ANN/THE DAILY STAR – Travelling is an enriching experience that enhances our lives, enabling us to discover novel locations, varied perspectives, and diverse cultures.
Therefore, it is crucial to engage in responsible travel practices, ensuring the well-being of the local communities and the environment at places we choose to explore.
ADHERE TO LOCAL RULES AND REGULATIONS
Before travelling anywhere, take some time to research various essentials like the customs, laws and etiquette of the place you are visiting.
In addition to following procedures like visa requirements, entry and exit procedures and such, be very mindful of respecting the local traditions and culture, like greetings, dress codes, gestures, and so on.
Most importantly, always avoid any behaviour that will harm or offend the local populace.
GOOD HOTEL ETIQUETTES
Always treat the hotel staff with utmost respect and courtesy when you are staying at a hotel. Be friendly and polite when interacting with them and always give honest appreciation for their services and efforts.
And if they have served you well, do not feel hesitant to tip them generously. Make sure to not make any unreasonable demands from them.
TAKING ANY PRODUCTS THAT ARE NOT COMPLIMENTARY
Staying at a hotel or a resort will give you access to certain amenities, and you should be mindful about not taking anything not offered as a complementary service to you. Things like towels, bathrobes, toiletries, pillows, blankets and such belong to the hotel and are provided for your convenience.
Taking them is downright stealing and can result in hefty fines or even legal action. Instead, you can check with the authority about what is complimentary, and take those with you like shampoo sachets, tea bags, soap bars, and so on.
BE CAREFUL OF SCAMMERS OR MALPRACTICES
When travelling, always be on the lookout for scams and malpractices that will cost you money and can even cause harm to you.
If you see any too-good-to-be-true food or travel deals in a place, make sure to do some research about it; check their ratings to see how authentic they are.
It’s a good idea to always check the menu and food prices before you order as in many tourist places, food pricing can be quite expensive.
Avoid sharing any personal info with anyone that seems suspicious and in case of emergencies, get help from tourist police or relevant authorities.
NOT LITTERING AND KEEPING THE ENVIRONMENT CLEAN
As a responsible tourist, not littering and keeping the environment clean should be one of your top priorities, as this can help you preserve the beauty of any place you visit.
It’s a good idea to use a container or a reusable bag to store the trash or dispose of it properly in their designated bins.
Go for eco-friendly products that can be reused and easily biodegradable. In case of any natural or historical sites, always refrain from doing things like spitting, defacing murals, or harming plants. – Feda Al Hossain
