What is ecotourism and why should I go ...

What is Ecotourism?
Ecotourism is defined as "responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment and improves the well-being of local people." (TIES, 1990)
Ecotourism is the union of nature conservation, communities and sustainable tourism.

Why travel Eco-Friendly?
For what? Because their travel choices make a difference. By choosing sustainable enterprises - support the people and businesses to conserve natural resources, protection of plants and wildlife, and contribute to the well-being of local communities. This is the gateway to the conservation of places, creatures and people EcoTravelers future. Often do not have the impact that we as travelers, as it is "our" time one should think a vacation to go. Little attention has been taken in the past, as we enjoy our holiday, while maintaining and even help the places we have visited. But now is a booming ecotourism industry in the world! With a little research you plan your next trip, you can make a difference as they travel. Nothing better than enjoying the planet, and to know that you help to make it better!

What is sustainable tourism?
Sustainable tourism businesses are those that are profitable, the conservation of natural resources and local communities benefit. Examples of BMPs include water conservation and energy projects to support for population protection, recycling and waste management, and product offerings in restaurants and souvenir shops, and support of indigenous and local communities, local production. Set Sustainable Company Employees also to nearby towns to pay them a decent wage, and additional training.

As you can see the difference?

Research: Before you go, take your time to see the options available to your destination. Some of the best places for ecotourism are not the first that we can find, but with a little research you will find your "eco-gem"
In the hotel: Ask about environmental policies and practices. It means the hotel project development or maintenance of the community? Even large chains now fall in an ecologically and environmentally.
Language: Learn a few words of the local language and use them! Do not be afraid if your pronociation might not be perfect, the fact that his essay makes a big difference.
Colour: Learn more about local conventions and dress accordingly. In many countries, modest dress is important, and if we be as travelers, wearing swimwear on the town or dinner, many places out of the ordinary for this lack of respect will be used, and for travelers wife can send the wrong signal.
Behavior: Be respectful of local citizens' privacy. Ask permission before entering the premises, houses, private or holy land. As a visitor, you must realize that the people live, work and stay alive in the place where you are on holiday. It's your party, but her life.
Photos: Be sensitive to when and where to take the photos / video of the people. Always ask first, and if they pay realized that this is the way they make their living!
Environment: Respect the environment. Never touch or harass wildlife. Always follow designated trails. Keep noise as you are in the national parks or areas of the animals. Keep your distance. Supported by the payment receipt conservation parks and reserves or a donation fee.
Wildlife and forest products: Never purchase crafts, clothing, furniture or other products of animal or plant protected or endangered derived. In many countries it is illegal to carry these products at home, and you do not have all the customs problems!
Pay a fair price: Not overly aggressive bargaining for souvenirs in not. Do not short-change not counseling services. If you ask before leaving the hotel or do a search, you should be able to find more or less the price of souvenirs and beach-switched local error.
Buy Local: Select lodges and hotels locally owned. Use local buses, car rentals and airlines. Eating in local restaurants, shopping in local markets and events and events. Not only will you get a real taste of course, you are the people to help make the very unique place!
Hire local guides: Enrich your experience and support the local economy. , To ask the guides if they are licensed and live. They are recommended by tour operators? The best place to entertain in your hotel and look forward simultaneously online.

Some countries have their own certification programs for ecotourism. Costa Rica, for example, the work on the certification program for sustainable tourism (CST), the to the effect that companies should compensate on the local environment. CSE program focuses on the interaction of the company with the natural and cultural resources, improving the quality of life of the local population and the economic contribution to other national development programs. Other countries have this way, with a little research you can make sure that you followed to contribute to the sustainability of the country you are visiting.

Minimize the impact and awareness of the environment, Eco travel, can provide direct financial benefits for conservation and local communities, and helps to preserve this experience for future generations.