Are you looking for a new adventure and want to experience the daily life of foreign cultures? Traveling might be your best bet to do that. However, traveling comes with its’ downsides as well.

Traveling can hurt the environment, destroys local cultures and negatively affects local economies. So, what can we do to keep traveling the world and exploring new places without hurting the planet? Ecotourism might be the answer! You can call it as you wish  - green traveling, sustainable traveling or environmental and culture friendly traveling. Ecotourism has many different names, and there are various concepts, but they all have one similar goal. Let’s have a closer look:

Ecological + Tourism:  can’t go wrong there

Ecotourism educates people to sustain, appreciate, and love our environment. Ecotourism is “responsible travel to natural and cultural areas that conserves the environment and sustains the well-being of local people”. 

This ideology is all about connecting conservation, communities, and sustainable travel. The cultural exchange is a common core aspect as well as environmental protection and preservation of biodiversity. Other concerns are livelihood improvement and the strengthening of human rights. 

Let’s take a look at the advantages for the communities. Economically seen, ecotourism creates jobs locally and the need for young people to leave home to work in cities is reduced. In the best case scenario, an ecotourism business will train local people with new skills to expand their opportunities. And what about the environment? Due to responsible tourists, ecotourism has low negative impacts on the environment. Thanks to protected areas, biodiversity is sheltered, and wild animals can remain in their natural habitats. 

In short, ecotourism includes the following:

• Conservation of bio-cultural diversity and protection of the natural and cultural heritage of our beautiful planet
• Empowerment of communities  around the world to fight against poverty and to achieve sustainable development
• Interpretation and promotion of greater understanding and appreciation for nature, local society, and culture

And guess what - not only do the communities profit from it but you do as well. You will find beautiful landscapes and calm and relaxing places. Take a break from the crowded and loud cities. See the world from a different angle and get new perspectives though exchanges with the locals while spending your money wisely.  

By the way,  have you ever heard about the triangle of sustainability? Economic vitality, environmental integrity and social equity. All these facets are the reason why ecotourism is such a sustainable concept bringing you both financial security and unforgettable moments. 

The concept of ecotourism includes great possibilities and provides positive experiences for both visitors and locals. It builds environmental and cultural awareness and respect. It’s time to take one step towards responsible travel or we won’t have clean beaches to enjoy, beautiful landscapes to admire and traditional cultures to experience.

Apply here and experience the world in a responsible manner together with Placement International!