West Papua tourism development should leave a positive trail. It is not merely a selfie with a charming natural background. Yet, we should also think about the actual trace that can be a remembrance.
We have to know that traveling is more than just leaving photos with beautiful scenery. We should think for a longer period. Here are plans to be a responsible tourist.
Support Local Economy
Traveling should make you feel the enjoyment, including experiencing the beauty of the attraction. We have to participate in helping nature preservation too. It allows people to experience local wisdom.
There are several lists of alternatives for traveling. One of them dines in the local restaurant. Thus, West Papua development allows tourists to purchase local souvenirs and gifts.
By eating in local restaurants, it enables visitors to spend in local markets. It is much for anything local, including using a local tour guide. So, the money can give feedback to the local community.
Through this way, you are not only supporting the community but also the host family. Moreover, you can maintain the unknown corporate organizations as well.
Spend Several Nights
West Papua provides high day tourism with some amazing locations. It makes people enjoy the beautiful scenery with wonderful nature. The visitors can populate the city more than daytime.
That is why visitors have to stay several nights. By spending overnight, they can support the local accommodation. Additionally, they can increase similar establishments too, aside from hotels or places to stay.
As mentioned earlier, it improves the local markets and communities. It allows visitors to spend locally. Thus, they can give income to the local economy.
Explore Less Visited Areas
In West Papua, we can find more exotic places of interest for vacation. These places may not be popular and less touristy. So, it is only fewer people visiting the area.
Because of that, the local government tries to explore the non-popular areas. West Papua tourism development helps to control the over-tourism and distribute the tourism objects equally.
Overtourism occurs because people see the same sights. They are only interested in similar sightseeing and know less about some exotic places. Thus, the local government should promote other areas for leisure.
Aside from the natural scenery, some visiting cities are offering stand-out attractions. It makes tourists obviously want to explore this area. Think of the hidden gems that can be the beaten track for touristic activities.
Mingle with The Local
In visiting some areas in West Papua, we have to consider being like a local as well. Mostly, we dress and expose our appearances like a tourist. It makes us look different than the local people.
Because of that, tourists should adhere to local clothes. They should mingle with the local culture and customs. Try to consider the dress code, especially in religious places.
By adapting to local customs, it shows that the tourists respect the local communities. It can bring the same respect for both, whether the tourists and the communities. The tourists have greater respect for beliefs and traditions.
Ask The Permission
Remember to ask permission as well, especially before taking one photo. In West Papua, tourists may get more traditional culture. This thing drives them to capture more photos automatically.
However, do not forget politeness. Ask permission first before grabbing what the local people do or wear. Through this, they can respect you as a tourist.
Educate ourselves about the culture, especially how to greet them, before traveling. Learn what is allowed and which one is not allowed. Therefore, you can support West Papua tourism development and make locals impressed with your knowledge.
