Puerto Escondido: A Growing Paradise
Puerto Escondido was “undiscovered” by the masses for a long time. Those of us who knew it during that time anxiously awaited for the rest of the world to find this little slice of paradise. And then came the pandemic.
Mexico kept its borders open and its restrictions lighter than in many other countries. For that reason, travelers flocked here. However, many towns were not ready for such a big boom in the tourist industry so quickly. Puerto Escondido was one of those places. Currently, the local community is suffering some of those damaging effects such as unaffordable rents and drainage issues.
While we love having an expanding tourist industry, it’s important that we grow in the right way. As a tour agency, we find it of utmost importance to promote and practice responsible tourism. But, what exactly does responsible tourism mean, and how can you support us in these efforts?
Responsible Tourism: What It Means
To understand responsible tourism, we must first define sustainable tourism. You’ve likely heard these terms used interchangeably, however, they are different.
Sustainable tourism aims to minimize the negative impacts of tourism while maximizing the positive ones. Negative impacts may refer to overcrowding, economic leakage (money spent on holiday that doesn’t benefit or reach the local community), or damaging the natural environment. Positive impacts are essentially the opposite, such as preserving the natural ecology, protecting culture, and creating jobs.
Responsible tourism refers to actions and behaviors individuals take to practice sustainable tourism. Ideally, responsible tourism seeks to leave a place better than you found it. So, how exactly can you be a responsible traveler?
How to Be a Responsible Traveler
According to Booking.com’s Sustainable Travel Report 2022, more people than ever are trying to practice responsible tourism by supporting sustainable choices. In fact, 71% of travelers want to make more of an effort to travel sustainably in the next year.
Here are three tips to help you travel responsibly:
1. Research Local Traditions and Customs
Before you travel to a new place, do some research on the local culture. Try to learn a few useful phrases in the local language to connect better with the community. Understand the traditions, foods, customs, and history to fully experience the destination. Rather than judging the local way, respect it and learn about it. Travel with an open mind and a willingness to learn.
2. Buy Local
More than just a trendy hashtag, buying local is a sustainable practice that benefits both travelers and the local economy. Support local guides, stay in sustainable accommodations, pay fair prices for handmade products, and shop at local businesses. By doing so, you make a positive impact on the community.
3. Respect Nature
Protecting the planet is crucial, especially in places like Puerto Escondido. Never leave trash on the beach, and pick up any litter you come across. Always respect wildlife and avoid supporting businesses that exploit it. Be mindful of your water and energy consumption, and try to minimize your carbon footprint.
Appreciate Paradise
Puerto Escondido is a beautiful and magical place. It’s important to keep it that way by respecting and appreciating the environment that allows you to have such a wonderful vacation. Responsible tourism doesn’t have to be difficult—start with these simple tips and build from there.
We’re thrilled that you’re enjoying the local nature and culture that Puerto Escondido has to offer. Help us preserve this not-so-hidden paradise by traveling responsibly.
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