We love travelling. The people you meet, the lessons you learn and the experiences that shape us – travel makes the world a better place. And it seems we’re not the only ones!
To celebrate the beauty of our favourite pastime, The United Nations has created a ‘World Tourism Day’ initiative – a way to learn the best practices for those that roam the world in search of the next life changing experience.
Here are TripADeal’s five best practices for travelling:
1) TALK TO THE LOCALS
Language barriers and busy schedules always make it challenging to spend time with the locals when you travel. But it’s so worthwhile. Communication is incredibly powerful and the slightest interaction will have exponential outcomes – both to your life and to the locals’.
2) SHOP LOCAL
Before buying a souvenir flip it over to check where it was made. You can triple your positive economic impact by buying locally made souvenirs when travelling, helping the local economy rather than international corporations. You may be surprised how many fake imitations come back through customs these days.
3) INVEST IN A REUSABLE WATER BOTTLE
The benefit of investing in a reusable water bottle is two-fold. Not only will it save you money, but it will also help lessen the plastic consumption problem that is plaguing the globe. Hot tip: Most hotels have filtered water, so fill up at reception before you head out for the day.
“IT IS BETTER TO SEE SOMETHING ONCE THAN TO HEAR ABOUT IT A THOUSAND TIMES.”
4) RESEARCH THE SUN CREAM YOU ARE USING
While it is vital to slip, slop, and slap when you’re out in the sun, many sunscreens contain oxybenzone, a common chemical that can kill coral and damage coral reefs. Do your bit to protect both sea life and your own skin by purchasing sun products that don’t contain it.
5) “LEAVE ONLY FOOTPRINTS, TAKE NOTHING BUT PHOTOS”
This is a phrase that would make David Attenborough smile. It applies to anyone who walks the earth, though resonates with travellers in particular. To elaborate – if there are no bins, then take your rubbish with you and if you are in a natural habitat, don’t displace anything.
To be a better traveller make sure to think global, act local and smile while you travel! TripADeal has your next travel destination here.
