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Sustainable & Responsible Travel

Sustainable & Responsible Travel

Protected Areas

Guam has marine preserves and wildlife refuges. Respect boundaries.

Waste Management

Minimize waste production. Bring a Reusable water bottle.

Water Conservation

Freshwater resources are limited. Be mindful of usage in hotels.

Environmental Actions

Your actions contribute to protecting Guam's unique ecosystems.

Conservation Efforts

Focus on protecting coral reefs, native bird species (some of which are endangered), and preserving the island's unique flora.

Your Contribution

  • Stay on designated trails.
  • Do not disturb wildlife.
  • Do not remove natural elements.
  • Support biodiversity.

Carbon Offsetting

Consider offsetting the carbon emissions from your flights to and from Guam. Many airlines have carbon offset programs during booking.

Eco-Conscious Travel

  • Offset flight emissions.
  • Contribute to carbon reduction projects via Terrapass.
  • Choose reputable organizations.
  • Your contribution helps.

Eco-Friendly Accommodation

Research and choose hotels or tour operators that demonstrate a commitment to environmental sustainability.

Sustainable Stays

  • Look for certifications.
  • Stated policies on energy and water conservation.
  • Waste reduction efforts.
  • Support for local conservation efforts.

Sustainable Gear & Products

Make sustainable choices for your travel gear and everyday products to minimize environmental footprint.

Conscious Choices

  • Choose sustainable outdoor gear.
  • Opt for reusable products.
  • Minimize single-use plastics.
  • Bring reusable shopping bags.

Eco-Friendly Choices

Accommodation & Tours

Choose hotels or tour operators committed to sustainability.

Ecobnb for eco-friendly accommodation

Sustainable Gear

Consider sustainable outdoor gear and reusable products.

Patagonia for outdoor gear Package Free Shop for reusable products

Green Travel Advice

Use reef-safe sunscreen when swimming or snorkeling to protect Guam's marine environment.

Cultural Sensitivity

Respect Chamorro heritage and interact thoughtfully with the local community.

Cultural Preservation

Many initiatives try to preserve the Chamorro language, traditional arts, and historical sites.

Support Preservation

  • Visit cultural parks.
  • Explore museums.
  • Attend local cultural events.
  • Learn basic Chamorro phrases.

Respectful Interaction

Use "Håfa Adai" as a greeting. Chamorro culture values respect, notably for elders.

Interaction Guidelines

  • Use local greetings.
  • Be polite and courteous.
  • Engage in conversations with locals.
  • Value family and elders.

Photography Ethics

Always ask for permission before taking photos of individuals, especially children, or in cultural settings.

Photo Courtesy

  • Ask before photographing people.
  • Be discreet at religious ceremonies.
  • Avoid military installations.
  • Respect privacy.

Religious Site Etiquette

When visiting churches or other religious sites, dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered).

Sacred Spaces

  • Shoulders and knees covered.
  • Remove hats.
  • Maintain quiet.
  • Do not touch religious artifacts.

Community Engagement

Support ethical tourism by choosing operators and practices that align with community well-being.

Local Guides

Employ local guides.

Cultural Tours

Choose tours that benefit local communities. G Adventures for ethical tours.

Fair Practices

Support businesses with fair trade practices.

Responsible Travel

Your travel choices can contribute positively to cultural preservation and the well-being of local communities on Guam.

Economic Impact

Your travel choices create a direct and positive economic footprint on the local community.

Community Tourism

Support attractions that directly involve and benefit local communities.

Local Benefits

  • Valley of the Latte Cultural Park.
  • Provides local employment.
  • Showcases Chamorro heritage.
  • Direct community support.

Ethical Shopping

When purchasing souvenirs, seek out locally made crafts and artisan products.

Conscious Purchases

  • Buy locally made crafts.
  • Support local artists.
  • Money goes directly to the community.
  • Inquire about product origin.

Local Business Support

Eat at local "plate lunch" spots and family-owned restaurants rather than always choosing international chains.

Where to Spend

  • Local eateries.
  • Local supermarkets.
  • Local tour operators.
  • Local guides.

Avoiding Harmful Practices

Be aware of any activities that might exploit local people or animals.

Ethical Considerations

  • Avoid exploitative activities.
  • Do not support animal exploitation.
  • Avoid contributing to begging.
  • Donate to reputable charities.

Charitable Giving

Research local non-profit organizations or charities that work on education, environmental conservation, or community development.

Targeted Aid

Direct donations to established organizations.

Lasting Impact

More effective than individual handouts.

Conservation

Support groups like The Rainforest Site.

Ethical Alert

Ensure your activities benefit local people and preserve the environment. Avoid any practices that could lead to exploitation or harm to the community or natural resources.