Introduction
Tourism means the travel or journey that one undertakes for the purpose of leisure, fun, enjoyment, pleasure, business or other purpose. Responsible tourism is the travel in which tourists make responsible choices regarding their vacations. The choices of the travelers are the reflection of their responsible attitudes and behavior for causing least negative environmental and sociological impact on the tourist destination. Tourism is a booming industry throughout the world. Majority service industries survive due to tourism industry and it generates a lot of employment opportunity too. Some countries depend largely on tourism industry and related services. Though tourism may earn great revenues, it can harm the fragile and delicate ecosystems and can disturb the natural balance. Thoughtless tourist activity may destroy the priceless historic treasures. Responsible tourism plays an important role in saving and preserving the ecosystems as well as heritage sites.
Elements of Responsible Tourism
Responsible tourism involves making thoughtful choices that are environment friendly, ethical, respectful and sustainable so that the negative impact of tourism is minimized considerably. The tourist must learn and know about the country. As a traveler to a foreign country, you need not be an expert, but you can know the basics like social and religious customs and key words of local language. You can access the local information by visiting the tourist centre. You ought to understand and follow the appropriate behavior norms that are culturally acceptable.
Respect dignity of other people and give due regards to their privacy as well; ask the locals before taking photographs. Dress appropriately in the rural, cultural and religious areas and follow proper code of conduct in a respectful manner. Do not give gifts and money to beggars and children, be careful in doing so. The countries may have restrictions regarding the purchase of coral products or products of endangered animals and plants, so refrain from buying these products. Be very careful about handling such things as well. You can help by supporting the local initiative, try and purchase the local arts and crafts items and products.
Try to eat local foods and make use of the services of the local tour operators and stay in local accommodations. Make it a point to pay a fair price to the local vendors. You can protect the environment by disposing off the rubbish in a careful way, try and recycle whenever possible. Minimize the use of plastics along with the use of power and water. Go in for tour operators that indulge in environmentally responsible tourism. Put yourself in other people’s shoes and act in the same manner as you would do in your own house. Be responsible in your sexual behavior. Your trip should be a positive experience for your self as well as for the citizens of the country you are visiting.
The different types of responsible tourism include sustainable tourism, ecotourism, green travel, experiential tourism and volunteer tourism. The responsible tourism is beneficial to the environment, local cultures, local communities, conservation of natural resources and helps minimizing pollution.
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