Communities should not be deprived

Communities should not be deprived of development or be encouraged to maintain traditions strictly for the benefit of visitors. On the contrary, true ecotourism is all about respect: it is about providing people with an opportunity to make their own choices - including the choice of staying at home and not being forced to move to cities because there is no work or food where they live.

That is why, whenever possible (and it isn't always), my money is better spent on local people, offering everyday pleasures, in surroundings that are managed sustainably rather than destroyed for short-term excessive development.

Ultimately, market forces will ensure businesses give us what we ask for. If we refuse to pay for environmentally destructive tours or energy-wasting hotels or facilities, we'll be voting with our wallets, and business will listen.

We do have a role to play.

I'd love to hear your thoughts about ecotourism - whether you agree with mine or not! Please connect with me through Facebook comments below.

- See more at: http://www.women-on-the-road.com/benefits-of-ecotourism.html#.VEyqr_msUb0