8 WAYS TO GIVE BACK TO THE LOCAL COMMUNITY WHILE TRAVELING

This week is all about LOVE! That’s why we wanted to share with you some ideas on how to give back while traveling. Not only did we celebrate Valentine on the 14th. This Sunday the 17th of February is Random Acts Of Kindness Day. We hope the next 8 tips inspire you to conjure up a smile on everybody’s face while you travel.

FOCUS ON LOCUS BUSINESS

Take the time to research locally-owned accommodations, businesses, tour operators,
and activities. One of the best ways to contribute positively to the places you visit is to ensure
that the money you bring in stays and benefits the community directly.

A great source for local information is Gentse Koop.

SAY HI. SAY THANK YOU. SAY BYE.

Or just smile to people or give them a little nod.

MIND YOUR MANNERS

Show your respect for locals by taking initiative and interest in the local culture, traditions,
norms & values, resources and language. Learn a few phrases in the local language. Ask
permission to take pictures. Share the pictures with the locals. What a cool interaction is that, no?!
Respect the house you are staying in. Keep it clean and tidy. Ask questions about traditions
and habits. And try a few of them out. In short: a great way to give back while traveling is by keeping
an open mind and letting yourself be guided to discover big and small differences between you and
your travel destination.

LEAVE A LITTLE DONATION WHEN YOU SEE A COLLECTION BOX

Or donate all your foreign small change.

SPREAD THE WORD

Were you happy with the accommodation you stayed at? Was the waiter amazing at that
restaurant? Was that the cutest bakery you ever saw? Did that person try but failed anyway?
Share your experiences. Not only with friends and family back home but use the social media
platforms. Post pictures with tags on instagram. Write a positive review on facebook, tripadvisor,
google business. They have such a big impact. Share your stories on your blog. Try to become an
active promotor of the locals, the city, the country that you just visited. This is really a powerful
way to give back while traveling.

DO NOT LITTER

DARE TO ENGAGE

What about taking it a step further? A really daring way to give back while traveling is to
talk & interview local people and introduce them to your social networks. Interesting
thought right? Or give constructive feedback, specific tips or creative ideas about your
stay/your guide/your travel experience that can help the local owner or community to grow
and advance.

SHARE YOUR TICKET

When you are on your way to your next travel destination and you still have a valid parking
ticket for an hour or a valid day-bus-ticket,  give it to somebody that can use it.

 

“No act of kindness – no matter how small – is ever wasted.

 

The Hide

15 February 2019