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Sustainable Travel in Asmara

Sustainable Travel in Asmara

Asmara Maekel, Eritrea Travel Guide

Protected Areas & Conservation

Eritrea has protected areas, like Semenawi Bahri National Park. These are not extensively developed for eco-tourism, but governmental conservation efforts exist.

Water Conservation

Water scarcity remains a concern. Be mindful of your water usage. Take shorter showers and inform of any leaks.

Carbon Offset Options

No local options for carbon offsetting exist. Travelers may compensate for flight emissions through international providers like Terrapass before or following their journey.

Environmental Considerations

Waste Management and Recycling

Waste management infrastructure in Eritrea is basic. Recycling facilities are limited.

Personal Responsibility

  • Minimize your waste production. Carry out what you carry in, especially non-biodegradable items.
  • Dispose of trash responsibly in designated bins. Avoid littering.
  • Consider bringing reusable items from places like Package Free Shop to lessen waste.

Eco-Friendly Accommodation & Operators

Formal eco-friendly certification or options are limited.

Support Local Initiatives

  • Support accommodations that display local environmental responsibility. Explore options on Ecobnb for eco-friendly stays.
  • Look for businesses that conserve water and manage waste well.
  • Support local staff. Consider ethical tour operators like G Adventures.

Sustainable Activity Choices

Engage in activities that align with environmental preservation efforts.

Recommendations

  • Opt for walking tours within Asmara to lessen carbon emissions.
  • If available, rent bicycles for local transport.

Local Food Consumption

Eating local food lessens the environmental footprint related to transportation and packaging.

Dining for the Planet

  • Choose places to eat that use locally sourced ingredients.
  • Explore local markets for fresh, fresh seasonal fruits and vegetables.

Environmental Resources

Conservation Focus

Governmental efforts direct conservation in Eritrea.

Support global conservation

Sustainable Practices

Support local businesses which illustrate environmental responsibility.

Find eco-friendly stays

Green Travel Reminders

Minimize your waste and conserve water during your journey. Support local businesses that display environmental responsibility.

Cultural Sensitivity

Respectful engagement with local customs and traditions enriches your journey.

Cultural Preservation Efforts

Asmara's UNESCO World Heritage status considerably aids in preserving it's architectural style heritage.

Local Traditions

  • Local communities also uphold traditional practices, languages, and customs.
  • Appreciate the efforts to maintain unique cultural identity.

Respectful Interaction Guidelines

Be polite, patient, and open to local customs. Learning basic Tigrinya phrases is a thoughtful gesture.

Positive Engagement

  • A smile and a respectful demeanor are well-received.
  • Always ask for permission before photographing people, especially children. Be aware of cultural niceties when taking photos.

Photography Ethics and Privacy

Avoid intrusive photography. Do not photograph military or government sites.

Strict Guidelines

  • This is a firm rule with serious consequences.
  • Respect personal privacy. Avoid taking candid shots of people without their consent.

Religious Site Etiquette

Wear conservative clothing at religious sites (churches, mosques). Ensure shoulders and knees are covered.

Behavioral Considerations

  • Remove shoes before entering mosques and some churches.
  • Be silent and courteous during services or prayer times.

Local Interaction Tips

Foster positive relationships through polite and informed interactions.

Greeting Locals

A friendly handshake and respectful address go a long way.

Cultural Learning

Try to learn a few Tigrinya phrases to show your interest.

Observing Customs

Watch and follow local customs, especially during meals or public gatherings.

Respectful Travel

Always request permission before photographing people and never photograph military or government buildings. Wear conservative clothing at religious sites.

Economic Impact

Your choices as a traveler can possess a direct impact on the local economy.

Community-Based Tourism Initiatives

Opportunities for direct community-based tourism for international visitors are limited.

Indirect Support

  • Supporting local businesses indirectly benefits towns and villages.

Fair Trade & Ethical Shopping

No formal fair trade schemes operate widely. Support local artisans and businesses directly to ensure your money benefits the producers.

Shopping Ethically

  • Consider sustainable brands like Patagonia for outdoor gear.
  • Bargaining is common in markets, but do so respectfully.
  • Support conservation efforts through shopping at The Rainforest Site.

Supporting Local Businesses

Prioritize locally owned hotels, restaurants, cafes, and tour operators. Purchase goods from local markets and artisans.

Economic Flow

  • This helps money stay within the local economy.

Be aware of potential exploitation, specifically concerning child labor. While unlikely in tourist interactions, it remains important.

Market Interactions

  • Bargaining in markets is common.
  • Engage in bargaining with a friendly and fair approach.

Ethical Awareness

Avoid any situations that might support child labor or other forms of exploitation. Your choices matter.

Support & Giving

Support the local economy by opting for locally owned businesses. Bargain respectfully in markets. Think about donating to established charities rather than giving directly to beggars.