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What is Responsible Tourism?
Responsible Tourism:
Responsible Tourism can be regarded as a movement. It is more than a
form of tourism as it represents an approach to engaging with tourism,
be that as a tourist, a business, locals at a destination. It emphasizes
that we are responsible for the kind of tourism we develop or engage in.
While we understand that different groups will see responsibility in
different ways, the shared understanding is that responsible tourism
should entail an improvement in tourism. Tourism should become ‘better’
as a result of the responsible tourism approach.
The objective is to create better places for people to live in and to
visit. Importantly, there is no blueprint for responsible tourism: what
is deemed responsible may differ depending on places and cultures.
Responsible Tourism is an aspiration that can be realized in different
ways in different originating markets and in the diverse destinations of
the world.
Responsible Tourism will have the following characteristics:
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minimizes negative economic, environmental, and social impacts;
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generates greater economic benefits for local people and enhances
the well-being of host communities, improves working conditions and
access to the industry;
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involves local people in decisions that affect their lives and life
chances;
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makes positive contributions to the conservation of natural and
cultural heritage, to the maintenance of the world’s diversity;
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provides more enjoyable experiences for tourists through more
meaningful connections with local people, and a greater
understanding of local cultural, social and environmental issues;
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provides access for physically challenged people; and
is culturally sensitive, engenders respect between tourists and
hosts, and builds local pride and confidence.
Responsible Tourism Links:
Additional Links:
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