Ethical travel
How to be a mindful traveller
Once upon a time you booked a vacation, you went and came home (refreshed and rejuvenated, of course). Now, thanks to a greater focus on green issues, there are concerns beyond the state of your tan. What will my vacation mean for the local community? Am I ruining the landscape just by visiting? How can I vacation and be a mindful traveller?
With these concerns in mind, here is the Cheapflights' travellers' code for anyone who wants to leave a lighter footprint:
- Fly direct and consider offsetting your carbon emissions. Air Canada and several other international airlines such as British Airways have offset programs.
- Stay longer. You'll lessen your carbon footprint if you vacation in one spot for longer rather than taking short flights to another city or resort.
- Stay small. Consider a homestay rather than a big hotel. A homestay can be a wonderful way to experience your destination. If you do stay in a hotel, reuse the sheets and towels rather than having them changed every day.
- Travel locally. Use public transit rather than renting a car. Again, it's a great way to get under the skin of a city or region.
- Eat locally grown produce rather than Western-style cuisine, the ingredients of which often have to be imported.
- Be sensitive to the local community. Ask permission before photographing people and respect their wishes.
- Respect local customs and dress. Research before you go. Going topless on the beach may not be acceptable for example, and you may have to remove your shoes before entering a temple building.
- Be as generous as you can. Watch the haggling too. It may just be a few cents to you, but it may put food on the table for the vendor.
- Compare, compare, compare ... the cost of flights and travel before you go. Apply our Cheapflightsology and save more money to spend during your vacation.