“Please be a responsible tourist!”, says this statue in Luang Prabang, Laos

We’ve all seen THAT tourist … the one that makes you embarrassed or even ashamed because of their cluelessness or carelessness.

Here’s a story I wrote for a new digital travel magazine aimed at socially-conscious travellers, The Wayward Post. It’s about Luang Prabang, Laos and the beautiful dawn alms-giving ceremony that is being ruined by tourists.

I give you some super easy things to do so that you can make sure you’re not THAT tourist, plus some tips to help you gently steer those that are not as aware and careful as you: Heritage at risk: Tak Bat ceremony in Luang Prabang, Laos.

Being a responsible tourist is really just about awareness. When we’re abroad on vacation, we don’t always know about the customs of the places we’re in and we don’t always think through the consequences of our actions. But a little awareness goes a long way.  Plus, being a responsible tourist not only helps the destination you’re visiting, it also helps you too. By making sure you don’t pay too much when you shop for souvenirs, you’re helping the places you travel to.  How? Read my How to save cash in Cusco article, in the winter 2015/16 issue of Canadian Traveller.

No need to read a ton of books, just a few of Johanna Read’s articles will do just fine

Want to know more? No need to read a ton of books — just check out a few of my articles! Here are links to all my writing about responsible tourism.