How do you make sure you don’t end up unintentionally becoming part of the problem?

According to Mark Watson, executive director of Tourism Concern, a charity that campaigns for ethical tourism, people should take time before their journey to learn about the place they’re visiting.

“We believe that most travellers want to do the right thing, but often end up doing something that is unethical because they’re unaware,” he says.

Most travellers want to do the right thing, they’re just unaware…

Watson believes that tourists have a responsibility to learn as much as they can about the places they visit. “Understand the culture and etiquette, and find out a little about the political history and any animal welfare issues.”

For an authentic experience, travellers should engage with local communities. “Any money spent will go directly to the local economy,” he says.