As temperatures rise, tornadoes swirl and glaciers melt, the conversation about climate change and our role in it continues to intensify. And, with increased documentation about the environmental, economic and social impact of travel, families may be wondering how best to be a responsible traveler.
Here are five ideas to consider:
Choose wisely
Popular vacation spots like the Galapagos Islands, Machu Picchu and many U.S. national parks have begun taking steps to protect their destinations from the effects of overcrowding by managing access, establishing visitor fees and sharing information about responsible practices. If you still plan to visit tourism hot spots, consider a shoulder or off-season trip when the impact may be less. When researching your next family adventure, review second-tier cities, parks with fewer visitors, uncrowded beaches or other locations not currently experiencing a high profile as your holiday possibilities. Consider visiting a location that is rebuilding after a natural disaster. Opt for a tour operator that gives back to their communities and makes a strong effort to tread softly in each destination. Companies like G Adventures, a small group adventure firm that helps develop rural tourism projects, Country Walkers and Lindblad Expeditions are among those striving to find a healthy balance in the travel equation.
For more: www.gadventures.com; www.expeditions.com; www.countrywalkers.com; www.nps.gov
Support locals
Before your trip, research the destination and discuss the importance of spending your travel dollars in ways that can support sustainable tourism. Hire a resident guide to introduce your family to the local ways and, when possible, explore on two wheels or on foot. Buy indigenous crafts, pull up chairs in neighborhood restaurants to sample fare from the region and peruse what’s possible at a farmer’s market. Take note that more hotels are offering meaningful amenities, aligning with a growing guest demand for sustainable options. At The Betsy, a family-owned boutique hotel in Miami’s Art Deco district, guests receive nightly bookmarks as part of turndown service. The bookmarks, made from recycled paper and wildflower seeds, serve as both a reminder of their stay and, if planted, a colorful contribution to the natural world. In Mexico, the Grand Velas Riviera Maya collaborated with a local artisan community to create beach bags from recycled plastics for the guests to use while on property. The handcrafted bags are also available for purchase in the resort’s boutique, with proceeds directly benefiting the artisan community.
For more: https://www.thebetsyhotel.com; https://rivieramaya.grandvelas.com
Opt for outside
A young person’s experiences in the natural world can strongly influence his or her view of the wider world and instill a desire to preserve and protect it. As you hike, bike and paddle, discuss the environmental changes that might be underway in your location. Share your knowledge and encourage kids to research areas of specific interest on their own.