Before you travel, learn about your destination including local customs, greetings, clothing and etiquette.
A few words in the local language go a long way; a simple hello and a thank you will build connection and mutual respect.
Always ask before photographing or filming people, and honour any promise to share the images.
Dress with cultural awareness, especially when visiting religious or traditional sites.
Research if bargaining is a local custom to avoid offence or negative interaction and always with good humour.
Many employees subsidise low local wages with gratuity, please always reward good service.
ALWAYS feel free to ask me for advice on any of the above!
ASK me about including trains, ferries or alternative transport methods in your trip.
Walk, cycle or use local transport when you can, it’s both enriching AND reduces your footprint.
Pack as light as possible, outfit plan and check weather expectations. Laundry services often offer local employment and many destinations supply suitable extras such as waterproof ponchos for safari.
If possible ensure that towels and bedding are re-used and not changed daily. Most responsible venues will have a process or system to follow.
Respect local rules and regulations around water usage.
Support locally owned cafes, restaurants and businesses.
Buy from local artisans and seek sustainably sourced products where possible.
If required, hire local guides as their knowledge and perspective enrich every experience.
Get involved, if there are beach or litter cleans to take part in, it’s a great way to meet like-minded people.ASK me to include transfers and activities into your trips to ensure that the best and safest local providers are used.
Interactions with wildlife that involve touching, feeding or should be avoided.
Please respect wildlife viewing guidelines and listen and follow the advice of guides.
Avoid purchasing items made from materials such as bone, shells or coral.
Please see my ANIMAL WELFARE POLICY for full details.
Giving money to begging children can be counter-effective, either encouraging them out of education or not going directly to their own pockets.
Always research any charity interactions and avoid visiting orphanages and child based projects.
If you want to help, donate to proven NGO’s or projects such as GAP (add link to GAP).
Do not give to beggars with animals or ALWAYS ask me if you are unsure about an activity.
Travel with reusable shopping bags and refillable bottles and avoid single-use plastics.
Take out everything you bring in (including rubbish), especially in remote or natural areas.
Use a “Reef-Safe” sunscreen when swimming in the ocean.
Never light a fire in a delicate environment and dispose of cigarette butts responsibly.
