3 words to describe Ecotourism - what are yours?



Photo:The Gordon Butler Nature Preserve (NCBQ)

For the majority of people, ecotourism is about spending time enjoying what nature has to offer: trekking through a desert, climbing a mountain or skiing in the Alps are all good examples.

I have been trying to find a really simple definition. This is what I found on the International Ecotourism Society website, which is a very informative site.

Ecotourism is: "Responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment and improves the well-being of local people." (TIES, 1990)

Another interesting definition is the one for sustainable tourism.  

Sustainable tourism is: "Tourism that meets the needs of present tourist and host regions while protecting and enhancing opportunities for the future."  (TIES, 1990)

For me, being a responsible traveller means focusing on three things:

- Communities

- Culture

- Environment

Wherever we go, we should respect local communities. We are visiting their home after all. We should try to discover and understand their culture. This is really rewarding. And most importantly, we should respect their environment. For them and for future generations.

What is your definition of ecotourism? I would love to hear your views.