Rediscovering nature Responsible travel is about re-discovering how to experience nature and to be in it, feeling it, smelling it and learning about it rather than just looking at it.

Whether they travel independently, or through a leading responsible travel operator, the responsible traveller makes and experiences a difference.

The responsible traveller understands local peoples relationship with environments, and that income from tourism can be a powerful incentive for conservation.

Through this they replenish their souls. They would rather get out on foot than sit in a big bus, and are determined to leave no physical evidence of their visit but their footprints.

The responsible traveller values diversity - diversity of people, cultures and environments. They believe that they can grow as individuals through these experiences, and that their trip can make a positive contribution towards conserving global diversity.

This fact sheet will introduce some key Responsible Travel concepts to you. For more detailed information please visit: www.responsibletravel.com

As a traveller, you also have a role to play. These guidelines aren't intended to be overbearing, but informative, so that your travel experience is beneficial for you and the places you visit.

Respecting Cultural Differences Enjoy the fantastic experience of cultural diversity while you travel, but make sure to encourage and respect the differences that you encounter, don't try to change things for your own comfort. Remain patient and calm, more doors will open to you than if you 'lose your cool'.

Assisting the Locals in their Understanding of Western Culture The flipside of experiencing cultural diversity is helping locals gain a better insight into Western culture, particularly beyond the superficial attractions of monetary wealth. Respect the locals' wish to develop economically - everyone has a right to better standard of living and development.

Dress Standards Asian people dress modestly, particularly in rural areas. It is important for travellers to be conservative in their dress, in respect of the local culture. Offensive attire includes not wearing a bra, singlet tops (in some areas) and tight body hugging clothing. Long pants, skirts, sleeved shirts and shorts (that aren't too short) are appropriate. For temple visits shoulders and legs should be covered while shoes and hats should be removed before entry.

Swimming & Bathing Nowhere in Asia is nude sunbathing or swimming acceptable, regardless of what you see other travellers doing. In some places Asian women will swim/bathe wearing all their clothes. If this is the case, then a good rule of thumb is to swim/bathe in a sarong or T-shirt where necessary.

Etiquette - the all important "Saving Face" There are a few general codes of behavior that apply throughout the areas in which we operate.

Village people can construe Western excessive consumption of alcohol as a sign of affluence and elitism. We do not want to be responsible for luring local people to ignore family responsibilities and spending their minimal income on alcohol.

Child prostitution or sex tourism is an abhorrent and illegal act that we strongly condemn. Any incidences of this will be reported to local and international authorities who will ensure that the person involved will be questioned, and if appropriate, charged.

Donations and gift giving This is a difficult issue for many travelers who want to assist the local communities but are unaware of the larger implications. There are many ways in which you can have a positive input into the communities that you visit:

Do not give sweets to children in the villages that we visit. Local people do not have access to dentists and there is the issue of turning children into beggars. Pens, toothbrushes, clothing are best distributed via a local charity, school teacher, or community leader.

Avoid feeling that you necessarily have to give 'material' things, giving something of your friendship, time and interest to interact like a smile, a joke, a sing-song, dance or playing a game - this can be the best gift of all.

Environmental Responsibility & Waste Minimization

Energy and water conservation Be prudent with fuel and water. Pollution, green house gases and other problems of fossil fuel use are escalating as developing countries strive towards having modern Western appliances, vehicles and production methods. For example turn off the air-con/lights in your room when you it's vacant, leave the air con on 'fan only' overnight. Use public transport where possible.

Environmental degradation On treks, use existing tracks and stay on them rather than creating new tracks (especially in wet season) as this results in a series of footpaths that turn into erosion gullies. When snorkeling, don't touch coral formations as this can hinder their growth. Stick with the "Take only photos, leave only footprints" adage but then with sensitivity with the photos and footprints!

Wildlife When visiting National Parks or reserves where you will be in contact with wildlife, please ensure that you follow the appropriate Park Regulations that ensure that wildlife is protected. Respect this even if you observe that other tourists don't and don't respond to local rangers offering to bend the rules for you.