Just because you care about traveling using cheap airplane tickets and discount hotel rooms, does not mean you are unwilling to help others when traveling to third world countries.
The following are suggestions Kevin Salwen the Practical Traveler has come up for travelers wanting to practice responsible tourism:
Before leaving on your trip come up with a daily or weekly budget of how much you will spend, tip, or donate while away to help others.
Buy plenty of gifts for yourself and others while traveling since this helps fuel local employment and has the residual advantage of having something to bring home.
Instead of bargaining down the price, bargain up the quantity when possible. It is important to let people earn a living wage.
Locals may be economically poor but culturally rich. Before you take photos of individuals, first ask, and pay if asked.
Let others make a living by helping you in ways as simply as letting someone else carry your bag.
Do not give money to beggars since this sends wrong messages about dependency and the importance of work. Handouts promote more begging, often by children who should be in school.
Support small businesses by purchasing things offered on the street.
Be open to buying food and beverages from local producers. You have not really tasted a banana if you have never eater one grown for immediate consumption. Peels help keep fruit safe, as does boiling when drinking a cup of local tea. www.cheapfares.com