Sustainable tourism is a way for you to explore and experience new environments and cultures that leaves them unspoiled for future generations. But we know that during your travels, the best choices are not always clear, which is why Alaska Wildland Adventures is supporting Sustainable Travel International’s Travel Better program and offering our guests an opportunity to participate for free.
Travel Better is an online community and interactive training course for people who want to share travel experiences, exchange tips and ideas and learn how to make more sustainable travel choices. Your journey will begin with a 30-minute online course that explains how the choices you make while traveling – from hotels you book to the meals you eat – can more positively impact the people and places you visit. Once you complete the course, you’ll receive a personalized certificate, as well as access to the online community and special benefits including discounts on tours, hotels, gear, passport processing and more. To join Travel Better for free, visit Sustainable Travel International’s website, and enter “iTravelBetter” as the coupon code.
Universal Tips to Travel Better
To get you started on your journey to more meaningful and responsible travel, we’ve compiled a list of 10 universal sustainable travel tips. We hope these tips enrich your travel experiences and inspire you to make a positive impact on the people you meet and conserve the places you visit.
Consider Your Route.
Visit popular places at off-peak times and travel popular itineraries in reverse order. Seek unique experiences at lesser known attractions.
Mind Your Resources.
Help conserve the natural resources you’ve come to visit by following the principles of reduce, reuse and recycle during your travels and when you return home. Support tour operators and service providers that incorporate sustainable tourism practices in their operations.
Respect Local Cultures.
Be aware that you may encounter cultural differences. Learn some basic phrases in the local language, and research local customs, social norms and environmental issues before you arrive.
Be Prepared, Stay Safe.
Learn about local weather conditions, business hours, legal matters, and dangers and annoyances before venturing out. Consider hiring a local guide.
Honor Protected Areas.
Follow advisories and regulations when visiting protected areas, and respect the rights of private landowners. Remember the usage fees you pay support local management programs and conservation efforts necessary to protect and maintain these areas.
Keep Wildlife Wild.
Maintain a respectful distance, use binoculars and telephoto lenses and refrain from feeding wild animals. Participate in activities that protect wildlife and their habitat and avoid activities that may jeopardize animal welfare. Learn more about Animal Welfare Guidelines from ABTA.
Shop Local.
Support the true regional character you’ve come to see by consciously spending your time and money at local businesses with local employees, who offer locally produced food and products, handicrafts and art. Your dollars will benefit the region and also help communities preserve traditions and protect natural resources.
Park the Car.
Explore the area by getting out into it – try walking, cycling, or taking public transportation for a portion of your travels. Rent fuel-efficient or hybrid vehicles when a car is necessary.
Give Back.
Enhance the value and meaning of your visit by volunteering your time to a local cause or project while you’re in the area. Research and make a financial donation to organizations that support environmental stewardship and community well-being and that generate tangible results.
Leave No Trace.
Follow all principles of Leave No Trace – from preparation to preservation. Minimize your impact for the good of everyone.