All about Responsible Travel in India

The concept of travelling responsibly is growing in India. The article sheds light on useful information to help global travellers who book tickets on flights and seek remarkable as well as responsible trip to the country.

Tourism of India is extremely diverse! It not only spreads from north to south and from east to west but also ranges from sites to culture and leisure to spiritual. The nation offers a golden opportunity of experiencing the marvellous melting pot of natural wonders, cultural splendour, religious glory and culinary art. Since the destination justly lives up to the expectation of all those global holidaymakers who spend on tickets aboard flights, it becomes incumbent on part of these travellers to foster the positive effects of tourism and minimise any sort of negative impact on cultural, social and overall Indian ecology. With certain care and consideration, it can really happen. Here is some valuable information about how tourists planning to take flights arriving in the nation can lend a hand in responsible travel.

Before Travel

Research is a sine qua non for almost every westerner who plans to book flight tickets for India vacations. In-depth knowledge gives the big picture of vast Indian religions, culture, social conventions, languages, etiquettes, customs, advisory notices and history. Explore as much as possible about the way of life of Indians and also the traditions being followed in northern, southern, western and eastern parts of the nation.

Westerners who are planning to book flight tickets for India vacations can take time off to learn a local language or simple words like “Hello” and “Thank you”. It helps in communicating with local people.

Tourists can book an eco-hotel constructed with the objective of minimising negative impacts on the milieu.  Today, a good number of eco friendly hotels are available in India to cope with the needs of both leisure travellers as well as budget holidaymakers who book tickets aboard flights and seek an apt accommodation. There are luxury camps, home stay, eco villages and resorts in various popular spots like Goa, Rajasthan and Kerala. Annapara Home Stay in Wayanad Kerala and Coconut Lagoon in Kerala Backwaters are some of the well-known ones.

Be Culturally Considerate During the Trip to India

Being sensitive and thoughtful towards society, customs and culture of India can do wonders for responsible travel. It is very much appreciated by Indians and makes one experience all the more rewarding.

• Dressing: On account of conservative society of India, both men and women are advised to dress decently and respectfully. Keep shoulders and legs covered at all times. Always try to avoid wearing shorts when touring crowded places including bazaars. Removing shoes before entering someone’s house is considered as courteous. Bikini is not recommended while swimming in rivers and beaches. Go for unrevealing swimsuit and cover up before leaving.

•  Temple Etiquettes: Indian temples and mosques are highly revered among overseas explorers who invest on tickets on flights for holidays. For observing the sanctity of these holy places, it is essential for every traveller to be considerate of basic temple etiquettes like covering ones body with long sleeves shirts and trousers or long skirt. They should be aware of mandatory rule of removing shoes before entering a temple or mosque and prohibition of smoking at religious places.

• Social Etiquette: Public displays of affection are offensive. Simply shake hands with any individual of the opposite sex when the person extends his or her hand first.  Eating with hand is a common practice, but make sure to use only right hand. Westerners buying tickets aboard India must brace themselves for continuous stares and several personal questions. It is best not to feel offended and answer politely.

• Tipping: Tipping in India is not obligatory, but it is believed as small token of appreciation for superior service. Usually, referred as ‘baksheesh’, it is customary at various places such as restaurants and railway stations. One can tip depending on the category of the hotel and bill amount. Tourists can also tip guides and drivers on receiving excellent service.

• Shopping: Try to buy local products and souvenirs for supporting locally-owned business and artisans. It is directly going to benefit the community and boost the confidence of skilled workers. At the same time, pay close attention to its origin and actual price. Bargaining is must for shopping in India. However, holidaymakers who are seeking to make the most of their money invested on flights to the country must refrain from aggressive and rude haggling. It is ideal to ask some quick tips from the hotel.

 Help Out with Environment

Eco-tourism is synonymic to responsible travel. It helps in saving the natural life including the mountains, wildlife, water and air resources.  Travellers grabbing tickets on flights for Indian vacations must take care of some dos and don’ts of eco-tourism.

(a)- Plastic is banned in India; tourists are advised to eschew plastics.

(b)- Do not throw non-degradable such as empty bottles, tins etc. Dispose these municipal dustbins only.

(c)- Take precautions to shun wood fires and eventually deforestation.

(d)- Do not feed wildlife especially at zoos, national parks and sanctuaries.

(e)- Try to use recyclable glass bottles.