In the past, I used to think travel was all about the distance you travelled, stamps collected, and photos taken in far-away places. However, now as I make plans for my placement abroad, I have come to see that travel involves more than simply arriving at a destination; rather, travel involves both the process of travel and the type of person who does the traveling and the kind of world we create by doing so.
My suitcase says a lot about myself as a traveller. In addition to packing clothes and other things I am sure to overpack regardless of how hard I try not to; my suitcase represents a certain message about conscious travel. Although I know that there are environmental impacts associated with international travel, I also know that studying overseas may be one of the ways to cultivate the global outlook that can help us save the planet.
I believe I can apply sustainability to placement by making it part of my lifestyle. In any situation whereby I do not need a taxi ride or any other form of transportation, I will opt to walk or cycle. Where distance poses a barrier, first, I will choose train and coach before going for air travel. Once I have gone with the latter, I should avoid any further travelling, making maximum use of being at a particular place.
In addition to that, waste reduction needs to be achieved. Carrying a water bottle, bag, and lunch box regularly with me is part of what I need to achieve. Avoiding plastic products as far as possible, wasting food and purchasing goods from nearby sources would help to achieve my objectives. What needs to be stated is that the above practices are directly linked to the UN SDGs 12 and 13.
Being respectful during eco-tourism is important too. I do not want to become just another visitor who uses the opportunity, leaving no footprint behind. Getting to know local people, respecting their culture and providing some kind of help whenever possible, using local businesses, carpooling – these all contribute to Goals 11 (sustainable cities and communities) and 17 (partnerships for the goals).
As far as the meaning of green tourism I give to myself, I think that one does not have to be perfect about it; one must pay attention to little things. It is possible to find a way that would be less harmful for nature and would ensure sustainability of such a tour experience.
If I were granted this bursary, not only would it facilitate the process of internship completion; it would also help me participate in eco-tourism I intend to take part in. Knowledge and habits these are what can be expected out of it.
