What defines 'responsible tourism'?

The definition of 'responsible tourism' centers on minimizing negative impacts on the environment and local cultures while actively benefiting the communities involved in tourism. This approach encourages travelers to engage in ethical practices that support local economies and uphold cultural values. By promoting responsible tourism, travelers are motivated to consider their choices and their effects on the places they visit, ensuring that tourism can be sustainable in the long term.

This concept stands in contrast to luxury tourism, which often focuses on exclusive, high-end experiences that might not prioritize social or environmental issues. It also diverges from tourism driven solely by economic gain, where the focus is on profit rather than the welfare of local communities. Additionally, responsible tourism actively encourages respect for local customs, making it clear that disregarding these customs does not align with the principles of responsible travel.