Responsible Tourism is purely an organic engagement tool that possesses a potential to induce growth in rural poor environments, and respects local ethics, culture and integrates exchange. This will entrench sustainability of both human and natural resources. Local inhabitants will benefit from the economic activities and the tourism industry will also enjoy organic tours.

"We need to take responsibility for creating better places for people to live in and better places for people to visit.  World Travel Market is uniquely placed to launch World Responsible Tourism Day.  Nobody else could do it." Dr Harold Godwin

"This is a dilemma for many tourists. My advice is, if you’re an experienced traveller, give what you think is the right price. If you’re not confident, ask a local. Hard bargaining can be insulting but overpaying can be irresponsible." Adama Bah

The Cape Town Declaration (2002) recognises that Responsible Tourism takes a variety of forms, it is characterised by travel and tourism which:

“minimises negative environmental, social and cultural impacts; generates greater economic benefits for local people and enhances the well being of host communities, by improving working conditions and access to the industry; involves local people in decisions that affect their lives and life chances; makes positive contributions to the conservation of natural and cultural heritage and to the maintenance of the world’s diversity; provides more enjoyable experiences for tourists through more meaningful connections with local people, and a greater understanding of local cultural and environmental issues; provides access for physically challenged people; and is culturally sensitive and engenders  respect between tourists and hosts."

The Kerala Declaration (2008) reviews progress since Cape Town in 2002 and reflects the experience gained from efforts at implementation around the world. (Source: www.haroldgoodwin.info)

In common with the Cape Town Declaration of 2002 and the Kerala Declaration of 2008, the Belize Declaration presents the views of the conference about what needs to be done to make tourism more responsible. It presents the results of discussion about how, through Responsible Tourism, to address a number of concerns which arise in many destinations around the world.

     The kerala Declaration      The Belize Declaration on RT in destinations