How to be a Responsible Traveller
Small choices that make a big difference
On our mission to make travel meaningful there’s so much we try to do as a tour operator, but every traveller can play their part in minimising the negative impact of tourism. Just a few small behavioural changes can go a long way. Below are our top tips on how to travel with meaning.
Our Responsible Travel Guide
Travel can be one of life’s most inspiring experiences, a chance to explore new places, meet different people, and see incredible wildlife. Our choices as travellers can have a huge impact on the places we visit, the animals that live there, and the communities that call those places home. Responsible travel means being aware of those impacts and making meaningful decisions that help protect wildlife, support local communities, and look after the environment for future generations. We have created a handy guide for travellers to follow while they are away, to help make a positive impact on every place they visit.
View our guide here.
Support local
A great way to inject money directly where it’s needed is by buying from local shops and eating at local restaurants. It’s also a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the local culture and have a more enriching experience. There’s nothing quite like being the only Westerner shown how to tuck into a masala dosa with your hands by an Indian family!
We work with locally owned hotels, guides and drivers wherever possible, not only because it supports the local economy, but because it often leads to more meaningful, personal experiences for our travellers too.
Photography
We all know we should ask permission before we take someone’s photo, but sometimes we get a little shy. It’s worth remembering that in some cultures, and for many people, photos can carry strong personal or cultural meaning. Also, some of the best photos and experiences can come from simply asking. Taking the time to ask, and showing someone the photo afterwards, can open up a conversation and lead to a far more meaningful exchange.
Don’t forget to share your travel snaps with us, we love seeing our journeys through your lens! Send us an email hello@rickshaw.co.uk or tag us on social media.
Choose ethical wildlife experiences
Wildlife encounters are often one of the highlights of travelling and we believe that experiencing them responsibly not only protects animals but makes these moments even more meaningful. For us, it’s important that animals are free to live natural lives in a habitat that is right for them, without harm or exploitation. We have developed some handy guidelines for our wildlife experiences to help our travellers to make informed decisions around animals and to travel more responsibly.
Living local
Before you go, it’s a good idea to familiarise yourself with the local culture, customs and dress code. When you book with us we’ll send you a Know Before You Go document with all the details. Not only will you avoid causing offence but you’ll also feel more like you’re part of it. When you also take your shoes off at the local Buddhist temple you make a connection with the local people.
Souvenirs
The killing of protected wild animals and the illegal exploitation of plants and forests are crimes that have a devastating impact on the environment, local livelihoods and biodiversity. You can help stop it; just think twice before buying or consuming something made out of an exotic tree, plant or wild animal, including photo propping, as you may be contributing to their extinction or exploitation. You can find more information here.
Leave no trace
We all know about watching our environmental impact when we are at home, but it’s just as important when we are exploring other places. Be mindful of this by carrying a re-usable water bottle, saying no to plastic bags (carry a tote bag with you if needed), and take any rubbish with you. Even small actions, like using reef-safe sun cream or keeping to marked trails, helps to protect fragile ecosystems.
Travel with an open mind
Sometimes things don’t go to plan. Trains run late, food tastes different, cultural norms might surprise you. Embracing the unexpected with a positive and curious attitude often leads to the best travel stories and deeper connections with local people.
Enjoy it!
By far the most meaningful way to travel is to really throw yourself into the destination. Talk to local people, explore, ask questions and try new things. You may never develop a taste for that Cambodian Tarantula, but it’s sure to make a great story!