LARGE minority: More Local - Meaningful travel insights

1. Meaningful Travel Insights
Pre-Road Trip
Before hitting the road learn as much as possible about the places you are visiting – the
culture, history, religion, natural environment, customs, legends and the local rules and
values.
Learn some language and do not be afraid to use it – people appreciate your efforts and your
interest in learning plus it helps break the ice. Keep practising.
Learn what is appropriate behaviour and body language.
Pack light. It is tempting to pack everything you think you might need, but remember to be
smart about your necessities. Packaging items like the plastic wrapping of your new tooth
brush simply consumes space in your bag and can creates unnecessary trash.
During Road Trip
Dress respectfully with an awareness of local standards. Dress modestly at religious sites and
check what swim wear is suitable for rivers, pools and the beach.
Support locally owned businesses, hotels, restaurants and other services. Eat local food and
drink local brands and brews. Remember that eating local foods, shopping in local markets,
and attending local festivals are all part of experiencing the culture.
Engage in local culture. The saying, “When in Rome” still applies today. Your trip provides a
unique opportunity to explore a new culture and to see the world through a different
perspective.
Refrain from aggressive bargaining. Remember that the purchases you make directly affect
vendors’ livelihoods, so decide if you really need to hang onto that extra dollar or if it could
impact the vendor more.
Always ask first before photographing or videoing people. Send them back copies of photos to
help make it a two-way exchange.
Be wary of giving gifts or money to beggars, children and people you have just met.
Supporting the community through a local school, clinic or development project may be more
constructive.
Avoid plastic bags! When buying at local shops, most local people will offer you plastic bags
even for the smallest of things, so try to avoid this when possible.
Reduce, reuse, and recycle. Even though you are just visiting keep and collect any litter
created throughout the trip. Do NOT litter!
1 Last Updated 18.06.11 www.morelocal.co

2. Avoid chucking away cigarette butts – instead design ingenious ashtrays which you can re-use
and recycle in the end.
Don’t waste! We recommend that you minimize electricity and water consumption throughout
your journey - every little bit counts…
Post-Road Trip
After returning home think how you can support programs and organisations that are working
to protect the welfare, culture and environment of where you’ve been lucky enough to visit.
Distribute your responsible travel tips. In addition to telling family and friends about the
wonderful memories you made, also consider sharing tips on how they too can positively
impact the World while having an amazing journey.
Explore more. Traveling is just the start of learning. Once you return home continue exploring
and being involved with the issues or region that captured your attention. Build upon your
knowledge and also learn about another fascinating place.
Share your photos. Pictures can say a thousand words.
2 Last Updated 18.06.11 www.morelocal.co