| The Mayaexplor Charter
Conscious of our responsibilities as professionals in tourism and averring that tourism must be organized not only for the self-realization and wellbeing of the traveler, but also in the interest of, and with respect for the local population, its traditions, its cultural and natural resources and its economy, we commit ourselves to respect and apply the following principles:
 To undertake our tourist activities by integrating ourselves perfectly with the local environment, respecting the unique nature of each country visited.
To take care to not interfere with local cultures, traditions or beliefs.
To fight against the deterioration of culture of the local population by supporting and protecting its social and cultural identities.
To prohibit and shun any form of exploitation and humiliation and to take care to respect, and effect an enduring respect for, the rights of each individual..
To undertake our activities with respect for the integrity of the natural environment and to take active part in its protection.
To allow the host country and its population to profit equitably from our activity, in particular by supporting the development of the local communities.
To support the local population by using local services whenever possible.
To remunerate all of our collaborators justly and adequately for their service.
To ensure that our development aid is implemented with respect of the local economic balance.
To provide the traveler, before his departure, with all essential information and references concerning the country to be visited.
To care for the well being of the traveler and to ensure the success of his trip.
To take care that all of our collaborators and partners adhere to our principles.
In addition, we ask our travelers to commit to these responsible behaviors:
To adopt behaviors that have a minimal impact on the local environment.
To respect the local population, its culture, its habits and its beliefs: to be tolerant, open-minded and understanding.
To demonstrate humility : to understand the subjectivity of his own values and to set aside his prejudices, his thoughts and "functioning" modes - to not impose them.
To take in with "new eyes" the surrounding environment.
Do not record video or take photographs without prior permission in all circumstances. To ask for permission is not always enough. Do not promise to send photos if you are not sure you can fulfill your promise.
To learn some courtesy expressions in Spanish (hello, thanks...).
Do not act like "Santa Clauses", even if the generosity derives from good intentions.
Bargaining is welcome. Outrageous negotiation is not !
To give preference to local craftsmen and small producers for purchases.
Do not touch elements of the cultural and natural significance (archaeological pieces, orchids...).
To respect and to protect nature and the environment: Do not pollute the natural environment. Do no leave non-biodegradable wastes, even if the local population does not follow this example.
To try and bring home the waste that is most polluting and not easily recycled (batteries, aerosols, plastics...).
To avoid wasting precious resources like water and electricity.
To prepare in advance and educate oneself about the characteristics and complex local realities of the country that one plans on visiting.
|
