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As high as, our passion for exploring exciting new remote places
and cultures, equally high is our commitment towards traveling
responsibly and toward sustainable tourism practices. At Escape
Tours, we make sure that our tours generate positive impact on
the places and communities we visit.
We are proud to say that our personal outlook on these sensitive
issues has not only benefited many people and communities but
has created an awareness amongst many who has taken a step
forward towards, what seems the right path in direction of
responsible tourism.
Our Responsible Travel Policy
ü For us an exhilarating trip
should not only delivers a unique and unsurpassable journey for
our clients, but that it also benefits the peoples whose lands
we are privileged to visit, whether this involves generating
local employment opportunities, using local suppliers ,staying
at family run hotels and home stays or assisting in promotion of
local art , handicrafts and cottage industries.
ü We are careful that our visit does not divert resources
away from the local communities or drive up prices on local
resources but it provides opportunities for cultural exchange
where locals and visitors alike can share and learn from each
other in an atmosphere of mutual respect.
ü We strive in extending our support for the welfare of
local community in area such as health, education, and
environmental protection. Our tour leaders would be happy to
provide you more information on appropriate channel if you wish
to contribute in local development.
ü We are efficient in the use of natural resources. We
adhere to minimum impact guidelines pertaining to toilets,
rubbish, and the use of soaps, firewood, water, fuel, and other
items that can negatively affect the environment.
ü We keep our group sizes small to minimize cultural and
environmental impact.
We ensure that all aspects of visitors' experience are in
harmony with the cultural and natural environment.
• We help prepare our clients by providing information at all
stages in order to help them minimize
their cultural and environmental impact.
• We aim to instill in our clients an understanding and
appreciation of he culture and environment
in which they travel by encouraging considerate, culturally and
environmentally conscious habits.
• We help enrich our clients' experience by providing cultural
and environmental interpretation,
both through local site-specific guides, and by providing our leaders
with the appropriate training.
Responsible
Travel Tips
We aim to abide by the principles of responsible tourism in all
aspects of our business, but to achieve this, we need the help
of our travelers. Here are our Top 10 tips to help you be a
responsible traveler and help you to minimize your impact and
maximize the fun and learning of your trip.
1. Read up before you go
Trips notes, guidebooks, TV, internet, novels: The more you know
about your destination before you go - particularly the cultural
aspects - the better you'll slip into the stream of things when
you arrive.
2. Reduce your waste
Leave any excess packaging at home; carry out what you carry in
and dispose of any rubbish appropriately. Take biodegradable
shampoo and soap and wash away from community water sources.
3. Learn the lingo
Even a few stumbling words in the local language will be
appreciated, and will help open doors to conversations and
friendships.
4. Be Sensitive of local customs
Any culture has its 'norms' - and they may be very different to
what you're used to. As a visitor, it is respectful to observe
things like appropriate dress and behavior. Ask your local Guide
to learn about the cultural side of your destination.
5. Minimise your impact on the landscape
If you're trekking, stick to the trails to avoid erosion.
Conserve local resources such as water and firewood and make
sure your ablutions and toilet activities don't contribute to
environmental degradation. (Our leaders and guides will advise
you!).
6. Observe minimum approach distances for wildlife
Our leader and local guides will advise you on the best way to
observe wildlife and on how closely you can approach animals,
for your own safety and theirs. Take binoculars and a long
camera lens!
7. Consider your transport options
For much of your trip, transport will be included. But on free
days, choose to walk, ride or take public transport to lessen
your contribution to green-house gas emissions.
8. When it comes to souvenirs 'buy local'
Buy your souvenirs direct from local people rather than big
showrooms and choose things that are made locally rather than
imported - this ensures your money goes directly back into the
community. Avoid buying products made from animal products.
9. Eat, sleep, drink local
Likewise, choose local restaurants and services where your
dollars provide a direct benefit.
10. Giving back
Look for ways that you could make a positive contribution to the
environment or community you are visiting. If you wish, you can
contribute funds, skills or labour to a charity or community
project. Ask your tour leader for more information on how to can
contribute in local development.
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