Action

Sustainable Tourism Pledge

1. Before you travel, read up on the history and culture of your destination. Use the internet to get leads on local specialties and off-the-beaten-path sites from locals and other travelers. Learn a few basic phrases in your destination’s local language.
    
2. Walking/biking/trekking or exploring one place in depth is a good way to reduce your carbon footprint (and more rewarding than if-this-is-Tuesday-it-must-be-Belgium tours). At urban destinations, walk or take public transit whenever possible. You’ll see more and avoid getting stuck in rush-hour traffic!
    
3. Conservation should always be on a traveler’s mind: whatever helps the environment, such as recycling or staying in an eco-friendly hotel, also protects heritage.
    
4. Show respect for and interest in the local culture. At sacred sites, dress modestly, speak softly, and be mindful of people who are there to worship. Seek out local celebrations and festivals – they can provide a unique glimpse into local culture and are a fun way to meet locals, sample traditional foods, and learn about your destination’s heritage.
    
5. Visit lesser-known places—they may be far more rewarding (not to mention less crowded) than tourist hotspots. The Taj Mahal may be a must-see, but India has more than 25 other spectacular World Heritage Sites.
    
6. Be mindful of visitor wear and tear. Visiting crowded sites at off-peak hours or popular destinations in the off- or shoulder-seasons will reduce your impact. Stick to marked paths. Wear sensible footwear such as sneakers; heels can damage fragile sites. Don’t climb on monuments or touch rock carvings, as it can damage them.
    
7. Take only photographs, and make sure that a flash is permitted. Be aware of local traditions when photographing people and when in doubt, ask permission before snapping a picture. Never remove anything from a site: you may think one stone won’t be missed, but if every one of Pompeii’s two million annual visitors took something home, soon there’d be nothing left.
    
8. Support the local economy by buying crafts from local artisans as souvenirs. Be wary of “antiquities” as these could be looted or forgeries. Patronize smaller hotels and local restaurants rather than mega-resorts and chains – that way the money you spend boosts the local economy and helps preserve heritage.
    
9. Help threatened sites, either through donations to organizations like the World Monuments Fund or by volunteering—either in your community or on a “voluntourism” trip. There are many opportunities to combine travel and volunteerism, and ways to help range from building houses to participating in archeological digs.
    
10. Educate friends and family about responsible heritage tourism. Raise awareness by sharing your experiences on Facebook, Flickr, or your own travel blog.

Send us an email letting us that you've adopted our sustainable tourism pledge, and tell us your own ideas for responsible travel!