How to make your tour sustainable

What is sustainable traveling?

Sustainable travel is the concept of traveling in a way that minimizes negative impacts on the environment, culture and local communities. It involves traveling responsibly, preserving natural and cultural heritage, and supporting local people. You can practice this by reducing carbon emissions, using public transportation, staying in eco-friendly accommodations, and supporting local businesses.

Examples on how to travel sustainably:

• Avoid overcrowded spots where many tourists visit
• Use eco friendly modes of transportation
  • Walk, rent a bike, ride the train, hybrid/electric cars
• Dine at local restaurants, have a coffee at a local cafe instead of Starbucks
• Try not to feed wild animals
• Reduce plastic waste
  • Bring a reusable water bottle for your tour instead of buying plastic bottles from vending machines

At HiddenWalks, there are 8 elements of sustainability:

1. Responsible hosting
2. Low CO2
3. Low Waste Model
4. Environmentaly conscious
5. Local culture exploration
6. Local business support
7. Local art support
8. Educational

Here is a detailed guide on how you can apply these elements for your tour:

Responsible hosting

Low CO2 model

1. Consider using public transportation, such as trains and buses, instead of driving or flying.
2. If flying is necessary, look for flights with the highest occupancy rates, which will help to reduce the amount of emissions per passenger.
3. If driving, consider carpooling with others or renting a fuel-efficient vehicle.
4. While on vacation, consider activities that do not require transportation, such as hiking or biking.
5. Offset your carbon footprint by supporting carbon offset projects such as reforestation or renewable energy projects.
6. When planning your trip, stay in eco-friendly accommodations and choose tour operators that prioritize sustainable practices.

Low waste model

1. Pack a reusable water bottle and refill it at water fountains or refill stations, instead of buying disposable plastic bottles.
2. Bring your own reusable bags, containers, utensils, and straws to reduce the use of disposable plastic items.
3. Avoid buying single-use items such as travel-sized toiletries and snacks that come in disposable packaging.
4. Choose accommodations and tour operators that have environmental policies in place, such as recycling or composting programs.
5. When eating out, request no disposable cutlery or napkins and choose restaurants that use sustainable and local ingredients.
6. Use digital devices and apps instead of paper maps and guidebooks.
7. Minimize the use of disposable batteries and instead use rechargeable batteries.
8. Support local communities and economies by buying products made by local artisans and craftsmen.
9. Be mindful of the waste you generate, and dispose of it properly in designated waste and recycling bins.

Environmentally conscious

1. Reduce your carbon footprint by choosing sustainable transportation options, such as trains, buses, or electric vehicles, rather than flying or driving.
2. Choose eco-friendly accommodations, such as hotels or resorts that have sustainable practices in place, such as recycling or composting programs.
3. Minimize your use of disposable items, such as plastic water bottles or straws, and bring your own reusable items instead.
4. Support local conservation efforts by visiting national parks or protected areas and following Leave No Trace principles.
5. Consider the environmental impact of your activities and choose options that have a low impact on the environment, such as hiking, biking, or wildlife watching.
6. Support sustainable tourism by choosing tour operators that have environmentally-friendly policies in place.
7. Be mindful of water usage and energy consumption while staying in accommodations.
8. Be cautious of your waste, properly dispose of it in designated waste and recycling bins, and minimize the amount of waste you generate.
9. When visiting a new place, learn about the local environmental issues and try to support local conservation initiatives.
10. Offset your carbon footprint by supporting carbon offset projects such as reforestation or renewable energy projects.

Local culture exploration

1. Visit local markets and shops to experience the traditional foods, crafts, and clothing of the area.
2. Attend cultural festivals and events such as music concerts, dance performances, and religious ceremonies.
3. Take a guided tour led by a local guide who can provide insight into the history and customs of the area.
4. Visit local museums and historical sites to learn about the culture and history of the region.
5. Participate in cultural activities such as cooking classes, pottery-making workshops, or calligraphy lessons.
6. Talk with locals and get to know their daily life, customs and listen to their stories.
7. Stay in a homestay or with a local family to experience daily life and learn about the culture firsthand.
8. Take a walk around the neighborhood or city to observe local architecture, art and street culture.
9. Try out the local food and drinks, to get a taste of the local culture.
10. Respect the local customs, dress codes, and taboos to show your respect and interest in the local culture.

Local business support

1. Shop at local markets and small shops, rather than large chain stores or malls.
2. Dine at locally-owned restaurants and cafes, rather than chain restaurants or fast food chains.
3. Use locally-owned transportation options, such as taxi or ride-sharing services, rather than large international companies.
4. Stay in locally-owned accommodations, such as bed and breakfasts, guesthouses, or small hotels, rather than large international hotel chains.
5. Use local tour operators and guides, rather than large international companies.
6. Buy locally-made products, such as souvenirs, crafts, and clothing, to support local artisans and craftsmen.
7. Take advantage of local services, such as laundry, hairdressers, and spas, to support local business owners.
8. Research for local events or festivals, this can be a great way to find local business and experience unique culture.
9. Ask locals for recommendations on where to go and what to do, they often know the best local places to shop, eat, and explore.
10. Leave a review or word of mouth about your experience with local business, it will help to support them and attract other travelers.

Local art support

1. Visit local art galleries and museums: Seek out local art galleries and museums in the area you are visiting. This will give you an opportunity to view and purchase original works of art created by local artists.
2. Attend art fairs and festivals: Many cities and towns host art fairs and festivals that feature local artists. Attending these events can be a great way to discover new artists and purchase original works of art.
3. Shop at local art markets: Many cities and towns have local art markets where artists sell their work. These markets are a great way to find unique, one-of-a-kind pieces created by local artists.
4. Commission local artists: Consider commissioning a local artist to create a piece of art that you can take home as a souvenir. This is a great way to support local artists and bring home a unique and meaningful piece of art.
5. Respect local artists: Remember to respect the artists and their work. Be aware of cultural sensitivities and customs when interacting with local artists.
6. Support local art organizations: Research and support local art organizations, non-profits, or foundations that help local artists to showcase and promote their art, you can do this by volunteering, donating or even visiting their exhibitions.
7. Spread the word: Share your experience and recommend local art galleries, studios, or markets to other travelers.

Educational

1. Learn about the history, culture, and current events of the places you will be visiting. This will help you understand and appreciate the places you visit, and you’ll be able to share your knowledge with others.
2. Visit educational sites: Seek out educational sites such as museums, historical sites, and cultural centers. These can provide insight into the history, culture, and current issues of the places you visit.
3. Attend cultural events: Attend cultural events such as festivals, concerts, and performances. These can give you a deeper understanding of the culture and customs of the places you visit.
4. Try new things: Be open to trying new things such as different foods, activities, and ways of life. This can broaden your understanding of different cultures and perspectives.
5. Reflect on your experience: Take time to reflect on your experiences and what you have learned. This can help you better understand and appreciate the places you have visited, and you’ll be able to share your knowledge with others.

Use these elements to make your tour stand out and contribute to the sustainability of your local area!