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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.

Featured image: Garry Knight

About the author

Brittany DietzBrittany has travelled to London, France, Germany, The Netherlands, Mexico, The Caribbean, Canada and all over the U.S. She's passionate about travel and has big plans for future trips! Brittany is a Content and Social Media Executive at Cheapflights.

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