The Good Tourist - Leaving a Positive Footprint Wherever We Roam

Travel is an enriching experience, full of discoveries and connections. But how often do we pause to consider the impact of our actions and attitudes on the places we visit?

Here are some of our thoughts on what being a good tourist truly entails, and how each one of us might contribute to making travel a force for good.

Openness and connection are the heartbeat of travel.

One of the most enriching aspects of travel is the opportunity to meet new people and immerse ourselves in different cultures. Openness to new experiences and ideas forms the foundation of meaningful connections. It's about more than just snapping photos - it's about truly experiencing the places we visit. Engaging in conversations with locals, participating in cultural practices, and appreciating the diversity of human experiences can transform our travel experiences from being merely observational to deeply immersive.

Respectful behaviour is the cornerstone of responsible tourism.

Acting respectfully while travelling goes beyond adhering to local customs and traditions. It also encompasses our attitudes and expectations. Remember, you're a guest in another country. Be patient, listen more than you speak, and be open to different ways of doing things. Let's ensure that we treat everyone we meet during our travels with kindness and respect.

Take a deeper dive into the destination by understanding its history.

To truly appreciate a destination, it's essential to delve into its history. Understanding the past provides context for the present, revealing rich layers of culture, tradition, and resilience that might not be immediately apparent. For instance, Africa's history is a tapestry of ancient civilizations, colonial impacts, and struggles for independence, all of which have shaped the continent's unique cultural landscapes. By exploring this history, we can gain a deeper appreciation of the places we visit and the people we meet.

Witnessing Africa’s wild beauty is a privilege.

Africa offers one of the last frontiers where you can witness wild animals in their natural habitats. This is a privilege that comes with a responsibility to respect and protect these precious ecosystems. The thrill of spotting a lion on a safari or watching a herd of elephants at a watering hole isn't just an exciting holiday memory; it's a poignant reminder of our role in preserving these magnificent creatures and their homes for future generations.

Being prepared to learn and grow is how travel transforms us.

Travel is also about personal growth and learning. Every trip presents opportunities to learn something new - about the world, about others, and about ourselves. Whether it's gaining insights into sustainable living from a rural African community or learning patience and resilience while navigating travel mishaps, these lessons can profoundly impact our perspectives and ways of life.

Choose small and local over big and global when you spend.

When we purchase local goods and services, we're not just buying products or experiences - we're supporting livelihoods, preserving cultural heritage, and contributing to local economies and families. By choosing locally owned accommodations, eating at local restaurants and buying artisanal crafts, we can ensure that our money directly benefits the communities we visit.

Get off the beaten track to help turn the tide of overtourism.

One way tourists can help to improve the destinations they visit is to curate itineraries that combine bucket list spots with areas that need more attention, conservation, development and tourist dollars.

Become the tourist who gets the bragging rights of being one of the first to visit an area, rather than one of the millions. Some popular international tourist spots are having to clamp down on visitor numbers in order to protect important infrastructure and ecosystems.

In a move to add to the cure for overtourism , Timeless Africa Safaris is helping to increase the tourism footprint of more overlooked regions and lodges in an effort to help boost more local economies and to help attract government attention to areas that need more protection.

Good tourists should approach their travel managers with requests for lesser-known destinations and experiences to help share the love and spread the overcrowding load.

Make a difference through philanthropy and volunteering.

Many travellers are embracing the idea of giving back to the destinations they visit. Whether it's participating in conservation work, volunteering at local schools, or donating to community projects, there are countless ways to make a positive impact. However, it's crucial to ensure that our efforts are genuinely helpful and not inadvertently causing harm. Always research and choose reputable organizations to collaborate with.

Learn the local greetings

Learning something as simple as, “Hello! How are you?” in the local language of the places you are visiting is a simple way to respect the citizens of the places you’re visiting, here are a few examples:

• South Africa - Xhosa: Molo! Kunjani wena? Zulu: Sawubona! Unjani Afrikaans: Hallo! Hoe gaan dit?
• Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda - Swahili: Habari! Habari yako?
• Mauritius, Seychelles - French: Bonjour! Comment vas-tu?
• Mozambique - Portuguese: Olá! Como vai você?

Do we need an international tourist code?

The idea of an international tourist code is a topic that's been gaining traction. Such a code could establish universal guidelines for respectful behaviour, environmental preservation, and support for local communities. However, it's essential to remember that each destination is unique, and a one-size-fits-all approach may not be the best solution. Instead, taking the time to learn about each destination's specific cultural nuances, customs, and rules can lead to a more meaningful and respectful travel experience.

Ultimately, being a good tourist isn't just about 'doing no harm.' It's about actively contributing to the places we visit, fostering understanding and respect, and nurturing a sense of global citizenship. As travellers, we have the power to make a difference. Let's use it wisely and leave a trail of positive footprints wherever we roam.

What do you think makes a good tourist? Share your thoughts in the comments section.