Traveling around the world
“How can I offset my impact of international travel?”
Traveling can promote mutual understanding and respect of diverse cultures. At the same time, traveling can have a significant environmental impact. Below is a list of 5 international traveling practices that I’ve committed to since my return. These actions help offset the impact of my international travel.
- Reduce my yearly amount of airline travel
- Support airlines that are socially and environmentally responsible
- Patronize locally owned organizations in the areas in which I travel
- Ask about community needs wherever I go and see if I can contribute in some way
Conversations with women in Kenya reminded me that our behaviors and attitudes as international tourists/travelers leave a lasting impression on the communities we visit. Below is a list of 5 mindfulness practices that I’ve committed to since my return. These practices help me be sensitive to other cultures and leave a positive impact on the communities I visit.
- Research the local culture before the trip
- Study the local language, both before and during the trip – use it with heart
- Be flexible/open
- Take only what is offered
- Respect, adapt to and learn from local customs and culture
