Kailash Tour Photos, Tibet Manasarovar Tour pictures
Local Tibet tour agency www.tibetctrip.com has responsible advice for travel in 2014.
(PRWEB) January 19, 2014
Tibet travel has surged in recent years and with it has come a greater need for responsible travel in 2014. Throughout history Tibet has been relatively cut off from the rest of the world giving Tibetans a unique opportunity to develop a culture that holds tight to tradition and harmonizes with the natural environment. While the tradeoff between modernization and traditional living is sometimes welcomed, tourism runs the risk of accelerating it beyond a pace that locals are comfortable with. Lhasa based travel agency TibetCtrip Travel Serivce-TCTS (http://www.tibetctrip.com) shares some travel tips to help visitors sync with local culture.
- On a tour of Tibet ask before taking pictures. Unless the travel group’s guide says it’s ok, don’t take photos in monasteries or temples (sometimes there is a fee). This goes for locals as well; some people may be excited about the opportunity to be in a picture while others may not.
- Avoid taboo behaviors. Dress modestly and avoid public displays of affection, especially at religious sites. Tibetans believe the head is sacred and the feet are dirty so avoid patting children on the head and pointing the bottoms of feet towards people. Also, do not engage in politically sensitive discussions within earshot of others, especially locals (it may make them feel uncomfortable and in some cases unsafe).
- Buy local while travelling in Tibet! This is one of the best ways to support the Tibetan community. This can include eating at Tibetan restaurants or buying souvenirs at places like Barkhor Bazaar or the Tibetan Market in Shigatse.
No one can expect visitors to remember every single cultural norm however a small effort can go a long way in letting locals know that their way of life is respected. TCTS encourages travelers to remember three simple things: ask before taking pictures, avoid taboo behaviors, and buy local! After visiting, travelers feel good knowing that they did their part in respecting local culture. The 2014 Tibet travel season is right around the corner; now is the time to start planning an adventure!
Devin Moore, author of this release, is a travel writer and independent economic analyst based in Denver, Colorado USA. In partnership with local Tibet travel agent TCTS (tibetctrip.com), Devin publishes Tibet travel related information in order to spread awareness of Tibet and its people.