Five Top Tips On How To Be An Ethical Tourist

2022 has been a massive year for travel, and the sector is expected to continue thriving next year. Therefore The Bucket List Company have put together some top tips for those travelling on how to be an ethical tourist so you can have a fantastic adventure while also being as respectful as possible.

1. Check If Tourism Is Welcomed

Although there may be tickets freely available to your destination, it is always best to do an in-depth search to ensure local people are happy for tourists to visit. A prominent example is Hawaii; many native people have asked tourists to stop visiting due to cultural and environmental stability concerns.

2. Support Local Businesses

Tourism is a primary source of income for many countries, so visitors should make an effort to support smaller businesses, whether it be via market stalls, independent supermarkets & restaurants. You are almost guaranteed a much more authentic experience by exploring a new country this way.

3. Be Respectful

Visiting new cultures and experiences is a privilege, so it's vital to be respectful. Ensure you research and stick to any dress codes or new customs and traditions when visiting a new place,

4. Learn Basic Phrases

Tourists should learn some basic phrases such as hello, thank you and excuse me, it is not just polite, but it also shows that you are making an effort which is often really appreciated by locals.

5. Respect Locals

Remember you are essentially a visitor in someone's home; think before laughing or making a joke at something just because it's different to what you are used to back home. Additionally, think about what or who you are photographing, especially if it's going on social media. Make sure you ask for permission, if necessary, as you can come across as intrusive or creepy.