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Let’s get the Responsible Tourism conversation going

Posted in April 4th, 2012

Let’s make this week’s article a short one, shall we?

I want to know what you think Responsible Tourism means, and – more specifically – what VISITORS should be doing to ensure that they travel responsibly.

Please go here look at my presentation on Responsible Tourism below (and download, tweet, share, and even embed it into your web site) and then give us your views – on the Slideshare page, below, or by e-mail (though the e-mail route isn’t going to get other people talking – just you and I). martin [at] thistourismweek.co.za

No really – what do you think? How SHOULD travellers behave? We – the host communities – are doing our bit (as you’ll see in the presentation). But are they?

Responsible Tourism M Hatchuel 2012

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4 users commented in " Let’s get the Responsible Tourism conversation going "

Greg McManus said,

in April 5th, 2012 at 9:59 am

Well done Martin. Let’s get the myths around RT exposed and the industry committed to something they seem reluctant to embrace. The ‘good times’ that are being used to justify our lack of commitment to RT won’t always be here. Pretty soon we are going to have to compete head-to-head with destinations that take this seriously, and then it will be too late.

Gill said,

in April 5th, 2012 at 11:13 am

Hi Martin
I have a guest house near Gansbaai – the hub of the shark viewing and diving industry. Most of the shark operators bring their guests up from Cape Town for the day & I feel that this is not RT. The sharks are Gansbaai’s resource, and as such, the guest houses, restaurants, shops etc should ‘benefit’ from this industry. More jobs could be created if more of the shark divers stayed in the area for a night or two. Agents and tour operators, as well as the shark diving companies should be promoting the destination as a place to stay.

Darron Raw said,

in April 5th, 2012 at 8:02 pm

Martin,

I think travellers should be encouraged to ask themselves the question: Am I a responsible traveller?

They can evaluate this by checking the following:

Did I go to the trouble of pre-researching my trip to find the establishment in the destination I am wanting to visit that goes the furthest to promote responsible tourism?

Did I make my choice of venue based on responsible tourism criteria?

Did I undertake activities whilst staying at the venue that were orientated towards responsible tourism?

Did I thank the venue for the way they conduct their business, tell them I made my choice based on their reputation and demonstration in the RT sphere and to encourage them to continue?

Did I in my post-stay feedback to the venue point out any additional ways that they could be conscious of responsible tourism ideals.

… and more more!

James Luck said,

in April 9th, 2012 at 11:50 pm

This definition (2002 Cape Town Declaration on Responsible Tourism in Destinations) may not be the latest, but it speaks to a couple of the points raised by Gill above:

Responsible Tourism is tourism which:

1. Minimises negative economic, environmental and social impacts
2. Generates greater economic benefits for local people and enhances the well being of host communities:
i.e. point 2. specifically includes the following:
• 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
• is integrated in the local ecosystem

I’ve seen tourists that don’t give a hoot about Point 1. Just two examples: haggling way below what’s a reasonable price to pay; and paying no respect to local traditions and culture. Group tours are often the greatest offenders and tour guides (and the tour company) need to understand their responsibilities.