Explore destinations responsibly this summer and do your bit to maintaining them, says Aloke Bajpai
Ecotourism can simply be defined as a responsible form of travel that entails travelling which is done with the underlying aim of conserving the environment and sustaining its diversity. It promotes conservation and provides favourable active socio-economic participation of locals and tourists alike.
Ecotourism destinations allow travellers to explore some of the most gorgeous natural wonders across the globe but responsibly. The money spent by travellers on visiting these destinations is often put back for maintaining and protecting the natural environment.
A steady year on year growth of about 24 per cent has been seen in the queries received around eco-tourism in India as more people opt for it.
This summer, while planning an escape to your dream destination, try being a responsible traveller. With global warming and rising pollution levels, we need to care for our mountains, beaches, hills and the very air we breathe. Here are a few tips:
No-vehicle roads: How about discovering a place on footIJ Well, if that is your idea of exploring a new city, you will be happy to hear that there are places like the Mall Road in Shimla, Cinque Terre (The Italian Riveria) and Giethoorn village (Netherlands) where vehicles are not allowed. Walking is the best option to soak in the local flavour.
littering costs a fortune: We bet you don’t want to shell out a bomb as penalty on your vacation for something as trivial as littering or fly tipping. Some places across the globe such as West Dunbartonshire (Scotland) charge a littering fine of as much as Rs 20,000.
Say no to plastic bags: If you are travelling to any of the hill stations in India, be sure to carry your own bag while shopping. You won’t be getting any plastic bags.
No smoking zones: A vacation in cities like Beijing, Chandigarh, Chennai, liverpool and Mexico will mean that you have to leave your cigarette case at home as all these places are smoking-free zones. Don’t even think of breaking the rule or you will have to pay a hefty sum as a fine.
Say Yes to Green Hotels: Even one of the biggest hotels, ITC Delhi Maurya is doing its bit for environment. The hotel uses solar boilers for activities such as bathing, cooking and laundry. If you are looking for a green stay, Grape Country in Nasik can be a perfect choice where you get to experience vineyard tourism and organic farming among other things. And if you are travelling to lahaul Spiti, you might get a chance to be a part of various solar energy projects by Ecosphere and choose to stay in solar houses as well.
Go for green transportation: Bid goodbye to your traditional transportation modes and go for the new, trendy E-bikes and cycles which will be your best bet.
(The author is CEO and co-founder of ixigo )