Sustainability is a bit a way of life – and travel – based on three “simple” aspects:

• The common sense
• The respect
• The information

The following handbook can help to increase your knowledge about the impact of tourism and the effects of your behavior on the road, but you can not learn common sense and respect by any handbook. There are here some helpful tips and advices to understand that everything you do on the road has consequences, positive or negative..all depending on your choices.

BEFORE THE DEPARTURE…

Get informed before departure about the history, traditions and customs of the place you are
going to visit. Your trip will be amazing if you understand what you have around.

Verify that you have closed the gas, lights, faucets, water heater, and removed the thorns of all unnecessary equipment: it has a stand-by consumption too.

If is possible, choose to travel in the low season.

DURING THE TRIP…

Choose the accommodation, and typical local restaurants, possibly managed by local people or family.

Choose appropriate clothing to the environment you are visiting and the activity you are doing. Good equipment, comfortable and essential, it is always the best way to begin an adventure.

When you travel, you are a guest, you’re at someone else’s home; you should have an open mind and respect. Do not impose your lifestyle and your opinions. Learn to see the world from other points of view.

Buy souvenirs in small shops and markets to improve and promote local economy.

Refuse plastic bags that will be offered to you for every little purchase and smiling explain the reasons. The problem of waste management is very serious. Try not to buy water in plastic bottles.

Do not be arrogant; with a smile, you get a lot more.

Even if you paid for your holidays, respect the rules of the place: do not demand privileges.

Supports the cultural events and the local handicraft: you will take home “real” memories.

Leave only your footprints and not a trace of your passage: no rubbish and graffiti. Do not take souvenirs from natural environments and archaeological sites.

In natural environments, particularly in protected areas, try to follow the paths: do not disturb plants, animals and the environment in which they live. Visit protected areas in small groups and accompanied by an expert guide, preferably of the place.

Close the tap , turn off air conditioning and lights when you go out from your house: they are small gestures that help to conserve water and energy, valuable resources for the entire planet.

Use public transport whenever you can and not the private one. With bike or feet you can reach unexpected destinations.

The people are not part of the landscape. Ask permission before you take them photos.

Try the local cuisine.

ON THE WAY BACK…

When you come home reflect on what you saw and who you met.

Comune di Barberino di Mugello con il contributo della Regione Toscana, osservatorio Turistico di destinazione.

http://turismo.comunebarberino.it/