Tours
Responsible Tourism and the Tourist in Tanzania
Responsible Tourism in Tanzania has become a marketing tool for the safari industry. The welfare of our communities may, at times, be of genuine concern to the safari company although, sadly, many times it is not. Can you, the traveler, do anything toward changing the safari companies to support responsible tourism? Indeed, yes it is possible to make a difference. Responsible Tourism should give back to the community and you the tourist can and should change the industry; it is your money after all.
Responsible tourism is an attitude of mind to which every traveler should all aspire. To choose a company that supports the community in deed and not in word only is the key; by employing some discernment this task should not be difficult. Your travel agent or safari company might not have a real presence in Tanzania. They may confidently spout fair trade values and a responsible tourism ethos, however, the very fact they are not present in Tanzania makes it difficult for them to do as they claim. Always insist in knowing who the ground operator is and check them out. Look carefully at what they claim they are doing.
When visiting Tanzania it is possible to visit the community projects that are being supported by your presence in the county. Alternatively, after choosing the correct operator, you prefer just simply relax and enjoy your safari, then do just that.
Charities are increasingly looking to become self finding, this means becoming leaner and becoming more responsible; becoming a business. Some charities use tourism to fund community projects. All the funds raised through tourism go toward building schools, clinics and caring for young children who would otherwise be left to fend for themselves on the streets.
Some charities have become very good tour operators. These professionally run charities or tour operations allow the community to build itself a brighter future on the back of tourism. These companies offer boutique style safaris and specialize in showing clients the real Africa in style, comfort and safety. All the profits remain in Tanzania and all the profits go into the community.
When on safari and you are amongst local people - remember you are their guest - treat them with the regard a visitor should show toward the host. Many of the National Parks are home to people whose economy is based on livestock; respect the local customs and traditions and dress code. Often we see the tourist has little respect for the dress code of other cultures. It is not pretty to see tourism interfere with the native peoples work and private lives; use common sense and remember what is acceptable in your culture may not be acceptable in a more traditional culture.
Tanzania has over the past few years risen from relative obscurity and now enjoys tourists in ever increasing numbers. There are good reasons for this. There is no tribalism in Tanzania; it is safe. Tanzania is gentle and friendly and peace loving.
Tanzania has Kilimanjaro, Ngorongoro Crater, the Serengeti, the Selous and Zanzibar. This remarkable country does not stop at these few destinations either; so much more is on offer. Tanzania is a country to visit, for fauna, flora, culture and to experience real Africa in a safe environment.
The site http://www.tanzania-info.co.uk has full details and timetables for Zanzibar Ferries, flights and Buses in Tanzania ? and http://www.betheladventure.co.uk has safari information. Use responsible tourism to make a difference to the countries and peoples you visit. |
Ian Williamson
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