Code of Conduct for tourists

SAVE RESOURCES

Take short showers, turn off taps after use and report water leaks
Switch off unnecessary lights, air conditioning and other electrical appliances
In order of preference: walk, rent a bicycle, use public transport, share taxis. If necessary rent a motorcycle or car with low fuel consumption

Respect and participate in local social religious and other customs but without disturbing the local people
Respect local dress codes especially when sunbathing with local families and when visiting local religious sites
Do not make excessive noise in residential areas or near protected wildlife reserves
Encourage rural economies by buying locally made food, handicrafts and art instead of imported touristic products.

Extinguish safely picnic and barbecue fires and cigarettes
When out walking observe but do not pick flowers or other plants
Do not buy products made from turtle shell, ivory, reptile skin, fur, coral or exotic feathers
Do not litter. Litter made of paper and metal destroys the beauty of the countryside. Plastic is even more harmful. It does not biodegrade and will remain present in the environment for many years.

Write to tourist organisations and newspapers of the host country to express your views and send photographs to reinforce your message. As a consumer, your opinion carries a lot of weight.
Many of our countries suffer from excessive hunting of animals, birds, fish and turtles. Write to the local press expressing your opposition to this practice.
Hotels and tour operators should adopt policies to reduce the environmental impact of tourism. Ask them for improvements.

(Friends of the Earth Network - MEDNET)