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What can you do - play your part

Millions of people visit new places each year where the culture, wildlife and environment are very different from at home. With a little preparation, thought and consideration you can limit the impact that your trip has on your destination and even help the destination to benefit from your visit.

Before you go

• Research your destination - read information, view images, listen to podcasts, and read reviews from other travellers
• Know Before You Go - view the information provided by the Foreign and Commonwealth office as part of their travel safety campaign
• Learn the lingo - the welcome you receive will be warmer if you take some time to learn the local language
• Recycle your holiday brochures when you’ve finished with them or pass them on to a friend – www.recyclenow.com
• If you wish to offset the carbon emission of your flight you can do this with us, or directly with www.carbonneutral.com
• Pack appropriately - only take what you need and ensure that your clothing is appropriate and respectful to the local culture in your destination
• Leave your valuables at home - local people in some destinations have very limited means, so be considerate by not flaunting wealth and expensive items
• Turn down your thermostat, switch items off at the socket rather than leaving them on standby (except for the fridge/ freezer). This will reduce energy consumed unnecessarily
• Use public transport to get to the airport if possible, leave the car at home

While you are away

• Save it! Water is a precious resource. You can choose not to have your towel laundered every day, and having a shower instead of a bath saves water too
• Turn it off! Save energy by switching off lights, fans, TV and air-conditioning when you leave your room. Even using the 'stand by' option on the TV uses energy
• Look out for trips and activities that support the local communities and environment
• Show respect - for the people and culture of the country you're visiting. For example, if you visit a religious site, observe the dress code as you would at home. Don't take or buy any ancient artefacts unless from a reputable source
• Local crafts support the local economy as well as sometimes making unusual presents to take home. Be wary, however, of anything containing ivory, sea turtles, coral, flowers or reptile-skin products. The trade of wildlife souvenirs is controlled internationally to safeguard wild species so your gifts could be confiscated by Customs on your return
• Please use recycling bins if they are available. Don't litter. Rubbish such as plastic takes many years to biodegrade. It's unsightly and can be harmful, especially to marine life
• Protect local wildlife and flora. Coral, for example, is extremely fragile and takes centuries to grow. Please don't cause any damage to this or any other living organism.
• Most people appreciate a bit of peace and quiet on holiday, so please keep noise levels down. Loud noise can also disturb wildlife.