Top travel faux pas to avoid this summer

A recent survey from leading responsible travel agent responsibletravel.com asked its travel providers for the top ten cultural and environmental faux pas they have witnessed by tourists visiting their destinations.

Dressing inappropriately, speaking loudly in English, disrespecting local religions and political ignorance were clear cultural no-no's. On the environmental front, litter-dropping, frivolous water and energy use in local destinations and disrespecting wildlife were all deemed bad news.

Justin Francis, managing director, responsibletravel.com said:

"Every summer we hear stories of tourists causing offense whether it be by behaving drunkenly or loud-mouthing the locals. Going on holiday does not mean we can abandon common sense and basic etiquette. There's no doubt that if you travel with respect, you will earn respect. You'll also find you have a more rewarding holiday as a result."

Faux pas - Justin Francis' advice

1. Women (and men) dressing inappropriately / skimpily.

"Be sure to respect local dress codes and dress appropriately for the context."

2. Refusal to learn just a few words of the local language and instead shouting with frustration in English.

"Learning just a few words of the local language - 'please', 'thank you' and 'hello' can make a big difference."

3. Giving pens, sweets and other gifts directly to children. This often encourages begging.

"It is much better to donate gifts or money to reputable local charities."

4. Showing political ignorance e.g. referring to Ireland as part of the UK or to Scotland/Wales as 'England'.

"Use the internet and guidebooks to try and read up on the background of the destination you are visiting."

5. Disrespecting local religions and customs e.g. eating a ham sandwich at a mosque in Morocco during Ramadan."

"Find out if there are any significant festivals taking place during your visit. You could uncover some fantastic additions to your holiday itinerary."

6. Photographing local people without asking their permission first.

"Be respectful and ask before taking pictures. If you can, share the picture afterwards too - either on your digital camera screen or even better, as a Polaroid."

7. Not tipping staff e.g. in South Africa it is custom to tip at least 10% in cafes and restaurants.

"In many countries in the world, waiters and waitresses rely on tips. Be sure to find out what is the norm in the destination and act in line with this."

8. Sticking your chopsticks upright in a bowl of rice, using them to point at people or to spear food.

"Dinner table customs vary greatly around the world. If you're lucky enough to share a meal with local people find out beforehand if there's any specific customs."

9. In a Buddhist country touching someone's head is a big taboo, as is pointing your feet at people.

"Avoid touching anyone's head - even children's and if you are sat on the floor, think about where your feet are heading!"

10. Trying to analyse points of view without taking into account other cultural perspectives.

"Remember that cultures and customs have a big influence over our individual views - try not to judge a country or its people - merely observe."

Top Ten environmental faux pas to avoid:

- Littering - especially plastic bags
- Purchasing illegal souvenirs or food produce
- Wasting water in destinations which face shortages e.g. Spain
- Leaving lights on
- Leaving air conditioning on in hotel rooms when you're not in them
- Purchasing mineral water in plastic water bottles when the hotel provides drinkable water for re-fills
- Standing on coral reefs. It takes approx. one hundred years for one inch of coral to grow. By killing it you affect the whole eco system.
- Disturbing wild animals by getting as close as possible for a better picture.
- Throwing cigarette butts on the ground
- Failing to take advantage of recycling facilities where offered

responsibletravel.com is the world's leading travel agent for responsible holidays. The site offers over 3,500 richer, deeper and more locally distinctive travel experiences that are better for destinations and local communities. Whether you're after an action-packed adventure, a relaxing beach escape or a charming countryside getaway closer to home, there's something to suit all tastes and budgets.

Co-founder, Justin Francis had the original idea for the website after meeting Jackson, a village headman in Zambia. He subsequently launched the site with backing from Dame Anita Roddick in 2001. Based in Brighton, England the company also campaigns for positive change in the travel and tourism industry.

For more information, visit Responsibletravel.com.