Abstracts y and links to the original articles concerning Responsible Tourism

Ecoturismolatino is conscious that any kind of tourism has a negative impact over the natural, social, cultural and managerial contexts present in a Natural Protected Area (NPA). It is our belief, on the other hand, that tourism can have a positive impact in the mentioned contexts.

A basic principle "EcoTravellers" and "EcoEntrepreneurs" must always practice while visiting or working in a NPA is that of Responsible Tourism. Ecoturismolatino defined Responsible Tourism as a:

Travel that takes into consideration the natural, socio-cultural, economic and political contexts of a destination in the search to increase benefits and minimize negative impacts.

Ecoturismolatino promotes Responsible Tourism and we invite you to do the same. We want to partnership with you not only to promote Responsible Tourism, but also to take it into action. We think that the first step is to understand the concept of Responsible Tourism. In other words to understand the theory. The second step is to take action. Action which promotes, practices and demands Responsible Tourism in protected natural areas (PNAs).

To practice Responsible Tourism is an attitude required when visiting, taking an EcoTour and/or staying in an EcoLodge near or in a protected natural area. We invite you to the adventure of becoming a true EcoTraveller.

All together working for a better world.
"Bridging Worlds. Bridging Dreams."

Articles

• Defining Responsible Tourism. An introductory article to the concept of Responsible Tourism. (PDF file)
• Tourism and the Climate. Learn about Climate Change and the effect you have on the climate while travelling. Find out ways to reduce the impact you have on the environment.
• Responsible Tourism Advocacy on the Internet. An encompassing article covering the definitions of Responsible Tourism and exploring three web sites that advocate for a Responsible Tourism around the world. (PDF file)

eBulletins & eGroups

• eBulletin "Latin Trails". Keep updated on the latest developments of ecotourism, natural protected areas and responsible tourism in Latin America.
• eGroup "EcoTravellers". Participate online in a forum discussing the theory and action of responsible tourism.

Links

• Tips for Responsible Travelers - is a resourceful web page created by Sustainable Travel International giving ideas of how to be a responsible traveler.

• Get to know the Leave No Trace Principles of outdoor ethics by visiting their website: http://www.lnt.org/programs/lnt7/index.html

• David Mozer presents another article about the assumptions made about ecotourism and cycle tourism, together with topics related to the environment, economy and culture. (International Bicycle Fund) <http://www.ibike.org/eco-tourism.htm>

• A checklist to go through to review Ecotour Operators and evaluate their responsible tourism practices. (International Bicycle Fund) <http://www.ibike.org/tour-op.htm>

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1. EcoTraveller's Code - Guidelines to practice responsible tourism in natural protected areas of Latin America.
2. EcoTours & EcoLodges - If you are planning to take an EcoTour and/or staying in an EcoLodge make sure it is genuine ecotourism. To make sure, check out our Travel Guide or contact us and we will investigate for you.
3. Mailing Campaigns - Make the governments of Ecuador and Costa Rica aware that, as a concerned world traveler, you are paying attention to the devastation of the ecosystem in their countries and you expect them to do the same. Participate in this campaign promoted by Ethical Traveler. ¡Get into Action!
4. Responsibletravel.com is a business that believes in playing their part to improve the tourism industry for the benefit of the environment, local people, tourists and for the long term success of the tourism industry. Join their campaigns from the UK.
5. Responsible Trekking - the Inka Porter Project (IPP), is urging tourists to act responsibly when it comes to trekking in the Andes.
6. More Ideas - Ecoturismolatino is working with other organisations to propose other actions you can carry out. If you have an idea subscribe to our EcoTravellers eGroup and make a suggestion!