find lodging specialized in carbon-conscious business. You can also find other friendly options online for your accommodation. 

Activities that reflect ethical travel

Choose natural outdoor activities so you can also promote good care of natural reserves. Use non-pollutant transportation to get around your destination. You can just bike or walk to explore the places. Avoid any activities that potentially exploit or harm the local wildlife or culture. 

Slow it down

Consider slow travel to give yourself enough time to fully enjoy your travel experience. It allows you that extra time to plan ahead and mitigate your impact. Slow travel can change the way you look at your trip since it’s a mindset. 

Eat like a local

Cook your own foods using fresh produce you buy from the local market for the duration of your trip. Or, head to a family-owned local restaurant and enjoy authentic foods they serve. It allows you to learn more about the local culture while also supporting the local economy. It’s best to also buy direct from the locals to help local business

Respect any cultural differences

Culture shock is common when you encounter cultural differences of the place you are visiting. However, don’t make it as an excuse for you to be disrespectful to the local culture and people. Follow the local customs and dress appropriately. Look at what the locals do when in doubt. It’s better to do your own research in advance to learn more about the local etiquette and customs.