Expert advice on travelling responsibly around the world

The fabulous complex of buildings at Angkor Wat is under threat as a direct result of the tourism that has brought so many benefits to the nearby town of Siem Reap. Water being pumped from the ground to service the visitors is potentially denuding the integrity of the sand upon which the religious site is built.

The impact of tourism around the world can be hugely positive, but it needs to be managed carefully. The Inca Trail and gorillas in Uganda and Rwanda are available only by limited permit proving there are ways to tackle the problem.

Round The World Experts, as the UK’s biggest round the world travel specialist encourages travellers to take care while travelling: to think about the consequences of their presence in remote, exciting places. The incredible experiences on offer around the globe should never be at the expense of the very things we’re all heading to see.

So, Round The World Experts has a few tips for travellers:

• Before you head off on your big adventure make yourself aware of issues such as the one at Angkor Wat, or simply of local customs or norms of behaviour. It will allow you to modify your actions as you travel and even perhaps spread the word amongst other travellers.
• Pack light and don’t take disposable items – why should other countries have to dispose of your waste?
• Be aware of illegal or immoral products on sale in markets around the world and don’t buy them
• Use water sparingly and don’t use detergent or soap in rivers or streams.
• Don’t give in to begging kids. It does them no long-term favours. Better to interact with them with photo’s or songs.
• If you want to help, find a good charity to donate to and let them help the people you meet along the way.

For more responsible travel advice, visit www.roundtheworldexperts.co.uk