Traveller's Code

Before you go:

• Learn something about the countries you plan to visit. Read a guidebook or some of the classic and contemporary literature of the country to find out about the culture, politics, geography, religion and local customs.
• Prepare yourself for those cultural differences which make Latin America special and will make your holiday memorable; don't expect everything to be as it is at home, and pack a good deal of patience as you will encounter the famously relaxed 'mañana' attitude!
• Try to learn even a few words of Spanish or Portuguese; 'hello', 'please' and 'thank you' will be enough to bring a smile to your hosts' faces.
• Remove unnecessary packaging from any products you are taking with you, and dispose of it at home first.
• Consider taking clothes, shoes or toys with you that you might be happy to leave behind.

When you're there:

• Guidebooks are a good source of information, but don't forget that local people have plenty of up-to-date knowledge and stories that they might like to share with you.
• Photography: Seek advice from local guides and ask permission before photographing indigenous people and events, particularly religious processions. If you have a digital camera, remember that children will love seeing pictures of themselves on screen.
• Clothing: Please be aware of the appropriate dress according to where you are; for example, beachwear is not suitable for central squares, and show particular respect when visiting churches and remote rural settlements.
• Gifts: Resist handing out sweets as dental care is, mostly, poor. Hand outs to children on the street only encourages begging, so talk to us about how you can donate to schools or local conservation or charitable organisations.
• Souvenirs: Never buy products made from endangered species such as coral, shells, feathers, hard woods or ancient artefacts. Try to support the local economy by buying locally produced handicrafts. If bargaining to buy an item, haggle with a big smile, and aim to pay a fair price bearing in mind that a small amount to you can be very significant to the seller.
• Eating out: Choose smaller local restaurants where possible; your money will benefit individuals instead of companies, and you can sample typical dishes at very reasonable prices. Pick local products over well-known international brands.
• Litter: Never leave any, anywhere! All holiday waste should be taken home with you, particularly batteries, which are among the most damaging products to leave behind.
• Minimise your environmental impact: Help preserve local wildlife and habitats by respecting rules and regulations, such as sticking to footpaths, and do not pick wild flowers or touch coral. Use environmentally friendly shampoos and detergents and avoid aerosols. Try to reuse and refill your drinking water bottles where possible.
• Conservation of energy and water in hotels: Clean water is a precious resource, so use it sparingly. Advise that you don't need towels or sheets laundered daily. Conserve electricity by switching off lights, air-conditioning or heating when you leave your room.