ARE YOU A RESPONSIBLE TOURIST?
Dear traveller,
We are going to present you with a practical guide in order to help you make of your journey an enriching experience.
We are going to enumerate some advice which is found in the World Ethic Code for tourism developed by
the World Tourism Association.
THE TOURIST AND THE RESPONSIBLE TRAVELLER
It is necessary to think of journeys and tourism as a means of personal and collective development. If you have an open mind, they are an indisputable factor for self-learning, mutual tolerance and learning of the differences among peoples and cultures. Governments, enterprises and communities have to promote it, but you must also add your part as a visitor:
Open to other peoples' cultures and traditions. Your experience will get transformed, you will gain the local population's respect. Be tolerant and respect diversity; have a look at the local traditions and cultural and social practices.
Respect human rights. Any form of exploitation violates the fundamental purposes of tourism. Children's sexual exploitation is a punishable offence, both in the place where it has taken place and in the country where the person who has committed it belongs to.
Help to maintain the environment.Protect the wild flora and fauna and their habitat, and do not buy products elaborated from plants or animals in danger of extinction.
Respect cultural resources. The tourist activity must preserve the artistic, archaeological and cultural heritage.
Your journey can help economical and social development. Buy local craft and products to help the local economy. Stimulate the principles of just commerce. When you bargain, keep in mind the concept of fair salary.
Before setting off: get informed about the medical situation and the emergency services in your destination country. Write down your consulate's telephone and address. Check that your health and personal safety will not be in risk. We recommend you to have all you basic needs covered (food, accessibility or medical care) before setting off.
Gather up all the possible information about your destination. Take your time to understand their habits, laws and traditions. Avoid behaviours that can disturb the local population.
Get informed about the actual legislation so as not to commit any act which could be considered offensive in the country of your destination. Do not deal with drugs, weapons, antiques, protected species, or dangerous products or substances banished by the national authorities.
Source: World Tourism Organisation
Sustainable tourism