CULTURE / ECOTOURISM / EXPECTATIONS / PREPARATION
Preparation goes a long way
If you have the time educate yourself about your destination.Be on the lookout for news and currect events about the area. Read up on local history, customs and culture as well as vital ecosystems. Learn at least the basics of the local language. A simple hello, please or thank you goes a long way. Approach travel with the desire to learn rather than just to observe.
Respect local traditions & Etiquette
Wear clothing that is accepted by the local culture. Be aware of people’s sensitivity to being photographed ; ALWAYS ask first. Observe local customs. Be perceptive of your own cultural values and how they affect your judgement on others. Remember that you are a guest in someone elses country. There are many different concepts of time, personal space, communication etc. which are not wrong or inferior, just different. Act as an example for other travelers who are less informed than you.
Avoid ostentatious displays of wealth
What may not see a display of wealth to you may be considered extravagant by another culture. Leave jewelry and other unnecessary valuables at home as they only create barriers and inhibit genuine interactions. Do not hand out sweets or lose change as this only serves to corrupt and increase begging.
Be flexible in your expectations
Approach your adventure with an open mind and you will not be disappointed. Sometimes plans change and an opportunity for more in depth learning or a unique culture experience presents itself. Adapt yourself to the situation rather than trying to adapt the situation to you. Remember you have left home to find things different.
Practice environmental minimum impact
Follow the International Leave No Trace only Footprints rule.Do not remove any objects, plants or animal products from nature. Be aware of local endangered or threatened species so as not purchase souvenirs made from their skin, feathers etc. Not only does this impact on the environment but is illegal.
Support local economies
How will your visit directly benefit the local economy or entire community? This is an integral part of true ecotourism. Use local guides, markets, shops etc. where possible. This helps create a buffer zone for the environment surrounding protected natural areas by giving locals and economic alternative to potentially destructive practices. Community based ecotourism spreads wealth and workload.
Bridging cultural gaps
Take the opportunity to be a cultural ambassador. Much of the World’s image of western tourists is based on the unrealities of television and magazines. Look for situations for cultural exchange whereby learning about each other’s lives is mutual. Getting to know the person sitting next to you on a local bus or the person cooking for your food takes some effort but is often a rewarding experience.
Tourist code of conduct
Visitors should remember that they are guests in a foreign land and must observe the following guidelines in this conservative Muslim Culture (Zanzibar, Mombasa, Malindi, Lamu, Pemba) : Swimsuits and skimpy dress are inappropriate for visiting towns or villages, please ensure that your shoulders and knees are covered (Bermuda shorts and TShirts are perfectly acceptable). Beachwear should be kept to the beach. Nudity and topless bathing are prohibited.
Photographs & Filming
Ask residents for permission before taking a picture - photographs of Government Buildings, Police Stations, Army Bases and the Airport are prohibited.
Sex & Alcohol
Kissing or drinking alcoholic beverages in public is not customary to to Muslim Culture and will offend residents. Gay travelers must excerise extreme caution with displays of affection in public places as same sex relationships are not tolerated.
