ETHIC AND PHILOSOPHY OF TRAVEL
Travel by limiting the impact on local cultures
It is said that travels broadens horizons … But it is also true that you must try to make this happen. There are a multitude of cultures in the world, all of which are different in terms of age, colours, customs, traditions and religions. Sadly, there are also many, at times too many, misleading stereotypes imposed by the media and people.
Travelling is certainly the most powerful way to personally approach different realities, to get to know and appreciate their peculiarities and differences, so that our opinion can only be the outcome of our personal experience.
Ancient and recent history has shaped, for better or for worse, the people and culture of the countries we visit. The most evident aspects often have an unexpected cultural impact on the traveller due to the perceived differences in customs, habits and traditions. Most of the time, adaptation is essential to fully enjoy the travel experience.
Preparing yourself for the type of trip you are planning is fundamental to thoroughly appreciate and understand the local culture.
T he focus of our tours is on showing absolute respect for people, local culture, traditions, religion and the environment, creating the ideal conditions for your experience. We strive to value relationships with the local staff by providing ethical and fair remuneration.
Sometimes, the unwary opt for the lowest-priced service, overlooking the fact that many people, particularly in the poorest countries, speculate unethically on survival needs. While doing our best to be competitive, we do not condone such speculation and therefore choose not to exacerbate an already dramatic situation.
Many people ask if we can suggest how to make a solidarity contribution. In all honesty, this is probably one of the most difficult questions. In several countries of the world, it is common to meet children and adults struggling to survive, often by doing dangerous, humiliating or just not suitable work. Sadly, we believe that there is not one easy solution to address these situations as each one is different from the other. Therefore, it must be analysed and put into context in different ways.
Financial donations require careful screening. Local newspapers too often report the misconduct of renowned international charitable organisations in marketing to raise funds for the ” Third World ” or to adopt ” orphans ” whose parents are both still alive.
The traveller has the power to positively contribute to improvements by showing first of all, respect for the local people and culture. In terms of a more tangible aspect, travel itself contributes to the local economy.
A significant contribute is avoiding the commonplace “everything must be very cheap because it is a poor country…“. This is often misleadingly promoted by blogs and forums, and it represents a contradiction as it only hinders the development of the country.
Bargaining over prices when buying services directly on the spot, such as taxis or shopping in markets, is a widespread habit. However, it is vital to bear in mind that the locals are only trying to survive.
The comparison with Western costs and the lack of awareness of the local economy and life conditions are too often misleading, resulting in the attempt to get the lowest price, only to be pleased to have spent the minimum amount while haggling over a few cents.
For those who wish to contribute, it is surely a great option to donate school equipment for the children or in the schools or volunteer, under the supervision of the authorised staff, dedicating one or more days of your trip to local and selected organisations.
Should you wish to consider larger donations, we will endeavour to assist you by putting you in touch with the selected facilities.