Responsible Tourism

Get more out of your holiday experience, and help to put a little back.
Remember the saying “take only photos and leave only footprints”…

Before you leave home:

• Read up on your destination beforehand. Not only is this a good way of getting the most out of your holiday when you are there, it will also prepare you for the customs and living standards you will experience that may well be different to your own
• If relevant, learn about some basic greetings and customs in your destination language.
• Consider how much heat/lighting your home needs whilst you are away and make appropriate changes to thermostats and timers before you go away.
• Visit the Foreign & Commonwealth Office (FCO) website and view the travel section “Know Before You Go” campaign www.fco.gov.uk/knowbeforeyougo

Whilst away:

• Observe local dress codes, particularly when entering religious buildings
• Respect local culture and traditions. Research into the unique customs of the region you will visit can avoid embarrassment and offence, as well as providing a useful insight into the country you will visit.
• Consider your impact on the local environment; use water and electricity supplies sparingly
• If your hotel has a policy for re-using sheets or towels please try to support this
• Dispose of litter carefully. Try to recycle what you can and bring waste such as batteries back to the UK with you.
• Interact with local people, ask questions and accept offers of hospitality