BY CLAY LARROY
We lead
such busy lives working, going to school, taking children to different
activities that often we do not stop and talk to our children. We usually do
not have time to sit around the dinner table and ask our children what they did
today. Family vacations are so important, as it gives us a way to connect with
each other in a stress free relaxed environment. Families that take vacations
together build memories that will last a lifetime. Family vacations and travel
can be a most rewarding experience. When you are ready to plan a vacation contact me!
More
than green sentiments, what these diverse ecotourism activities have in common
is a real commitment to sustaining the people, culture and wildlife that make
their destination unique. But consumers should beware that the buzzword
"ecotourism" is all too often thrown around carelessly. Many tour
operators bill themselves as eco but in reality do not live up to the label. That’s
why it’s important to understand ecotourism before you make your travel plans,
and also why it’s important to use a travel consultant who is familiar with
tour operator reputations. By making responsible consumer decisions before and
during your travel, you can help change the face of tourism and make it a force
for empowering people around the world, rather than exploiting them.
Here
are some questions you can ask to determine if your eco lodge or tour operator
is really committed to the principles of ecotourism, or is just greenwashing
you. First, ask your travel consultant to assist with determining if the tour
operator has a written policy concerning the community and the environment. Can
they point to any concrete contributions they’ve made to the community, such as
conservation projects or partnerships with community charities? Do they heat
their buildings using solar or other renewable energy sources, also considering
that firewood contributes to deforestation? Do they treat their own wastewater,
or do they pump it out into local wetlands? If they can answer these questions
satisfactorily, it shows they take ecotourism seriously.
But
remember that a genuine Eco tourist establishment must be equally committed to
people as to plants and wildlife. Inquire how many locals they employ, and what
positions they fill - are they managers or bellboys? What percent of their
products and services come from within a 25 miles radius? Do they offer local
tour guides? A local guide, in addition to being an unparalleled source of
information, can help you interact with the locals in a culturally sensitive
manner. What opportunities do they offer you, the visitor, to become involved
in the community (such as volunteering at a local school or clinic)? Do they
offer a library, workshops or other resources that encourage visitors to
educate themselves about the local culture? The more you know about the
destination, the more you will appreciate your stay.
Tour
operators often have access to remote, environmentally sensitive areas that may
be difficult or impossible to reach for tourists traveling independently. Some
operators may offer day excursions starting from a nearby town or hotel. If you
sign up for a complete Eco tour vacation package, be sure to ask what exactly
is included in the cost and what will be an additional expense (i.e., park
entrance fees or tips for guides and drivers). Most Eco tour companies offer
small group or family excursions. If you will be traveling in a group with
people previously unknown to you, many tour operators can match you according
to similar age, interests or fitness levels.
Your
eco lodge or tour operator can recommend what clothing and gear to bring, and
your travel agent can help you with visa, passport, medical, and insurance
arrangements, if needed.
To
get the most out of your ecotourism vacation, read up on your destination as
much as possible beforehand. If you can study the language or learn a few useful
words and phrases, even better. Travel slowly and immerse yourself in the
destination and its people. Sit outside and sip a local beverage while watching
daily life flow by, or join a group that allows you to contribute something. If
it’s safe, walk through the streets beyond the designated tourist zones and
talk to the locals, who might appreciate the effort. If you do volunteer work
with children or the poor, don’t go in with the attitude that you are saving
the world - you may learn far more from them than they will from you!
When
you return home, you’ll find that a new, global perspective can be the most
valuable souvenir of all... more than any picture you snapped or trinket you
bought on the street.
REFERENCE SITES:
http://www.travelresearchonline.com/
To awaken quite alone in a strange town is one of the
pleasantest sensations in the world.
– Freya Stark
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