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Eco Tourism - Part 4 - Charity as you travel

The goal of the eco traveler should be much more than just traveling responsibly. Some travelers feel that the best way to do that is to have the least amount of impact on the environment as possible. I disagree. I feel that everyone should have a positive impact on the on the places and communities that they visit.

3 Easy Ways to Make a Difference:

1. Tip the locals generously. Please keep in mind that many countries don't have the liberal minimum wage laws that we enjoy here in the United States. The waiter who has just spent the last two hours catering to you, may only earn a few dollars a day. A few extra dollars in the tip could make a huge difference in their life. This is a great way to support the entire community and not just the business owners.

The top photo is of the farmer who helped pull our van out of a mud pit and changed a spare tire for us. There were 8 of us in the van. He received an $80 tip for his efforts!

2. Visit local museums and attraction and give donations.  Many of these types of attractions survive only on donations and the generosity of others. Often, they don't charge entrance fees and depend solely on a donation box near the exit. USE IT! Otherwise, that charming little cultural museum  that you enjoyed so much, may not be there next time you come into town.

3. Small gifts can go along way in the life of the less fortunate. Years ago I held a corporate job that required me to travel 2 to 3 weeks of each month. I usually carried my own soaps and shampoos with me but I would take the small single use shampoo, conditioner and hand lotion. Those small items make the best little gifts when traveling through some of the poorer parts of the world. They are easy to keep in a backpack or travel bag and they are easy to give out. The hand lotions are especially fun to give out to children who you sometimes find begging on the streets. Open the bottle and put a little squirt on their hand. After the rub it in, give them the bottle. They will love you for it! American Fashion magazines are great gifts for hotel maids and staff.

If you liked this post and would like to read the others in the series, they can be found at:

Green Living - Eco Tourism - Part 1

Green Living - Eco Tourism - Part 2 - Choosing Accommodations

Eco Tourism - Part 3 - Tours and Excursions

Photo credits - Mark Hall all rights reserved - When you choose us to handle your Vancouver WA real estate needs, you choose a team of realtors® who care about you and your family. Buying or selling a home is always more enjoyable when you work with professionals who will listen to your needs and who will work together with you to achieve your objective. We are very familiar with all types a real estate in Clark County and we specialize in Vancouver, Ridgefield and Battle Ground. We are also very experienced with new home and custom home construction having assisted several local builders in selling new neighborhoods in the Vancouver Washington area.  Additionally, we have helped numerous families build their own Vancouver WA dream homes. We are dedicated to helping you make intelligent, informed decisions and to providing you with exceptional service. Go to www.ernw.org for more information. See our video here.  This post written by Mark Hall all rights reserved. Eco Tourism - Part 4 - Charity as you travel