There’s nothing quite like travel, filled with unique adventures, unbelievable sights and opportunities that only appear once in a lifetime. But before you dive into the unknown, you should err a little on the side of caution and ensure you’re always safe and ready to have the best time. Want to travel more responsibly? Well, I’m excited to share my top five tips with you!
1. Do your research.
Every culture and destination is different. What’s acceptable here might cause offence elsewhere and could potentially lead to damage.
For example, in Greece, their plumbing systems can’t handle toilet paper being flushed. It will clog the system, causing a whole heap of trouble and problems for the island you’re on. Make sure you look up everything you need to know before you set off so you can respect the rules and customs while you’re a visitor.
2. Make sustainable choices.
If you want to make sure you’re doing your best for the environment, there are more sustainable and eco-friendly options out there just waiting to be found. Not sure where to start? Look for certifications from Sustainable Travel International, the Global Sustainable Tourism Council or The International Ecotourism Society.
Basics like clearing up your trash, walking when you can, and reducing the amount of flights you take all contribute towards more eco-friendly travel.
3. Learn enough language to get by.
Not everyone speaks English. If you’re planning on traveling and want to truly discover the country you’re in, you need to learn some of the language.
I’m not expecting you to be fluent, but the more you can learn before you go, the better experience you’ll have. Some conversational basics will be appreciated by the locals, who will be able to see you’ve made an effort.
It’s always useful to also take a translation app with you when you go to help out in those tricky moments. Google Translate or SayHi are great places to start if you’re looking for an app you can trust.
4. Give back where you can.
Tourism provides a fantastic opportunity for people to visit places they may not have thought about experiencing.
But on the flip side, the tourism industry can potentially cause damage and take away from the culture of the country. So, while you’re off exploring, take time to get to know the real place you are in – not the fake resorts put there to lure you in.
Go and explore. Find new things and get out of your comfort zone. And while you’re doing that, do all you can to give back to the place you’re in. Shop locally to help the economy and make lives a little better for those there.
5. Make sure you’re insured.
No one likes thinking about what could go wrong. But part of traveling responsibly is ensuring you’re covered for all scenarios, just in case. And in some countries, visiting without travel insurance is actually illegal.
It’s much better to be prepared than to regret it afterwards. Don’t worry, getting travel insurance isn’t as much of a chore as you might think. There are so many comparison websites that getting the best deal is pretty simple!
Travelling will be a life-changing experience. The above tips will give you a guide on how to ensure you’re safe and responsible through your journey – but it’s up to you to truly make the most of it. Safe travels!
Much love,
Olivia