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Sustainable & Responsible Travel

Sustainable & Responsible Travel

Coastal Montenegro, Montenegro

Protected Areas & Conservation

Herceg Novi sits at the entrance to the Bay of Kotor, an UNESCO World Heritage site for its cultural and natural aspects.

Visitor Guidelines

  • Nearby national parks (Lovćen, Durmitor, Lake Skadar) hold strict conservation rules.
  • Adhere to regulations like staying on marked trails.
  • Avoid disturbing wildlife during your visit.

Waste & Recycling

Recycling infrastructure in Montenegro is developing; separate bins might not be universally available.

Responsible Practices

  • Use a reusable water bottle; tap water is generally safe in Herceg Novi.
  • Carry a reusable shopping bag to reduce single-use plastics.
  • Mindful water use is encouraged, especially in dry summer months.

Carbon Offsetting

Consider carbon offsetting for flights through various online platforms. These programs invest in projects that lessen greenhouse gas emissions.

Offsetting Options

  • Terrapass is a notable carbon offset provider.
  • Support projects that capture carbon or generate clean energy.
  • This action mitigates the environmental footprint of your travel.

Eco-Friendly Choices

When choosing accommodation and tour operators, look for those that highlight their sustainable practices.

Sustainable Options

  • Discover eco-friendly stays on Ecobnb.
  • Choose durable, sustainable outdoor gear from Patagonia.
  • Find reusable products to lessen your footprint at Package Free Shop.

Ethical Tourism

Tour Operators

  • Engage in ethical travel with tour operators like G Adventures.
  • They prioritize local communities and responsible practices.
  • Their trips benefit the places you visit.
  • Choose tours that align with your values.

Conservation Support

  • Support conservation via The Rainforest Site (GreaterGood).
  • Their work protects ecosystems.
  • Purchases from their store contribute to conservation efforts.
  • Every contribution makes a positive difference.

Reduce Plastic Waste

Always carry a reusable water bottle. Fill it from the tap to lessen plastic waste and stay hydrated.

Cultural Respect

Engage with local culture considerately.

Preserving Culture

Support local artisans and businesses that maintain traditional crafts, skills, and cultural heritage.

Mindful Interactions

Be polite and patient. A smile and simple Montenegrin phrases (e.g., 'Hvala') are appreciated. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.

Photography Ethics

Respect privacy. Do not photograph children without parental approval. Be discreet and avoid intrusive photography.

Religious Site Conduct

When visiting churches or monasteries, observe guidelines for respectful conduct.

Site Guidelines

  • Dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered).
  • Maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor.
  • Be aware of signs prohibiting photography or flash photography inside sacred spaces.

Fair Trade & Local Support

When shopping, seek products directly from local producers at markets. Look for authentic handmade crafts.

Community Benefits

  • This secures fair compensation for artisans.
  • It supports genuine local industry.
  • Eating at local restaurants and buying from local shops benefits the people of Herceg Novi.

Economic Contributions

Community-Based Tourism

  • Support local guesthouses.
  • Dine at family-run restaurants (konobas).
  • Patronize small businesses.

Ethical Practices

  • Beware of potential scams, like inflated taxi fares; agree on a price beforehand.
  • Do not participate in activities exploiting animals or people.
  • Research tour operators to verify ethical animal welfare and community practices.

Mindful Waste

Reduce your plastic footprint. Carry a reusable water bottle and a reusable shopping bag. This simple action helps protect Herceg Novi’s beautiful coastal environment.

Economic Contributions

Your travel choices positively affect the community.

Responsible Giving

If you wish to donate, do so through established local charities or recognized organizations rather than direct handouts.

Support Local Causes

  • Direct giving can sometimes perpetuate begging or create unintended social issues.
  • Research reputable local causes you wish to support.
  • Your contributions aid community development.

Direct Local Support

Make an effort to eat at local restaurants, buy goods from local shops, and hire local guides for tours.

Positive Impact

  • Your tourism spending directly benefits the people of Herceg Novi.
  • Supporting small businesses nurtures the local economy.
  • Choosing local services fosters community prosperity.

Ethical Tourism Practices

Avoiding Exploitation

  • Be aware of potential scams, like inflated taxi fares.
  • Always agree on a price beforehand if no meter is used.
  • Do not participate in any activities that exploit animals or people.

Responsible Choices

  • Research tour operators to verify their ethical practices.
  • This includes animal welfare and local community engagement.
  • Your choices shape the tourism experience for everyone.

Local Craftsmanship

Authentic Souvenirs

  • Look for authentic handmade crafts at local markets.
  • This differs from mass-produced souvenirs.
  • Such purchases ensure fair compensation for artisans.

Supporting Creativity

  • Your support goes directly to genuine local industry.
  • It keeps traditional skills alive.
  • These unique items become treasured memories.

Religious Site Courtesy

When visiting religious sites, modest attire (covered shoulders and knees) is respectful. Silence and awareness of photography restrictions (look for signs) are appreciated.