How to be our best selves in the Galapagos RESPONSIBLE TOURISM.

How to be our best selves in the Galapagos

RESPONSIBLE TOURISM

Mindset: Be open-minded!Don’t assume what you are used to is “better” or “superior”

Respect:Respect the cultural identityYou are not at a zooPeople don’t exist for the entertainment of tourists

GENERAL CONCEPTS

Interactions:Try new thingsHave conversations with locals, enjoy a new perspective

Avoid saying insulting or condescending things in public, even if you think the people around can’t understand you. Many people around the world can understand partial English

Remember you are the guest!Not the other way around. (Don’t expect locals to inconvenience themselves for you.)

It is a privilege to be in their homeDon’t touch others’ property or bother people/animals without permission

Respect posted limits: stay on marked trails in parks

Leave no trace! Aim to have as little impact on the place as possible

Research the communities you will be in. Learn basic words in local languageDress according to cultural norms (avoid clothing that would be considered immodest/disrespectful)

Aim to spend your money in multiple places i.e. restaurants, hotels, vendors, transportation (avoiding all-inclusive resorts)

PRE-TRIP

Photography: Always Ask! Be willing to pay a bit if requested

Haggling: Do it respectfully! Aim for a fair price - the vendor is trying to make a living. Only if no price is posted.

Begging: Better to donate to organizations. Don’t want to encourage flocking or scamming.

ON THE TRIP, HOW TO APPROACH:

Have a buddy at all timesHave a plan for making contact if you get separated

If a situation seems off, find a way out

Know your limitsIf going out at night have someone in the group as your “designated driver”

ON THE TRIP: SAFETY

Educate your friendsPhotos are a great way to document and share experience

Clarify incorrect stereotypes around youLook into supporting organizations that address problems you witnessedFundar: alternative developmentGalapagos Conservancy: env. ProtectionScalesia Foundation: strengthening education

POST-TRIP