Don’t be part of the problem

As flights, trains, buses and basically all forms of wandering become easier, certain problems start to arise. While it is great to be able to visit a new country, those leaving their homes may bring aspects of their own culture that can leave a lasting mark on the one which they are visiting. On top of that, when locals of new destinations see things they believe travelers may like, they will start to market it. This, though entrepreneurial, can lead to degradation of the original culture, landscape, etc. With travel having so many positive aspects, it’s a right of those fortunate enough to participate to make sure they are doing it positively.

One of the best ways to travel ethically is to do some research on the companies, hotels, hostels and restaurants you are going to be spending money with. Sure this sounds like a daunting task, but in fact it ends up being relatively easy and satisfying work. For larger organizations, some things to check into are whether or not they are local, or aiding in the local economy, as well as if they promote eco or green tourism. 

In regards to profit distribution, travel should be aiding the country you are visiting, so making sure the majority of money made by a company is going in local pockets is completely necessary. This, as well as checking a company’s ecological practices, are both easily done through Google searches, as well as checking out guide books on the destination. Make sure both these are done before deciding on a company to work with. With hotels, restaurants and other smaller organizations, word of mouth with other travelers and locals is the best method of seeing where to eat, stay and sleep.

While traveling, it’s important to make sure you understand the concept of cultural competency. While choosing appropriate activities is important, cultural competency includes learning about behaviors, appearances and other aspects of lifestyle which are accepted in different countries. While boozing and wearing skimpy clothes in beach side towns in Brazil is completely acceptable, the same behaviors are totally looked down upon in Malaysia and more conservative parts of Indonesia.

Though getting high and experimenting with drug usage may be legal some places, while visiting places with stricter drug laws, your habits need to be curbed. Knowing about the culture you are visiting and doing as the locals do is the best way to practice cultural competency while abroad. It may not always be the most fun thing to do while traveling, but the appreciation and acceptance from locals should be more than enough to placate any inconvenience it has caused.

Traveling is truly a blessing. Those who are able to visit new places are lucky, and are given a privilege that not everyone will have the chance to experience. But, with all privileges comes responsibility, and you are the only person who can make sure that your travel footprint doesn’t expand further than it needs to. Take time to plan accordingly for your trip. In the long run, it will make a much bigger impact than you may think.

Photo courtesy of Community Care