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AndeScapes adheres to a policy of Sustainable Tourism / EcoTourism. In this page you will find thoughts and considerations on this frame of mind, together with some tips about responsible travel. We encourage all our agents to distribute and share this information with clients and colleagues. Print a copy for your group!

Sustainable Tourism: defined by the World Tourism Organisation as ‘meeting the needs of the present tourists and host regions while protecting and enhancing the opportunity for the future. It is envisaged as leading to management of all resources in such a way that economic, social and aesthetic needs can be fulfilled, while maintaining cultural integrity, essential ecological processes, biological diversity and life support stems’. In short, the kind of Tourism that has a minimal effect on the natural and cultural environment of the area visited.

Tour operators and host country governments are now seeking to encourage ‘sustainable tourism’ as tourism which avoids negative environmental and social impacts.

The aims of sustainable tourism include:

·        using resources sustainably by reducing waste, encouraging recycling (for example of water), and protecting fragile zones

·        integrating the development of tourism into national and local planning frameworks

·        supporting local economies to help them avoid becoming dependent on international companies

·        recognising the contribution that people and communities, customs and lifestyles, make to the tourism experience

·        working with local communities in planning tourist developments.

 

What is ecotourism? Ecotourism is responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment and sustains the well-being of local people.

Travel Agents worldwide have an enormous effect on the travel industry through the choices they make. The following guidelines aim to provide information towards working as a responsible ecotour Travel Agent.

Tour Selection : Presently there is no industry-accepted rating of ecotour operators. It is necessary to undertake some research to discover which ecotour operator most suits your individual needs and demands, has the least amount of negative impact on the host population and environment, and at the same time maximises the amount of money that goes directly to the local community and the conservation of natural resources. Choosing an ecotour operator can be viewed as an exciting and enjoyable challenge, adding to the enjoyment of the whole travel experience.

Q. Does the ecotour operator employ trained naturalists, that can translate complex scientific information into simple, everyday, understandable language?

Q. Does the ecotour operator show a commitment to local conservation?

Q. Do ecotour operations directly benefit local inhabitants?

Q. Does the ecotour operator have a waste management policy?

Q. How else are the impacts of ecotour operations minimised?

 Finally, some considerations for the responsible traveller…

 ·        Contribute to the local economy of developing countries: buy local produce instead of imported goods

·        Do not buy products made from endangered species, hard woods, or ancient artifacts.

·        Don’t “play the wise” by knowing all the answers; instead, ask questions and discover different walks of life

·        Get acquainted with a group of locals and visit the places they visit when they have time off. Visit the main sights but get off the beaten track too.

·        Just as you do at home, don't discard litter, but take it home with you.

·        Learn about the countries you are going to visit – a few words of the local language will be welcome

·        Once you are back at home, let your operator know how you got on: this feedback is invaluable and will be used to enhance other travellers’ experiences.

·        Pack small gifts from home as gifts for your hosts - your tour operator will know what the local community will appreciate. We mean gifts, not money!

·        Remember that you are not at home; you are a visitor, a guest.

·        Respect for local cultures, traditions and holy places earns you respect. Silly as it may sound, it is more advisable (and sometimes safer) to ask permission before you photograph local people or monuments

·        Share your travelling experiences with other in the same group, or later when you are telling your friends at home: their impression will be different from yours, and the comparison is enriching.

·        Think small when booking a holiday – for example bed and breakfasts, village houses and locally owned accommodation benefit local families

·        Travel with simple clothes: especially if you can get previous advice on the local clothing style. Wearing “tourist” clothes will turn you into a mark for thieves and muggers.

·        Use public transport, hire a bike or walk where convenient – you'll meet local people and get to know the place

When you are bargaining to buy an item, remember that a small amount to you could be crucial to the seller. Also, learn whether bargaining is convenient at all!

NB: While every care has been taken in preparing these recommendations, neither AndeScapes nor its agents or employees can accept liability for any injury, loss or damage arising in respect of any statement contained therein.