- Before leaving from home learn as much as possible about the countries you are visiting – the religion, culture and customs, the local rules and values.
- Learn some local language and don’t be afraid to use it – simple chat with local, Keep practicing.
- Learn what’s appropriate behavior and body language. Like the concept of ‘saving face” in Asia or giving the thumbs up in western or central Europe.
- Support locally owned businesses, hotels, restaurants and other services. Eat local food and drink local brands and brews. Use public transport or walk where convenient – you’ll meet local people and get to know the place.
- Shopping from traditional artisans and for locally made products, helping keep traditional crafts alive and favor local products over imported items. Bargain if that is a local practice, but bear in mind that a small amount to you could be extremely important to the seller.
- Dress respectfully with an awareness of local standards. Dress modestly at religious sites and check what swim wear is suitable for pools or hot spring.
- Always ask first before photographing or videoing people. Send them back copies of photos to help make it a two-way exchange.
- Be wary of giving gifts or money to beggars, children and people you have just met because giving them some penny is courage to them keep begging. Supporting the community through a local school, clinic or development project may be more constructive.
- Leave only footprints…take care of the environment as you would your own home. Take out all you take in, to areas away from the cities. Use alternatives to plastic and say ‘No’ to plastic bags. For cigarette butts, an empty film or similar container makes a perfect portable container.
- After returning home think how you can support programs and organizations that are working to protect the welfare, culture and environment of where you’ve been lucky to visit.
- Smile to local people then they will reply smile.
