We hear a lot about sustainable tourism and that we should travel more sustainably. There are times when all the well-intentioned advice about what needs to happen and what we should and shouldn't do can actually be quite overwhelming. That's why we've compiled 10 simple tips for tourists to support our environment, local community, and local economy and make your vacation more sustainable. Also, don't forget that if you heed these tips, your trip will actually be more exciting and eventful.
1. Use public transport
So you can let others drive and just sit back and enjoy the view. Instead of arguing about the map or listening to the navigation system. Parts of your trip could even become the highlights of your vacation. If you take the train to Flåm, the Flåms Railway, one of the most beautiful train journeys in the world, is part of your route.
2. The choice of accommodation
Hotels, campsites, hostels and guesthouses are important employers in communities and villages and they depend on tourists who use them. Many of them also have an eco-label – look for information or the eco-lighthouse logo when booking. Unusual accommodations can be found almost anywhere, such as the historic Fretheim Hotel, which dates back to the time when English lords came to Sogn to fish for salmon in the 19th century.
3. Bicycle rental
Whether you use public transport or decide to ride yourself, cycling is an excellent and environmentally friendly way to explore your destination. Rent a bikeat your destination if you don't bring your own – and don't forget that many places now also offer electric bikes. Alternatively, there are small electric cars in some places – try eMobilityfor example in Flåm.
4. Choose zero emission activities
If you have the opportunity, check what alternatives are available before booking tickets for activities. Are there more sustainable options? If you want to take a fjord cruise, check that electric boats are available for the area you want to visit. On NærøyfjordThere are the electric ships Future and Vision of The Fjords. These are zero-emission sightseeing boats that glide silently through the fjords so you can fully concentrate on the view!
5. Throw your trash in the trash can
That should really be self-evident. Take your trash with you until you find a trash can and sort and recycle your waste if possible. Did you know that it can take up to two years for nature to decompose orange peel or banana peel? In popular hiking areas and picnic areas, it might be a good idea to bring this as well, and so is toilet paper. Everything is so much more enjoyable for everyone if everyone does their part.
6. Eat at restaurants that support local suppliers
Restaurants and eateries that use local ingredients support local farmers and the local economy. And more importantly, you can learn about the local culinary culture at the same time. In Restaurant ArvenAt the Fretheim Hotel, the chef places great emphasis on animal welfare and the preservation of old traditions and works closely with local producers of fruit and vegetables, cheesemakers and small local slaughterhouses. Local products also reduce emissions because they do not need to be transported.
7. Take your own water bottle with you
Instead of buying plastic bottles of water, take a water bottle from home and refill it on the go. If you don't have a decent bottle, buy one made of steel or another sustainable, durable material. If you are in Flåm, you can stop by the Flåm Store – there are a variety of different species to choose from.
8. Respect the local people
You're on vacation, but for the locals, that's everyday life. You'll go far if you just ask questions. If you're not sure if you can park somewhere or leave, just ask someone. Respect privacy and cultivated land and have a quiet conversation with everyone you meet. No one knows your holiday destination as well as the people who live there. Maybe they'll tell you about one of the local insider tips.
9. Find out about the right of everyone
The right of public access is an advantage that offers us freedom with responsibility. It allows us to travel and camp almost anywhere in Norway, so we can enjoy the unique excursions we dream of. Just remember that the Leisure Use Act still applies. Take your backpack and hammock with you and set up camp in your dream place in the forest, on the shore or in the mountains. Just make sure to camp at least 150 meters from buildings and cabins, stay in the same place for no more than 48 hours, and leave the space as you found it. So it remains just as beautiful and untouched when the next person comes.
10. Buy locally
Whether you want to buy food, shoes, clothing or souvenirs – stop by local shops in your area and support local trade. The chances of finding something that no one else has at home are enormous, even if you are on holiday in Norway. For example, how many of the shoe stores sell at home Aurland shoes, the original penny loafers?