Handmade souvenirs, traditional handicrafts, fair trade products—shop responsibly and give back to the local communities you visit
4 min
Author: Suvasini Sridharan
When we travel we take in wondrous sights, have unique experiences, and make great memories. But many of us now also like to think about what we can give back to the places we visit and the people we meet. In a recent survey by American Express, over two-thirds of the travelers surveyed said that they want the money they spend to go back to local communities. More than half the travelers also said they preferred eating and shopping at small businesses. One major way to give back is through sustainable shopping, by buying products that are eco-friendly and made by local artisans. It’s also a good way to interact with people living in the places we visit.
At Enchanting Travels, responsible travel is about creating sustainable experiences, and that also encompasses sustainable shopping and giving back. Here are some tips to help you shop responsibly and sustainably on your next vacation.
.
1Seek out handmade
The beauty of handmade products cannot be matched by mass-produced ones. When you buy something handcrafted you are usually choosing an eco-friendly option. You are also promoting rich art and craft traditions passed down the generations. Kazuri in Kenya is known for its handcrafted brightly colored ceramic beads threaded together to make eye-catching jewelry.
Shanga in Tanzania produces jewelry, homeware and glassware using recycled materials. The social enterprise employs and equips people with disabilities to create stunning products. Similarly, Jacaranda Workshop in Nairobi, Kenya, is a non-profit organization that supports differently abled artisans in the art of jewelry making. We source some of our gifts for our guests from here, and they’re always much appreciated! When you shop from organizations like these, you not only get a one-of-a-kind gift but also positively impact local communities.
2Encourage small businesses and artisans
Seek out artisans and buy directly from them wherever possible. When traveling in India, for instance, you could include a visit to a weavers or potters village in your itinerary. Alternatively, places like Dilli Haat in Delhi are perfect one-stop shopping destinations. Here, artisans from across the country come together to offer a range of regional products and foods. Their painstakingly produced art and crafts make for lovely gifts and…
Click Here to Read the Full Original Article at Enchanting Travels…