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Sustainable & Responsible Travel

Sustainable & Responsible Travel

France

Calanques National Park

This national park is a critically important protected area. Its delicate ecosystem, composed of unique flora, fauna, and geological formations, calls for careful stewardship.

Fire Risk Rules

Absolutely no fires or barbecues are permitted anywhere within the park, due to the extreme risk of forest fires, especially in dry conditions.

Waste Management

Pack out everything you pack in. Do not leave any trash behind. France has comprehensive recycling programs.

Environmental Considerations

Adhering to careful practices will protect the natural beauty of the region.

Conservation Rules

Adhere to strict rules designed to preserve this natural wonder.

Park Guidelines

  • Stay on Marked Trails to prevent erosion.
  • Respect Wildlife: do not disturb animals or remove plants.
  • No Camping outside designated areas.
  • No Drone Use without specific authorization.

Eco-Friendly Choices

Small actions help conserve resources. Carry a reusable water bottle and use reusable shopping bags.

Sustainable Practices

  • Look for separate bins for recycling (glass, plastic, paper).
  • Be mindful of water usage (shorter showers).
  • Consider offsetting carbon emissions from flights with Terrapass.
  • Choose eco-friendly accommodations like Ecobnb.

Sustainable Consumption

Your purchasing choices can champion sustainable practices.

Ethical Gear & Products

  • Support sustainable outdoor gear retailers like Patagonia.
  • Find reusable products from companies like Package Free Shop.
  • Choose products with minimal packaging.
  • Minimize single-use plastics wherever possible.

Responsible Tourism

Choose tour operators that prioritize environmental standards and ethical practices.

Ethical Operators

  • Book with ethical tour operators like G Adventures.
  • Opt for small-group sizes and non-motorized transport (kayaks).
  • Pick operators who provide environmental education.
  • Support conservation efforts via The Rainforest Site.

Community & Planet

Park Access Awareness

Crucially, check daily updates on access restrictions for the Calanques National Park.

Drought Awareness

Provence experiences significant droughts in summer. Be mindful of water usage.

Cultural Sensitivity

Your interactions leave an impression; observe local cultural norms.

Cultural Preservation

Support local traditions by attending local festivals (like the Fête du Vin or Fête des Pêcheurs), buying local artisan products from the market, and trying traditional Provençal cuisine from independent eateries.

Local Support

  • Attend local festivals.
  • Buy local artisan products from the market.
  • Try traditional Provençal cuisine.
  • Dine at family-run restaurants.

Respectful Interactions

Language, politeness, and appropriate dress reflect positively on visitors. Make an effort to learn a few basic French phrases.

Interaction Guidelines

  • Locals appreciate your effort with French phrases.
  • Always say "Bonjour" when entering shops, and "Merci" when thanking.
  • Dress respectfully, especially when visiting religious sites.
  • Be mindful of noise levels.

Photography Ethics

Always ask for permission before photographing individuals, specifically children. Be discreet and respectful.

Privacy Concerns

Avoid pointing cameras into private homes or properties.

Respect Rules

Some museums or art galleries prohibit flash photography or all photography. Respect these signs.

General Guidelines

Generally fine to photograph public spaces, landmarks, and landscapes.

Economic Impact

Your travel choices directly shape the local economy. Support local businesses for sustainable development.

Community Support

Dine at family-run restaurants, buy from local artisans at the market, and choose independent shops over larger chains. This fosters local economic growth.

Direct Contributions

  • Dine at family-run eateries.
  • Buy from local artisans at markets.
  • Purchase Cassis wine directly from the vineyards.
  • Hire local guides for authentic insights.

Ethical Practices

Look for products that are genuinely local and made by artisans. Support businesses that promote local sourcing and traditional methods.

Responsible Choices

  • Choose fair trade options where available.
  • Support traditional methods.
  • Avoid any activities that exploit animals or local populations.
  • Do not contribute to begging by giving money directly.

Appropriate Giving

If you wish to donate, research reputable local charities or organizations that work on social or environmental issues in Cassis or the wider Provence region.

Local Charities

Research reputable organizations in Cassis or Provence.

Effective Aid

Your contribution reaches those in need responsibly.

Focus Areas

Support groups working on social or environmental issues.

Ethical Reminder

Avoid any activities that exploit animals or local populations. Direct cash giving to beggars is not advisable; consider local charities instead.

Conscious Choices

Every purchase and interaction shapes the community. Make choices that benefit local livelihoods and sustainability.