This is how you support the local economy: four tips
Tourism has a big impact on a destination and its residents. More people from outside means more opportunities to boost the economy. By supporting local businesses, you ensure that this income reaches local people directly. This is how to make your trip a really good one. We give you four tips on how best to do this.
Eat at local restaurants
Fresh pasta, flavoursome mezes or delicious tapas. While travelling, discover world cuisines with new ingredients, flavours and smells. The best way to taste the authentic flavours is to eat at a local restaurant or at a market. In this way, the local population will also get more income, allowing the country to develop further. Tip: try a local dish for an authentic taste experience!
Book a tour with a local guide
Go on an excursion with a local tour operator. A local guide will enable you experience the country you are visiting in a unique way. Want to make sure the tour operator is really supporting the locals? Then ask some questions such as: do you work with local guides? Or: can you give an example of how you contribute to better working conditions for local people?
Buy souvenirs at the market
You can choose to buy an 'I love destination' shirt in Rome. But fair is fair: it is neither original nor does it make you feel special when you get home. Therefore, visit a local market on your trip. There you will find traditional souvenirs that locals make and sell themselves. Local markets are not only more fun than shopping at big chains, but you also support local artists. Besides, it is also a good way to get to know the culture better!
Sleep at a local’s home
When you sleep at a local’s home, you can be sure that your money goes directly to them. So, book your overnight stay through Airbnb. Who knows, you might get some great local tips during your stay that you wouldn't otherwise find out about. The downside is that with Airbnb, you often end up with wealthy locals. If you would you rather stay overnight with locals who are less fortunate, so you support them that way, book through homestay.com. With a homestay, you are guaranteed an authentic overnight stay where you get to know the daily life of the locals.
These four tips will help you support the local economy while on your trip. Your money will go directly to the local population. Wondering what else you can do to travel more sustainably? Find out here!