1.
Get informed, informed and more informed. Knowledge is the best way to
be more conscious. If you're visiting, say, Kerala, make full use of guidebooks
and the internet to understand its ecology, culture and history.
2.
Dress modestly. Beach nudity and skimpy clothing will shock many village people.
3.
Please don't litter. All our properties have convenient places for disposal, of
course, but this is even more important when you're walking and trekking aound
in the wild.
4.
Conserve water. Many of our destinations are in areas where water remains a problem
for the locals. And while there's plenty available at our resorts, we ask you
to keep in mind that there's only so much to go around in the region. Be sensible
in water use. Most times, you'll find a little placard in your room, giving you
a few helpful tips.
5.
Eat local. The friendliest, freshest, tastiest foods are usually those found locally
in the region you're visiting. While international cuisines options are available
at most of our destinations, we do believe in keeping the focus on regional specialties,
based on fresh -picked organic local produce and seafood bought directly from
the fishermen. So be a little adventurous and explore some new tastes.
6.
Don't give gifts to the local villagers. Now and then, you may be accosted
by a bunch of grinning kids, asking for freebies. Cute as they are sometimes,
please discourage them, they'll only get used to getting something for nothing.
We have boxes at our reception areas where you can make contributions that will
be used for local welfare and community activities.
7.
Avoid room service. We're speaking not of our city properties, but of the many
destinations where the peace, the quiet and natural ambience have to be carefully
preserved. We're sure you'll prefer to be away from tramping feet, going back
and forth with hampers and trays. Please help us in this regard. Our staff are
friendly locals who'll serve you with a smile if you do ask, so its really up
to you!
8.
Travel light. Heavy baggage is a resource drain all the way down the chain, starting
from the aircraft you board. And you don't really need much at our destinations.
Loose informal cotton clothes will see you even through dinner, and there a lots
of really inexpensive options available at our resort shops.
9.
Get involved with community activities. Our destinations are run like little village
communities, and there's always some things to do at the organic farms and paddy
fields. Learn how to peel cinnamon, pick up a recipe at our cooking classes, take
a bullock cart ride...the options are endless.
