Sustainable Tourism: the way of the responsible traveler

Eco-tourism is becoming a popular term to describe any tour that takes into account the environment and local resources. And very often eco-tourism is confused with sustainable tourism.  

Eco-tourism does not take into account all the environmental, social, political and economic implications of tourism. Sustainable tourism is about finding a balance between nature, the environment, the needs of the tourists and needs of the locals so that all will benefit.

Sustainable tourism promotes integration and interaction with local communities. It is a way of supporting local projects and businesses while respecting the local traditions and way of living. It also helps to conserve resources and the environment. Sustainable tourism does not disrupt the status quo, or require people to adjust their way of life.

Sustainable tourism activities range from staying and dining with local families and spending time with fishermen or farmers to learn how they support their families to visiting local conservation projects that really take into account the needs of the people living around them.
Sustainable tourism does not have to exclude classic safaris: game drives and visits to national parks can be perfectly integrated into a sustainable tourism itinerary.

So what is sustainabile tourism?

It is informative. Travellers will enrich their own experiences by learning about the destination and how to help sustain its character. Locals will learn about other societies and appreciate the differences and difficulties that both societies face.

It supports integrity of place. Local architecture, cuisine, heritage, aesthetics and ecology are  highlighted as points of interest for visitors, which increases the value of these concepts. To give a real experience to the travellers, local people are employed and trained, local supplies are used.

It is resource sensitive. Environmentally sensitive travellers are informed on conservation issues, such as the protection of local resources, flora and fauna.

It respects local culture and tradition. Foreign visitors learn about and observe local culture and traditions. Local people learn to deal with foreign expectations different from their own.

It does not abuse its product. Travel agencies and other related business branches cooperate to sustain natural habitats, heritage sites, scenic appeal, and local culture.

It strives for quality, not quantity. The success of sustainable tourism is not measured by numbers of visitors, but by the quality of experience and benefit to the locals. Satisfied, excited visitors bring new experience and knowledge back to their countries and send friends off to experience the same, which provides continuing business for the destination and increased awareness of difficulties and problems.