How to be a Responsible Tourist

The pathway to becoming a more Responsible Tourist includes:

•  Adhere to Universal Principles including: do not kill, hurt nor profit from pain; do not lie in thoughts, words or deeds; do not take what is not yours
• All sentient beings on this planet are co-creating the future  -  live & let live
• Invest in cleaning your personal & our collective karma !  Seize the opportunity of travel to seek the truth and liberate your soul through soulful experiences – be open to participate in life by connecting with other beings !  Of course there are scammers in Vietnam - as there are everywhere - just be aware of reality !
• The best solution to global warming is an organic vegan diet !  
• Reduce the quantity of rubbish (trash), recycle & dispose all rubbish correctly !  Reduce the use of plastic bags & bottles !
• Reduce pollution created by fossil fuels by choosing zero or low pollution activities (e.g. cycling, hiking, walking, kayaking, sailing, etc.), use less polluting transport systems, travel less & experience more deeply, use fans not air conditioners, etc.
• Use only Responsible Tour Operators who are true to Responsible Tourism Principles !  look for credible responsible tour companies who have references from quality NGO's, certification, etc.  Websites such as www.green.travel provide independent certification or verification 
• Ensure that substantial benefit from your tour goes to the community & the environment !  Communities with Tourism Cooperatives who own local properties (homestays, eco-lodge, etc.) most likely have substantial community benefits.  The environment must also benefit with tour income going towards environmental protection & rejuvenation
• Do not break the law
• Be respectful of local communities, customs, culture, heritage & environment.  This includes dressing appropriately, not drinking excessively, no recreational drugs, prostitutes, etc.

The 2002 Cape Town Declaration on Responsible Tourism in Destinations defines Responsible Tourism as follows:
• Minimizes negative economic, environmental and social impacts
• Generates greater economic benefits for local people and enhances the well being of host communities
• Improves working conditions and access to the industry
• Involves local people in decisions that affect their lives and life chances
• Makes positive contributions to the conservation of natural and cultural heritage embracing diversity
• Provides more enjoyable experiences for tourists through more meaningful connections with local people, and a greater understanding of local cultural, social and environmental issues
• Provides access for physically challenged people
• Is culturally sensitive, encourages respect between tourists and hosts, and builds local pride and confidence”

The major difference between Sustainable Tourism and Responsible Tourism is that in responsible tourism, individuals, organizations and businesses are asked to take responsibility for their actions and the impacts of their actions.